Many popular species of colorful plants that thrive elsewhere in the United States do not stand up well to Dallas–Fort Worth’s sometimes blistering heat, abundant sun, and lack of natural rainfall. For those who have moved to DFW from other parts of the country, planting azaleas or hydrangeas may come as a disappointment. Fortunately, there are alternatives to common colorful plants that will thrive in DFW’s summer climate. Following are a few popular varieties that tolerate the heat and sun, and even drought, conditions.

Full Sun Impatiens

Also called Sunpatiens, full sun impatiens are a hybrid flower designed to withstand hot weather and ample sunlight. Traditional impatiens have been a gardener’s favorite for adding pops of color in shaded areas where many plants may not bloom vibrant colors. Sunpatiens, however, were bred specifically for enduring full sun exposure. Like regular impatiens, these colorful plants add bright hues ranging from red and light pink to white in flower beds, window boxes, and pots.

Verbena

Drought-resistant and heat tolerant, verbena makes for great pops of color in raised beds and potted arrangements. Better Homes and Gardens recommends the ‘Blue Princess’ variety of this flower for the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Producing lavender-hued blooms, this variety of verbena will flourish in full, direct sunlight. The ‘Blue Princess’ verbena is also perennial, meaning that it will come back each year if cared for properly.

Lantanas

Lantanas have proven to do incredibly well throughout Texas — especially in Dallas-Fort Worth. These flowers thrive in heat and full sun and are available in a variety of shades. Popular colors include hues of blue and gold. Not only do these color plants thrive here, Southern Living recommends planting them to attract butterflies to your garden. Lantanas do well in raised flowerbeds and among shrubbery in your landscaping.

Petunias

Shop at any local nursery or home and garden retailer and you will find an array of petunias for sale. From bright purples and pinks to stark white blooms, petunias are a favorite among locals because they thrive in full sun. Moreover, these annuals are wallet-friendly because they only cost a few dollars per quart. Petunias make for excellent potted plants and can be used in flower beds as well for pops of color. There are particular varieties of petunias that do exceptionally well in North Texas. According to The Dallas Morning News, the Dwarf Mexican Petunia produces more blooms with the more sun it receives. This variety is known for its gradient of purple flowers.

These four easy-to-find plants can add the pops of color you desire for a beautiful garden or landscape. For more help with gardening, speak with a staff member at a local nursery or home and garden retailer.

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