Perennial flowers are a great way to keep your garden looking beautiful year after year without a lot of work. Many of them thrive with little attention and still produce stunning blooms.
From colorful favorites to unique additions, these flowers can fill your garden with life and color. You can enjoy a variety of shapes, sizes, and shades that return each season.
Here are 20 perennial flowers that require minimal maintenance and bring a beautiful mix of blooms to any collection.
1. Daylilies (Hemerocallis)
In the world of gardening, these beauties are like the guest who always shows up on time and never complains. Daylilies (Hemerocallis) are not just a sight for sore eyes, they’re also a gardener’s dream, thriving in almost any condition.
With star-shaped blooms that come in nearly every color imaginable, they require little more than some sunlight and the occasional prune. Simply plant them in a sunny spot, water sparingly, and let them bask in their own glory.
2. Coneflower (Echinacea)
Think of them as the reliable friend who never disappoints. Coneflowers (Echinacea) stand tall and proud, offering vibrant splashes of color and a magnet for butterflies.
Their resilience to drought and love for the sun make them an easy pick for any garden. Plant these in well-drained soil, give them a sunny stage, and watch them steal the show season after season.
3. Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia)
A splash of sunshine in the garden, these flowers are the cheerleaders of the plant world. Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia) blooms with its iconic yellow petals and dark, central “eye,” brightening any space.
They’re incredibly forgiving, thriving in various soil types, and requiring little care. Place them where they can sunbathe, water occasionally, and enjoy their lively presence.
4. Lavender (Lavandula)
Elegance in purple, with an aroma that transports you to a peaceful countryside. Lavender (Lavandula) not only graces your garden with its soothing scent but also invites beneficial pollinators.
These hardy plants love basking in full sun and thrive with minimal watering. Trim them back after flowering for a neat appearance and to encourage new growth.
5. Sedum (Autumn Joy)
In the realm of garden sculptures, these plants stand out with their unique structure and vibrant colors. Sedum (Autumn Joy) brings a touch of autumn charm with its pinkish-red blooms that last well into the fall.
Thriving in dry, sunny spots, they’re the epitome of easy-going. Just plant them in well-drained soil and let their architectural beauty unfold.
6. Shasta Daisy (Leucanthemum)
The classic beauty of the garden, their simplicity makes them timeless. Shasta Daisies (Leucanthemum) are the perfect addition to any garden, with their striking white petals and sunny yellow centers.
These sun-loving perennials require minimal care, thriving in well-drained soil. Cut back spent blooms to encourage more flowering, and enjoy their cheerful display.
7. Peony (Paeonia)
This is the queen of the garden, with blooms that are as flamboyant as they are fragrant. The Peony (Paeonia) is a classic favorite, known for its lush, full flowers that add elegance to any landscape.
Though they take a while to establish, once they do, they require little attention. Plant them in well-drained soil, give them some sun, and let their regal beauty unfold.
8. Bee Balm (Monarda)
Imagine a flower that wears a crown—the Bee Balm (Monarda) is just that, with its vibrant, spiky blooms that attract all manner of pollinators. Known for its medicinal properties, this flower is a must-have for any eco-friendly garden.
It thrives in moist, well-drained soil and loves a sunny or partly-shaded spot. Keep its roots cool with mulch, and it will reward you with a show-stopping display.
9. Coreopsis (Tickseed)
Pockets of sunshine in flower form, these plants are the life of the garden party. Coreopsis, or Tickseed, brings bright yellow blooms that seem to dance in the summer breeze.
They’re exceptionally easy to grow, thriving in poor soil and full sun. Just plant them, give them a drink now and then, and let them light up your garden.
10. Blanket Flower (Gaillardia)
Wearing hues of red and orange, these flowers are the artists of the garden world. Blanket Flower (Gaillardia) offers a fiery display that attracts butterflies and adds warmth to any landscape.
They thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, asking little more than a bit of deadheading for continuous blooms. Plant them and let their fiery colors enliven your space.
11. Russian Sage (Perovskia)
Tall, airy, and a bit wild, Russian Sage (Perovskia) brings a touch of the untamed to your garden. With its silvery foliage and lavender-blue flowers, it creates a stunning, ethereal effect.
This hardy perennial thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, requiring minimal water. Give it room to grow, and enjoy its graceful presence.
12. Geranium (Cranesbill)
With a splash of color that lasts, Geraniums (Cranesbill) are the garden’s dancers, twirling in the slightest breeze. These low-maintenance wonders come in a variety of colors, adding charm and cheer wherever planted.
They thrive in sun or partial shade and require little more than occasional watering. Trim them back after flowering for a neat appearance, and they’ll keep the garden lively.
13. Astilbe
In the cooler, shadier parts of the garden, Astilbe reigns supreme with its feather-like plumes. These elegant flowers add a soft, romantic touch to any landscape with minimal fuss.
Astilbe loves moist, well-drained soil and partial shade. Keep the soil consistently damp and enjoy the beauty they bring to less sunny spots.
14. Creeping Jenny (Lysimachia nummularia)
With its cascading tendrils, Creeping Jenny (Lysimachia nummularia) is nature’s own carpeting, adding lushness to garden borders. This perennial groundcover is as easy-going as they come, thriving in both sun and shade.
It loves moist soil, spreading quickly to fill spaces. Simply give it a spot to trail and watch it work its magic.
15. Yarrow (Achillea)
With its fern-like leaves and clusters of tiny flowers, Yarrow (Achillea) is a garden staple for any butterfly lover. This hardy perennial offers a rainbow of colors, from white to pink to yellow, making it a versatile addition.
Yarrow thrives in full sun and well-drained soil and is drought-tolerant once established. Plant it and let its cheerful blooms bring joy all summer long.
16. Catmint (Nepeta)
For a touch of whimsy, Catmint (Nepeta) offers a delightful aroma and soft, lavender-blue flowers. This perennial is a favorite among pollinators, adding life to any garden.
It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, requiring little water. Trim it back after the first bloom for a second flush of flowers and to keep it looking tidy.
17. Hostas
Lush and leafy, Hostas are the masters of shade gardening, with foliage that comes in a myriad of greens and whites. These perennials are known for their striking leaves and resilience, making them perfect for shaded areas.
They thrive in shaded, moist environments and require little care beyond watering. Plant them and let their foliage provide a rich backdrop in the garden.
18. Clematis
Climbing high and reaching for the sky, Clematis adds vertical interest with its stunning blooms. Known for its variety and long-lasting flowers, this perennial is a favorite for trellises and fences.
Clematis thrives in well-drained soil, with roots in shade and faces in the sun. Prune dead wood and watch it flourish, adding height and beauty to your garden.
19. Sedum (Stonecrop)
Adapting to drought and poor soil, Sedum (Stonecrop) is the gardener’s friend in challenging environments. With fleshy leaves and an array of colors, they add texture and depth to any rock garden.
These hardy perennials thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, needing minimal water. Plant them and enjoy their resilience and beauty.
20. Lamb’s Ear (Stachys byzantina)
Soft as a whisper, Lamb’s Ear (Stachys byzantina) offers a tactile experience with its fuzzy, silvery leaves. This ground cover adds a touch of texture and is as low-maintenance as they come.
Lamb’s Ear thrives in sunny, well-drained spots and needs little water. Plant it and let its soft beauty charm both eyes and hands.
21. Penstemon (Beardtongue)
With a name like ‘Beardtongue,’ you know this plant is bound to be interesting! Penstemon brings an array of tubular flowers and attracts hummingbirds in droves.
It thrives in sunny areas and well-drained soil, needing only occasional watering. Plant it for a touch of elegance and watch it steal the spotlight in your garden.
22. Coral Bells (Heuchera)
Known for their colorful, ruffled leaves, Coral Bells (Heuchera) are the jewels of the garden. These perennials add vibrant foliage that lasts year-round, making them a favorite for adding texture.
They thrive in partial shade and well-drained soil, requiring minimal care. Plant them for a pop of color and enjoy their lasting beauty.
23. Sweet William (Dianthus barbatus)
Bringing an old-world charm to gardens, Sweet William (Dianthus barbatus) delights with its clusters of fragrant, colorful blooms. These biennials are perfect for cottage gardens, offering a tapestry of pinks, reds, and whites.
Sweet William thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, needing only occasional watering. Plant them and let their sweet fragrance and beauty enchant your garden.
24. Lungwort (Pulmonaria)
With spotted leaves and delightful blooms, Lungwort (Pulmonaria) brings a unique charm to shaded gardens. This perennial offers clusters of blue, pink, or white flowers and is perfect for adding interest under trees.
It thrives in moist, well-drained soil and partial to full shade. Plant it and let its whimsical appearance captivate your garden visitors.
25. Astilbe
In the cooler, shadier parts of the garden, Astilbe reigns supreme with its feather-like plumes. These elegant flowers add a soft, romantic touch to any landscape with minimal fuss.
Astilbe loves moist, well-drained soil and partial shade. Keep the soil consistently damp and enjoy the beauty they bring to less sunny spots.
26. Torenia (Wishbone Flower)
With their cheerful appearance and unique wishbone-shaped stamens, Torenia (Wishbone Flower) is a delightful addition to gardens. These annuals offer bright colors and are perfect for hanging baskets and borders.
Torenia thrives in partial shade and moist, well-drained soil, requiring only regular watering. Plant them for a splash of color and enjoy their playful charm.
27. Fountain Grass (Pennisetum)
Adding grace and movement to gardens, Fountain Grass (Pennisetum) is the epitome of elegance. With its feathery plumes and arching blades, it provides texture and a bit of drama.
This grass thrives in sunny, well-drained locations and requires minimal care. Plant it for a touch of sophistication and watch it dance in the wind.
28. Japanese Anemone
Bringing a touch of elegance to autumn gardens, Japanese Anemone offers delicate blooms in shades of pink and white. This perennial is the perfect addition for late-season color.
It thrives in partial shade and well-drained soil, needing little more than occasional watering. Plant them and let their graceful blooms extend the beauty of your garden into fall.