Neurolaena: A Tropical Herbaceous Perennial for Warm Climate Gardens
If you’re gardening in a tropical or subtropical climate and looking for a low-maintenance herbaceous perennial, you might want to get acquainted with neurolaena (Neurolaena). This unassuming little plant has quietly made itself at home in warm regions across the United States, though it originally hails from the Caribbean.
What Exactly Is Neurolaena?
Neurolaena is a perennial forb—basically a non-woody plant that comes back year after year. Think of it as the herbaceous cousin in the vast plant family tree, lacking the woody stems of shrubs and trees but making up for it with its persistent nature. This plant grows as a ground-hugging herb that spreads through underground stems and produces small clusters of yellow, daisy-like flowers.
Where Does Neurolaena Call Home?
Here’s where things get interesting from a native plant perspective. Neurolaena is truly native only to Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, where it evolved as part of the Caribbean flora. However, it has naturalized (meaning it reproduces and persists on its own) in Hawaii and parts of the continental United States. Currently, you’ll find established populations in Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands.
Should You Plant Neurolaena in Your Garden?
The answer depends on your location and gardening philosophy. If you’re in Puerto Rico or the Virgin Islands, you’re working with a genuine native that supports local ecosystems. For gardeners in Hawaii or the mainland U.S., neurolaena falls into that gray area of non-native plants that aren’t necessarily problematic but aren’t providing the same ecological benefits as true natives.
Reasons You Might Choose Neurolaena:
- Low maintenance once established
- Attracts small pollinators and beneficial insects
- Adapts well to tropical and subtropical conditions
- Provides ground cover in naturalized garden areas
- Produces cheerful yellow flowers
Reasons to Consider Alternatives:
- Non-native in most U.S. locations
- Native alternatives would better support local wildlife
- Limited ornamental impact compared to showier natives
Growing Neurolaena Successfully
If you decide to grow neurolaena, you’ll find it’s refreshingly uncomplicated. This plant thrives in USDA hardiness zones 9b through 11, making it suitable only for the warmest parts of the United States.
Ideal Growing Conditions:
- Climate: Warm, humid tropical or subtropical conditions
- Light: Partial shade to full sun
- Soil: Adaptable to various soil types, but prefers well-draining conditions
- Water: Regular moisture, but avoid waterlogged conditions
Planting and Care Tips
Neurolaena is one of those plant it and forget it species that many busy gardeners appreciate. Once established, it requires minimal intervention and will spread naturally to form colonies.
Getting Started:
- Plant in spring after the last frost danger has passed
- Space plants 12-18 inches apart if planting multiple specimens
- Water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots
- Apply a light layer of mulch to conserve moisture
Ongoing Care:
- Minimal fertilization needed—too much can reduce flowering
- Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continued blooming
- Divide clumps every few years if they become overcrowded
- Monitor for spread if you prefer contained growth
The Bottom Line
Neurolaena offers tropical and subtropical gardeners a reliable, low-maintenance option for naturalized areas and ground cover applications. While it may not be the most spectacular plant in your garden, its steady performance and pollinator appeal make it a decent choice for specific situations. Just remember that if you’re passionate about supporting native ecosystems, you might want to explore indigenous alternatives that would provide even greater benefits to local wildlife and pollinators.
For gardeners in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, neurolaena represents a wonderful opportunity to incorporate a true native into your landscape design while supporting the plants that naturally belong in your region.
