I'm redoing one of my flower beds that has gotten out of control. Don't get me wrong, I LOVE the look of the cottage gardens where everything is intermixed, but plants in this bed have grown to the point we are having a hard time walking down the sidewalk. In my desire to have more color all season long, I put together this list of 13 stunning perennials that will keep our gardens blooming and beautiful throughout the season.
1. Coneflower (Echinacea)
Coneflowers are one of my favorites. Known for their daisy-like appearance and cone-shaped centers, coneflowers come in a variety of colors, including pink, purple, and white. They are also a favorite among pollinators!
2. Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia)
It is hard to beat this flower for bold beauty. With their bright yellow petals and dark centers, black-eyed Susans add a pop of color to any garden. These hardy perennials are low maintenance and drought-tolerant.
3. Clematis (Clematis)
If you are looking to add height AND color, the clematis is the way to go. Mix varieties to add to the blooming time. My favorite is the purple bell Clematis Roguchi. It has been blooming all summer!
4. Blanket Flower (Gaillardia)
Blanket flowers feature red and yellow daisy-like blooms that attract butterflies to your garden. They thrive in hot, sunny conditions and are drought-resistant. Best to deadhead this beauty for control and reblooming.
5. Russian Sage (Perovskia)
If you are in need of a more shrub like bloomer, Russian Sage is a great choice. With its aromatic foliage and lavender-blue flowers, Russian sage adds a touch of elegance to any garden. Hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies love it but it is also deer-resistant and drought-tolerant.
6. Coreopsis (Tickseed)
Coreopsis plants are one of my favorites. I let its spread throughout my garden. It will produce an abundance of bright yellow, red, or pink flowers that resemble daisies. They are easy to grow and attract bees and butterflies.
7. Pincushion Flower (Scabiosa)
Pincushion flowers have been a stable in my garden for as long as I can remember. The flower head really does resemble a pincushion! Here in zone 6, I have had this plant flower into December many years in a row. It is slow to spread and when it does, it is more clumping, so it is easy to divide. It comes in a variety of colors, including blue, purple, red, and white.
8. Lavender (Lavandula)
Lavender is plant that is pretty when not blooming so I like to add it in this list. Prized for its fragrant foliage and purple flower spikes, it is not only beautiful but also has calming properties, making it a must-have in any garden.
9. Shasta Daisy (Leucanthemum x superbum)
Shasta daisies feature white petals and yellow centers, creating a classic and timeless look. These cheerful flowers are perfect for brightening up any garden. They begin flowering in early summer and repeat blooms throughout the season, especially if you deadhead them.
10. Yarrow (Achillea)
Yarrow might not be the the choice for everyone, but I love it! I have the variety Summer Pastels, and it gives me beautiful corals, pinks and yellow flowers. They are drought-tolerant and attract beneficial insects to the garden. The plant has great medicinal properties too.
11. Cranesbill/Perennial Geraniums
Cranesbill will provide beautiful season long color. Rozanne is one of the varieties that will be a great performer. It can get to be 3 feet wide and be covered with interesting foliage and dainty purple flowers. Some varieties prefer shade over sun.
12. Garden Phlox
Garden Phlox are a little later to start blooming, but once they do, they continue for weeks and weeks. The tall Garden Phlox can be susceptible to powdery mildew, but planting disease resistant varieties like David will help. They are fragrant and attract bees and butterflies to the garden.
13. Veronica (Speedwell)
Veronica plants produce spikes of blue, pink, or white flowers that bloom throughout the summer. They are low maintenance and attract butterflies and bees.
With these 13 perennials in your garden, you can enjoy a summer filled with colorful blooms that will attract pollinators and brighten up your outdoor space. Happy gardening!