Lantana Camara replaced a row of Ajugas in Dec'08 (ground planted Ajugas didn't survive the rainy season), which had replaced high-maintenance Coleus (requires frequent flower-trimming) early Sep'08. The colours and hues differentiates them from any flowering plant. It changes colours as it matures, see http://ntsavanna.com/lantana-camara/. Though they are a foot tall or less, I just can't wait for it to grow 3 feet for a good trim into a ball!
As it flowers profusely, it has attracted many small butterflies species. Though it is known to give out a certain odour when its leaves or stems are cut (which given its name locally as 'bunga tahi ayam' or chicken droppings) - it offers wondrous colour display like having rainbow in your garden.Lantana Camara: Spreading Sunset, Pink Caprice, Monol, Depressa or Luscious Lemonade, while the last has many names; Miss Huff, Irene, Confetti.
Some updates on how our garden is thriving so far. After six months, Calathea Lutea had grown so tall (newer shoots seem to be competing in height), reaching our terrace roof. We're guessing 9' tall. Does a good job, obscuring view from the front, a garden trellis, yet allows breeze to ventilate freely in between their stems. And alerts us when it is raining with sound effects. Paired with Ever-red shrubs below.
Heliconia Parrot is thriving. Need to pull out new shoots frequently, when it is still young, before it roots deep, so that its colony will stay in its patch. It has the tendency to steal anyone's attention off the neighbouring flowering plants. It loves sunshine & water, a definitely must have in your home garden.
Another garden trellis idea for you. Heliconia grows up to 3' tall, obscure the view of the house-fence.
For flower gardening ideas, you could opt for Periwinkles.
Top: Our Madagascar Perinwinkle (Catharanthus Rosea) takes the center-stage. Has a predictable nature by encroaching into Ajuga's and Snake Plant's (Sansevieria trifasciata) spaces; as if 'to kiss'. This plant is temperament, it will show signs when thirsting for water. Must try not to over-water at once. It is bushier and sensitive than the Periwinkle Vinca (left). You can differentiate them from their petals and growing habit. The former commonly grown in hanging basket (leaning habit) while the later is preferred on ground (standing habit, tall).
Easy home gardening, just water moderately in the evenings and they'll bloom profusely - everyday!
