Popular Perennial Plants for Your Garden

Perennials live more than two years—growing in summer, dormant in winter, returning from roots each spring (not reseeding like annuals). Lifespans vary from a few years to millennia.

Chrysanthemums (Mums)

Wide color range. Bloom early fall; dormant summer. Native to Europe and Southeast Asia. Yellow/white varieties dried for tea or ground as fertilizer.

Larkspur

White to brilliant purple, complex flowers on vertical spikes. Dense blooms ideal for cut displays. Sow seed early spring; dislikes transplanting. Keep soil moist; cut down after dormancy.

Dahlia

Large, multi-petaled flowers. Native to Mexico, Colombia, Central America. Historically used for food and decoration. Prone to pests/diseases—treat and fertilize frequently.

Bleeding Heart

Shade-loving, 2–3 feet tall. Pink or white heart-shaped flowers late spring/early summer. Heavy watering after dieback ensures return.

Strawberry

Easy, popular fruit producer. Summer harvest (~3 weeks). Dormant early fall; resurfaces early spring. Full sun, wind protection. Birds love the red fruit.