How about Portulaca grandiflora Moss Rose, they thrive in hot dry conditions.

Catharanthus(madagascar periwinkles)and annual dianthus do well for me in hot,dry,sun(in the ground though)
Verbenas and portulacas do well in my mom's cement planter-she insists on geraniums, so I plant white ones in the center of the planter-(they do OK, but, I think they like it more moist)

Good suggestions above. Also try Cynoglossum amabile (Chinese Forget-me-Not)
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You might also try Dimorphotheca -- annual African daisies. They will spill over the side of a high pot. They close up at night or on cloudy days, like gazanias, though.

Thanks for all the suggestions! I had no idea Cynoglossum could take hot and dry -- I always assumed it would be a moisture-loving plant like regular forget-me-nots (Myosotis).

I've actually tried both Catharanthus and verbenas in this planter. The Catharanthus was only so-so. One verbena variety (name unknown) did very well, another (Rapunzel Purple) just frittered. Any suggestions for good verbena varieties?

I've just ordered Portulaca seeds for this year, but I'm writing down all these other suggestions for future years.

Hi All,

I'm looking for suggestions that won't break the bank for a spring to fall garden. I prefer seeds, but will consider plants that are not to expensive and easy to grow.

The garden has all types of light and shade, I just would like something different that is going to stand out from the normal.

I like breaking garden rules and doing things that no one else considers. For instance, I've had herbs and colorful pepper plants in my flower beds. Elephant ears, sunflowers, joepye weed, petunias, lambs ears, daisies, dusty miller, mums, poppies, ferns and zinnias will also be in the mix. Anything to get peoples attention and ask questions.

Suggestions???

Thanks,

Sg

Last year our community beautification group planted a raised flowerbed in a small public park and we needed something that would take dry conditions and heat. We chose Imagination Verbena for the edges and Salvia farinacea Victoria within. It was an excellent combination and took the abuse of a hot, dry bed that didn't get consistently watered. It was fertilized only twice throughout the season, but was brimming with blooms until hard frost. The colour combination was great, too.