![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/1519325104116.jpeg\")
Due to our mild winters and warm summers, it can seem that we are spoilt rotten with pollinators here in New Orleans, LA. However, pollinators in the United States are in danger, and it is imperative that we take care of them. According to the Xerxes society (1), the Western United States population of Monarch […]
\n","content":"\nDue to our mild winters and warm summers, it can seem that we are spoilt rotten with pollinators here in New Orleans, LA. However, pollinators in the United States are in danger, and it is imperative that we take care of them. According to the Xerxes society (1), the Western United States population of Monarch butterflies has experienced at 99.4% decline since the 1980s and more than 80% here in the Eastern side of the U.S.? That is extremely dire news!
\n\n\n\nHere is an easy guide to what pollinators are, why they are essential, and how to garden and support our local pollinators.
\n\n\n\nPollinators are animals and insects that fertilize plants by carrying pollen from one plant to another. Pollinators can be bees, birds, wasps, moths, and even flies, lizards, and humans.
\n\n\n\nPollinators fertilize flowers by bringing the pollen from the male part of the flower to the female part of the flower. Without fertilization, the flowers cannot reproduce. Meaning, without pollinators, many plants would not be able to reproduce or produce fruit. That can affect our food supply since all fruits and vegetables come from fertilized flowers of their respective plants.
\n\n\n\nPollinators fertilize plants, and plants, in turn, provide food and nectar for pollinators. Plants that provide food to pollinators are nectar plants. Certain plants also host the offspring of pollinators, specifically butterflies. These are host plants.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://i2.wp.com/www.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/milkweed.jpg?fit=768%2C1024&ssl=1\")
Pollinators need to eat, and they feed themselves from the nectar of flowers. Certain pollinators lean towards specific plants more than others. For example, hummingbirds prefer red colored flowers (2) and flowers that they can insert their beaks in. Below is a chart of some pollinators’ favorite types of flowers that grow in New Orleans and their names.
\n\n\n\nUnderstanding the life cycle of a butterfly helps us understand why host plants are important. The lifecycle of the butterfly starts with an egg laid on the host plant. Once the egg hatches, a baby caterpillar is born and feeds on the host plant as it grows older. Only this specific type of plant can provide food for the caterpillar, so it is crucial that butterflies have these plants available to them to lay their eggs. Once the baby caterpillar grows large enough, it finds a safe place to form a chrysalis (cocoon) and suspends itself in this chrysalis for a period of time. From the chrysalis, a butterfly emerges, and the butterfly is at its adult stage. At the adult butterfly stage, butterflies need nectar from flowers to feed themselves and breed. The adult butterfly finds a host plant upon which to lay its eggs and the life cycle starts all over again!
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Hostplantdiagram.jpg\")
One last thing to remember when gardening for butterflies: Do NOT apply pesticides to your pollinator plants. A pesticide is not specific to “good” insects like pollinators or “bad” insects. You may end up harming the good insects that our ecosystem needs.
\n\n\n\nMost commonly: Aphids on milkweed is OK! Remove them by hand or by blasting with a spray of water.
\n\n\n\nOur pollinators are crucial for our plants, and they need some love. Allow some space for some pollinator-friendly plants in your yard and enjoy the friendly habitat you’ve created for our pollinator friends!
\n\n\n\nTop Photo: content.yardmap.org
\n\n\n\nAre you still curious about lawn care in New Orleans? Please visit our New Orleans lawn care page for more information about everything lawn & garden.
\n","title":"The Definitive Guide to Planting for Pollinators in New Orleans","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":2.4,"src":"/static/8f4c4736f3d828c9f435e33b88335379/1789c/hummingbird-and-butterfly.jpg","srcSet":"/static/8f4c4736f3d828c9f435e33b88335379/107df/hummingbird-and-butterfly.jpg 320w,\n/static/8f4c4736f3d828c9f435e33b88335379/293e9/hummingbird-and-butterfly.jpg 500w,\n/static/8f4c4736f3d828c9f435e33b88335379/f2cbb/hummingbird-and-butterfly.jpg 800w,\n/static/8f4c4736f3d828c9f435e33b88335379/1789c/hummingbird-and-butterfly.jpg 960w","srcWebp":"/static/8f4c4736f3d828c9f435e33b88335379/1dd6e/hummingbird-and-butterfly.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/8f4c4736f3d828c9f435e33b88335379/67b76/hummingbird-and-butterfly.webp 320w,\n/static/8f4c4736f3d828c9f435e33b88335379/8df11/hummingbird-and-butterfly.webp 500w,\n/static/8f4c4736f3d828c9f435e33b88335379/98a65/hummingbird-and-butterfly.webp 800w,\n/static/8f4c4736f3d828c9f435e33b88335379/1dd6e/hummingbird-and-butterfly.webp 960w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"The Definitive Guide to Planting for Pollinators in New Orleans | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"3c8ef724-6144-5b0e-a423-8ec1cabeab0b","slug":"best-grass-types-baton-rouge","path":"/lawn-care/la/baton-rouge/best-grass-types-baton-rouge/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"","name":"Judith Gallova","id":"8e48e42f-071a-5523-a889-6dab4c49dd54","path":"/author/judith-gallova/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/537ca09b018493e40c3fb0df17ebacbe?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"d1d6935d-c1c2-53e6-93e2-8203b0f7327d","name":"Baton Rouge","count":4,"path":"/category/lawn-care/la/baton-rouge/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"8e5263e2-95b5-572d-8061-a1a1afa1a8c2","name":"Louisiana","count":8,"path":"/category/lawn-care/la/"}],"date":"April 17th, 2023","excerpt":"Baton Rouge is full of scenic views and charming nature. If you want to make your lawn look just as stunning, it’s important to choose the right grass type that will thrive in this steamy, tropical climate. Let’s see what grass types you can choose from. In this article: 4 Warm-Season Grasses for Baton Rouge […]
\n","content":"\nBaton Rouge is full of scenic views and charming nature. If you want to make your lawn look just as stunning, it’s important to choose the right grass type that will thrive in this steamy, tropical climate. Let’s see what grass types you can choose from.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\nGrass types are generally classified as either warm-season or cool-season. The main differences between the two types of grasses are:
\n\n\n\nBaton Rouge is a city of short, brisk winters and long, brutally hot summers. It probably won’t surprise you that warm-season grasses are more suitable. Here’s a closer look at the best.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_4pexels-rovenimagescom-949584.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pexels
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass is a gray-green, thick, and durable turfgrass thanks to its rough edges and stems. This grass tolerates drought and withstands heavy foot traffic, most soils, and salt. It’s fast-growing and spreads and repairs itself easily.
\n\n\n\nFrom the common Bermudagrass that needs little maintenance to the hybrid variety that has a finer texture, Bermudagrass comes in several types. Because Bermudagrass grows so aggressively, it’s always important to contain it to prevent it from overtaking flowerbeds.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season
Spreads by: Spreads aggressively using horizontal stems above-ground (stolons) and below-ground (rhizomes)
Drought tolerance: High, but may turn brown and dormant in extended drought
Foot traffic tolerance: High; grows back quickly after suffering damage
Shade tolerance: Low; some varieties are more shade-tolerant than others
Maintenance needs: Moderate; needs mowing once or twice per week and is susceptible to many pest and disease problems
Recommended mowing height: 1-2 inches
![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Centipede-Grass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James Becwar / Wikimedia Commons / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\nCentipedegrass is a slow-growing grass with a yellow-green color and medium texture. But just because it grows slowly doesn’t mean it won’t look lush and beautiful; in fact, with the right care, centipedegrass will grow into a thick carpet.
\n\n\n\nBe sure to avoid using too much fertilizer on centipedegrass because it can damage it. You can break up your fertilization into four applications throughout the year.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season
Spreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
Drought tolerance: Moderate to high
Foot traffic tolerance: High
Shade tolerance: Low to moderate
Maintenance needs: Moderate
Recommended mowing height: 1 to 2 inches, depending on conditions
![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/St-Augustine-Grass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nSt. Augustinegrass is a fast-growing grass with a green color and coarse texture. This grass can quickly turn your lawn into a lush carpet if you care for it properly, and it will even do well in partial shade.
\n\n\n\nSomething to keep in mind, though, is that this grass won’t withstand drought, a lot of foot traffic, or other stressors. To thrive, St. Augustinegrass needs the right care and maintenance.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season
Spreads by: Stolons
Drought tolerance: Low; requires regular watering during dry periods to stay healthy
Foot traffic tolerance: Low
Shade tolerance: Moderate; some cultivars are more shade-tolerant than others
Maintenance needs: High; requires regular irrigation and fertilization to grow healthy
Recommended mowing height: 3.5 to 4 inches for standard cultivars; 2 to 2.5 inches for dwarf cultivars
![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Zoysia-grass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Forest and Kim Starr / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass is a light to medium green, dense, slow-growing turf that’s popular for its appearance and weed control. This versatile, durable grass can also handle various soil types, drought, and a lot of foot traffic.
\n\n\n\nBecause the grass grows and establishes slowly, the best way to create a zoysiagrass lawn quickly is with sod, but it will also be more expensive. Either way, to make sure your zoysiagrass grows well, you need to care for it correctly. That includes fertilization, watering, and so forth. You’ll also find that its thatch builds up quickly, and you’ll need to remove it.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season
Spreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
Drought tolerance: Moderate to high, depending on cultivar
Foot traffic tolerance: High; dense growth resists damage, and spreading through stolons and rhizomes allows for quick recovery
Shade tolerance: Moderate (high for a warm-season grass type)
Maintenance needs: Low to moderate
Recommended mowing height: Typically 1.5 to 2.5 inches depending on cultivar and shade; heights below 1 inch need a reel mower (which is recommended anyway)
When it comes to tolerating shade, St. Augustinegrass is the undisputed winner. Zoysiagrass’ shade tolerance comes second.
If you want to keep your lawn maintenance tasks to a minimum, consider centipedegrass. Centipedegrass needs infrequent mowing and little fertilizer, which makes it a suitable low-maintenance option.
Bermudagrass is the best option for busy lawns. Alternatively, zoysiagrass will work, too.
Both bermudagrass and zoysiagrass can handle heavy foot traffic and pet activity, so decide which one of them suits your needs better.
Before you decide which type of grass is right for you, make sure you consider various factors, such as how busy your lawn gets, how many pets you have, your maintenance preferences, and so forth.
\n\n\n\nMake sure you’re ready to dethatch, fertilize, and water your lawn as needed to prevent diseases in Baton Rouge’s humid, subtropical climate. The best time to water your Baton Rouge lawn is between 4 and 8. On the upside, there are a variety of things you can do to make your lawn more low-maintenance. You can, for example, consider xeriscaping, adding native plants, and so forth.
\n\n\n\nEither way, maintaining a lawn takes work and time. If you need help with your lawn care tasks, check out your local lawn care pros to free up some of your time.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Manship House (Baton Rouge, Louisiana) / Tjean314 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n","title":"4 Best Grass Types for Baton Rouge","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/ec126e5223ac4082474334b9508c4868/1789c/Lawn-in-Baton-Rouge.jpg","srcSet":"/static/ec126e5223ac4082474334b9508c4868/107df/Lawn-in-Baton-Rouge.jpg 320w,\n/static/ec126e5223ac4082474334b9508c4868/293e9/Lawn-in-Baton-Rouge.jpg 500w,\n/static/ec126e5223ac4082474334b9508c4868/f2cbb/Lawn-in-Baton-Rouge.jpg 800w,\n/static/ec126e5223ac4082474334b9508c4868/1789c/Lawn-in-Baton-Rouge.jpg 960w,\n/static/ec126e5223ac4082474334b9508c4868/c26c2/Lawn-in-Baton-Rouge.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/ec126e5223ac4082474334b9508c4868/1dd6e/Lawn-in-Baton-Rouge.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/ec126e5223ac4082474334b9508c4868/67b76/Lawn-in-Baton-Rouge.webp 320w,\n/static/ec126e5223ac4082474334b9508c4868/8df11/Lawn-in-Baton-Rouge.webp 500w,\n/static/ec126e5223ac4082474334b9508c4868/98a65/Lawn-in-Baton-Rouge.webp 800w,\n/static/ec126e5223ac4082474334b9508c4868/1dd6e/Lawn-in-Baton-Rouge.webp 960w,\n/static/ec126e5223ac4082474334b9508c4868/3cc96/Lawn-in-Baton-Rouge.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"4 Best Grass Types for Baton Rouge | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Creating a stunning lawn starts with choosing the a variety of grass that suits the sultry Baton Rouge climate as well as your lifestyle."}}},{"node":{"id":"1b634a4e-3812-5e5d-a560-bab8337fecd2","slug":"best-native-plants-new-orleans","path":"/lawn-care/la/new-orleans/best-native-plants-new-orleans/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Cecilia Acevedo is a professional writer, translator, and mom who loves God, reading, and a good rainy nap. She combines her passion for writing with her love for the colorful world painted by her children.","name":"Cecilia Acevedo","id":"0fc0b86b-7672-540a-a0af-58a8d66c6781","path":"/author/cecilia-acevedo/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/75c4cb2a06e5f57c7018b7cb365dd82d?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"8e5263e2-95b5-572d-8061-a1a1afa1a8c2","name":"Louisiana","count":8,"path":"/category/lawn-care/la/"},{"id":"ead65a59-ae54-536e-a7e9-908c849a1fc5","name":"New Orleans","count":3,"path":"/category/lawn-care/la/new-orleans/"}],"date":"June 27th, 2019","excerpt":"If you’re a proud resident of New Orleans, you know that this city is full of character and charm, from its vibrant music scene to its delicious cuisine. But did you know the local flora is just as unique and fascinating? By planting Louisiana native plants in your backyard, you can add a touch of […]
\n","content":"\nIf you’re a proud resident of New Orleans, you know that this city is full of character and charm, from its vibrant music scene to its delicious cuisine. But did you know the local flora is just as unique and fascinating? By planting Louisiana native plants in your backyard, you can add a touch of flavor to your landscape while reaping various benefits.
\n\n\n\nIf you’re looking to create your very own paradise in your New Orleans backyard, you can’t go wrong with native plants; look at its benefits:
\n\n\n\nNative plants help promote a healthier Texas ecosystem. Here are 8 native plants to help you create a one-of-a-kind oasis that celebrates the beauty of New Orleans.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover the following:
\n\n\n\nLooking to add some color and charm to your backyard? Look no further than Wild blue phlox! This lovely native plant boasts delicate lavender-blue spring flowers that bloom in early spring, filling the air with their sweet fragrance. And the best part? They are perfectly adapted to the climate of New Orleans. It is low-maintenance and easy to grow and a magnet for pollinators like bees and butterflies, making it an eco-friendly choice for your garden.
\n\n\n\nWild Blue Phlox is susceptible to spider mites and rabbits, as well as powdery mildew, which can cause reduced vigor and stunted growth. Cutting back stems after flowering helps combat mildew.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Herbaceous
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 – 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Part shade to full shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Chalk, clay, loam, sand. Acid, alkaline, neutral. Moist soil but well-drained
\n\n\n\nDuration: Evergreen perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Sweet scent
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Spring
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium
\n\n\n\nMature height: 0.75 to 1.00 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: None
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Medium. Remove spent inflorescences to encourage more flowering. Prevent complete soil dryness. Add compost to enrich the soil as needed
\n\n\n\nButterfly weed is a stunning native plant perfect for New Orleans gardens. Its bright orange flowers attract pollinators, and its tuberous roots make it highly drought-tolerant. Butterfly weed is a beautiful addition to any garden. It plays a vital role in the ecosystem as a host plant for monarch butterflies. By planting this native species in your garden, you can help support the monarch population while enjoying a burst of vibrant color. So why not add some Butterfly weed to your garden and watch it come to life with the fluttering of wings?
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Herbaceous
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 – 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Clay, loam, sand. Acid, neutral. Moist but well-drained
\n\n\n\nDuration: Deciduous perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Sweet, vanilla, or candy-like scent
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Summer
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low. It is drought tolerant
\n\n\n\nMature height: 1 – 2.5 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: None
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low. If the butterfly weed seed pods are not removed before splitting open, the mature plants may self-seed. Since butterfly weed has a deep taproot, it does not transplant well, and it is best to leave it undisturbed once it is established
\n\n\n\nThe Swamp Azalea is a stunning native plant that is a must-have for any New Orleans garden. With its delicate, fragrant white flowers and vibrant green foliage, it’s sure to make a statement in any landscape. This plant thrives in wet areas. It provides important habitat and food for local wildlife, including birds and insects. The Swamp Azalea is a low-maintenance and rewarding plant that is suitable for both seasoned gardeners and beginners.
\n\n\n\nWhile generally disease-resistant, Swamp Azalea can be susceptible to canker, crown rot, root rot, leaf spot, rust, powdery mildew, aphids, borers, lace bugs, leafhoppers, mealybugs, mites, nematodes, scale, thrips,and whitefly. Regular monitoring and treatment as needed can help keep the plant healthy and thriving.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4 – 9
\n\n\n\nSun: It prefers partial shade but tolerates some full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Loam, sand. Acid. Prefer moist but well-drained soils, but it tolerates poor drainage
\n\n\n\nDuration: Deciduous perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Strong clove-like perfume
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Summer
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium to wet. It tolerates periodic flooding but will not grow in soils where the roots are submerged in water
\n\n\n\nMature height: 2 – 8 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: All the parts of this plant are poisonous if ingested
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: It is best situated in a location protected from strong winter winds. As it has a shallow, fibrous root system, it will benefit from a good mulch for moisture retention, stabilization of soil temperatures, and winter protection.
\n\n\n\nThe Tickseed Sunflower is a stunning native plant that will brighten up any New Orleans garden. With its golden-yellow blooms and delicate, fern-like foliage, it’s no wonder this plant is a favorite among gardeners. It looks beautiful in flower beds and rock gardens. Tickseed sunflower is resilient and easy to care for.
\n\n\n\nIt grows and flowers best in full sun but is also adapted to partial shade. Its nectar-rich flowers attract various pollinators, making it an essential part of any healthy ecosystem. So if you’re looking for a beautiful and low-maintenance plant, consider adding Tickseed Sunflower to your garden. You won’t be disappointed with the splash of sunshine it brings!
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Herbaceous
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 5 – 9
\n\n\n\nSun: It grows and flowers best in Full sun but is also adapted to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Clay, loam, sand. Neutral. Moist but well-drained
\n\n\n\nDuration: Deciduous annual
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Its dried leaves smell like vanilla or honey
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Late summer and autumn
\n\n\n\nWater needs: High. It needs good drainage
\n\n\n\nMature height: 2 – 4 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: None
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low. It is propagated by seed in spring
\n\n\n\nIf you’re looking for a stunning native plant to add some flare to your New Orleans garden, look no further than the Crossvine. With its vibrant orange-red trumpet-shaped flowers, this vine will turn heads and bring hummingbirds and butterflies to your yard.
\n\n\n\nThis vine grows easily over a structure such as a trellis, gazebo, or fence. Not only is the Crossvine visually striking, but it’s also incredibly low maintenance and hardy, making it the perfect addition to any garden. Plus, as a native plant, it’s perfectly adapted to Louisiana’s climate and will thrive with minimal effort on your part.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Vine
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 5 – 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to part shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Chalk, clay, loam, sand. Acid, alkaline, neutral. Moist but well drained
\n\n\n\nDuration: Evergreen perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Mocha scent
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Late spring, early summer
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium. It needs good drainage
\n\n\n\nMature height: 35 – 50 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: None
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Medium. The vine can spread both by seed and by root suckers. To prevent it from spreading to unwanted areas, removing the root suckers as soon as they are detected is important
\n\n\n\nWatershield is an aquatic plant known for its striking appearance. It has large round leaves that float on the water’s surface and delicate purple flowers that bloom in the summer. Water Shield possesses properties that hinder the growth of other nearby plants. As a result, it can dominate and act as a natural means of controlling invasive water weeds. So if you’re looking for a beautiful addition to your garden, consider adding some Watershield to your pond or water feature.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Aquatic plant
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 – 10
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: It needs standing water. It does best on the water edge in 8 to 10 inches of water but with the roots planted in the mud of more shallow waters
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: No fragrance
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Summer and autumn
\n\n\n\nWater needs: High
\n\n\n\nMature height: 1 – 3 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: None
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Average. Remove yellow leaves regularly
\n\n\n\nCream wild indigo is a tough and versatile native plant well-suited to New Orleans’ hot and humid summers. It adapts to poor soils and occasional droughts. But don’t let its toughness fool you; this plant is also a true beauty, with elegant creamy white racemes of pea-like flowers and green leaves that grace its branches in the late spring and early summer. While Wild indigo is beloved by gardeners and pollinators alike.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Herbaceous
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 – 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to part shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Loam, sand. Acid, neutral. Moist but well-drained
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: No fragrance
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Late spring and early summer
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nMature height: 2 – 2.5 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: It has toxic properties that can be harmful if ingested.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low. It may need some attention and help when grown in part shade
\n\n\n\nThe Ashy Sunflower of New Orleans is a stunning wildflower that never fails to impress. One of its most fascinating features is its ability to follow the sun’s path each day, earning it the common name of sunflower. As the day progresses, the flower heads slowly turn to face the sun, following its every move from morning until night. But not just humans are drawn to this beautiful plant; birds can’t resist it either! They love to feast on the seeds directly from the sunflower’s head. It is spread by rhizomes and self-seed, forming beautiful, vibrant colonies that brighten any landscape.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Herbaceous
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4 – 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full Sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Chalk, loam, sand. Acid, alkaline, neutral. Well-drained
\n\n\n\nDuration: Deciduous perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: No fragrance
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Summer and autumn
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Dry to medium
\n\n\n\nMature height: 2 – 4 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: None
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low. Best to site plants in locations sheltered from strong winds. It may need staking, mainly if grown in exposed areas
\n\n\n\nIf you’re a proud resident of New Orleans and an avid gardener, using native plants in your garden not only ensures that they will be well adapted to the local climate but will also support the local ecosystem.
\n\n\n\nThe climate in New Orleans is classified as humid subtropical, which translates to very hot and humid summers and relatively mild, short winters. The USDA Hardiness Zone is 9, meaning the average minimum temperature is between 25 to 30 degrees Fahrenheit. Native plants have evolved to be resilient to the local weather conditions, making them easy to maintain and care for. They can also add a touch of local flair to your garden and attract birds, butterflies, and other wildlife.
\n\n\n\nNative gardens offer numerous benefits to your garden and the environment. One benefit is their ability to thrive in the local climate and require less watering, fertilizer, and pesticides. This makes them low maintenance, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly. Additionally, native plants have deep roots that can prevent water run-off and soil erosion.
\n\n\n\nPlanting native plants is sustainable because they are adapted to the local climate and ecosystem, making them more resilient and resistant to local pests and diseases. They require less maintenance, water, and chemical fertilizers and pesticides than non-native plants.
\n\n\n\nNative plants are better than non-native plants for several reasons. Firstly, they are adapted to the local climate, soil, and other environmental factors, making them more resilient to pests, diseases, and weather fluctuations. This means that they require less water, fertilizer, and pesticide treatments, reducing the need for maintenance and potentially harmful chemicals.
\n\n\n\nNon-native plants may not provide the same level of support for local wildlife, which can lead to imbalances in the local ecosystem.
\n\n\n\nIf you want to plant native trees and plants in your backyard, you should buy them from a local nursery which ensures that you are getting plants that are specific to your region. Local nurseries have knowledgeable staff who can provide guidance on the best plants for your garden and how to care for them, which can help you create a thriving and sustainable landscape.
\n\n\n\nLook at these local nurseries in the New Orleans area suggested by the Native Plant Initiative of Greater New Orleans:
\n\n\n\nWhile adding native plants to a garden is an important step towards creating a more ecologically friendly landscape, it’s important to remember that it’s only one piece of the puzzle. When planning a landscape project, it’s crucial to consider low-maintenance landscape ideas. Additionally, it’s important to check your lawn and ensure it’s healthy, as it plays a major role in your outdoor space’s overall look.
\n\n\n\nWhenever you are ready to contact a professional to help, let WikiLawn connect you with a local landscaping pro in your area. By adopting a holistic approach to your landscape project, you can create an enduring outdoor space that is not only beautiful but also environmentally sustainable, providing you with years of enjoyment.
\n","title":"8 Best Native Plants for New Orleans, LA","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/dad98a5ccf977319af9e618d3da53dcd/1789c/magnolia-trees-556718_1920.jpg","srcSet":"/static/dad98a5ccf977319af9e618d3da53dcd/107df/magnolia-trees-556718_1920.jpg 320w,\n/static/dad98a5ccf977319af9e618d3da53dcd/293e9/magnolia-trees-556718_1920.jpg 500w,\n/static/dad98a5ccf977319af9e618d3da53dcd/f2cbb/magnolia-trees-556718_1920.jpg 800w,\n/static/dad98a5ccf977319af9e618d3da53dcd/1789c/magnolia-trees-556718_1920.jpg 960w,\n/static/dad98a5ccf977319af9e618d3da53dcd/4fb49/magnolia-trees-556718_1920.jpg 1920w","srcWebp":"/static/dad98a5ccf977319af9e618d3da53dcd/1dd6e/magnolia-trees-556718_1920.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/dad98a5ccf977319af9e618d3da53dcd/67b76/magnolia-trees-556718_1920.webp 320w,\n/static/dad98a5ccf977319af9e618d3da53dcd/8df11/magnolia-trees-556718_1920.webp 500w,\n/static/dad98a5ccf977319af9e618d3da53dcd/98a65/magnolia-trees-556718_1920.webp 800w,\n/static/dad98a5ccf977319af9e618d3da53dcd/1dd6e/magnolia-trees-556718_1920.webp 960w,\n/static/dad98a5ccf977319af9e618d3da53dcd/62477/magnolia-trees-556718_1920.webp 1920w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"8 Best Native Plants for New Orleans, LA | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Discover the 8 best native plants for your New Orleans garden. Enhance your outdoor space with these resilient and easy-to-maintain plants adapted to the local climate and attract local wildlife."}}},{"node":{"id":"9716c201-4d26-56f5-b62d-593bf7e636d8","slug":"best-native-plants-lafayette","path":"/lawn-care/la/lafayette/best-native-plants-lafayette/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"After discovering her passion for writing through her beauty blog, Melanie left her engineering job in California, became a freelance writer, and never once looked back. She loves nature and enjoys going on road trips with her husband and their two sons.","name":"Melanie Joseph","id":"f86bf815-f27c-5928-b67e-d3481c2d1e0a","path":"/author/melanie-joseph/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/da91467d5e58d9fc8f1f730b09830569?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"dc827560-ae67-51d9-837b-dff243431ac3","name":"Lafayette","count":1,"path":"/category/lawn-care/la/lafayette/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"8e5263e2-95b5-572d-8061-a1a1afa1a8c2","name":"Louisiana","count":8,"path":"/category/lawn-care/la/"}],"date":"May 25th, 2023","excerpt":"Known for scrumptious Creole and Cajun food, Lafayette prides itself on its unique culture and natural beauty. It’s home to an array of flora and fauna, including many native plants that thrive in the region’s hot, humid summers. From wildflowers and shrubs to vines and trees, these plants offer a host of benefits to homeowners […]
\n","content":"\nKnown for scrumptious Creole and Cajun food, Lafayette prides itself on its unique culture and natural beauty. It’s home to an array of flora and fauna, including many native plants that thrive in the region’s hot, humid summers. From wildflowers and shrubs to vines and trees, these plants offer a host of benefits to homeowners and the environment alike, including:
\n\n\n\nExplore the 15 best native plants for Lafayette, and discover how you can incorporate these beautiful and beneficial species into your own backyard.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\nHere are 15 of the best native plants for Lafayette, including shrubs, trees, wildflowers, and groundcovers.
\n\n\n\n![\"berries](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Callicarpa_americana.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Korall / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nA shrub native to the southeastern United States, American beautyberry can be found growing naturally along the edges of fields and in wooded areas. It is a tough and adaptable plant that can thrive in various soil types and light conditions.
\n\n\n\nThis perennial plant is known for its clusters of bright purple berries that are produced in late summer and fall, which are not only beautiful to look at but also serve as an important food source for birds, raccoons, whitetail deer, and opossums.
\n\n\n\nIn addition to its attractive berries, American beautyberry produces small, pale pink flowers in the spring and early summer that are a valuable source of nectar for bees and butterflies. It is also a larval host plant for the beautiful royal walnut moth.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 6b-11
\n\n\n\nMature size: 3-8 feet tall, 4-8 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade – requires a minimum of four hours of sunlight per day
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Prefers organic, fertile, loam soil but can still grow in most soil types
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low – around 1 inch of water per week, but give it deep, slow watering during drought and extreme dry spells
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic – but avoid eating its berries as they may cause discomfort, such as vomiting
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Taxodium_Distichum_Bald_Cypress_28894599385.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Treeworld Wholesale / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nHighly valued for its aesthetic appeal and ecological benefits, the bald cypress has a broad, pyramidal shape and needle-like leaves that turn a striking rust color in the fall. It’s commonly found in swamps, bayous, and floodplains throughout the Lafayette area, but you also can see it in various parks and gardens, such as Girard Park and the University of Louisiana at Lafayette’s Cypress Lake.
\n\n\n\nAs a native species, this deciduous tree is well adapted to the hot and humid Louisiana climate, and requires little maintenance once established. Its cones and seeds are a food source for various wildlife, and its roots help stabilize soil and prevent erosion.
\n\n\n\nIn addition, bald cypress is tolerant of wet soil conditions and can help absorb excess water during heavy rains. It’s slightly to moderately resistant to challenges, such as salt, fire, deer, and standing water.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 50-70 feet tall, 20-30 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade to full sun – thrives in areas with at least six hours of sun exposure per day
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist, well-drained, fertile, acidic, clay, or loamy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low – needs at least 1 inch of water per week, and the soil must be kept evenly moist
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\n![\"yellow](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Black-eyed_susan_flowers_40862429212.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Michel Rathwell / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nA hardy perennial that thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, black-eyed Susan can add a pop of color to your landscape. It’s a drought-tolerant plant that blooms from early summer to early fall in the Gulf Coast region, producing bright yellow-orange flowers with dark centers that attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
\n\n\n\nFrom New Orleans to Baton Rouge to Lafayette, you’ll commonly find black-eyed Susan planted in meadows, prairies, and along roadsides. You can plant it as a border or backdrop for other plants in your garden or flower bed, along fences or walls, and in naturalized areas. Remember to deadhead the flowers after they bloom to promote further blooming throughout the season.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Wildflower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2-4 feet
\n\n\n\nDuration: Short-lived perennial, annual, or biennial (depending on growing conditions)
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade – it needs at least six hours of sun exposure each day
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained, fertile, acidic, loamy, sandy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic to humans and pets, but may cause allergic skin reactions and asthma attacks
\n\n\n\n![\"a](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/3694407592_5d15f78c77_o-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Calvin Webster / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nAlso known as swamp rose mallow, crimson-eyed rose mallow is a perennial plant native to Louisiana and other southeastern states. The plant produces large, showy flowers in shades of pink, white, and red, measuring up to 12 inches in diameter. It blooms from summer to fall, attracting pollinators like bees and hummingbirds.
\n\n\n\nThis plant is perfect for rain gardens, naturalized areas, and other wet or low-lying spots in the yard. To encourage healthy growth and maximum flowering, fertilize crimson-eyed rose mallow with a slow-release fertilizer in early spring, and keep the soil moist throughout the growing season.
\n\n\n\nAs a larval host to several moths and butterflies, including the rose mallow moth, pearly wood nymph, and common checkered skipper, the crimson-eyed rose mallow is an integral part of the local ecosystem. Additionally, the plant’s deep roots help to stabilize soil and prevent erosion, making it an ideal choice for wetland restoration projects.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Wildflower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4a-9b
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2-6 feet tall, 2-5 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade to full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist, fertile, slightly acidic, sandy, or loamy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: High – water regularly, especially during hot weather
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic to both humans and pets
\n\n\n\n![\"beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Lonicera_sempervirens_-_Coral_honeysuckle_02.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Zeynel Cebeci / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nNative to the southeastern United States, coral honeysuckle is commonly found growing in woodlands, along roadsides, fence rows, and trellises. It’s sometimes called trumpet honeysuckle because of the bright coral-red tubular flowers that adorn it from spring to early fall.
\n\n\n\nA larval host to the spring azure butterfly, this perennial vine attracts pollinators and wildlife, including hummingbirds, bees, and other beneficial insects. In addition to its beauty, coral honeysuckle is relatively easy to care for. Although, it needs regular watering, especially during dry spells.
\n\n\n\nAn excellent groundcover, coral honeysuckle can be mixed with other native plants to create a beautiful and diverse landscape. And if you want to make it more beautiful in the garden, prune it to maintain its shape and size. Deadheading spent flowers also can encourage additional blooming throughout the growing season.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Vine
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 3-20 feet tall, 3-6 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Semi-evergreen to evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Prefers full sun but can still grow in partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Grows in most soil types but thrives in well-drained, fertile, slightly acidic, loamy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: While birds eat its berries, they are toxic to humans and pets
\n\n\n\n![\"White](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Flowering-Dogwood-Cornus-florida.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Eric Hunt / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nKnown for its striking pink or white blooms that appear in the spring, flowering dogwood can add beauty and elegance to your garden. In addition to its aesthetic appeal, this perennial tree serves a crucial ecological role in supporting local wildlife. Its nectar-rich flowers attract various pollinators, while its leaves serve as a host for the larvae of certain moth species.
\n\n\n\nWhether planted as a specimen tree or as part of a larger landscape design, flowering dogwood is a beautiful and valuable addition to any Lafayette homeowner’s yard. And if you want it to thrive in your garden or landscape, provide it with proper care. Prune it regularly to promote growth and maintain its shape.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 5-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 20-65 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Part shade to full shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Dry to moist, well-drained, acidic soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: The fruit is poisonous to humans
\n\n\n\n![\"Yellow](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Goldenrod-Solidago-species-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Bob Peterson / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nAlso known as sweet goldenrod, this perennial plant boasts beautiful clusters of yellow flowers that bloom in late summer and early fall. It’s often planted in meadows, prairies, and open woodlands but can thrive even in home gardens.
\n\n\n\nBesides attracting pollinators, including butterflies, bees, and wasps, fragrant goldenrod also serves as a host plant for several moth species, including the goldenrod gall moth.
\n\n\n\nYou can plant it in groups for a bold statement or mix it with other native plants for a more diverse landscape. It has a pleasant fragrance that can fill the air around it. And like bluestem goldenrod, this wildflower is also moderately deer-resistant.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Wildflower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4a-9b
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1-2 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade to full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist, well-drained, clay, or loamy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: While it has therapeutic properties, certain people, like those with medical conditions, should avoid ingesting any of its parts.
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Louisiana-Iris.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pxfuel
\n\n\n\nWell-suited to the humid and rainy climate of the Acadiana region, Louisiana iris is a rare plant found growing in the wetlands and along the edges of ponds, lakes, waterways, and other bodies of water throughout Lafayette. It blooms in a range of colors, including purple, blue, yellow, and white, and typically flowers in the spring.
\n\n\n\nVarious insects, pollinators, and wildlife rely on this plant. For example, it is the host plant for the Louisiana iris moth, which is found in the southern United States.
\n\n\n\nAlso known as dixie iris, this plant is a favorite among gardeners due to its hardiness and ability to thrive even in standing water. Lawn enthusiasts can use this native wildflower in mass plantings or as a backdrop for other plants in their gardens.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Wildflower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 1-3 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist, fertile, acidic soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low – needs at least 1 inch of water per week during its growing season
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic to pets, especially cats, dogs, and horses
\n\n\n\n![\"beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/4615947433_f6d02a427c_o-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Chris M Morris / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nA small tree ideal for little gardens or as an understory tree in larger landscapes, parsley hawthorn is commonly found growing in the woods and along streams and rivers throughout the southeastern United States.
\n\n\n\nAs a larval host plant for the gray hairstreak butterfly, this perennial tree serves as an essential part of the local ecosystem. The tree blooms in the spring, producing lovely white flowers that attract other pollinators, including bees, hummingbirds, and other butterflies. In the fall, the tree’s red berries provide a food source for birds and other wildlife.
\n\n\n\nYou can enhance the tree’s beauty by planting it in groupings, adding understory plantings beneath it, or underplanting it with other shade-loving plants such as ferns or hostas. When properly cared for, parsley hawthorn can be a stunning addition to any landscape, providing year-round interest and supporting biodiversity.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 7-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 25 feet tall and 15 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade – can survive even in deep shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained, moist, sandy, or loamy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate – needs infrequent but deep watering
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic, but the seeds can be poisonous if ingested, and its thorns can cause injuries
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Tennessee-Coneflower.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Wallpaperflare
\n\n\n\nNative to the eastern and central US, purple coneflower grows wild in prairies, meadows, and open woods. This hardy perennial is easy to grow and can add a beautiful burst of color to any garden. Blooming from late spring to mid-summer, it’s a favorite of butterflies and bees, making it perfect for gardeners looking to attract pollinators to their yards.
\n\n\n\nRemember to deadhead the flowers as they fade to encourage more blooms. You also can pair this wildflower with companion plants, such as black-eyed Susans or ear-leaved tickseed, to create a stunning display of color and attract even more pollinators. Note, though, that this deciduous plant has a medium flammability rating, so don’t place it too close to your home.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Wildflower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 3-4 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade to full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained, moist to occasionally dry, fertile soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic, but may cause discomfort when ingested in large amounts
\n\n\n\n![\"a](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Red_maple_leaves.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Heng Wang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nRed maple is a beautiful and versatile tree that can thrive in various soil types and growing conditions. This deciduous tree is native to Louisiana and can be found throughout Lafayette in a range of habitats – from swamps to uplands. In the fall, its leaves turn a brilliant shade of red, making it a stunning addition to any landscape.
\n\n\n\nAn essential resource for pollinators and wildlife, the tree produces small, red flowers in the early spring that attract bees and other insects. These flowers give way to distinctive winged seeds that provide food for birds and small mammals. Additionally, the red maple is a larval host to several species of moths and butterflies, including the rosy maple moth.
\n\n\n\nIf you want to make your red maple tree more beautiful, give it enough water and nutrients. The tree prefers moist, well-drained soil and can benefit from regular fertilization. Also, prune it regularly to maintain its shape and prevent the growth of weak branches that may break during hurricanes and strong winds.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 40-60 feet tall and 25-45 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade to full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist to dry, well-drained, slightly acidic soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: High
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic, especially the wilted and dried leaves
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/800px-Rhododendron_indicum_02.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Andrey Korzun / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nWhen azaleas bloom in the Deep South, it signals the start of spring. For this reason, the Southern Indian azalea has been named the official city flower of Lafayette. With its showy blooms of pink, purple, white, and red, this azalea is a popular choice for adding color and beauty to any yard.
\n\n\n\nAlso known as the Southern Indica azalea, this beloved flowering shrub can be found in many gardens and landscapes throughout Lafayette. And if you want to bask in the beauty of their blooms along with other azaleas, you can simply stroll around the city’s historic azalea trail.
\n\n\n\nAs a larval host plant, Southern Indian azaleas provide a home for the larvae of the Eastern tiger swallowtail butterfly. They are typically planted in early spring and bloom from late March to early May, attracting pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds with their sweet nectar.
\n\n\n\nPruning after the blooms have faded will help encourage new growth and maintain a healthy shape. These plants are often used as foundation plants, specimen plants, or in mass plantings for a dramatic effect.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 8-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 2-3 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Semi-evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained, moist, rich, slightly acidic, loamy (silt) soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low – requires at least 1 inch of water per week during dry spells
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Highly toxic – all parts of the plant are poisonous to both humans and animals
\n\n\n\n![\"White](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Southern-Magnolia-Magnolia-grandiflora1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jim Evans / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nWith its fragrant, creamy white flowers that bloom from spring to summer, the Southern magnolia is Louisiana’s state flower. Native to the southeastern United States, it’s often planted as ornamental trees in yards, parks, and public gardens, including the Acadiana Park Nature Station.
\n\n\n\nKnown for its large, glossy leaves, this native tree grows wild in forests or near water and provides a habitat for various wildlife, including birds and insects. Beetles pollinate the tree’s flowers, while birds and small mammals eat its fruits.
\n\n\n\nYou can make it more beautiful in your native garden by providing proper care, such as regular fertilizing and mulching. Pruning Southern magnolia can help shape it and encourage healthy growth. Planting complementary understory plants such as ferns and shade-loving perennials can help create a beautiful and healthy ecosystem around the tree.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 6-10
\n\n\n\nMature size: 60-80 feet tall and 30-50 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial shade to full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained, moist, fertile soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low – may need supplemental watering during extended dry spells
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic to both humans and animals
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/4367996170_22305dace4_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Tatters / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nAlso known as the scarlet rose mallow, the Texas star hibiscus has large, showy, bright red flowers with prominent stamens and a dark maroon center. It typically blooms from late spring to early fall and is a great choice for gardeners looking to attract hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees, as it is a favorite nectar source for these pollinators.
\n\n\n\nIn Lafayette, you can find this salt-tolerant wildflower planted in many gardens and public spaces, including the Hilliard University Art Museum and the Lafayette Science Museum. Its natural habitat is along the edges of swamps, bayous, and rivers, but it can thrive in a range of soil types and growing conditions.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Wildflower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 5-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 6-8 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Prefers moist soil but grows well in most soil types
\n\n\n\nWater needs: High – needs 1-3 inches of water per week, even more during dry spells
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/plant-flower-tree-branch-flowering-plant-fruit-1490773-pxhere.com-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pxhere
\n\n\n\nCommonly found in the southeastern United States, yaupon holly is a hardy and adaptable plant that can thrive in various soil conditions. Its natural habitat is along coastal areas, in sandy soils or swamps, maritime woods, and limestone uplands. This evergreen plant is resistant to drought, deer, salt, and wind.
\n\n\n\nAs a larval host to the Henry’s Elfin butterfly, yaupon holly plays an important role in supporting local ecosystems. The plant blooms in spring and produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are a valuable nectar source for bees and other pollinators. The berries that follow are also an important food source for birds.
\n\n\n\nAdditionally, you can prune it to create an attractive shape or incorporate it into a mixed border with other plants that complement its glossy green foliage. It also responds well to regular fertilization and watering, so giving it the right nutrients and moisture can help it thrive in the landscape.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub, small tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 7-9
\n\n\n\nMature size: 10-20 feet tall
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Evergreen
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained, moist, rich, loamy soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic – its berries can be poisonous when eaten
\n\n\n\nLafayette is home to an array of stunning native plants that can add color and character to any landscape. But the task of choosing the right plants for your specific yard can be tedious.
\n\n\n\nThe first step is to consider the USDA hardiness zone, which for Lafayette is primarily 9a. The average minimum temperature in the city is 20 degrees Fahrenheit. This means plants that thrive in warm, humid climates can flourish in your yard.
\n\n\n\nSince native plants have already evolved to thrive in your local ecosystem, they can provide multiple benefits to your yard. They support the local pollinators and wildlife and can even help mitigate local environmental issues such as soil erosion. But you must check if they are well-suited to your specific yard’s conditions, such as soil type, sunlight exposure, and moisture levels.
\n\n\n\nYou can seek guidance from LSU’s local cooperative extension or soil testing lab to determine your soil type and condition. Also, consider water usage and conservation. Many native plants are drought-tolerant and can withstand hot summers, but you may still need to add mulch or compost to retain soil moisture and reduce the need for watering.
\n\n\n\nLafayette is home to various public gardens and natural areas that showcase the region’s stunning plant life. One popular destination is the Lafayette Science Museum Native Garden, which features over 150 species of native plants. The garden is designed to provide a hands-on educational experience for visitors and serves as a model for sustainable landscaping practices.
Another must-see spot is the University of Louisiana at Lafayette’s Native Plant Garden. This garden showcases over 100 species of native plants and serves as a living laboratory for students studying horticulture, ecology, and biology.
If you want a more natural setting, you can head to the nearby Acadiana Park Nature Station. Here, you’ll find a variety of native plant species, including swamp milkweed, cardinal flower, and beautyberry. The nature station also offers guided hikes and educational programs throughout the year.
Finally, don’t forget to check out the city’s numerous parks and green spaces, many of which feature native plantings. From Girard Park to Moncus Park, you will find stunning examples of Lafayette’s diverse plant life just a short drive from your doorstep.
Some excellent choices for backyard buffers in Lafayette include Southern magnolia, yaupon holly, and Texas star hibiscus. These plants not only provide a natural screen but also attract wildlife to your yard and support the local ecosystem. Consider using a mix of native grasses to create a diverse buffer that provides year-round interest and beauty.
Lafayette is located in a region with a rich history of agriculture and farming, so it’s no surprise that the city’s soil is ideal for many types of plants. The soil is typically well-draining, sandy loam, with a pH range of 5.0 to 7.0.
The sandy texture of the soil provides excellent drainage, making it less prone to waterlogging, which is important during the rainy season. It also allows for good aeration and root development, essential for healthy plant growth.
While sandy soil is generally easy to work with, it can be low in nutrients and organic matter. To help plants thrive, homeowners may consider adding compost or other organic materials to their soil.
When it comes to selecting turfgrass to complement your native plants, you must consider several factors, such as climate, soil type, and maintenance requirements. Warm-season grasses like bermudagrass, Zoysiagrass, and St. Augustinegrass are well-suited to the region’s hot and humid summers, making them a popular choice for lawns.
Bermudagrass is known for its durability and drought tolerance, while Zoysiagrass is favored for its low maintenance and tolerance to foot traffic. St. Augustinegrass is a popular choice for its lush appearance and shade tolerance, making it a good option for areas with partial shade.
Lafayette homeowners looking to add native plants to their gardens have a wealth of resources at their disposal. The region’s warm climate and well-draining soil make it an ideal environment for many native species, which can help support the local ecosystem and create a beautiful, low-maintenance landscape.
\n\n\n\nOne excellent place to start your search for native plants is the Louisiana Native Plant Society. This organization offers a wealth of information on native plants, including their growing conditions and where to find them.
\n\n\n\nWhen choosing plants for your garden, consider factors like soil type, exposure to sunlight, and water availability. Native plants often thrive with minimal maintenance, but you’ll still need to pick the right plants for your landscape.
\n\n\n\nAnother option for finding native plants is to attend a local plant sale or nursery event. Many nurseries and botanical gardens host sales throughout the year, and these can be an excellent opportunity to find rare or hard-to-find species.
\n\n\n\nIf you don’t have enough time to design and maintain an eco-friendly garden or aren’t confident in your gardening ability, a Lafayette landscaping pro can assist you in creating and preserving a lovely and sustainable garden.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Flowering dogwood / Pxfuel
\n","title":"15 Best Native Plants for Lafayette, LA","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/6cd3819556a9c3a473ab228d123b85f4/1789c/pxfuel.com-4-1-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/6cd3819556a9c3a473ab228d123b85f4/107df/pxfuel.com-4-1-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/6cd3819556a9c3a473ab228d123b85f4/293e9/pxfuel.com-4-1-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/6cd3819556a9c3a473ab228d123b85f4/f2cbb/pxfuel.com-4-1-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/6cd3819556a9c3a473ab228d123b85f4/1789c/pxfuel.com-4-1-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/6cd3819556a9c3a473ab228d123b85f4/c26c2/pxfuel.com-4-1-1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/6cd3819556a9c3a473ab228d123b85f4/1dd6e/pxfuel.com-4-1-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/6cd3819556a9c3a473ab228d123b85f4/67b76/pxfuel.com-4-1-1.webp 320w,\n/static/6cd3819556a9c3a473ab228d123b85f4/8df11/pxfuel.com-4-1-1.webp 500w,\n/static/6cd3819556a9c3a473ab228d123b85f4/98a65/pxfuel.com-4-1-1.webp 800w,\n/static/6cd3819556a9c3a473ab228d123b85f4/1dd6e/pxfuel.com-4-1-1.webp 960w,\n/static/6cd3819556a9c3a473ab228d123b85f4/3cc96/pxfuel.com-4-1-1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"15 Best Native Plants for Lafayette, LA | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Discover the best native plants for Lafayette and where to buy these landscape plants that thrive in humid subtropical climates."}}},{"node":{"id":"b93112dc-713d-5e19-b7b4-68861a0188ce","slug":"best-grass-types-new-orleans","path":"/lawn-care/la/new-orleans/best-grass-types-new-orleans/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Cecilia Acevedo is a professional writer, translator, and mom who loves God, reading, and a good rainy nap. She combines her passion for writing with her love for the colorful world painted by her children.","name":"Cecilia Acevedo","id":"0fc0b86b-7672-540a-a0af-58a8d66c6781","path":"/author/cecilia-acevedo/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/75c4cb2a06e5f57c7018b7cb365dd82d?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"8e5263e2-95b5-572d-8061-a1a1afa1a8c2","name":"Louisiana","count":8,"path":"/category/lawn-care/la/"},{"id":"ead65a59-ae54-536e-a7e9-908c849a1fc5","name":"New Orleans","count":3,"path":"/category/lawn-care/la/new-orleans/"}],"date":"April 6th, 2023","excerpt":"To achieve a lush green lawn in New Orleans, it is crucial to select the best grass type that can effectively withstand high levels of heat and humidity. The city, famous for jazz music and gumbo, is also notorious for its unpredictable weather patterns. The summers are hot and humid, while fall can be variable, […]
\n","content":"\nTo achieve a lush green lawn in New Orleans, it is crucial to select the best grass type that can effectively withstand high levels of heat and humidity. The city, famous for jazz music and gumbo, is also notorious for its unpredictable weather patterns.
\n\n\n\nThe summers are hot and humid, while fall can be variable, with some days feeling like summer and others like winter. The winters, on the other hand, are brief and cool. Hence, to maintain a beautiful lawn in this region, you need to carefully consider the best grass types that are suitable for New Orleans’ climate.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf you’re planning on growing a lawn, you’ll need to choose between warm-season and cool-season grasses. Here’s a hint: You’ll likely want to choose warm-season grass for your New Orleans lawn.
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses thrive in warm conditions and prefer long summers and mild temperatures during winter. Warm-season grasses are green when temperatures warm up in spring and enter dormancy when temperatures drop in autumn and winter.
\n\n\n\nCool-season grasses, on the other hand, prefer milder temperatures and perform better in cooler climates. These grasses are like the cozy sweaters you wear in the fall, providing warmth and comfort during the cooler months.
\n\n\n\nSo, when it comes to choosing between warm-season and cool-season grasses, it all depends on where you live and what kind of weather you’re dealing with.
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses thrive in warm conditions and prefer long summers and mild winters. These grasses are characterized by their ability to grow quickly and tolerate hot temperatures, making them the perfect choice for New Orleans’ hot and humid climate.
\n\n\n\nSo, if you want a lawn that can handle the New Orleans heat and still look fabulous, here’s more information about 5 warm-season grass types for The Big Easy:
\n\n\n\n![\"lush](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/bermudagrass-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pexels
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass is a fine-textured turfgrass that spreads laterally by rhizomes and stolons. It boasts an impressive drought tolerance, making it an excellent choice for those hot summers that never end. And don’t worry about all those backyard barbecues and kids playing rough in the backyard; bermudagrass has a high-traffic tolerance that can handle all the wear your family and friends can dish out.
\n\n\n\nBut be warned, bermudagrass has poor shade tolerance, so make sure your lawn gets plenty of sunlight. Bermudagrass also needs frequent mowing to keep its best look. Watch out for those pesky flower beds because bermudagrass has invasive qualities that can take over if you’re not careful.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low; thrives in full sun
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Needs frequent mowing due to fast growth rate; develops thatch easily; needs regular fertilization.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set the mowing height between 0.5 and 1.5 inches for hybrid Bermudagrass cultivars. Mow common Bermudagrass down to 1.5 to 2.5 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Good disease resistance, although diseases are common; low resistance to insects.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Tolerates most soil types.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: The extensive root system of bermudagrass provides more resilience against environmental stresses than other warm-season grasses.
\n\n\n\nSt. Augustinegrass is known for its attractive blue-green appearance. Still, it’s also one of the most shade-tolerant grasses. So, if your yard is surrounded by trees or buildings, St. Augustinegrass is a great option to keep your lawn looking lush and healthy. However, it’s worth noting that St. Augustinegrass has lower traffic tolerance. Consider other options if you have kids or pets who love to run around and play outside.
\n\n\n\nSt. Augustinegrass is highly sensitive to the chinch bug, a pesky insect that can wreak havoc on your lawn. But with proper care and maintenance, you can keep them at bay and enjoy a healthy, vibrant lawn.
\n\n\n\nRegarding water, St. Augustinegrass has a moderate to high drought tolerance. That means it can handle some dryness, but it still needs to be watered regularly during the hot months.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate. It is the most shade-tolerant warm-season grass.
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Needs frequent mowing due to fast growth rate; develops thatch easily; needs regular fertilization.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set the mowing height between 3.5 and 4 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate to high
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Tolerates many soil types; prefers moderately fertile and moist (not waterlogged) soils; doesn’t tolerate soil compaction.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: St. Augustinegrass is not available in seed form commercially. That means it needs to be established via sod, plugs, or sprigs. While this can be a bit more expensive than seeding, it also means that you’ll have a lawn that’s more consistent in terms of color and texture.
\n\n\n\n![\"Beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_starr_070906-8518_zoysia_sp.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Forest & Kim Starr / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n\n\n\nIf you’re looking for grass that’s dense, lush, and great to walk on barefoot, then Zoysiagrass might just be the perfect fit for your New Orleans lawn. This warm-season grass is known for its carpeted growth, which competes well against weeds and creates a thick, green lawn perfect for play and relaxation. And speaking of play, Zoysiagrass has a high traffic tolerance, making it a great choice for families who love to spend time outside.
\n\n\n\nHowever, it’s worth noting that Zoysiagrass is slow to recover from damage. Still, you can keep your lawn looking lush year-round with proper care and maintenance. Zoysiagrass has moderate shade tolerance; it’s the second most shade-tolerant warm-season grass, making it an excellent choice for areas of your yard that don’t get as much sun.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons and rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High, but recovers slowly from damage.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low nitrogen fertilization requirements, although it’s prone to thatch build-up.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height between 1 and 2 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Good disease tolerance overall.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Well-draining, some cultivars are more tolerant of a wide range of soils than others.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Zoysiagrass is slow to establish, making sod the optimal choice for installation. While this can be more expensive than other installation methods, it’s worth the investment if you want a consistently lush and green lawn.
\n\n\n\n![\"beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Centipede_Grass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James Becwar JamesBecwar / Wikimedia Commons / CC0
\n\n\n\nCentipedegrass is known for its vibrant apple-green color, which adds color to any yard. And the best part? Centipedegrass is incredibly low maintenance. You won’t need to mow, lime, fertilize, or dethatch as often as with other types of grass.
\n\n\n\nHowever, centipedegrass has low traffic tolerance. Additionally, while it has outstanding heat tolerance, it doesn’t equate to drought tolerance. In comparison with other warm-season grasses, centipedegrass’ root system is shallow. So, you need to be extra vigilant and water it during times of low rainfall.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low. It requires low mowing and fertilizers.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set the mowing height between 1 and 2 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Good resistance to diseases and insects.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5-6
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Acidic, infertile, at least moderately good drainage (very dense, clay soils produce poor results).
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Centipedegrass is not a salt-tolerant grass. It grows slowly.
\n\n\n\n![\"close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Seashore-Paspalum-Grass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Forest & Kim Starr / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n\n\n\nWhen it comes to selecting the best grass for New Orleans, seashore paspalum grass is an excellent choice. This type of grass can effectively withstand the high levels of heat and humidity that are prevalent in the region. Additionally, since New Orleans is located next to the saltwater lake Lake Pontchartrain, seashore paspalum is an ideal option due to its excellent salt tolerance.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Rhizomes and stolons
\n\n\n\nShade Tolerance: Low to Moderate
\n\n\n\nDrought Tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nFoot Traffic Tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance Needs: Moderate fertilizer and frequent mowing.
\n\n\n\nMowing Height: Set the mowing height between 1 and 2 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential for Disease: Moderate. Common diseases include large patch and dollar spot.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: Tolerates a wide soil pH range, from 3.6 to 10.2.
\n\n\n\nSoil Type: Tolerates a wide range of soils, including wet, saline soil.
\n\n\n\nOther Notes: It is the most salt tolerant warm-season grass.
\n\n\n\nIt´s bermudagrass. The reason for Bermudagrass’s popularity in Louisiana is its ability to adjust to diverse climatic and soil conditions. This adaptable turfgrass is widely grown due to its capacity to form an appealing and thick sod.
When choosing a warm-season grass type for a shady lawn, there are a few options to consider. One of the best warm-season grasses for shade is St. Augustinegrass. This grass type is known for its ability to thrive in shaded areas, making it an excellent choice for lawns shaded by trees or buildings.
Because of its extensive root system, bermudagrass, known as wiregrass or devil grass, tolerates plenty of sports and foot traffic. Bermudagrass fares best in warmer weather, making it the natural choice for active, summer-loving families.
Choosing the right grass variety can transform your backyard into an oasis. Bermudagrass, St. Augustinegrass, Zoysiagrass, centipedegrass, and seashore paspalum grass are all excellent options, each with unique advantages that can help you create a lush and vibrant lawn.
\n\n\n\nRemember, however, that the grass variety you choose is just one component of a complete landscape. You can enhance the beauty of your backyard by using native plants and low maintenance landscaping designs.
\n\n\n\nIf you want to ensure that your lawn and backyard look their best, consider hiring a professional to help with maintenance. Contact a New Orleans lawn care pro who can provide regular maintenance services to keep your lawn healthy and vibrant.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Audubon Boulevard, Uptown New Orleans / Infrogmation of New Orleans / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n","title":"5 Best Grass Types for New Orleans","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/6e97143ac095420c90ffcc0689d5acf5/1789c/Lawn-in-New-Orleans.jpg","srcSet":"/static/6e97143ac095420c90ffcc0689d5acf5/107df/Lawn-in-New-Orleans.jpg 320w,\n/static/6e97143ac095420c90ffcc0689d5acf5/293e9/Lawn-in-New-Orleans.jpg 500w,\n/static/6e97143ac095420c90ffcc0689d5acf5/f2cbb/Lawn-in-New-Orleans.jpg 800w,\n/static/6e97143ac095420c90ffcc0689d5acf5/1789c/Lawn-in-New-Orleans.jpg 960w,\n/static/6e97143ac095420c90ffcc0689d5acf5/c26c2/Lawn-in-New-Orleans.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/6e97143ac095420c90ffcc0689d5acf5/1dd6e/Lawn-in-New-Orleans.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/6e97143ac095420c90ffcc0689d5acf5/67b76/Lawn-in-New-Orleans.webp 320w,\n/static/6e97143ac095420c90ffcc0689d5acf5/8df11/Lawn-in-New-Orleans.webp 500w,\n/static/6e97143ac095420c90ffcc0689d5acf5/98a65/Lawn-in-New-Orleans.webp 800w,\n/static/6e97143ac095420c90ffcc0689d5acf5/1dd6e/Lawn-in-New-Orleans.webp 960w,\n/static/6e97143ac095420c90ffcc0689d5acf5/3cc96/Lawn-in-New-Orleans.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"5 Best Grass Types for New Orleans | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Need to choose a grass for your lawn? We've gathered the five best grass types for New Orleans yards so you can grow a thriving green lawn in The Big Easy."}}},{"node":{"id":"0afb2be5-3cfc-5cf0-bc48-0292d43130b9","slug":"native-plants-baton-rouge-la","path":"/lawn-care/la/baton-rouge/native-plants-baton-rouge-la/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Danielle Bradley is a botanist who experiments with native plants from every region in the U.S. She’s dedicated to companion planting without the use of pesticides. Her own garden is filled with a variety of colors and textures.","name":"Danielle Bradley","id":"7329a804-3158-5b9f-94fc-835a4923557a","path":"/author/danielle-bradley/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/a840af9ee5b616963d15a622658e9612?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"d1d6935d-c1c2-53e6-93e2-8203b0f7327d","name":"Baton Rouge","count":4,"path":"/category/lawn-care/la/baton-rouge/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"8e5263e2-95b5-572d-8061-a1a1afa1a8c2","name":"Louisiana","count":8,"path":"/category/lawn-care/la/"}],"date":"July 12th, 2019","excerpt":"Living in a subtropical planting zone has its advantages. One of the most noteworthy is the wide range of beautiful native plants we can use for landscaping. Natives are an optimal choice for yards and gardens because they’re already adapted to all the conditions the Gulf Coast environment can throw at them. They provide habitat […]
\n","content":"\nLiving in a subtropical planting zone has its advantages. One of the most noteworthy is the wide range of beautiful native plants we can use for landscaping. Natives are an optimal choice for yards and gardens because they’re already adapted to all the conditions the Gulf Coast environment can throw at them. They provide habitat for native wildlife and help to preserve our native flora. Read on for a list of native plants for Baton Rouge, LA.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/iKRzbM9Pns266l1jxMd-tJSeXRu-i4m671meODt_rK3jGnrNhdf51Ocmg7RqnNHEUS5bV-jacP-MYPOS0vgi3G1fKtTLBTIAlnc1J5AJ1yzQAiwlNBKcZda_1wYM6-qolsrBsXRC\")
This class of plants is a gardener’s best friend. Perennials come in many shapes and sizes, and most importantly, they bounce back from even the harshest winters. These plants give a great deal while asking little in return.
\n\n\n\nThis part of the garden helps create privacy and visually connects the ground to the trees. Shrubs can provide a windbreak or direct traffic along walkways, or even add to the feeling of separate “rooms” in a landscape.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/26fREMHnfu5h3HRiQz8vQt9oi_hZA_2c0YPPdExgig8AiDnC0PBqSmzJN4gMn8cXSfaMkO4udEyM8TdEEsM_FY3tYcCWBgF5mwpIWPIPjUbOcNq2xM_fftoPVWZcJqFSKxnZwigJ\")
There are many options for native plants in your Baton Rouge landscape. The beauty they offer is matched only by their low-maintenance needs. They also provide food for local wildlife and help repel invasive insects. Once you go native, it’s hard to look back.
\n\n\n\nLooking to learn more about lawn care and gardening in Baton Rouge? Visit our Baton Rouge Lawn Care page.
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Danielle Bradley is a botanist who experiments with native plants from every region in the U.S. She’s dedicated to companion planting without the use of pesticides. Her own garden is filled with a variety of colors and textures.
While neighboring states wilt under high summer temps and crippling water restrictions, Baton Rouge has the pleasure of unfettered watering privileges. But just because you can use unlimited amounts of water, doesn’t mean you should. In fact, preserving this natural resource is a priority in our area, even if we aren’t seeing a shortage. Read […]
\n","content":"\nWhile neighboring states wilt under high summer temps and crippling water restrictions, Baton Rouge has the pleasure of unfettered watering privileges. But just because you can use unlimited amounts of water, doesn’t mean you should. In fact, preserving this natural resource is a priority in our area, even if we aren’t seeing a shortage. Read on to learn about water conservation in Baton Rouge.
\n\n\n\nUsing the right grass species can help reduce your watering needs. There are five types of grass considered appropriate in the Baton Rouge area. These are carpetgrass, Zoysiagrass, St. Augustinegrass, centipedegrass, and Bermudagrass.
\n\n\n\nEach of these has an optimal length they should be mowed at, to encourage healthy root development and efficient water use.
\n\n\n\nBermjda (common): 1¼ to 1½ inch
Zoysia: ¾ to 1 inch
St. Augustine: 3 to 4 inches
Centipede: 1 to 2 inches
Carpet: 1 ½ to 2 inches
Thanks to high levels of humidity and rainfall, it’s not necessary to water heavily in our area. Most lawns do well with a deep watering of an inch or so each week or so. It’s easy to tell when your lawn is thirsty. Footsteps will leave prints for several minutes after the grass has is walked on, and the individual blades will curl. Water when you see these signs to prevent any long-term damage and keep the lawn happy.
\n\n\n\nWatering in early morning is always the best policy. It allows the maximum amount of water to seep into the soil.
\n\n\n\nSince many of our household appliances are integrated, it makes sense for irrigation to join the trend. Water conservation is effortless if you use smart irrigation technology. There are a number of systems available with more coming online all the time.
\n\n\n\nSmart irrigation takes a traditional irrigation controller to the next level. Rather than operating solely on a timer, these systems also incorporate water-saving features. Sensors adjust the optimal run time on sprinklers based on current local weather conditions. That means there’s no need to turn the controller off after a hard rain or to adjust the timing on a watering session to compensate for a hot, dry week. This technology takes guesswork and manual resets out of watering and makes sure that your lawn receives the amount of water it needs when it needs it.
\n\n\n\nThe drive to conserve water is a community effort. Here in Baton Rouge, citizens recently had an opportunity to be a part of a citywide challenge to conserve water and enter to win some prizes from the Wyland Foundation. The challenge lasted through April and was spearheaded by Mayor Sharon Weston Broome. While the 2019 challenge has passed, keep an ear to the ground next spring, or check online to see if Baton Rouge joins in again.
\n\n\n\nLooking to learn more about lawn care and gardening in Baton Rouge? Visit our Baton Rouge Lawn Care page.
\n\n\n\nFrank Naper is a nature enthusiast who loves to travel and explore new cities, taking nature photographs along the way.
Baton Rouge is a natural wonderland brimming with scenic parks, serene lakes, and bucolic countryside. If you want to replicate that beauty outside your front door, consider incorporating some of the native plants that make Baton Rouge so irresistible in the first place. Read on to discover the best native plants for Baton Rouge and […]
\n","content":"\nBaton Rouge is a natural wonderland brimming with scenic parks, serene lakes, and bucolic countryside. If you want to replicate that beauty outside your front door, consider incorporating some of the native plants that make Baton Rouge so irresistible in the first place.
\n\n\n\nRead on to discover the best native plants for Baton Rouge and the benefits they can provide.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\nIf you want a great landscape but don’t want to spend endless days caring for it, natives are the obvious choice. They offer a number of benefits:
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Hibiscus.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Quartl / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nHibiscus may remind you of a tropical vacation, but it’s actually a Louisiana native, and there are many varieties to choose from. This fabulous shrub or tree comes in various colors and can turn any garden into a vibrant butterfly oasis.
\n\n\n\nHibiscus can grow up to 10 feet. If you want to contain it, make sure you prune it in the spring. It grows in medium-to-wet average soil and hot and humid weather. If you want it to thrive, let it get exposed to full sun; just be careful not to let it dry out.
\n\n\n\nSome types of hibiscus, such as the Rose of Sharon (Hibiscus syriacus), are toxic if consumed, so exercise caution with children and pets.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub
\n\n\n\nHardiness zones: 5-9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nWater needs: High
\n\n\n\nSoil: Average, clay, moist, well-draining
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nMature height: 7 to 10 feet; Dwarf varieties grow to an average of 3 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Some types, such as Hibiscus syriacus, are toxic
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Louisiana-Phlox.jpg\")
Photo Credit: David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nThe Louisiana phlox, also known as woodland phlox, blue phlox, and wild sweet William, is a delicate wildflower that likes the shade and is commonly found growing between forest trees. It produces petals in a variety of colors that attract hummingbirds and butterflies. You can plant Louisiana phlox under a tree in your yard if you want to add some color to a shady area.
\n\n\n\nRabbits like to munch on the plant’s roots, but this can happen with nearly any plant. You can use repellents to keep them away, although they may not always be effective. If you want to go an extra step to protect your phlox from rabbits, you can use fine-mesh fencing or plant it in a raised flower bed. Additionally, make sure you cut back the plant’s stems after it flowers to protect it from powdery mildew.
\n\n\n\nPhlox plants are typically not toxic, but little is known specifically about the effects of the Louisiana phlox. As such, it’s best to err on the side of caution.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Flower
Hardiness zones: 3 to 8
Sun: Partial shade to full shade
Water needs: Moderate
Soil: Rich, moist, sandy loam, clay loam, slightly acidic
Duration: Perennial
Mature height: 6 to 12 inches
Potential hazards: Lack of data, so be cautious
![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Black-Eyed-Susan.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nBlack-eyed Susan is a stunning, delicate wildflower. Its bright yellow petals not only look great, but they also attract butterflies.
\n\n\n\nAlthough you’ll need to wait around a year to see the first flowers, the wait will be well worth it; once black-eyed Susan blooms, its blossoms last for months. Moreover, the plant is low-maintenance and adaptable; it tolerates heat, drought, and cold. It can also thrive in various planting zones.
\n\n\n\nThis plant is toxic to animals, so keep them a safe distance away. There isn’t much data regarding its toxicity to humans, but it can cause allergic reactions and asthma when touched and consumed, so enjoy it with your eyes only. Gloves and suitable clothing are advisable for handling the plant.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Wildflower
Hardiness zones: 3 to 7
Sun: Full sun to partial shade
Water needs: Moderate
Soil: Average, well-draining, acidic
Duration: Perennial
Mature height: 2 to 3 feet
Potential hazards: Toxic
Photo Credit: Treeworld Wholesale / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nThe bald cypress is the official state tree of Louisiana and can live up to 600 years. It’s also known for its unusual habit of growing “knees” from its roots. Their purpose is unknown, but they’re believed to help the tree breathe in swampy areas. Furthermore, the bald cypress is flood-tolerant. It does best in moist, sandy, and slightly acidic soil, although it can also live in average soil. But if the soil is too alkaline, there’s a risk of chlorosis.
\n\n\n\nBeing yellow-green in summer and orange-brown in the fall, this tree adds nice color to your garden. As a bonus, its seeds provide food for animals like birds and squirrels.
\n\n\n\nHowever, there isn’t much known about the bald cypress’s toxicity, and it may be harmful to your pets. As a safety measure, make sure neither you nor your pets consume the plant or its cones.
\n\n\n\nHardiness zones: 7 to 11
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial sun
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nSoil: Average, well-draining
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nMature height: 2 to 3 feet; up to 9 feet with flower stalk
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Lack of data regarding toxicity; likely toxic for animals; avoid consuming any part of the plant and keep your animals from consuming it
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Hawthorn.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Tony Hisgett / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nHawthorn is a small, charming tree that begins to blossom and bear fruit in the spring. It’s perfect for creating a shady spot in your yard as well as providing food for pollinators and songbirds. It’s also a fantastic option for a low-maintenance lawn. While hawthorn will thrive in well-drained loam and full sun, it can also grow in a range of soils and in both full sun and partial shade.
\n\n\n\nAs the name suggests, hawthorn has sharp thorns that grow along its branches. There is also a thornless variety, called the Thornless Cockspur Hawthorn, which is native to Northern America.
\n\n\n\nThere isn’t enough data about hawthorn toxicity, but it may be harmful to vulnerable people, including children, pregnant and nursing women, and those with medical conditions. It’s also harmful to vulnerable animals.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Tree
Hardiness zones: 5 to 9
Sun: Full sun to partial shade
Water needs: Low
Soil: Well-draining, loam, clay
Duration: Perennial
Mature height: 25 to 30 feet
Potential hazards: Harmful for some people and animals; speak to a professional before consuming
Photo Credit: Pxfuel
\n\n\n\nThe vibrant purple petals of the Louisiana iris used to grow in abundance throughout the state. Sadly, its population has dwindled in recent years because of herbicides, development, and saltwater. But this lovely plant can still make its home in your yard.
\n\n\n\nLouisiana iris naturally grows in swamps and bogs, so it’s perfect for water features. Although you don’t need to keep the plant constantly soaked in water, you also don’t need to worry about overwatering it. You should lay a 2- to 3-inch layer of mulch to protect your Louisiana iris, because its rhizomes lie close to the soil surface.
\n\n\n\nLouisiana iris is poisonous and should not be eaten, so exercise caution.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Flower
Hardiness zones: 4 to 9
Sun: Full sun
Water needs: High
Soil: Rich, slightly acidic
Duration: Perennial
Mature height: 24 to 36 inches
Potential hazards: Toxic
![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Gulf-Coast-Yucca.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pxfuel
\n\n\n\nGulf Coast yucca is an evergreen shrub with a bunch of beautiful, summer-blooming flowers surrounded by long leaves. It’s happy in various soil types and either full sun or partial shade. Although the Gulf Coast yucca needs to be watered, it should never sit in water.
\n\n\n\nSometimes, yucca plants become infested with yucca plant bugs. These are small, red and black bugs that feed on its juices. Products like neem will make short work of them, though.
\n\n\n\nGulf Coast yucca is toxic, and its leaves are sharp, so be cautious. Wear gloves and suitable clothing to protect yourself when you handle the plant.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub
Hardiness zones: 7 to 11
Sun: Full sun to partial sun
Water needs: Low to moderate
Soil: Average, well-draining
Duration: Perennial
Mature height: 2 to 3 feet; up to 9 feet with flower stalk
Potential hazards: Toxic
![\"a](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Crossvine-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: gailhampshire / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nCrossvine, also known as the trumpet flower, is an evergreen vine with lovely, yellow-orange blossoms produced in clusters of two to five. It’s also a favorite of the ruby-throated hummingbird.
\n\n\n\nAlthough the plant is tolerant to a variety of soil types, it grows best in soil that’s rich in organic matter. Six hours of daily sunlight can help to ensure that your crossvine will thrive. A little shade is fine, but expect to see fewer flowers. Moreover, crossvine has a tendency to spread too much, so be sure to contain it.
\n\n\n\nTake note that crossvine is a toxic plant, so you’ll need to practice caution.
\n\n\n\nHardiness zones: 7 to 11
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial sun
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low to moderate
\n\n\n\nSoil: Average, well-draining
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nMature height: 2 to 3 feet; up to 9 feet with flower stalk
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic
\n\n\n\n![\"azalea](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/pxfuel.com-3-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pxfuel
\n\n\n\nAzalea is a vibrant flowering plant that can make a great addition to your Baton Rouge lawn. Its gorgeous blossoms come in a range of colors that last from February to May. They also attract butterflies and hummingbirds.
\n\n\n\nThe plant needs regular watering in warm weather, but too much moisture or sun is unsuitable for it. You can improve your soil drainage by topdressing with compost and sand. A filtered canopy from your garden trees can work well to protect your azalea plants.
\n\n\n\nBut be sure to practice caution, because azalea is toxic.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub
\n\n\n\nHardiness zones: 5 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Partial shade
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nSoil: Well-draining, acidic (4.5-6.0 pH)
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nMature height: 4 to 6 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic
\n\n\n\nThis is just a small sample of the plants that are native to Baton Rouge. When you look for the right plants for your landscape, make sure you consider everything from their appearance to their maintenance needs and potential hazards.
\n\n\n\nAs you’ve read above, some plants carry more hazards than others. But take note that just because a plant doesn’t have known hazards doesn’t mean it’s risk-free. If you have pets, you shouldn’t let them consume any of the plants in your yard unless you’re sure they’re pet-safe (or, specifically, dog-safe, if you’re a dog owner). You should consult a medical professional if you’re unsure about the effects of a plant or its fruit.
\n\n\n\nOne more thing to consider is Baton Rouge’s hardiness zone. Baton Rouge has a hardiness zone of 8b and 9a, meaning that its lowest temperatures range between 15 and 25 degrees Fahrenheit depending on the area. We’ve included the hardiness zone of each plant in the descriptions above, so you can check your area’s hardiness zone and make sure it’s a match for the plant you want.
\n\n\n\nYou might see beautiful native plant species in the wild. But if you do, make sure you only appreciate them with your eyes; don’t try to dig them up or take them home with you. Taking native plants directly from the wild can be harmful to ecosystems.
\n\n\n\nInstead, you can find native plants for sale at local nurseries, such as:
\n\n\n\nThere’s a lot that goes into picking the right native plants for your lawn, but it doesn’t end there. You should also learn about the best grass types for Baton Rouge and how to best care for your lawn each season.
\n\n\n\nIf you want to make things easier for yourself, there are various techniques that will take some of the time and effort out of maintaining your yard. Some examples of those are xeriscaping, adding hardscapes, or including potted plants. Does it still sound like a lot of work? Don’t worry. There are many professional lawn care services available that can help you achieve a picturesque yard.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Melissa McMasters / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
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