Perennial flowers are a gardener’s best friend. They are reliable, beautiful, and, best of all, they come back year after year with minimal effort. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, incorporating perennials into your garden can provide a vibrant and colorful display that lasts from spring to fall.
These hardy plants not only save you time and money, but they also improve your garden’s overall health by attracting beneficial pollinators like bees and butterflies. With so many perennials to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which ones to plant. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of 18 of the best perennial flowers that promise to return every year, bringing beauty and joy to your garden.
1. Black-eyed Susan
Black-eyed Susans are a classic choice for any garden. These sun-loving flowers boast bright yellow petals surrounding a dark brown center. They bloom from mid-summer to early fall and are excellent for attracting butterflies.
2. Coneflower
Also known as Echinacea, coneflowers are known for their daisy-like shape and vibrant colors, ranging from purple to pink. They are drought-tolerant and hardy, making them a favorite among gardeners.
3. Peony
Peonies are cherished for their large, fragrant blooms. These flowers prefer cooler climates and bloom in late spring to early summer. With proper care, peonies can thrive for decades.
4. Daylily
Daylilies are known for their hardiness and stunning array of colors. Each bloom lasts only a day, but they produce such a profusion of flowers that they provide consistent beauty throughout the summer.
5. Hostas
Ideal for shady areas, hostas are valued for their lush foliage and variety of leaf colors and textures. They produce delicate flowers in midsummer, adding a soft touch to any garden.
6. Lavender
Lavender is not only beautiful but also aromatic. Known for its purple spikes and calming scent, lavender thrives in sunny, well-drained areas and attracts pollinators like bees.
7. Bleeding Heart
Bleeding hearts are named for their heart-shaped flowers that dangle gracefully from arching stems. They bloom in spring, adding a touch of elegance to shaded garden areas.
8. Iris
Irises are known for their intricate blooms and variety of colors. They are easy to grow and can add a touch of drama to your garden with their sword-like foliage and stately flowers.
9. Sedum
Sedums, or stonecrops, are succulent perennials that thrive in sunny, dry areas. They are low-maintenance and produce clusters of star-shaped flowers in late summer and early fall.
10. Astilbe
Astilbe adds a feathery texture to shady gardens with its plumes of colorful flowers ranging from white to pink to red. It prefers moist soil and provides a long-lasting display.
11. Shasta Daisy
Shasta daisies brighten up any garden with their cheerful white petals and yellow centers. They bloom profusely in the summer and are excellent for cutting.
12. Phlox
Phlox offers a burst of color with its fragrant clusters of flowers. Available in a variety of colors, from white to bright pink, phlox blooms in mid to late summer.
13. Bee Balm
Bee balm, also known as Monarda, is loved by bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Its vibrant red, pink, or purple blooms add a splash of color to sunny garden spots.
14. Coral Bells
Coral bells are grown for their striking foliage, which comes in a range of colors from deep purple to lime green. They produce delicate flowers on tall stems, adding vertical interest.
15. Russian Sage
Russian sage is a drought-tolerant perennial with silvery foliage and small, lavender-blue flowers. It thrives in hot, sunny locations and adds a touch of whimsy with its airy appearance.
16. Yarrow
Yarrow is a tough perennial that produces clusters of tiny flowers in a variety of colors. It is drought-resistant and attracts beneficial insects, making it a great choice for eco-friendly gardens.
17. Baptisia
Also known as false indigo, Baptisia is a hardy perennial with blue, purple, or white flowers. It forms large clumps and adds structure to garden beds with its bushy foliage.
18. Hellebore
Hellebores, or Lenten roses, bloom in late winter to early spring, providing early color when most other plants are still dormant. Their nodding flowers come in a variety of hues, including white, pink, and burgundy.
Incorporating these perennial flowers into your garden will ensure a colorful and lively space that returns year after year. Happy gardening!