There’s something so rewarding about growing perennials in the Midwest. They come back year after year, adding effortless beauty to your garden.
These plants can turn any space into a thriving, ever-changing oasis. Whether you’re a true gardener or just figuring out what survives Midwest weather (we’ve all been there), choosing the right perennials makes all the difference.
Here are some of the must-have picks that will keep your garden looking amazing without a ton of upkeep!
1. Purple Coneflower
Have you ever wondered what makes a garden pop without much effort? Let me introduce you to the purple coneflower.
This plant is not just a feast for your eyes but a blessing for your garden. Known for its ability to attract butterflies, it’s a perfect fit for those wanting a lively yard.
Trust me, this perennial doesn’t need much pampering. Once it’s settled, it’s like that low-maintenance friend everyone loves. It thrives in the sun and can handle a bit of neglect. Who wouldn’t want such a buddy in their garden?
2. Black-Eyed Susan
Picture this: a sea of golden-yellow petals with dark centers nodding in the breeze. That’s the magic of Black-Eyed Susans. They bring a touch of sunshine to any garden, even on cloudy days.
These perennials are tough and resilient. They laugh in the face of drought and poor soil, making them ideal for the Midwest gardener who doesn’t want to fuss too much.
Plus, they’re like candy to pollinators, drawing bees and butterflies with ease. Your garden’s social life will thank you for it!
3. Bee Balm
Ever had a plant that becomes the talk of the garden? Bee Balm does just that! Its red blooms are not only stunning but also a hotspot for bees and hummingbirds. They simply can’t resist.
Plant it in a sunny spot with a bit of space, and watch it take off. This perennial spreads happily, filling your garden with color and life.
You might find yourself hosting a mini wildlife sanctuary without even trying! Who knew gardening could be so rewarding and fun?
4. Butterfly Weed
Gardening in the Midwest? Butterfly Weed is your go-to for attracting those fluttering beauties. And boy, do they flock to it! With its bright orange flowers, it’s like a beacon for butterflies passing by.
I remember planting it and watching the parade of colors it brought. It’s a hardy plant, thriving in the sun and needing little care.
If you’re like me and love a bit of nature’s magic in your yard, this one’s a must-have. Trust me, you’ll love the spectacle it creates!
5. Daylilies
Imagine your garden dressed in a kaleidoscope of colors. That’s what daylilies offer. They’re like the chameleons of the plant world, with blooms in almost every shade imaginable.
These perennials are unfussy and robust, perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy a beautiful garden without constant maintenance. Plant them once, and they’ll reward you year after year.
Their flowers might only last a day, but the plant keeps giving. It’s like having a new surprise every morning in your garden!
6. Hosta
Do you have a shady spot in your garden that’s begging for life? Hostas might be your answer. Their large leaves bring texture and elegance to any corner, making them a staple for shade gardens.
I often wonder how such a simple plant can completely transform a space. They’re hardy, low-maintenance, and come in various shades of green and blue.
Plus, once they establish themselves, they require very little attention. What’s not to love about a plant that does all the hard work for you?
7. Coreopsis
Imagine a splash of sunshine that lasts all season long. That’s coreopsis for you. With its cheerful yellow blooms, it lights up any garden like a constant ray of sunshine.
This perennial is the epitome of low-maintenance and high-reward. It thrives in full sun and poor soil, making it perfect for busy gardeners.
Plus, it’s a magnet for butterflies, adding movement and life to your garden. A little effort goes a long way with coreopsis, and the results are pure joy!
8. Russian Sage
There’s something poetic about Russian Sage with its tall, wispy purple spires. I once planted it in a corner of my garden, and it became an instant favorite. Its fragrance is like a gentle reminder of nature’s beauty.
Despite looking delicate, it’s surprisingly sturdy. Give it a sunny spot, and it will thrive with little care. It’s drought-tolerant and deer-resistant – a true hero plant.
If you want a perennial that combines beauty with resilience, Russian Sage is a top pick for any Midwest garden.
9. Joe-Pye Weed
Ever thought about having a plant that towers above the rest and still looks elegant? Joe-Pye Weed is your guy. With its tall stature and pink blooms, it adds height and drama to any garden.
This perennial loves moist areas, making it perfect for those tricky spots in your yard. Butterflies adore it, so expect a flutter of activity once it’s in bloom.
It’s like having a living sculpture in your garden, providing both beauty and function.
10. Sedum
Have you ever met a plant that’s virtually indestructible? Sedum might be it. It’s the rock star of the garden, thriving where others might falter.
These perennials are great for sunny spots and rock gardens. Their fleshy leaves and starry flowers add unique textures and colors. Even if you forget to water them occasionally, they’ll forgive you.
It’s like having a loyal friend who sticks around through thick and thin. Plus, their late blooms give bees a much-needed source of nectar.
11. Blazing Star
If there’s one plant that knows how to make a statement, it’s the Blazing Star. With its spiky purple blooms, it stands out in any garden.
This perennial is perfect for prairies and sunny spots. It’s not just about looks, though. It’s a haven for pollinators, drawing in bees and butterflies like a charm.
Plant it, and you’ll witness a buzz of activity. The Blazing Star shows us that beauty and functionality can go hand in hand, all while being easy to grow.
12. False Indigo
Think of a plant that brings a touch of wild elegance to your garden. That’s False Indigo for you. Its indigo-blue flowers are a sight to behold.
I planted it once, and to my surprise, it thrived with minimal care. It’s a fantastic choice for anyone who loves a no-fuss garden. Plus, it’s drought-tolerant and deer-resistant.
If you’re dreaming of a garden that mirrors a natural prairie, False Indigo is a top choice. It’s like a little piece of the wild right in your yard.
13. Wild Bergamot
Imagine a garden filled with the scent of mint and lavender. That’s what Wild Bergamot offers. It’s not just a pretty face. Its fragrance is a delight.
This perennial is beloved by pollinators, making it a must-have for eco-friendly gardens. Its lavender blooms add a dreamy touch to any meadow or border. What makes it even better is its resilience.
It stands up to drought and poor soil, thriving where others might struggle. Wild Bergamot is a true garden companion that rewards you with beauty and scent.
14. Aster
Ever wondered how to extend your garden’s color into the fall? Asters are your answer. Their daisy-like blooms bring a splash of color when most plants begin to fade.
I often find myself questioning how these little wonders add such vibrancy to a garden’s late season. They’re easy to grow and love the sun, making them a gardener’s best friend.
Plus, they’re a magnet for late-season pollinators. Asters show us that a garden can be lively and colorful, even as the days grow shorter.
15. Columbine
Imagine a flower that looks like it’s been painted by nature itself. That’s Columbine. Its intricate blooms are a marvel to behold.
This perennial is perfect for shaded gardens, bringing a touch of whimsy and charm. It’s like having a little piece of art growing in your yard. Columbines are not just beautiful.
They adapt well to different conditions, making them easy to grow. If you want a plant that adds a delicate touch with minimal fuss, Columbine is a delightful choice.
16. Yarrow
Ever seen a plant that looks like it belongs in a meadow painting? Yarrow is that plant. Its flat-topped clusters of flowers are eye-catching and functional.
Yarrows thrive in sunny spots and are drought-tolerant, making them ideal for easy-going gardeners. They’re perfect for adding a natural look to gardens, and their blooms attract beneficial insects.
Yarrow’s charm lies in its ability to blend beauty with practicality, offering a splash of color and a helping hand to the ecosystem.
17. Prairie Smoke
Envision a plant that adds mystery and texture to your garden. Prairie Smoke, with its unique seed heads, does just that. They’re like wispy plumes that dance in the wind.
This perennial is perfect for prairies and open spaces, thriving in the sun. It’s low-maintenance and drought-tolerant, ideal for busy gardeners. The enchanting seed heads are a talking point, adding an unexpected twist to any garden.
Prairie Smoke is proof that a garden can be both beautiful and intriguing, all with minimal effort.
18. Phlox
Thinking of adding a touch of romance to your garden? Phlox might be your answer. Its clusters of flowers are a visual treat, adding color and fragrance.
I often wonder how such a simple plant can make such a big impact. Phlox thrives in sunny borders and attracts butterflies effortlessly. It’s easy to grow and spreads with delight, making it a favorite among gardeners.
If you want a plant that offers both beauty and charm, Phlox is a perfect choice.
19. Catmint
Imagine a plant that not only looks good but also smells divine. Catmint is that plant. Its blue flowers and aromatic leaves are a delight for the senses.
This perennial is as tough as they come, thriving in sunny spots and requiring little care. It’s a favorite among pollinators, adding life to any garden.
If you’re looking for a plant that offers both beauty and resilience, Catmint won’t disappoint. It’s like having a mini oasis of scent and color right in your backyard.
20. Goldenrod
There’s something magical about a field of Goldenrod swaying in the breeze. Its bright yellow flowers are a sight to see. I remember the first time I planted it. My garden was suddenly buzzing with life.
It’s a perennial that thrives in sunny meadows and is a favorite among pollinators. Despite its delicate appearance, it’s a tough plant, standing up to drought and poor soil.
If you’re like me, and love a garden that invites nature in, Goldenrod is a must-have. It’s like a beacon of sunshine that never dims.
21. Penstemon
Ever wished for a plant that adds height and color to your garden? Penstemon might be your answer. Its tall spikes and tubular flowers are a hummingbird’s delight.
This perennial loves the sun and stands up to drought and poor soil. It’s perfect for adding a vertical element to borders and meadows.
With its blooms, Penstemon brings a lively touch to any garden. It’s a plant that rewards you with beauty and a bit of wildlife watching.
22. Switchgrass
Looking for a plant that adds movement to your garden? Switchgrass is your go-to. Its tall, swaying blades create a sea of motion that’s mesmerizing.
I often wonder how such a simple grass can transform a space. It’s perfect for prairies and open areas, thriving in the sun. It’s low-maintenance and drought-resistant, making it a practical choice.
If you want a garden that feels alive and dynamic, Switchgrass is a fantastic addition. It’s like having a piece of the prairie right at home.
23. Camellia
Picture a plant that doesn’t quite fit the Midwest vibe. Camellia is that plant. While beautiful, it’s more suited to milder climates. It struggles with harsh Midwest winters, needing protection and care.
Despite its charm, I’ve found it requires more attention than most perennials. If you’re someone who loves a challenge, camellia might be for you.
Otherwise, it might be best to admire it from afar. It’s a lesson in choosing the right plant for the right place.
24. Gardenia
Imagine a flower with a scent that’s out of this world. The gardenia. However, in the Midwest, it’s a bit of a diva. It demands specific conditions to thrive, and our winters aren’t kind.
Gardenias require a lot of TLC to survive, needing warm temperatures and humidity. While their fragrance is heavenly, they might not be the best choice for easy gardening.
For those in the Midwest, it’s often easier to enjoy gardenias in a bouquet rather than in the yard.
25. Crape Myrtle
Have you ever dreamt of a garden with a touch of the South? Crape Myrtle brings that charm. However, in the Midwest, it struggles with cold weather.
I often wonder how such a beautiful plant can be so finicky. It needs extra care and protection during winter, making it a challenging choice.
If you’re up for the task, you’ll be rewarded with its stunning blooms. Otherwise, it’s a reminder that not every plant is suited for every garden.
26. Palm Trees
In the Midwest, they’re more fantasy than reality. Our winters are far too harsh for palms to thrive.
While they make for stunning additions to tropical gardens, they’re not practical for Midwest landscapes. I find it fascinating how certain plants are meant for specific climates.
Palm trees teach us that sometimes, it’s best to appreciate certain beauties from a distance.
27. Azalea
Imagine a shrub that lights up the garden with color. Azaleas do just that, yet they’re a bit tricky in the Midwest. I’ve tried growing them, and it’s been a learning curve.
They need acidic soil and protection from harsh winters, which can be a lot to manage. If you’re up for the challenge, they reward you with stunning blooms.
Otherwise, they might be best left to regions with milder climates. It’s a reminder that the right conditions make all the difference.