New Plants for 2025

Stunning fresh picks for your beds and containers BY WENDY HELFENBAUM

- WENDY HELFENBAUM

1 Art & Sol Bad Hair Day mangave

MANGAVE HYBRID, ZONES 7 TO 11

This mounded succulent features red speckled foliage that contrasts with its arching lime-green leaf blades, providing texture and interest to mixed beds or as a distinctive thriller for pots. Mangave does well in average, well-draining, sandy soil and produces the brightest foliage when planted in full sun.

Why we love it: A mangave plant is more tolerant of moisture than true succulents.

2 Sgt. Pepper dogwood

CORNUS ALBA, ZONES 3 TO 7

Spring brings variegated foliage on this dogwood, with shades of bright pink that morph into crisp green leaves with white edges come summer. Late in the season, the edges become pink again, while the stems turn a vibrant burgundy red. At 4 to 6 feet tall, this shrub works in mass plantings, as a majestic hedge or in a pot.

Why we love it: It thrives in many garden conditions, offering fall and winter interest.

3 ColorBlaze Mini Me Chartreuse coleus

COLEUS SCUTELLARIOIDES, ZONES 10 TO 11 OR ANNUAL

Add this compact golden chartreuse coleus to any sunny or shaded spot. Heat and drought tolerant, this mounded annual works well in borders, hanging baskets, window boxes or pots. While deadheading isn't required, pinching off the blossoms as they pop up will keep the foliage looking full and fresh.

Why we love it: When temperatures cool, this coleus makes a gorgeous houseplant.

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