I can’t believe it’s April already! The crocuses and hyacinths are in bloom, the daffodils are almost there and the tulips are popping up. It’s just a wonderful time to see color in the landscape again.
As the breeze turns warm, now is a great time to start planning flower beds. I thought I would take this opportunity to share some of my favorite perennials that have been amazing performers in my garden.
#1. Catmint/Nepeta
More commonly this perennial is called “Catmint”, not to be confused with catnip. I have these in almost every flower bed around my house and I recommend it frequently. It has little purple flowers on silvery-green stems. These plants have similar growth to lavender, and have a soft minty scent. They typically bloom in late spring/early summer and if you cut back the spent blooms, you can get a second flush at the end of summer. The variety I have grows to be 2-3’ tall and wide and I’ve been able to divide them with success many times.
Grows in zones 3-8; part sun to full sun; heat tolerant; drought tolerant; deer resistant
#2. Autumn Joy Sedum
Though there are a variety of sedums out there, this is the one I have the most experience with and I am so glad I do! This plant starts out with bright green growth in spring that resembles rosettes. As the season continues into late summer/fall, this variety of sedum bursts forth with beautiful pinkish red flowers that last quite some time. The flowers eventually turn brown and the plant stays upright, even through snow storms, adding interest all winter long. This perennial grows about 2’ tall and wide. I have not seen animals bother these plants, instead I see lots of bees, hummingbirds and butterflies on them.
Grows in zones 4-10; part sun to full sun; heat tolerant; drought tolerant
#3. Coneflower/Echinacea
Okay, you might be thinking purple coneflower, ‘I see those everywhere’; but what if I told you they come in other colors? Would that change your mind? Well, they do! You can find them in white, pinks, greens, orange and purple. I have the Cheyenne Spirit Coneflower mix that I started from seed years ago. This is a blend of sunset-like colors: orange, pink, red, yellow and cream. I have these planted on the north side of my house and do really well in part sun, but I know they prefer full sun to reach their full potential. They stand about 2-3’ tall and about 2’ wide. They bloom mid-summer and last until frost. This is another plant that does well to leave for winter interest. Oh, and this one is easy to save seeds too!
Grows in zones 4-9; part shade to full sun; drought tolerant; deer resistant
#4. Lamb’s Ear
If you are looking for texture, this is the one! Lamb’s Ear is low growing and adds so much texture and interest to your landscape. Though it does have a flower spike, it is similar to that of a hosta, so I usually cut it off. This perennial does spread, but that allows for easy dividing (every 2-3 years or so) and sharing in other parts of your landscape or with friends. Mine are planted in full sun and they get to 3’ wide before I divide and about 1’ tall. No pruning during the season is needed; in spring you will want to rake out the dead leaves.
Grows in zones 4-9; full sun; deer resistant
#5. Delphinium
This one doesn’t seem to be on many people’s lists, but I love this one! I have the Fantasia Mix Delphiniums that I started from seed. The blooms are a variety of white, lavender and blue blooms. Though the bloom time is short compared to others on the list, these are one of the first perennials to bloom in spring. They usually blossom when the tulips are done but before the summer flowers start. They stand about 3-4’ tall and about 2’ wide.
Grows in zones 3-7; full sun; deer resistant
I hope this list will give you some inspiration as you grow and plan your landscaping. If you are looking for more inspiration and flower photos, check out @angeloacreswi on Instagram .
I would love to know what your favorite perennial is! Please drop a comment below with your favorite!
Happy Gardening!
