New England’s ever-changing seasons can be tough on plants, but the right perennials will keep your garden bursting with color year after year. These hardy plants can handle everything from scorching summers to frosty winters.
Even if you’re just starting out, you’ll find that these perennials practically take care of themselves. Making your garden amazing, no matter the season.
Plus, there’s something special about watching your garden come back to life each spring, like an old friend returning home!
1. Black-Eyed Susan
You know that feeling when you stumble upon something that just feels right? That’s how I felt planting Black-Eyed Susans in my garden. Their cheerful yellow faces seem to smile up at me every morning.
They’re easy to care for, thriving even when I forget to water them. Like little rays of sunshine, they brighten up any spot they’re planted in.
Best part? They attract butterflies, turning my garden into a mini wildlife haven! If you’re looking for a plant that gives back tenfold, this is your buddy.
2. Coneflower
Despite its name, the coneflower is anything but ordinary. This beauty, with its striking purple petals, adds a pop of color that commands attention.
Coneflowers are like the extroverts of the plant world, drawing bees and butterflies from far and wide. They’re tough too, shrugging off droughts like it’s nothing.
I often find myself admiring their resilience and beautiful presence. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned gardener, coneflowers are a delightful addition. They ask for so little yet offer so much in return.
3. Bee Balm
Ever wondered how to invite bees and butterflies to your garden party? Bee Balm is your answer! These flowers produce a sweet nectar that’s irresistible.
They’re not just a treat for pollinators. Their aromatic leaves can be used in teas. Plus, they’re perennial, so they return every year like reliable old friends.
Are your gardening skills like mine, sometimes questionable? No worries, Bee Balm is quite forgiving and easy to grow. A perfect choice for a lively, buzzing garden!
4. Lupine
When I think of these, I envision fields of color swaying in a gentle breeze. These tall beauties are a sight to behold in any garden.
Their spiky blooms come in a rainbow of colors, and they’re perfect for adding height and drama. Lupines thrive in sunny spots and well-drained soil.
They’re not just pretty faces. They’re also great at fixing nitrogen in the soil, helping other plants grow. Incorporate them into your garden for a splash of color and a boost of soil health.
5. Daylily
Every day feels like a gift when you have these blooming in your garden. I planted them a few years back, and they’ve never let me down.
With their stunning array of colors and shapes, these hardy flowers come back year after year, requiring minimal fuss. They’re like the reliable old friends who always bring joy.
I often cut a few for indoor arrangements, and they never fail to brighten up my home. If low maintenance and beauty are your goals, daylilies have got you covered.
6. Hostas
In the shady corners of my garden, hostas reign supreme. Their foliage adds texture and interest, even in the darkest spots.
Hostas are incredibly versatile, making them perfect for borders or as ground cover. They’re a favorite of mine because they thrive on neglect (my kind of plant!).
With a variety of leaf sizes and colors, there’s a hosta for every taste. Whether you have a sprawling garden or a cozy backyard, they adapt beautifully, making them a must-have for any garden enthusiast.
7. Astilbe
These are like the feather boas of the plant world, adding flair and elegance to any garden setting. Their fluffy plumes come in delightful shades.
They love moist, shaded areas, making them perfect companions for hostas. In my garden, they turn a dull corner into a spectacle of color and texture.
Low maintenance and deer-resistant, they’re perfect for gardeners who want beauty without the hassle. For a touch of whimsy, sprinkle in some astilbes and let them steal the show.
8. Sedum
Have you ever wondered why some plants seem unbothered by neglect? Sedum is one of those resilient wonders. With its succulent-like leaves, it’s drought-tolerant and carefree.
Ideal for sunny spots, sedum will thrive where others wither. Its star-shaped flowers attract pollinators, adding life to your garden.
Whether you’re a green thumb or a forgetful gardener, sedum is your ally. A mix of beauty and toughness, it’s a smart choice for anyone looking to add charm without effort.
9. Peony
There’s something timeless about peonies, with their blooms and delicate fragrance. Their enchanting presence in my garden feels like a celebration.
Though they require patience to establish, once settled, they reward you with spectacular flowers each spring. Peonies love sunny spots and well-drained soil.
With minimal care, these beauties can last for decades, becoming garden heirlooms. Embrace their elegance and let them grace your space with their timeless charm.
10. Bleeding Heart
A plant that captures hearts with its delicate, heart-shaped blooms. They dangle like little charms.
These shade-loving plants bring a touch of romance to any garden. In my garden, they bloom in spring, offering a whimsical display.
They pair beautifully with ferns and hostas, creating a harmonious blend of colors and textures. If you’re a fan of unique and enchanting flowers, the Bleeding Heart is sure to delight.
11. Joe-Pye Weed
One summer, I stumbled upon Joe-Pye Weed, and it’s been a garden staple ever since. This towering plant, with its purplish-red blooms, adds height and drama.
It’s a magnet for butterflies, transforming my garden into a fluttering paradise. Joe-Pye Weed thrives in moist soil and can handle full sun to partial shade.
Easy to grow and maintain, it’s perfect for creating a natural, meadow-like feel. If you’re looking to add a wild, yet graceful touch, let Joe-Pye Weed work its magic.
12. Yarrow
With its fern-like leaves and clusters of tiny flowers, it’s a standout.
These perennials are drought-resistant and thrive on neglect. They’re perfect for adding texture and color to sunny spots.
Yarrow attracts pollinators, making it a friend to your garden’s ecosystem. If you’re seeking a plant that offers beauty and a bit of wild charm, yarrow could be your perfect match.
13. Aster
Have you ever noticed how some flowers seem to extend the joy of summer? Asters do just that, blooming when others are fading.
With their daisy-like appearance, they add a cheerful note to autumn gardens. Asters are hardy and do well in sunny areas.
They’re great for attracting bees and butterflies, adding life to your garden. Looking for a plant that offers late-season color and charm? Asters might be your new favorite.
14. Phlox
Phlox are the life of the garden party, with their clusters of flowers and sweet fragrance. They’re perfect for adding a burst of color.
These plants thrive in sunny areas and come back year after year. Their presence is a joy to behold.
I admire their resilience and charm, as they effortlessly turn my garden into a tapestry of hues. For a splash of color and delightful scent, phlox are a must-have.
15. Columbine
These are the fairy tale flowers of the garden, with their delicate, spurred petals and enchanting presence. They thrive in shaded areas.
In my garden, they add a touch of whimsy, with colors ranging from deep purple to soft pink. Columbines are easy to grow and require little maintenance.
They attract hummingbirds, adding a bit of magic to your garden space. If you’re looking to create a dreamy garden atmosphere, columbines are your go-to.
16. Coral Bells
Having these in my garden feels like having a secret ingredient that enhances everything. Their colorful foliage provides a stunning backdrop.
They’re versatile, doing well in both sun and shade. The delicate flowers add an extra layer of charm to their striking leaves.
Low maintenance and deer-resistant, they’ve become a favorite of mine. If you’re looking for a plant that’s as beautiful as it is easy to care for, coral bells are a fantastic choice.
17. Catmint
Known for its aromatic foliage and lavender-blue flowers, catmint is a standout in any garden. It thrives in sunny spots and is drought-tolerant.
Catmint attracts bees and butterflies, adding life to your garden. It’s low maintenance, making it perfect for busy gardeners.
Its calming scent and beautiful blooms create a relaxing atmosphere. If you’re looking for a fragrant, easy-to-grow plant, catmint might be just what you need.
18. Hellebore
These are the quiet achievers of the plant world, blooming when little else does. They bring color to early spring gardens.
Their flowers, which come in a range of hues, are long-lasting and thrive in shaded areas. Hellebores are low maintenance and deer-resistant.
These perennials offer a touch of elegance and resilience. For a plant that promises early blooms and easy care, hellebores are a top choice.
19. Ferns
These have always fascinated me with their intricate fronds and timeless appeal. They thrive in shaded, humid environments, adding beauty to any space.
In my garden, they create a serene, woodland feel that I adore. Ferns are low maintenance and adapt well to different conditions.
Whether you’re looking to fill a shaded corner or add texture to your garden, ferns are versatile companions. Their beauty and elegance are unmatched.
20. Butterfly Weed
This one is like a neon sign for pollinators, with its bright orange flowers calling out to butterflies and bees.
It thrives in sunny, well-drained spots, making it a great addition to any garden. Butterfly weed is low maintenance and drought-tolerant.
If you’re aiming to create a pollinator-friendly garden, this plant is a stellar choice. For bursts of color and a lively garden atmosphere, butterfly weed is hard to beat.
21. Japanese Knotweed
Japanese Knotweed might look appealing at first glance, but it’s the garden equivalent of an uninvited guest that won’t leave.
Its rapid growth and resilience can quickly take over your garden, outcompeting native plants.
Managing it requires vigilance and persistence. If you spot this plant, it’s best to remove it promptly to prevent it from taking over.
22. Purple Loosestrife
I remember when I first saw this one. Its beauty was captivating. However, it soon became apparent that this plant is more foe than friend.
Its aggressive nature means it quickly spreads, choking out native species and disrupting local ecosystems.
While its purple spikes are stunning, it’s essential to control its spread. A cautionary tale in the garden world, purple loosestrife is not one to be underestimated.
23. Bishop’s Weed
Ever dealt with a plant that seems to have a mind of its own? Bishop’s Weed is notorious for taking over garden spaces.
Its variegated leaves might look charming, but it spreads aggressively, making it hard to control.
If you’re thinking of planting it, consider the long-term commitment. Are you ready for a persistent battle, or will you take measures to contain its growth?
24. Chinese Silver Grass
Chinese Silver Grass might seem like an ornamental delight, with its graceful arching leaves and silvery tufts.
However, it’s notorious for escaping cultivation and spreading into natural areas.
If you choose to plant it, be prepared to manage its growth diligently. It’s a classic case of beauty with a hidden price.
25. English Ivy
This one has a charm that’s hard to resist. I planted it once around my old stone wall, thinking it would add character.
Little did I know, it would soon start climbing everywhere, turning into a green monster. While it looks lovely, it’s an invasive species here.
If you decide to grow it, be ready for constant trimming and containment. It’s like the garden version of a stubborn puppy!