Plant that grow
The 15 Best Types of Plants Every Garden Needs to Flourish 2023
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Edible Plants
Getty ImagesWhy not let your garden do double duty? TikTok gardeners can't stop making videos about edible plants. They're pretty and practical in planters or beds. New types of vegetables have been developed specifically for containers. And new varieties of strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries have been bred to be more compact and ornamental, so they look as good as they taste.
Varieties to try: Berried Treasure Strawberry, Jelly Bean Blueberry
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Ground Cover Plants
Masaaki Tanaka/AfloConsider these plants the shag carpets of the great outdoors. Ground-covering plants cover up the soil and help fill the void in bare spots in your garden where growing a plant is challenging. Another benefit is that they reduce the number of weeds that pop up, and they can help retain moisture and nutrients in the soil.
Varieties to try: Flower Carpet Roses, Aubretia, Creeping Herbs
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Variegated Plants
Getty ImagesA favorite among gardeners for the plant's versatility, and its understated look of green and white leaves. These leafy perennials thrive in both sun and shade and come in an endless assortment of shapes, sizes, and colors. The perfect plant for a shady garden, you'll know if they've gotten too much sun because the edges of the leaves will start to burn.
Varieties to try: Hostas, Boxwood, Dogwood
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4
Ornamental Grass
Alex WalkerWild grass draws the eye up in a garden and creates movement as it swishes back and forth in the wind. These tall beauties prefer direct sunlight (and lots of it). They have grown in popularity over the years because they are easy to care for and grow quickly.
Each species of grass has different growth requirements so read the tag before you plant any seeds.
Varieties to try: Feathered Reed Grass, Purple Fountain Grass
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5
Trailing Plants
Getty ImagesEvery garden needs a little drama, and a trailing plant creates a cascading or waterfall-like effect. These underrated plants are versatile in the garden. They can act as a ground cover, hang from an overhead basket, and can cover up unsightly elements in your garden like a metal fence. Most trailing plants are perennials and can be brought indoors during the winter, and then can return outside in the springtime again.
Varieties to try: Creeping Jenny, Calibrachoa, Vinca Vine
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Medicinal Plants
Getty ImagesFor centuries, the medical field has used plants to treat illnesses in people. And on TikTok, more and more people are planting in their gardens plants that have medicinal qualities.
According to the USDA, "forty different ailments were healed through mint leaves. It can help to relieve the stomach and intestinal gas that is often caused by certain foods."
Varieties to try: Peppermint,Chamomile, Calendula
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Rose
Getty ImagesRoses are lovely and romantic in any garden setting, whether you have a tiny urban plot or a large, country backyard. And they’re not as picky as you think! Many new types have been bred to be long-blooming and more resistant to diseases, and they don’t need to be deadheaded or have spent blooms removed so they keep flowering. Stick with a shrub or landscape rose for your first attempt because they require almost zero care.
Varieties to try: Heirloom Roses, Coral Drift
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8
Hydrangea
Getty ImagesHydrangeas are just about perfect: With hundreds of different varieties, they thrive in almost any climate.
The lacy blooms emerge in early summer and last to fall, and they stay intact on the shrub to provide winter interest. One common misconception: That you can change bloom color on any hydrangea. The truth is only certain types—some big-leaf and mountain hydrangeas—change color based on the presence of aluminum in the soil. Hydrangeas range in height from a few feet tall to 7 or 8 feet tall and wide, so read the label before planting so it has plenty of room to spread.
Varieties to try: Little Quickfire, Cherry Explosion
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Succulent
Getty ImagesWith hundreds of varieties in every shape, size, and color, succulents are a great addition to your garden. They’re easy to grow, and the fleshy leaves survive dry spells. Many of them are cold-hardy, but read the plant tag or description to be sure.
Varieties to try: Lemon Coral, Emerald Empress Hens and Chicks
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Herb
Getty ImagesHerbs are super-easy to grow, and their flowers attract tons of pollinators.
It’s also far less expensive to grow them than to buy those plastic containers in the grocery store! Many herbs, such as thyme, sage, and oregano, are perennial, which means they come back every year, while you’ll need to replant basil, cilantro, and summer savory each spring.
Varieties to try: Amazel Basil, Chocolate Mint
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Fragrant Plants
Getty ImagesThe fragrance is one of the senses that every garden should engage. The options are endless! Dianthus, peonies, and lavender are reliable perennials with a sweet scent. Or plant a flowering shrub or tree such as lilac, crabapple, and Korean spice viburnum.
Varieties to try: Bloomerang Dwarf Pink Lilac, Festiva Maxima Peony
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Evergreen
Getty ImagesEvergreens provide much-needed color in the cold weather months, no matter where you live. With thousands of varieties, you’ll find one to love! Read the plant tag or description to learn how big they’ll get so you won’t be stuck with one that’s crowding the house or other plantings in a few years.
If you’re short on space, look for dwarf varieties that won’t get more than a few feet tall and wide.
Varieties to try: Gin Fizz Juniper, Little Sprinter Boxwood
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13
Ornamental Tree
Getty ImagesSmall ornamental trees add character and structure to a landscape and provide a striking focal point. Look for Japanese maples, which have delicate foliage, interesting bark, and lovely arching limbs; redbuds have teeny-tiny pink or purple flowers in early spring and pretty heart-shaped leaves; and smoke trees, which have clusters of airy seeds with reddish foliage that turns to orange in fall.
Varieties to try: Japanese Maple Bloodgood, Forest Pansy Redbud
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14
Climbing Vine
Getty ImagesVines that clamber over a fence, trellis, or arbor add a layer of charm and interest to any garden.
Flowering vines also attract pretty, little pollinators such as hummingbirds and butterflies. Consider cardinal climber, clematis, passion flower, honeysuckle, and false hydrangea.
Varieties to try: Sweet Summer Love Clematis, Rose Sensation False Hydrangea
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Flowering Shrub
Getty ImagesThere's a flowering shrub for every season. Look for spirea, ninebark, and azalea for spring, and for summer bloomers, plant weigela, rose of Sharon, and butterfly bush (new varieties are not invasive). Read the plant tag or label so you give it the right amount of sun and ensure it will survive winters in your hardiness zone.
Varieties to try: Sonic Bloom Pink Weigela, Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon
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28 Best Plants for New Gardeners
By
Marie Iannotti
Marie Iannotti
Marie Iannotti is a life-long gardener and a veteran Master Gardener with nearly three decades of experience.
She's also an author of three gardening books, a plant photographer, public speaker, and a former Cornell Cooperative Extension Horticulture Educator. Marie's garden writing has been featured in newspapers and magazines nationwide and she has been interviewed for Martha Stewart Radio, National Public Radio, and numerous articles.
Learn more about The Spruce's Editorial Process
Updated on 03/30/22
The Spruce / Autumn Wood
A flower garden is a fickle place, where results one year can be wonderful but the next year sees bad weather, pests, and fungal diseases that cause problems everywhere. Seasoned gardeners understand this is part of the gardener's life, but such experiences can be discouraging for a novice gardener. Your chances for success starting out are much increased if you choose plants with a reputation for sturdiness and low maintenance.
Here are 28 recommended perennial garden plants that are almost foolproof. Most plants will not flourish each and every garden season, but if you pick five or 10 plants from this list, you have a good chance of enjoying fabulous results in your new garden
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Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
This perennial is a member of the daisy family, known for its colors, lacy leaves, and reliability.
Yarrow is very easy to grow in most garden soils and is available in many different cultivars. It spreads heartily and can crowd out some other plants. Yarrow grows 2 to 4 feet tall and blooms from early summer all the way into fall. Cut back following the initial bloom, and remove dead stalks from the garden at season's end.
- USDA Growing Zones: 3 to 10 (depending on cultivar)
- Color Varieties: Pastels, rust, deep red, yellow, white
- Sun Exposure: Full sun
- Soil Needs: Any well-draining soil
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02 of 28
Bugleweed (Ajuga reptans)
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Bugleweed is a great ground cover that comes in different leaf colors and spreads very nicely. It prevents weeds from growing and blooms in late spring with tiny beautiful blue flowers, though it is normally grown for its foliage. Bugleweed grows well in sun or shade, has no problems to speak of, and as it spreads, you can dig up the new plants and move them elsewhere.
Bugleweed can be invasive in some regions if it naturalizes, so take care to keep it confined on your property.
Warning: All parts of this plant are poisonous if eaten.
- USDA Growing Zones: 3 to 9
- Color Varieties: Blue, violet
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil Needs: Medium-moisture, well-drained soils; tolerate moderately dry soil
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03 of 28
Columbine (Aquilegia spp.)
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Columbine is a showy perennial with a cultivar suitable for almost any climate. Native to mountainous regions, columbine is a member of the buttercup family and includes almost 75 different species and cultivars developed to produce brightly colored flowers. This is a very easy-to grow flower that is perfect for beginners. These plants grow 12 to 24 inches with a similar spread and bloom in late spring and early summer.
Deadheading will sometimes prompt a second, smaller flush of blooms later in the season. Check on details for the species you are buying. Some prefer moist woodland conditions, others are alpine species that need good drainage. Most Columbines spread readily by reseeding. If you want to keep the flower bed tidy, remove seed pods following bloom.
- USDA Growing Zones: 3 to 9 (varies depending on species)
- Color Varieties: White, pink, lavender, peach, blue, yellow, bi-colors
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
- Soil Needs: Medium moisture, well-drained soil
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04 of 28
Aster (Symphyotrichum spp.)
The Spruce / Marie Iannotti
Another member of the daisy family, asters are hearty late season bloomers, but they do not like too-wet or too-dry soil. Asters grow 3 to 4 feet tall with a similar spread. They self-sow freely, and root groups need dividing every couple of years.
A strong virtue is the asters late show of color in the garden, after most other perennials are done for the year—asters may still be blooming when snow begins to fall. Pinching back the stems early in the season will cause the plant to bush out and produce plenty of fall blooms. - USDA Growing Zones: 3 to 8
- Color Varieties: Lavender, blue, white,
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil Needs: Medium moisture, well-drained soil; prefers slightly acidic conditions
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05 of 28
Siberian Bugloss (Brunnera macrophylla)
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Siberian bugloss is a spring-blooming perennial for part-shade locations. It is a 12- to 18-inch high clump-forming plant that grows from rhizomatous roots. Siberian bugloss is one of the few plants that has true blue flowers. After bloom time is over, the dark green foliage is a great foil for small to medium-sized variegated shade plants such as hostas.
The foliage can get a bit ragged as the weather warms, but the plant can be rejuvenated by cutting back to new growth. - USDA Growing Zones: 3 to 9
- Color Varieties: Blue
- Sun Exposure: Part shade
- Soil Needs: Medium moisture, well-drained soil
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Butterfly Bush (Buddleia davidii)
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
The common name for this plant indicates its main virtue—its flowers draw butterflies and other pollinators, such as honeybees and hummingbirds. Butterfly bush is a large plant, growing at least 6 to 8 feet with a spread as much as 5 feet. With thick, woody stalks, it is usually considered a deciduous shrub and behaves as such in warmer climates. In colder climates, it is treated more like a herbaceous perennial, dying back to ground level each winter.
The stems should be pruned down to 8 to 12 inches above the ground in early spring, which prompts new growth.
Not all varieties are hardy in northern climates, so check carefully before buying. Dwarf varieties also are available and popular with gardeners with limited space. Warning: Butterfly bush is considered an invasive plant in some regions, so check before you plant it, and make sure it does not spread outside the garden.
- USDA Growing Zones: 5 to 9
- Color Varieties: White, purple, pink, red, yellow
- Sun Exposure: Full sun
- Soil Needs: Medium moisture, well-drained soil
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Cineraria (Senecio x hybrida)
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Cineraria is a shade-loving warm-weather perennial that is usually planted as an annual. It is a mounding plant growing 9 to 12 inches high. Often planted in containers, cineraria has gorgeous huge purple, blue, or white daisy-like flower heads that look great with ferns. It blooms more or less constantly.
Cineraria comes back reliably, reseeds itself, and it can grow in amazingly shallow soil. The perennial requires even, moderate moisture; constant wetness will rot the roots, while underwatering hinders flowering.
- USDA Growing Zones: Perennial in zones 9 to 11; planted as an annual in all zones
- Color Varieties: White, pinks, purples, blue
- Sun Exposure: Part shade
- Soil Needs: Cool, moist, well-drained soil
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Tickseed/Coreopsis (Coreopsis lanceolata, C. vericillata)
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Like other members of the perennial daisy family, coreopsis/tickseed is an easy-to-grow, durable choice for the beginning gardener. An upright plant growing 1 to 3 feet tall, tickseed blooms for a longer period than almost any other perennial. There are two major forms: lanceolata and verticillata, also known as threadleaf coreopsis.
Coreopsis plants bloom over the entire summer and fall season, and there are lots of colors to choose from. Tickseed plants can be split into five or six smaller plants every two to three years. The plants respond well to deadheading or shearing by growing new flower buds.
- USDA Growing Zones: 4 to 9
- Color Varieties: Yellow, orange, pink, red, bi-color
- Sun Exposure: Full sun
- Soil Needs: Dry to medium moisture, well-drained soil
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Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea and Hybrids)
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Coneflower is another long-blooming perennial member of the daisy family and another sun-lover. Coneflowers grow on upright stems to a height of 2 to 3 feet and bloom through summer and into fall. This is one of the easiest of all perennials to grow.
Once known primarily as "purple coneflower," cultivars with other colors have recently been developed, often through hybridization with other Echinacea species.
These plants are known to attract birds (mostly finches) and butterflies. Birds like the seed heads in winter, too, so leave the stems and flower heads in place rather than cutting them back after frost.
Coneflower readily spreads by self-sowing its seeds, or you can propagate new plants by dividing the roots.
- USDA Growing Zones: 3 to 8
- Color Varieties: Purple, pink-purple, white, yellow, orange, red
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
- Soil Needs: Dry to medium moisture, well-drained soil
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Four-O-Clock (Mirabilis jalapa)
Goldfinch5ever / Getty ImagesThe four-o-clock is unusual in that a single plant can have flowers of different colors. As the name implies, the flowers open up in the late afternoon, then close up again in the morning. The individual flowers, which appear in mid-summer, are short-lived, but new ones open constantly.
Four-o-clocks grow 2 to 3 feet tall from tuberous roots, which can be lifted and divided in the fall to propagate new plants. Store the tubers over winter, then plant in the spring.
Warning: All parts of this plant are poisonous if ingested and have been known to be fatal if eaten by pets.
- USDA Growing Zones: Perennial in zones 7 to 11; grown as an annual everywhere
- Color Varieties: Red, pink, magenta, yellow, creamy white
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
- Soil Needs: Tolerates any well-drained soil
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Blanket Flower (Gaillardia spp.)
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Gallardia is a genus that includes many species of perennial and annual flowering plants native to both North and South America. Blanket flowers are related to the common sunflower, with flowers that resemble that plant. Blanket flowers grow 2 to 3 feet high with a similar spread.
They are tolerant of just about any soil and produce beautiful daisy-like blooms of red/orange/yellow all summer long and into fall.
The varieties normally grown are annuals, but they readily reseed themselves in the garden. Be forewarned that when hybrid varieties self-seed, the offspring may revert to a different appearance.
Like many daisy-like plants, blanket flowers are attractive to butterflies and birds, and if the dried seed heads are left on the plants, birds will feast on them into the winter.
- USDA Growing Zones: 4 to 10; usually grown as annuals
- Color Varieties: Mahogany, red, yellow, orange, bi-color
- Sun Exposure: Full sun
- Soil Needs: Dry to medium moisture, well-drained soil
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Bloody Cranesbill (Geranium sanguineum)
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
A delicate-looking perennial that is surprisingly sturdy, bloody cranesbill, once established, will last for many years.
It blooms first in early- to mid-summer, and often reblooms in early fall. Growing 9 to 18 inches tall with a clumping form, cranesbill is one of the easiest flowers to grow and works well at the forefront of the garden.
After the first flowering period is complete, lightly cut back the foliage to shape the plant and revitalize it for a second fall bloom period.
- USDA Growing Zones: 4 to 9
- Color Varieties: Blue, pinkish purple
- Sun Exposure: Full sun / partial shade
- Soil Needs: Medium moisture, well-drained soil
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Gerbera Daisy, African Daisy (Gerbera jamesonii)
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Another member of the perennial daisy family, gerbera daisies are usually grown as annuals in all but the warmest climates. Plants grow to 6 to 18 inches tall, depending on variety. They are very easy to grow, with flowers of very vivid hues that continue to bloom for many months.
Dead head spent flower heads to encourage repeat blooming.This plant is a must for gardeners who love bright colors. Gerbera daisies don't like to dry out, so make sure to water regularly.
- USDA Growing Zones: Perennial in zones 8 to 10, usually grown as annuals
- Color Varieties: Shades of white and vivid yellow, orange, pink and red
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
- Soil Needs: Rich, medium moisture, well-drained soil
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Daylily (Hemerocallis spp.)
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Daylily is one of the best (and oldest) groups of ornamental perennial flowers, with literally hundreds of varieties available. Those commercially sold are generally hybrids and cultivars derived from a few native species. From arching clumps of narrow leaves, upright flower stems 2 to 5 feet tall produce trumpet-like flowers, each of which lasts for one day.
Ideally suited for new gardeners, daylilies are disease, deer, and insect resistant. Most types bloom for a few weeks in the summer, but some are repeat bloomers that provide color all summer and into fall. When it comes to daylilies, there is an endless choice of colors, bloom shapes and sizes, and bloom times.
Daylilies spread in clumps which should be divided about every three years. Overcrowding will inhibit flowering. They can be lifted and split in early spring to increase your stock or share plants with others. This is perhaps the most essential of all flowering plants for beginning gardeners.
- USDA Growing Zones: 1 to 11, depending on species and variety
- Color Varieties: Yellow, orange, red, purple, white, pastels, bicolors
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
- Soil Needs: Medium moisture, well-drained soil
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Coral Bells (Heuchera americana)
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Coral bells are grown mostly for their foliage, which can range from deep bronze red to a pale yellow-green.
This is a clumping perennial plant growing 12 to 18 inches high that sends up wiry shoots of tiny pink, red, or white flowers from late spring through the summer. There is a variety of coral bells to suit almost everyone's needs. Leaves of many varieties have attractive veined patterns; the flowers are usually less showy. This plant is a prime choice for shade gardens, but will also grow in sun, especially in cooler climates.
If growing coral bells in full sun, make sure to keep it well watered to prevent foliage from declining. Remove the stems of spent flowers to prompt additional blooms.
- USDA Growing Zones: 4 to 8
- Color Varieties: Foliage colors include burgundy, silver, butterscotch, bronze, and yellow; flowers are red, white, coral, or pink
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
- Soil Needs: Rich, medium moisture, well-drained soil
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16 of 28
Hosta or Plantain Lily (Hosta spp.
)
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
A widely popular shade perennial, hostas are available in hundreds of varieties, from the tiny 'Mouse Ears' cultivar to 'Elegans', with enormous blue-green leaves. The genus includes as many as 70 species, although a relatively small number of species form the basis for most cultivars sold commercially. Hostas do bloom, usually with white or lavender flowers that appear in late summer, but it is the varying shades of yellow, green, or blue leaves, often variegated or ruffled, that are the real attraction.
Hostas are incredibly easy to grow, but they are susceptible to damage from slugs and snails. Hostas do best with morning sun but afternoon shade.
- USDA Growing Zones: 3 to 9
- Color Varieties: Foliage ranges from pale yellow to deep blue-green; flowers are white or lavender
- Sun Exposure: Partial shade to full shade; yellow varieties are best at tolerating sun
- Soil Needs: Rich, moist, well-drained soil
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Bearded Iris (Iris germanica)
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Among the many species of iris in the genus, the cultivars of Iris germanica, known as the bearded iris, are the most popular.
This is among the showiest plants in spring, with elaborate flowers that appear in late spring and early summer atop long stalks emerging from arching clumps of narrow leaves. Bearded iris is also among the easiest flowers to grow, though it can be susceptible to worm damage in the rhizomes from borer insects.
Some varieties favor warmer climates, but there are iris suitable for even subarctic environments. The most popular type, the tall bearded iris, may need staking to prevent the flower stalks from falling over.
- USDA Growing Zones: 3 to 9
- Color Varieties: White, yellow, shades of purple and blue, bicolors
- Sun Exposure: Full sun
- Soil Needs: Medium moisture, well-drained soil
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Lavender (Lavendula spp.)
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
The many varieties of lavender are short-lived perennials or annuals, depending on the zone in which they are planted.
The pale lavender, purple, or light blue flowers are both attractive in the landscape and also can be used in cooking, cosmetics, and perfumery. The plants grow 20 to 24 inches tall and flower in late spring and early summer.
Lavender's hardiness is affected by winter dampness. Shallow rooted, this plant will decline in wet soil. Cut back stems to 1/3 their height following bloom to boost root growth and extend the life of the plant.
- USDA Growing Zones: 5 to 10, depending on species; grown as annuals in cooler climates
- Color Varieties: Lavender, white, yellow
- Sun Exposure: Full sun
- Soil Needs: Dry to medium moisture, well-drained soil
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Shasta Daisy (Leucanthemum x superbum)
The Spruce / Marie Iannotti
Shasta daisies are the "classic" daisy, a legacy perennial plant popular in cottage gardens everywhere. Popular for cut flowers, this is a perennial that can be easily started from seed.
It spreads well in the garden and tolerates some amount of shade, though it thrives best in full sun. Plants grow 2 to 3 feet tall, with fairly simple leaves. Shasta daisies bloom from mid-summer into fall. Some varieties have flowers that are double petaled and ruffled, even scented. Remove the spent flower heads to stimulate more flowers.
Shasta daisy will attract pollinator insects and it is extremely drought-tolerant. Plants will readily self-seed in the garden.
- USDA Growing Zones: 4 to 10
- Color Varieties: White with gold centers
- Sun Exposure: Full sun / partial shade
- Soil Needs: Dry to medium moisture, well-drained soil
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Oriental Lily (Lilium orientalis)
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Planted from perennial bulbs, oriental lilies flower in early summer, after the Asiatic lilies have seen their day and just before most of the daylilies get started.
They have a delightful aroma, often with spicy overtones. Many varieties will produce tiny bulblets and will gradually spread in the garden. They thrive in slightly acidic soil.
Many varieties are available, ranging from 1 to 8 feet in height with a wide range of bloom colors. The flowers appearing in mid to late summer are bowl or flat-shaped and usually extremely fragrant—too much so for some people. Removing spent flowers will often prompt additional blooming. Some types require a period of cold dormancy making them suitable for warmer climates.
The related group of lilies, the Asiatic lilies, are equally easy to grow for beginning gardeners.
- USDA Growing Zones: 3 to 8
- Color Varieties: White, yellow, pink, red, orange
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
- Soil Needs: Rich, medium moisture, well-drained soil; does best in slightly acidic soil
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Lupines (Lupinus × Hybrida)
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Most varieties of lupines are fairly short-lived perennials, but they start so easily from seeds that they are worth planting as a mainstay in the garden.
Plants grow 2 to 3 feet tall, with flowers that appear in dense clusters around vertical stalks. Lupines produce beautiful, exotic flowers in early to mid-summer, and they sometimes rebloom in early fall with a less-showy display. Deadheading will encourage additional blooms. Lupines may readily self-seed in soils that are favorable. Lupines can sometimes be brought down by unusually hot summers. Hot, humid weather can also foster slugs and aphids that destroy the plants, but it is no great challenge to plant more seeds.
- USDA Growing Zones: 4 to 8
- Color Varieties: White, red, pink, yellow, blue, purple, bicolors
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
- Soil Needs: Rich, medium-moisture soil; prefers slightly acidic conditions
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Daffodils (Narcissis Group)
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
The Narcissus genus includes a large number of species of spring-flowering bulbs, and a select number of those species form the basis for hundreds of cultivars developed for commercial sale.
Daffodils look great in the garden or naturalized in a lawn or woodland area, blooming very early, just after crocus and at the same time as the earliest tulips. Growing 6 to as much as 12 inches high, depending on variety, daffodils are sometimes used in a shady garden since they bloom before trees and shrubs leaf out. They make nice cut flowers for spring arrangements. Daffodils can be propagated by lifting and dividing the bulbs in the fall. If you want daffodils to naturize in your lawn (a popular strategy), then you will need to limit your use of lawn chemicals and weed killers on the lawn, since these will quickly ruin your daffodil bulbs.
- USDA Growing Zones: 4 to 11
- Color Varieties: White, yellow, peach, pink, bicolors
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
- Soil Needs: Rich, medium moisture, well-drained soil; prefers slightly acidic conditions
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Peonies (Paeonia spp.
) The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Granted, they've got a relatively short bloom season, but considering the spectacular fragrant flowers, robust foliage, and near-immortality, peonies earn their place in the perennial garden. Once established, peonies will last virtually forever, even outliving a home's owners. They do not like to be moved, however, so plant peonies in a location where you want them to stay. Garden peonies generally form upright clumps atop sturdy stems, 2 to 3 feet tall. They bloom in late spring and early summer.
Paeonia is a large genus of flowering perennials, but the familiar garden peony consists mostly of cultivars of the P. lactifllora species. Recent cultivars have returned to single flowers that don't collapse under their own weight. A delightful specimen plant is the fern-leaf peony (Peonia tenuifolia), expensive to purchase but a true conversation piece in the garden. So-called tree peonies are shrubby hybrids derived from Paeonia suffruticosa; these are not the same easy-care garden peonies best suited for beginning gardeners.
- USDA Growing Zones: 3 to 8
- Color Varieties: White, pink, red, purple
- Sun Exposure: Full sun / partial shade
- Soil Needs: Rich, medium moisture, well-drained soil
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Black-Eyed, Brown-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta)
AlpamayoPhoto / Getty ImagesBlack-eyed Susan is an upright, daisy-like flower native to North American prairies. It is now widely grown as an ornamental garden plant, where its very long bloom period from summer into fall makes it very appealing. Some gardeners use large clumps as shrubby shapes in the garden. Plants grow 18 to 24 inches tall, with flower heads that resemble small sunflowers.
Black-eyed Susan is a short-lived perennial or biennial, but it grows easily from seeds and will readily self-seed itself in the garden. Leave the flower heads in place; they will serve as food for winter birds.
- USDA Growing Zones: 3 to 9
- Color Varieties: Yellow, orange-yellow with dark centers
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
- Soil Needs: Average moisture, well-drained soil
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Meadow Sage (Salvia nemorosa)
serezniy / Getty ImagesThis tough perennial grows 1 to 3 feet tall and forms clusters of flowers in spring through summer.
It has the virtue of being very tolerant of drought. The flowers of violet, purple, or white will rebloom if the spent flowers are deadheaded promptly, extending the bloom period into fall. It will survive light frosts.
Meadow sage is a favorite of butterflies and other pollinators. If planting it as part of a butterfly garden, make sure to avoid the use of pesticides of any kind.
- USDA Growing Zones: 4 to 9
- Color Varieties: White, Violet-blue
- Sun Exposure: Full sun
- Soil Needs: Dry to medium moisture, well-drained soil
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Pincushion Flower (Scabiosa columbaria)
Maria Mosolova / Getty ImagesThese members of the honeysuckle family can be either annual or perennial, depending on the type. The most common are the pink or blue types, which lend a nice pastel tone to the garden. This is a clump-forming perennial growing 18 to 24 inches tall, with single flowers that appear on sturdy stems from spring to mid-summer.
Pincushion flowers bloom non-stop, attract butterflies, and require little more than some deadheading to keep the blooms going. This is a very easy-care plant, though the roots may rot if it soaks in wet soil.
- USDA Growing Zones: 3 to 7
- Color Varieties: Pink, blue
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
- Soil Needs: Light, well-drained soil; doesn't tolerate wet soils
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Showy Stonecrop/ Sedum 'Autumn Joy' (Hylotelephium 'Herbstfreude' Autumn Joy)
Andrew Waugh / Getty Images"Autumn Joy" is the commercial name for the Hylotelphium 'Herbstfreude' cultivar. For years, this plant was part of the Sedum genus, but was recently reassigned to the Hylotelephium genus. It is still commonly known as Sedum 'Autumn Joy'.
Like other sedums, this is a fleshy-leaved perennial. 'Autumn Joy' is one of the taller forms at 2 to 3 feet in height.
The dense flat-topped clusters of mauve pink, rust, or red flowers appear in very late summer through fall, gradually deepening in color. The 'Autumn Fire' cultivar had a tighter growth habit that doesn't flop over as readily as does 'Autumn Joy'. Avoid the flopping problem by planting 'Autumn Joy' in full sun and in dry soil.
- USDA Growing Zones: 3 to 9
- Color Varieties: Mauve pink, rust red, purple
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
- Soil Needs: Dry to medium moisture, well-drained soil
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Tulip (Tulipa Group)
Martin Joachim Kuehn / EyeEm / Getty ImagesNo list would be complete without tulips to lend bright color to the early spring garden. Garden tulips are very large plant group of cultivars and hybrids derived from species in the Tulipa genus. Many, many varieties are available, some native species and others wildly creative hybrids with double petals or ruffled petals.
Dozens of new varieties of tulips are created each year.
Tulips will naturalize easily in colder climates, but in warmer climates the bulbs need to be planted as annuals, as the bulbs require a cooling period to bloom. In cooler climates, fall is the time to plant tulip bulbs for the following spring. Tulips are all spring bloomers, but within the group are varieties that bloom in very early spring, mid-spring, and late spring into early summer.
- USDA Growing Zones: 4 to 6 (There are a few that can survive in Zones 7 and 8.)
- Color Varieties: White, yellow, pink, red, purple, bicolors
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
- Soil Needs: Medium moisture, well-drained soil
Article Sources
The Spruce uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
Carpet Bugle. Washington State University Clark County Extension.
Four O'Clocks, Mirabilis Jalapa. University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension.
Slugs in Home Gardens. University of Minnesota Extension.
All About Irises. Iowa State University Extension.
Aphids on Shade Trees and Ornamentals. Colorado State University Extension.
10 indestructible indoor plants that will decorate your home - INMYROOM
Interior decor
We tell you which plants are suitable for the busiest owners and will withstand any test. And which ones are safe for children and animals
These plants will withstand occasional watering and will not require constant attention. Some of them are safe for children and animals - scroll through our selection.
Succulents
After sultry and arid South American prairies are no longer afraid of them. Differ in dense stems or leaves with special tissues, conserving moisture. The most famous representatives of this group are cacti.
Care it will not be difficult for them. Use specially selected soil mix for succulents. If you don't like thorns, choose non-thorny cacti: Discocactus, Ailostera, Mammillaria Bokasskaya.
How often to water? Every two days in summer and every four days in other seasons.
Are they dangerous for children and animals? Most succulents are not poisonous but have sharp thorns.
Zamioculcas
Ideal suitable for dimly lit rooms. Unpretentious in care: you can periodically forget about watering, feeding and transplanting. Oddly enough, the best the plant will manifest itself in poor, unfertilized soil with sand and good drainage.
In addition, Zamioculcas will not take up much space: a narrow tall pot will suit it.
How often to water? When the soil in the pot is completely dry (if in doubt, wait another day before watering).
Is it dangerous for children and animals? Can cause poisoning in anyone who wants to taste it.
Chlorophytum
This motley perennial bush immediately attracts attention with its green narrow leaves with a white border. Great for planters and tall structures. The soil can be any, as well as the size of the pot.
Chlorophytum not shading and coolness (up to +10 C) will frighten. At the same time, the plant cleans and humidifies the air in the house well. It is believed that it even neutralizes negative energy.
How often to water? In spring and summer once every two days, in autumn and winter once a week.
Is it dangerous for children and animals? No.
Fat woman
well-being. It got its name due to dense leaves that retain moisture. Dry air and a long absence of watering will not harm her.
Feels equally good in the south and north apartments. By the way, it is distinguished by its fertility: enough stick its leaf into water or into the ground - and in a few days you will receive finished seedling.
How often to water? In winter - 1-2 times a month, in spring and autumn - once a week, in summer - 1-2 times a week.
Is it dangerous for children and animals? May cause poisoning - be careful.
Ficus
If you sometimes forget to water or fertilize your plants, ficus is the perfect choice. Kill him with his absence care is not easy: he is not afraid even of dry air and lack of light.
For small spaces, you can choose varieties with small, but not less showy leaves. But even overgrown specimens will calmly react to pruning.
How often to water? Depending on the condition of the kidney. Dip your finger into the ground: if the ground is dry and crumbling, it's time to water.
Is it dangerous for children and animals? Harmful to people with asthma and animals (if swallowed).
Sansevieria
If you have no experience growing plants, start with sansevieria. She is practically indifferent to heat and cold, light and shadow, moisture and drought. In the winter months, it can do without watering at all.
One of the few indoor plants that will survive drafts in hallways and near front doors.
How often to water? As soon as the soil is dry. In winter, watering is limited: once every 2-3 weeks.
Is it dangerous for children and animals? Safe for humans, but if ingested, may cause poisoning in animals.
Pakhira Aquatika
It is also called the “bottle tree” and is believed to bring good luck and prosperity. At the same time, it is very easy to point out behind the plant: it can be placed in a shaded corner of the room, deprived of watering and spraying (up to 7–10 days). An excess of light and abundant moisture only will destroy her.
How often should I water? Everyone is different: make sure that the soil does not dry out. If the leaves of the plant have become sluggish, then it needs to be watered more often.
Is it dangerous for children and animals? No, the plant is safe for everyone.
Spathiphyllum
His whimsical white flowers, similar to mini-calas, will delight you all year round year. Spathiphyllum tolerates a lack of moisture well: after a week or two without water, the flowers may wilt, but immediately after watering they will come to life.
The plant is not protected from fertilizers refuse, but it won't disappear without them. The main thing is to protect it from drafts and cold.
How often to water? In summer - every three days, in winter - once a week.
Is it dangerous for children and animals? Yes, it is better to put the plant higher.
Nolina (Bokarneya)
Feel free to go on a trip for one or two weeks - the plant will feel fine. Nolina grows in the desert, and therefore is accustomed to a lack of moisture. The soil the plant needs is loose and low-nutrient.
How often should I water? Once every 5–7 days, more often in hot weather. In winter, on the contrary, you need to water twice a month.
Is it dangerous for children and animals? No.
Gold leaf
Lovers of climbing plants and vertical gardening will love it. shoots scindapsus with heart-shaped, juicy green leaves in yellow-white speck will transform even the most shaded corner of the room.
The plant may even do without the sun, with artificial lighting. It will take root well in the kitchen or in the bathroom, regardless of temperature changes and moisture. And the air in the room will become cleaner.
How often should I water? Once the soil in the pot is about a third dry.
Is it dangerous for children and animals? Toxic, suitable for homes without pets.
Cover photo: Huy Phan/ Pexels
Houseplants that grow without soil / Homebodies
It is not always possible to grow flowers at home with the help of the earth. However, there are ways to grow plants differently. There is no fuss with transplants, the search for high-quality soil, and the flowers also delight with greenery and beautiful color.
1. Marimo
Marimo is a globular aquatic plant native to Japan. Thanks to its amazing spherical shape and fluffiness, algae can become a highlight of the interior. The plant is unpretentious, it needs filtered water and sunlight. It grows slowly, at 5 mm per year. Therefore, the green ball will not require transplants and replacing the vase with a larger one.
2. Orchid
Delicate beauties of orchids can be grown without soil. There are several ways to do this:0013 hydroponics - water delivers nutrition to the roots; on blocks of bark and moss; in transparent containers - to facilitate the process of photosynthesis.
3. Lucky Bamboo
This is the name of a houseplant originally from South America, its other name is dracaena sander. It is bought to lure wealth and good luck into the house. Bamboo is grown in narrow vessels filled with small pebbles and water, or a special hydrogel.
4. Echmea
This unusually beautiful flower is an epiphyte, that is, it can grow both in the soil and on other plants. He loves light, heat and moisture - expanded clay or sand should be added to a special store soil.
5. Daffodils taceti
It is possible to grow this variety of daffodils without land and at home. Distillation will require a cool microclimate, a large pot and decorative pebbles. The soil is not needed, as the flower bulbs have a sufficient supply of nutrients.
6. Philodendron
For the comfortable cultivation of a tropical flower with bright greenery, you need support and enough space. After all, this is a real liana, letting out long shoots. Philodendron at home will help divide the space and place bright accents in the interior.
