20 Underused Annuals to Refresh Your Garden

1. Mexican Sunflower (Tithonia rotundifolia)

Late-season savior: 6-foot plants with fiery orange 2-inch blossoms that illuminate the autumn garden. Plant 2 weeks after last frost; needs full sun, dislikes cool, rainy summers.

2. Verbena bonariensis

Break the “tall in back” rule. This 6-foot airy wonder belongs in front—a veil of dark stems topped with purple clusters. Blooms midsummer to frost, self-sows charmingly, creating rhythm throughout the garden.

3. Heliotrope (Heliotropium arborescens)

Vanilla-scented deep purple flowers (white/pink cultivars less fragrant) perfume evening air, attract butterflies/moths. 18 inches tall, perfect for front of border or containers near seating. Full sun, well-drained soil.

4. Coleus (Solenostemon scutellarioides)

Forget grandma’s muted leaves. Hundreds of new varieties, including sun-tolerant “Sun” series, add tropical flair with minimal pinching. Root cuttings in water to preserve favorites. Any well-drained soil, keep moist until established.

5. Snow on the Mountain (Euphorbia marginata)

Like poinsettia, its “flowers” are variegated green-white bracts. 4 feet tall, 2 feet wide. Sow after frost in full sun, light soil. Unremarkable until midsummer when bracts appear—then it pops, especially in evening light.

6. Love-Lies-Bleeding (Amaranthus caudatus)

Showstopper: 3–5 feet tall, 2 feet wide, with 2-foot crimson tassels. Against a white fence or wall, it’s cottage-garden perfection. Easy from seed, tolerates poor soil, full sun. Space 24 inches; self-sows.

7. Hyacinth Bean (Lablab purpureus)

Vine with fragrant pale purple-mauve flowers, then shiny purple 4–6 inch beans (both edible). Carries garden midsummer to fall. Full sun, well-drained soil, regular water for best flowers/beans.

8. Four-O’Clocks (Mirabilis jalapa)

Night bloomers for busy gardeners. Bushy 3–4 feet, tubular 2-inch flowers open late afternoon, sweet perfume. Each lasts one night but blooms constantly midsummer to frost. Colors: magenta, yellow, white, striped. Rich, well-drained soil, full sun, moist not soggy. Self-sows (colors may vary).

9. Mexican Zinnia (Zinnia angustifolia)

Bushy, mildew-resistant alternative to gangly zinnias. “Orange Star” and “Star White” form 10-inch mounds, 12 inches wide, with needlelike leaves and daisy-like singles. Direct-sow in rich, well-drained soil, full sun. Deadhead for continuous bloom.

10. Cockscomb (Celosia argentea Plumosa group)

Feathered fans in bright red, hot pink, yellow, orange, white. Plant 7+ en masse for impact. 8 inches wide, 20 inches high—great near front. Plant after frost in sunny, protected, well-drained site. Despite dry look, needs regular water.

Other Favorites

• 11. Black-eyed Susan vine (Thunbergia alata)
• 12. Globe candytuft (Iberis umbellata)
• 13. Clary sage (Salvia sclarea var. turkestanica)
• 14. Honesty (Lunaria annua)
• 15. Kiss-me-over-the-garden-gate (Persicaria orientale)
• 16. Mignonette (Reseda odorata)
• 17. Pot marigold (Calendula officinalis)
• 18. Satin flower (Clarkia amoena)
• 19. Strawflower (Helichrysum bracteatum)
• 20. Toadflax (Linaria maroccana)