Perennials as Annuals

There are many perennial plants that grow throughout Mississippi that may act as annuals in central and northern areas of the state. Today Southern Gardening is at Rivers Greenhouse and Garden Center, let’s take a look at a couple of these gorgeous perennial plants. Crossandra Orange Marmalade is sometimes called firecracker flower and absolutely thrives in our summer heat and humidity but does not tolerate our cold winters. This easy to grow plant is a real attention grabber. The plant produces large clusters of frilly, bright orange flowers that are long lasting. The foliage is bright green and really glossy. Because it is not cold hardy in Mississippi, Crossandra Orange Marmalade can be planted in the ground as an annual or grown in a container and brought inside to enjoyed as a pretty houseplant during the winter. Golden Yellow shrimp plant is another perennial plant that should be treated as an annual in most of Mississippi unless grown in a container and brought inside during winter. It has yellow bracts followed by narrow, tubular, white flowers that are between 1 and 2 inches long. It’s for the yellow bracts that we grow this plant, but the white flowers provide an additional surprise. Butterflies and hummingbirds find them irresistible. Consider trying any of these stunning plants in your landscape this year. I am Eddie Smith, and I will see you next time on Southern Gardening.