Alabama Climate Snapshot
Understanding your local climate is key to creating a thriving, low-maintenance garden
Hardiness Zones
7a, 7b, 8a, 8b
Annual Rainfall
48-65 inches annually
Frost Window
March-November
Water Notes
High rainfall; humid conditions
Popular Landscaping Styles
Discover design styles perfectly suited to Alabama's unique climate and landscape
Classic Southern landscapes
Key Features:
- ā¢Boxwoods
- ā¢Azaleas
- ā¢Camellias
- ā¢Formal layouts
Coastal and tropical plants
Key Features:
- ā¢Palms
- ā¢Tropical foliage
- ā¢Salt tolerance
- ā¢Sandy soils
Mountain and forest gardens
Key Features:
- ā¢Native trees
- ā¢Wildflowers
- ā¢Shade plants
- ā¢Natural stone
Informal mixed plantings
Key Features:
- ā¢Perennials
- ā¢Annuals
- ā¢Vegetables
- ā¢Herbs
Recommended Plant Palettes
Native and adapted plants that thrive in Alabama's climate
Southern Magnolia
Magnolia grandiflora
State tree; large evergreen
Eastern Redbud
Cercis canadensis
Early spring flowers
Camellia
Camellia japonica
Winter-blooming shrub
Black-Eyed Susan
Rudbeckia hirta
State wildflower
Crepe Myrtle
Lagerstroemia indica
Summer blooming tree
Lantana
Lantana camara
Drought and heat tolerant
Salvia
Salvia greggii
Long-blooming perennial
Gaura
Gaura lindheimeri
Air plant with white flowers
Hostas
Hosta spp.
Various foliage colors
Ferns
Various species
Native woodland ferns
Heuchera
Heuchera spp.
Coral bells for color
Astilbe
Astilbe spp.
Feathery flower plumes
Seasonal Garden Checklist
Your year-round guide to maintaining a beautiful Alabama garden
Plant spring bulbs
Prune trees and shrubs
Plant cool-season vegetables
Plant warm-season crops
Mulch and fertilize
Water and maintain regularly
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to common questions about landscaping in Alabama
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