Why We Select the Plants We Do: Thoughtful Choices for a Thriving Louisiana Landscape
At Acadiana Landscape Materials, we don’t just install plants—we choose them with purpose. Every flower, shrub, and tree we place in your landscape is hand-selected for beauty, performance, and long-term success in our unique Louisiana climate. Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at why we use certain plants over others and how it helps your landscape look better and last longer.
What We Look For in a Plant
We don’t just want plants that survive—we want them to thrive. That means we prioritize:
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Heat and humidity tolerance (because let’s face it, Louisiana summers are no joke)
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Low maintenance and disease resistance
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Strong seasonal color or evergreen structure
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Root systems that won’t damage foundations, patios, or drainage
Now, here are a few of our go-to plant picks and why we use them:
Sunpatiens & Angelonia – Summer Color Champions
These annuals are tough as nails and offer big, vibrant color all summer long. They love full sun, bounce back after rain, and pair great with mulch. We use them in beds, pots, and entryways when we want to make an immediate visual impact.
Drift Roses – Compact, Repeat Bloomers
Unlike traditional roses, drift roses are low-growing, hardy, and require minimal pruning. They bloom from spring through fall and work great in front-of-bed placements or lining walkways. They're a perfect mix of beauty and reliability.
Oakland Holly – Strong, Structured, and Versatile
Oakland Holly has become a staple in our designs. It handles Louisiana heat and cold, stays full year-round, and offers a clean, symmetrical shape with minimal upkeep. We use it for privacy screens, foundation plantings, and to replace more temperamental shrubs like Japanese blueberry.
Shishi Gashira Camellia – Color When You Least Expect It
These camellias bloom in late fall and early winter, adding much-needed color when most landscapes go quiet. They stay compact, tolerate light shade, and make great accents near patios or courtyards.
Cone Compacta Holly – Clean and Classic
These hollies keep a tidy, upright shape without needing constant trimming. We often use them to frame walkways or as replacements for overgrown or woody shrubs. They stay green all year and always look neat.
Blue Daze & Anne Marie Lantana – Heat-Proof and Pollinator-Friendly
These two are Louisiana summer MVPs. Blue daze spills over borders and containers with bright blue blooms, while Anne Marie lantana is a butterfly magnet that thrives in the heat. We love using both for curb appeal and to encourage healthy ecosystems.
It’s More Than Just Looks
When we plan your landscape, we think beyond color and shape. We think about how it will grow, how it will behave, and how much work it will take to keep it looking great. That’s why we don’t just install whatever is trendy—we install what works.
If you’re thinking about updating your yard, adding new color, or replacing damaged plants, give us a call. We’ll help you choose plants that make sense for your space, your lifestyle, and your long-term goals.