| What is the best flowering ground cover for my area? One that is heat resistent as it will be in the hot sun all day long. I already have Lantana in one area and it has done quite well in the hot sun. I also would like a flowering tree that likes plenty of water. I like the Magnolia with large white flowers or the one with the large purple flowers. |
| Here are a few groundcover suggestions: Aptenia cordifolia (Red Apple): This succulent ground cover is happiest in full sun and will even thrive in hotter, inland areas. Dark, fleshy foliage is accented by tiny, bright red/fuchsia flowers throughout most of the year. Aptenia is a low grower, from six to eight inches, but can spread as far as four feet. Gazania hybrids (Freeway Daisy): Extremely drought tolerant and heat resistant perennial. Great for difficult planting areas where dependable color and coverage are required. Flowers range between yellow to burgundy and are apparent throughout the warmer months of the year. Infrequent water necessary once established. Osteospermum fruticosum (African Daisy): Evergreen perennial useful in sunny, neglected areas of the garden. Plants grow up to one foot in height with an unlimited spread once established. Flowers are born primarily in spring and summer, and are available in a variety of different colors. It is recommended that plants are cut back periodically to encourage a lush, full growth habit. Rosmarinus officinalis (Trailing Rosemary): A prostrate variety of the common rosemary, Trailing Rosemary is an excellent ground cover for sunny banks or retaining walls. Plant cuttings about two feet apart for faster coverage. Rosemary will produce clusters of light blue flowers primarily in spring, with occasional blooming throughout the remainder of the year. Drought tolerant. Magnolia may have difficulty growing in your region so ou might consider Bauhinia purpurea (Purple Orchid-Tree) instead. This tree takes the heat, loves water and produces large, orchid-like flowers in the spring. Best wishes with your landscape! |
