Complete Gardening
In 2025, a vibrant wave of yellow perennials is sweeping across gardens, captivating gardeners and nature enthusiasts alike. These cheerful blooms not only brighten landscapes but also support biodiversity by attracting pollinators. From sun-drenched meadows to shaded corners, these yellow perennials offer diverse options for every garden. Each has its own unique charm, whether it’s their striking color, fascinating history, or low-maintenance appeal. Join us as we explore 22 extraordinary yellow perennials that are set to dominate gardens this year, bringing joy and a splash of sunshine to outdoor spaces.
1. ‘Sun King’ Aralia (Aralia cordata) 🌿
‘Sun King’ Aralia shines with bright yellow leaves that light up shady gardens. This stunning perennial can reach up to three feet in height and provides a striking contrast against darker foliage. Its bold presence and adaptability make it an excellent choice for gardeners seeking a low-maintenance yet eye-catching plant.
In addition to its visual appeal, ‘Sun King’ Aralia is a pollinator-friendly perennial. Its small white flowers attract bees and butterflies, adding life and movement to any garden. Easy to grow, it’s perfect for both novice and experienced gardeners alike.
2. ‘Lemon Queen’ Heliopsis (Heliopsis helianthoides) 🌞
Lemon Queen Heliopsis reigns supreme with its radiant, daisy-like blooms that mimic the sun’s brilliance. These perennial beauties stand tall, reaching heights of up to six feet, and thrive in full sunlight.
Their lively yellow petals brighten any garden, attracting butterflies and bees in abundance. Resistant to common pests and diseases, Lemon Queen Heliopsis is a reliable performer in the garden. Plant it as a backdrop or let it stand alone as a focal point. Either way, its sunny disposition is sure to delight year after year.
3. ‘Goldsturm’ Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia fulgida) ✨
With a name like ‘Goldsturm,’ this Black-Eyed Susan promises a storm of golden blooms. Its stunning yellow petals contrast beautifully with dark, velvety centers, creating a striking visual in any garden.
Known for its resilience, this perennial thrives in a variety of conditions, from full sun to partial shade. It’s a favorite among pollinators, drawing in bees and butterflies. Plant it en masse for a carpet of sunshine or mix it with other perennials for a diverse landscape. Its cheerful presence is guaranteed to uplift any outdoor space.
4. ‘Moonshine’ Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) 🌙
Moonshine Yarrow enchants with its soft, buttery yellow flowers that seem to glow in the garden. This hardy perennial is a gardener’s dream, requiring minimal care while offering maximum impact. Its silvery foliage provides a perfect backdrop for its clusters of blooms.
Ideal for dry, sunny locations, Moonshine Yarrow is not only drought-tolerant but also deer-resistant. Its long blooming season ensures months of color, and it attracts beneficial insects to the garden. For a perennial that’s as reliable as it is beautiful, Moonshine Yarrow is a top choice.
5. ‘Firefly Sunshine’ Coreopsis – 2025’s most awarded perennial
2025’s star perennial, ‘Firefly Sunshine’ Coreopsis, dazzles with its profusion of bright yellow flowers that seem to dance in the breeze. This award-winning beauty is celebrated for its long blooming period and easy-care nature, making it a gardener’s favorite.
Its compact, bushy form is perfect for borders or containers, where it can brighten any setting. Loved by pollinators, this Coreopsis is a magnet for bees and butterflies. If you’re looking for a perennial that combines beauty and resilience, ‘Firefly Sunshine’ Coreopsis is the golden ticket.
6. ‘Golden Sword’ Yucca – Spiky, architectural, and zero-care
With its striking sword-like leaves edged in golden yellow, ‘Golden Sword’ Yucca is a bold statement in any garden. This architectural perennial is perfect for those seeking a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant plant that offers year-round interest.
Whether used in a desert-themed garden or as a standalone specimen, its sharp lines and vibrant color draw the eye. Resistant to deer and pests, it’s an excellent choice for difficult growing conditions. ‘Golden Sword’ Yucca’s unique form and color make it a standout addition to modern landscapes.
7. ‘Lady’s Mantle’ (Alchemilla mollis) – Water-beaded leaves + chartreuse blooms
Lady’s Mantle captivates with its soft, velvety leaves that catch dew like diamonds in the morning sun. The chartreuse blooms add a subtle hint of yellow, creating a gentle pop of color in shaded borders.
This perennial thrives in cool, moist conditions, making it ideal for woodland gardens. Its unique foliage and flowers are not only beautiful but also versatile, complementing a variety of garden styles. Lady’s Mantle is a timeless classic, offering both elegance and a touch of whimsy to any planting scheme.
8. ‘Goldenrod’ (Solidago spp.) – Native superstar for pollinators
Goldenrod stands as a native hero, its tall, golden plumes acting as a beacon for pollinators. This perennial powerhouse fills gardens with its vibrant color and supports biodiversity by attracting bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.
Growing well in a variety of conditions, from full sun to partial shade, Goldenrod is a versatile addition to any landscape. Its late summer blooms provide much-needed nectar, ensuring continued garden vitality. For those looking to enhance wildlife habitats, Goldenrod is a truly golden choice.
9. ‘Yellow Corydalis’ (Corydalis lutea) – Self-seeding shade-lover
Yellow Corydalis is a perennial with a knack for finding its perfect spot, happily self-seeding in shaded nooks and crannies. Its fern-like foliage and bright yellow flowers create a soft, inviting look that complements shady borders.
This shade-loving perennial is known for its resilience and adaptability, thriving in less-than-ideal conditions. Its delicate appearance belies its hardiness, as it blooms prolifically from spring to fall. For gardeners seeking a reliable, low-maintenance plant that adds a touch of sunshine to shade gardens, Yellow Corydalis is a splendid choice.
10. ‘Golden Creeping Jenny’ (Lysimachia nummularia) – Groundcover that glows
Golden Creeping Jenny is a groundcover that truly glows with its vibrant yellow-green leaves. This perennial creates a lush carpet, making it perfect for pathways, rock gardens, or as a border accent.
Its low-growing nature and fast-spreading habit make it an ideal choice for covering large areas quickly. While it thrives in moist conditions, Golden Creeping Jenny is versatile enough to adapt to various garden environments. With its cheerful hue and practical uses, it’s a wonderful addition to any garden looking to add texture and color to the ground level.
11. ‘Stella de Oro’ Daylily – Reblooms all summer
‘Stella de Oro’ Daylily brings the gift of continuous blooms, with golden-yellow flowers that rebloom throughout the summer. Its compact size and vibrant color make it a favorite for borders and container gardens.
Renowned for its reliability and low maintenance, this perennial is a top choice for gardeners seeking extended color without the fuss. Its ability to adapt to various soil types and conditions ensures its place in any garden. For a daylily that offers sunshine from early summer to fall, ‘Stella de Oro’ is unmatched.
12. ‘Golden Spur Columbine’ (Aquilegia chrysantha) – Hummingbird magnet
Golden Spur Columbine is a whimsical delight, with its nodding yellow flowers and long, graceful spurs that are irresistible to hummingbirds. This perennial adds a touch of magic to woodland gardens or shaded borders.
Its delicate appearance belies its robust nature, thriving in a range of conditions and soils. The enchanting blooms add an airy elegance, swaying gently in the breeze. For those looking to invite hummingbirds and enchant visitors, Golden Spur Columbine is a charming choice with a delightful presence.
13. ‘Yellow Foxglove’ (Digitalis grandiflora) – Cottage garden essential
Yellow Foxglove stands tall with its stately spires of pale yellow flowers, a true staple of the classic cottage garden. Its vertical elegance adds height and drama to borders, drawing the eye upward.
This hardy perennial thrives in both sun and partial shade, making it a versatile addition to various garden styles. Its bell-shaped blooms are a favorite of bees, adding a lively buzz to the garden. For a perennial that combines grace with a touch of nostalgia, Yellow Foxglove is an essential pick.
14. ‘Golden Hakone Grass’ (Hakonechloa macra) – Luxurious shade grass
Golden Hakone Grass offers a luxurious touch to shaded gardens with its cascading, golden-yellow blades. This perennial grass creates a serene, flowing effect, adding movement and texture to borders and pathways.
Its graceful form and subtle color variations make it a sought-after plant for creating calm, Zen-like spaces. Although it thrives in shade, it can also handle some sun, adding to its versatility. For gardeners seeking elegance and tranquility, Golden Hakone Grass is a perfect choice to elevate garden design.
15. ‘Golden Japanese Forest Grass’ (Hakonechloa ‘Aureola’) – Cascading gold for containers
Golden Japanese Forest Grass, with its vibrant yellow foliage, spills like liquid gold from containers and garden edges. Its cascading habit and bright hue add a dynamic, eye-catching element to any garden space.
Ideal for shaded areas, this perennial thrives in containers, providing flexibility for garden design. Its graceful movement and color make it a focal point in both contemporary and traditional settings. For a grass that offers both visual interest and versatility, Golden Japanese Forest Grass is an exquisite choice.
16. ‘Yellow Wax Bells’ (Kirengeshoma palmata) – Shade-loving exotic
Yellow Wax Bells bring an exotic touch to shaded gardens with their unique bell-shaped yellow flowers and large, textured leaves. This perennial offers a distinct aesthetic, perfect for adding intrigue and depth to gardens.
Preferring cool, moist conditions, Yellow Wax Bells thrive in woodland settings where their unusual form is best appreciated. Their late-season blooms extend garden interest into autumn. For gardeners seeking an unusual yet stunning shade perennial, Yellow Wax Bells are a delightful choice that promises to captivate.
17. ‘Golden Dead Nettle’ (Lamium galeobdolon) – Fast-spreading groundcover
Golden Dead Nettle is a fast-spreading groundcover that brings a touch of sunshine to the garden floor. Its variegated yellow leaves and cheerful blooms create a lively, textured tapestry that brightens shaded areas.
This perennial is ideal for covering ground quickly, with an ability to thrive in difficult, shaded spots. Its low-growing habit and robust nature make it a practical choice for gardeners seeking to fill spaces with minimal effort. For a groundcover that’s both functional and beautiful, Golden Dead Nettle shines brightly.
18. ‘Yellow Loosestrife’ (Lysimachia punctata) – Wet soil solution
Yellow Loosestrife offers a vibrant solution for gardens with wet soils, its tall spikes of yellow flowers brightening even the boggiest areas. This hardy perennial thrives where many others don’t, making it invaluable for challenging sites.
Its upright form and lush, green foliage add structure and color to wetland gardens, attracting pollinators and providing habitat. For gardeners dealing with damp conditions, Yellow Loosestrife is a resilient and beautiful choice, bringing life and color to otherwise difficult spots.
19. ‘Golden Peony’ (Paeonia ‘Bartzella’) – Fragrant, lemon-yellow Itoh peony
Golden Peony ‘Bartzella’ is a showstopper with its large, lemon-yellow blooms and intoxicating fragrance. This Itoh peony hybrid combines the best traits of tree and herbaceous peonies, offering robust growth and stunning flowers.
Its blooms are not only beautiful but also long-lasting, making it a prized addition to any sunny garden. Known for its vigor and disease resistance, ‘Bartzella’ offers both beauty and resilience. For peony lovers seeking a unique and fragrant yellow variety, Golden Peony ‘Bartzella’ is a must-have.
20. ‘Golden Marguerite’ (Anthemis tinctoria) – Daisy-like & drought-proof
Golden Marguerite is a ray of sunshine with its daisy-like yellow blooms that dance in the breeze. This drought-tolerant perennial thrives in sunny, dry conditions, making it a resilient choice for challenging environments.
Its cheerful flowers attract bees and butterflies, adding life and color to any garden space. With its ability to withstand heat and dry soil, Golden Marguerite is perfect for xeriscaping or sunny borders. For a perennial that offers both beauty and practicality, Golden Marguerite is a golden ticket to garden success.
21. ‘Yellow Cranesbill’ (Geranium ‘First Yellow’) – First true yellow hardy geranium
Yellow Cranesbill is a groundbreaking perennial, being the first true yellow hardy geranium. Its delicate yellow blooms and deeply lobed leaves create a soft, understated elegance in the garden.
Ideal for borders or mixed plantings, this perennial thrives in a range of conditions from full sun to partial shade. Its compact form and long blooming period make it a versatile and attractive choice. For gardeners looking to introduce a unique and reliable yellow perennial, Yellow Cranesbill offers charm and novelty in equal measure.
22. ‘Goldenrod ‘Fireworks’ (Solidago rugosa) – *2025’s most sought-after native*
Goldenrod ‘Fireworks’ is a dazzling spectacle, with arching, golden blooms that create a dramatic display in any garden. As 2025’s most sought-after native perennial, it captivates with its vibrant color and graceful form.
Its late-season blooms provide essential nectar for pollinators, ensuring continued garden activity and biodiversity. Perfect for meadows or naturalistic plantings, Goldenrod ‘Fireworks’ is both a visual delight and an ecological asset. For gardeners seeking to enhance both beauty and habitat, this perennial lights up the garden like no other.