Complete Gardening
Perennial flowers are the backbone of many gardens, offering long-lasting beauty and a reliable display of blooms year after year. These resilient plants come back with vigor each season, providing floral delight without the need for replanting. Discover forty stunning perennial flowers that promise to enrich your garden with their enduring charm and vibrant colors.
1. Lavender
This perennial not only delights the senses with its aromatic fragrance but also with its beautiful purple blooms. Known for its calming properties, lavender is perfect for gardens designed to be tranquil retreats.
Lavender thrives in sunny spots with well-drained soil, making it an ideal choice for borders and pathways. Its silvery foliage adds a touch of elegance even when it’s not in bloom.
Did you know? Historically, lavender was used by ancient Romans in baths for its fragrance and therapeutic benefits.
2. Peony
Peonies are often the stars of the spring garden, captivating with their lush, full blooms that come in shades ranging from white to deep red. These perennials are renowned for their longevity, with some plants living for over a hundred years.
Peonies require little maintenance once established, thriving in sunny locations with rich, well-drained soil. Their spectacular flowers make excellent cut blooms for arrangements.
Fun fact: In Chinese culture, the peony is known as the “king of flowers” and symbolizes wealth and honor.
3. Hosta
In the realm of foliage plants, hostas reign supreme with their lush, leafy display. These shade-loving perennials are celebrated for their variety of leaf colors and textures, which range from deep blue-green to variegated patterns.
Hostas are incredibly versatile and can thrive in a variety of garden settings, particularly in shady borders and woodland gardens. Their subtle flowers, while not the main attraction, add a delicate touch to their robust greenery.
Did you know? Hostas originated in Northeast Asia and were first brought to Europe in the late 1700s.
4. Daylily
Daylilies, with their bold and colorful blooms, are a favorite among gardeners for their hardiness and ease of care. Known for their sunburst of hues, these perennials can thrive in nearly any garden condition.
Each bloom lasts just a day, but a single plant can produce an abundance of flowers over its blooming season, ensuring a continuous display of color. They are perfect for borders and mass plantings.
Fun fact: Despite their name, daylilies are not true lilies; they belong to the genus Hemerocallis, distinguishing them from the Lilium genus.
5. Coneflower
The coneflower is a garden mainstay, known for its resilience and vibrant display. With striking daisy-like blooms, they attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, enhancing the ecological value of your garden.
These perennials are drought-tolerant and thrive in sunny spots, offering a long blooming period from midsummer to fall. Ideal for wildflower gardens and mixed borders, their seed heads provide interest even in winter.
Legend has it that Native Americans used coneflowers for medicinal purposes, particularly as an immune system booster.
6. Black-Eyed Susan
Black-eyed Susans brighten up gardens with their cheerful yellow flowers and dark, central cones. As a native North American perennial, they are well-suited for a variety of climates.
These flowers are easy to grow and maintain, making them perfect for novice gardeners. They are drought-tolerant and attract butterflies and birds, adding life to any garden space.
Interesting tidbit: Black-eyed Susans are often associated with encouragement and motivation, making them a popular choice for graduation bouquets.
7. Columbine
Columbine flowers bring a touch of whimsy to gardens with their unique, spurred blooms. Available in a range of colors, they are a favorite among hummingbirds and gardeners alike.
These perennials thrive in partial shade and well-drained soil, making them suitable for woodland gardens and borders. Their delicate, nodding flowers add a fairy-tale charm to any landscape.
Did you know? Columbine is the state flower of Colorado and is often featured in native wildflower mixes for its beauty and adaptability.
8. Bee Balm
Bee balm, with its bright, tubular flowers and minty aroma, is a magnet for pollinators. This perennial adds a splash of color to gardens from midsummer to early fall.
It thrives in sunny locations with moist, well-drained soil and is often used in herbal teas for its soothing properties. Bee balm’s blooms are not just attractive; they also support a healthy ecosystem.
Fun fact: Bee balm is a member of the mint family and is sometimes called “Oswego tea” after the Native American tribe that used it as a beverage.
9. Hydrangea
Hydrangeas are beloved for their large, showy blooms that can change color based on the soil’s pH. These perennials provide a stunning backdrop or focal point in gardens.
They prefer partial shade and well-drained soil, thriving in areas with moderate moisture. Hydrangeas can be used in borders, containers, or as standalone specimens to great effect.
Did you know? The word “hydrangea” comes from Greek, meaning “water vessel,” referencing the plant’s need for ample moisture.
10. Shasta Daisy
Shasta daisies, with their pristine white petals and bright yellow centers, evoke the classic image of a daisy. These perennials are celebrated for their cheerful appearance and easy care.
They thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, making them a versatile addition to borders and cottage gardens. Their blooms are long-lasting and make excellent cut flowers for bouquets.
Fun fact: Shasta daisies were bred by horticulturist Luther Burbank, who named them after Mount Shasta in California due to their snowy white blooms.
11. Bleeding Heart
Bleeding hearts captivate with their heart-shaped flowers that dangle gracefully from arched stems. These perennials add a romantic touch to shady garden spots.
They prefer cool, moist environments and partial shade, thriving in woodland and shade gardens. Their unique blooms make them a favorite among those looking to add a whimsical element to their landscapes.
Did you know? The bleeding heart plant is native to Siberia, northern China, Korea, and Japan, where it grows in the wild under forest canopies.
12. Astilbe
Astilbes are known for their feathery plumes and lush foliage, bringing texture and color to shaded areas. These perennials flourish in moist, well-drained soil and partial shade.
Their blooms come in shades of pink, red, and white, creating a soft, ethereal look in gardens. Astilbes are perfect for woodland gardens, borders, and alongside water features.
Fun fact: Astilbe was introduced to Europe from Asia in the 19th century and has since become a staple in shade gardens across the globe.
13. Coreopsis
Coreopsis, often called “tickseed,” is valued for its bright, daisy-like flowers that bloom from early summer through fall. These hardy perennials are perfect for adding pops of color to any garden.
They thrive in full sun and tolerate poor soils, making them low-maintenance additions to borders and wildflower gardens. Coreopsis attracts butterflies and is deer-resistant, enhancing its appeal.
Did you know? The name “coreopsis” comes from the Greek for “bug” and “appearance,” referring to the shape of the seeds that resemble ticks.
14. Phlox
Phlox is a perennial favorite, loved for its charming clusters of small, star-shaped flowers. These plants are versatile, thriving in both sunny and partially shaded gardens.
They come in a variety of colors, including pink, purple, and white, and emit a sweet fragrance that attracts pollinators. Phlox is ideal for borders, rock gardens, and as ground cover.
Interesting tidbit: Phlox means “flame” in Greek, a nod to its vibrant colors and fiery appearance when in full bloom.
15. Sedum
Sedums, also known as stonecrops, are succulents prized for their drought tolerance and unique foliage. These perennials add an interesting structural element to gardens with their fleshy leaves and star-shaped flowers.
They are perfect for rock gardens, borders, and containers, thriving in sunny, well-drained areas. Sedum’s resilience makes it a favorite for gardeners looking for low-maintenance beauty.
Fun fact: Sedum is known for its ability to thrive in harsh conditions, and its flowers are particularly attractive to bees and butterflies.
16. Foxglove
Foxgloves stand tall in gardens with their impressive spires of tubular flowers. These perennials are known for their striking appearance and ability to attract hummingbirds.
They prefer partial shade and well-drained soil, making them ideal for woodland gardens and borders. Foxgloves are biennials, often reseeding themselves for continuous blooms year after year.
Did you know? Foxglove contains digitalis, a compound used in heart medicine, but the plant itself is toxic if ingested.
17. Yarrow
Yarrow is a tough, drought-resistant perennial that offers clusters of flat-topped flowers in a range of colors. These plants are known for their fern-like foliage and medicinal properties.
Yarrow thrives in full sun and poor soil, making it ideal for wildflower gardens and borders. It attracts butterflies and beneficial insects, enhancing garden biodiversity.
Fun fact: Yarrow has been used historically for healing wounds and is sometimes referred to as “soldier’s woundwort.”
18. Lupine
Lupines bring vertical interest to gardens with their tall, spiky blooms that come in a rainbow of colors. These perennials thrive in sunny locations with well-drained soil.
Their striking flowers attract pollinators and make a bold statement in borders and wildflower gardens. Lupines are easy to grow and can enrich the soil by fixing nitrogen.
Did you know? Lupines are native to North America and are often found in nutrient-poor soils, where they play a vital role in soil improvement.
19. Geranium
Hardy geraniums, not to be confused with their tender cousins, are versatile perennials known for their long blooming season and beautiful, often fragrant flowers.
They thrive in a variety of garden conditions, from full sun to partial shade, and are excellent for borders, ground cover, and containers. Geraniums are low-maintenance and resistant to most pests and diseases.
Fun fact: The name “geranium” is derived from the Greek word “geranos,” meaning crane, referring to the shape of the seed head.
20. Hollyhock
Hollyhocks add vertical drama to gardens with their towering stalks of flowers. These biennial perennials are beloved for their old-fashioned charm and abundance of blooms.
They thrive in sunny locations with well-drained soil and are often seen peeking over garden fences and in cottage gardens. Hollyhocks are perfect for creating a stunning backdrop in borders.
Did you know? Hollyhocks are often associated with Victorian-era gardens and were a favorite among English cottage gardeners.
21. Russian Sage
Russian sage offers a beautiful blend of silvery foliage and delicate, lavender-blue flowers. This hardy perennial is perfect for adding texture and color to garden borders.
It thrives in full sun with well-drained soil, making it drought-tolerant and low-maintenance. Russian sage’s aromatic leaves add an extra sensory dimension to gardens.
Fun fact: Russian sage is not actually from Russia but was named by a Russian botanist; it’s native to Central Asia.
22. Veronica
Veronica, also known as speedwell, enchants with its tall spikes of flowers and lush greenery. These perennials are ideal for sunny borders and can add vertical interest to gardens.
They bloom from late spring to summer, attracting butterflies and bees. Veronica is low-maintenance and thrives in well-drained soils, making it a versatile garden choice.
Did you know? The name “veronica” is said to be derived from Saint Veronica, who offered her veil to Christ, representing the true image.
23. Iris
Irises are known for their striking beauty and intricate flowers. These perennials come in a variety of colors and thrive in sunny locations with well-drained soil.
Their sword-like foliage adds architectural interest, while the blooms provide a pop of color in spring and early summer. Irises are perfect for borders, pond edges, and as cut flowers.
Interesting tidbit: The name “iris” is derived from the Greek word for rainbow, reflecting the many colors available in this genus.
24. Echinacea
Echinacea, commonly known as coneflower, is a hardy perennial loved for its daisy-like flowers with prominent central cones. These plants are drought-tolerant and thrive in full sun.
Their blooms attract pollinators and make excellent cut flowers, adding beauty to both gardens and floral arrangements. Echinacea is often used in herbal remedies to boost the immune system.
Fun fact: Echinacea was used by Native Americans and is a popular herbal supplement today, known for its medicinal properties.
25. Anemone
Anemones, often called windflowers, bring grace to gardens with their delicate, poppy-like blooms. These perennials thrive in shady spots and are perfect for woodland and cottage gardens.
They bloom in late summer to fall, offering a splash of color when many other plants have faded. Anemones are easy to grow and maintain, making them ideal for novice gardeners.
Did you know? The name “anemone” comes from the Greek word for wind, as the flowers often sway in the breeze, adding a dynamic element to gardens.
26. Salvia
Salvias are known for their vibrant spikes of flowers and aromatic foliage, making them a favorite for both gardeners and pollinators. These perennials thrive in sunny, well-drained locations.
They are versatile, fitting well in borders, herb gardens, and containers. Salvias are drought-tolerant and require little maintenance, providing a long-lasting display of color throughout the summer.
Fun fact: Salvia is part of the mint family and is prized not only for its ornamental value but also for its culinary and medicinal uses.
27. Hellebore
Hellebores, often called Christmas or Lenten roses, brighten up the garden’s understory with their winter and early spring blooms. These perennials are loved for their unique, cup-shaped flowers and evergreen foliage.
They thrive in shaded areas with rich, well-drained soil, making them perfect for woodland gardens. Hellebores are deer-resistant and long-lived, providing year-round interest.
Did you know? Hellebores have a rich history in folklore and medicine, once used to drive away evil spirits and as a cure for madness.
28. Clematis
Clematis vines are treasured for their magnificent, star-shaped flowers that adorn trellises and arbors. These perennials come in a wide range of colors and can bloom at various times throughout the year, depending on the variety.
Clematis prefers sunny areas with cool, shaded roots, making it ideal for training up fences and walls. It’s a perfect choice for adding vertical interest and dramatic blooms to gardens.
Fun fact: Clematis is sometimes called “the queen of climbers,” and its name comes from the Greek word for “vine.”
29. Delphinium
Delphiniums are prized for their towering spires and vivid colors, adding elegance and height to garden borders. These perennials thrive in sunny locations with rich, well-drained soil.
Their blooms attract pollinators and create a dramatic backdrop in any landscape. Delphiniums are perfect for cottage gardens and as cut flowers for arrangements.
Did you know? The name “delphinium” comes from the Greek word “delphis,” meaning dolphin, as the flower buds resemble a dolphin’s shape.
30. Gaillardia
Gaillardia, also known as blanket flower, is admired for its vibrant, daisy-like blooms that appear in sunset shades of red and yellow. These perennials are heat-tolerant and thrive in full sun.
They are ideal for borders, wildflower gardens, and as cut flowers, offering a long blooming period throughout summer. Gaillardias are low-maintenance and attract pollinators.
Fun fact: Gaillardia is named after an 18th-century French magistrate and botanist, M. Gaillard de Charentonneau, who was passionate about horticulture.
31. Penstemon
Penstemons, with their tubular blooms and attractive foliage, offer vibrant color to gardens from late spring to summer. These perennials thrive in well-drained, sunny locations.
Their flowers are a favorite among hummingbirds, adding an element of wildlife to garden spaces. Penstemons are perfect for rock gardens and borders, providing long-lasting blooms.
Did you know? The name “penstemon” is derived from Greek, meaning “five stamens,” a reference to the flower’s characteristic structure.
32. Baptisia
Baptisia, known for its lupine-like flowers and robust foliage, adds visual interest to perennial gardens. These plants are drought-tolerant and thrive in full sun.
Their blooms appear in late spring, offering shades of blue, yellow, and white, and are followed by attractive seed pods. Baptisia is perfect for prairie-style plantings and borders.
Fun fact: Baptisia is often called “false indigo” because its flowers were used by Native Americans to produce a blue dye similar to true indigo.
33. Ajuga
Ajuga, often referred to as bugleweed, is a versatile ground cover known for its glossy foliage and spiky blue flowers. These perennials thrive in shaded to partially sunny areas.
Ajuga spreads quickly, making it ideal for filling in bare spots and suppressing weeds. Its foliage comes in a variety of colors, adding year-round interest to gardens.
Did you know? Ajuga is part of the mint family and is known for its ability to thrive in difficult growing conditions, making it a favorite for challenging landscapes.
34. Japanese Anemone
Japanese anemones grace gardens with their elegant flowers that bloom from late summer into fall. These perennials thrive in partial shade and well-drained soil.
Their airy blooms, set against dark green foliage, add a touch of sophistication to borders and woodland gardens. Japanese anemones are resilient and offer a striking display when many other plants have finished blooming.
Interesting tidbit: Despite their name, Japanese anemones are native to China and were brought to Japan in the 17th century, where they gained popularity.
35. Dianthus
Dianthus, commonly known as pinks, are beloved for their spicy fragrance and frilled blooms. These perennials thrive in sunny locations with well-drained soil.
Their charming flowers come in shades of pink, red, and white, adding a burst of color to borders, rock gardens, and containers. Dianthus is easy to grow and maintain, perfect for gardens seeking low-growing, fragrant additions.
Fun fact: The name “dianthus” comes from the Greek words for “divine flower,” reflecting the plant’s association with the gods.
36. Liatris
Liatris, also known as blazing star, adds vertical interest with its spiky purple flowers. These perennials are native to North America and thrive in sunny, well-drained locations.
Perfect for prairie gardens and borders, liatris attracts pollinators and provides a unique textural element to landscapes. Their flowers bloom from the top down, creating a dramatic effect.
Did you know? Liatris is often used in floral arrangements and is valued for its long-lasting blooms, both in gardens and as cut flowers.
37. Tickseed
Tickseed, a common name for various coreopsis species, brightens gardens with its sunny, daisy-like flowers. These perennials are loved for their long blooming season and easy-care nature.
Thriving in full sun and well-drained soil, tickseed is perfect for borders, wildflower gardens, and containers. Their cheerful blooms attract pollinators, adding life to garden spaces.
Fun fact: The name “tickseed” comes from the resemblance of the seeds to ticks, though the plants themselves are harmless and beneficial to gardens.
38. Balloon Flower
Balloon flowers, with their unique balloon-like buds, open into stunning star-shaped flowers in shades of blue, pink, and white. These perennials are favorites for adding whimsy and color to gardens.
They thrive in sunny to partially shaded areas with well-drained soil, perfect for borders and containers. Balloon flowers are low-maintenance and offer a long-lasting display of blooms.
Did you know? The botanical name for balloon flower is “Platycodon,” which means “broad bell” in Greek, a reference to the flower’s shape.
39. Bergenia
Bergenia, often affectionately termed “elephant’s ears,” is a captivating addition to any garden. Its large, waxy leaves create a lush backdrop that highlights its bold pink blooms.
In early spring, Bergenia’s flowers emerge, defying the chill with their vibrant hues. They thrive in shaded areas, making them perfect for those tricky spots in your garden.
Did you know? Bergenia’s leaves turn a rich burgundy in fall, adding another layer of color to your garden. This perennial is not just beautiful, but resilient, braving harsh winters with ease.
40. Geum
Geum, a cheerful perennial, brightens gardens with its fiery orange and red blossoms. These flowers dance atop slender stems, swaying gracefully in the breeze.
Blooming from late spring to early summer, Geum offers a spirited display that attracts butterflies and bees. Its compact form fits well in borders and rock gardens, adding a splash of color.
Fun fact: Geum is part of the rose family, and its seeds were historically used in herbal remedies. This vibrant flower is more than just eye-catching; it’s a nod to the past.