In late April 2025, 98 ornamental species from five national and one international plant brands were installed in the trial gardens at the Hammond Research Station. Trials were evaluated twice per month from June through August to assess their performance in the southeast Louisiana landscape. An overall rating was given to each entry as an average rating of the following qualities: uniformity, flowering, foliage, overall growth and resistance to pests and disease. Ratings are given as a value of 1 to 5 with the following designations:

• 5 = Excellent
• 4 = Good
• 3 = Average
• 2 = Poor
• 1 = Unacceptable

Observations on pest and disease occurrence are recorded as well.

The HRS trial gardens saw average temperatures across the summer months with a few heavy rains throughout the trial season. The heaviest period of rainfall occurred early to mid-June with 3 inches in 24 hours and another two inches in late July. Late-season rain impacted foliage quality for some species.

Animals posed the largest challenge to the trials this year. From deer snacking on sweet potato vines to mealybugs taking over the container trials, the plants had their fair share of obstacles to overcome. Several plants stood out above the rest for superior performance.

Top Performers

Coleus ColorBlaze Royale Pineapple Brandy: This coleus from Proven Winners has bright yellow leaves in full sun shifting towards a chartreuse under shade. Royale Pineapple Brandy coleus holds up to the summer heat all season long. This cultivar didn’t put out any flower spikes throughout the evaluation period, making it an attractive option for those looking to add some foliar interest to their landscape.

Cleome Señorita Rosalita: A Louisiana Super Plant since 2011, this cleome from Proven Winners continues to impress in the landscape. Flowering started strong in June and only increased throughout the rest of the evaluation period. September flowers were still attracting pollinators from all around the garden.

Catharanthus Soiree Kawaii Red Shades: One of many color choices in the Soiree Kawaii series from Suntory Flowers, Red Shades stands out with a profusion of vibrant red blooms combined with a compact growth habit. This annual favorite can be used as a filler or border in the landscape. This variety also performs well in containers, receiving an overall score of 4.1 in our container trial.

Impatiens Beacon Blue Pearl: A new introduction to the Beacon Series of impatiens from PanAmerican Seed, Blue Pearl sports bright purple blooms on a bed of vibrant green foliage. A consistent performer in the landscape, this new addition will join the rest of the Beacon Series Impatiens as Louisiana Super Plants.

Petunia Radiant Ruby: A new introduction from Ball FloraPlant, striking deep purple flowers edged in white pop against the green foliage making it a great addition to a hanging basket or container planting.