Late summer is the perfect time to plant perennials that will reward you with beautiful blooms in early spring. By getting these plants in the ground now, you’ll give them plenty of time to establish roots before winter, ensuring a vibrant display when the weather warms up. Here are 25 perennials to consider for your garden, each offering unique beauty and appeal.
Snowdrops (Galanthus)
Snowdrops are among the earliest bloomers, often poking through the snow to announce the arrival of spring. Native to Europe and the Middle East, these charming white flowers are beloved for their delicate, nodding blossoms. They thrive in well-drained soil and partial shade, making them ideal for woodland gardens.
Plant snowdrop bulbs about 3 inches deep and 3 inches apart in late summer or early fall. They naturalize well, meaning they will spread over time, creating a carpet of white blooms. Snowdrops are non-invasive and easy to care for, requiring minimal maintenance once established.
Crocus
Crocuses are another early spring favorite, known for their vibrant colors and resilience. These small, cup-shaped flowers come in a range of hues, including purple, yellow, and white. Crocuses are native to Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East, and they flourish in well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Plant crocus corms about 3 inches deep and 3 inches apart. They are perfect for planting in lawns, under trees, or in rock gardens. Crocuses are non-invasive and can spread over time, providing a burst of color just when you need it most.
Hellebores (Lenten Rose)
Hellebores, or Lenten Roses, are prized for their long-lasting blooms and evergreen foliage. Native to Europe and Asia, these hardy perennials bloom from late winter to early spring, offering a variety of colors from white and pink to deep purple. Hellebores prefer well-drained soil and partial to full shade.
Plant hellebores in rich, well-draining soil, spacing them about 18 inches apart. They are slow to establish but worth the wait, as they can thrive for many years. Hellebores are deer-resistant and non-invasive, making them a reliable choice for shady garden spots.
Daffodils (Narcissus)
Daffodils are classic spring bloomers known for their bright yellow or white flowers. Native to Europe, North Africa, and West Asia, these hardy bulbs are easy to grow and care for. Daffodils thrive in well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Plant daffodil bulbs about 6 inches deep and 4-6 inches apart. They naturalize easily, meaning they will spread and return year after year. Daffodils are toxic to many pests, making them a good choice for gardens plagued by deer or rodents.
Tulips
Tulips are iconic spring flowers that come in a dazzling array of colors and forms. Native to Central Asia and Turkey, these perennials are cherished for their bold, cup-shaped blooms. Tulips prefer well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Plant tulip bulbs about 6-8 inches deep and 4-6 inches apart. They are best treated as annuals in warmer climates but can perennialize in cooler regions. To ensure a stunning display, plant tulips in large groups or drifts for maximum impact.
Hyacinths
Hyacinths are known for their dense clusters of fragrant, bell-shaped flowers. Native to the Mediterranean region, they offer a range of colors from deep purple to pale pink and white. Hyacinths thrive in well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Plant hyacinth bulbs about 6 inches deep and 4-6 inches apart. Their strong fragrance makes them ideal for planting near walkways or in containers where you can enjoy their scent. Hyacinths are non-invasive and can be used in mixed borders or as standalone focal points.
Winter Aconite (Eranthis)
Winter Aconite is one of the first flowers to bloom in late winter, often through the snow. Native to Europe, this low-growing plant produces bright yellow, buttercup-like flowers. Winter Aconite thrives in well-drained soil and partial shade, making it perfect for woodland gardens.
Plant winter aconite tubers about 2 inches deep and 3 inches apart. They are excellent for naturalizing under trees and shrubs, providing early nectar for pollinators. Winter Aconite is non-invasive and spreads slowly to form cheerful clumps of color.
Siberian Squill (Scilla siberica)
Siberian Squill is a hardy bulb known for its intense blue flowers that appear in early spring. Native to Siberia and parts of Europe, this plant thrives in well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. Its striking blue color makes it a standout in any garden.
Plant Siberian Squill bulbs about 3 inches deep and 3 inches apart. They naturalize easily and can form carpets of blue if left undisturbed. Siberian Squill is non-invasive and can be used in lawns, under trees, or in borders for a pop of early color.
Glory-of-the-Snow (Chionodoxa)
Glory-of-the-Snow is aptly named, as it often blooms while snow still blankets the ground. Native to Turkey, this small bulb produces star-shaped flowers in shades of blue, pink, and white. It thrives in well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Plant Glory-of-the-Snow bulbs about 3 inches deep and 3 inches apart. They naturalize well, spreading to create beautiful drifts of color. This plant is non-invasive and can be used in rock gardens, borders, or under deciduous trees.
Puschkinia (Striped Squill)
Puschkinia, or Striped Squill, is a charming bulb with pale blue flowers striped with darker blue. Native to the Middle East and the Caucasus, it blooms in early spring and prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Plant Puschkinia bulbs about 3 inches deep and 3 inches apart. They are ideal for rock gardens, borders, and woodland gardens. Puschkinia is non-invasive and spreads gradually, creating delightful clusters of color each spring.
Iris reticulata
Iris reticulata is a dwarf iris that produces vibrant purple, blue, or yellow flowers in early spring. Native to Turkey, Iran, and the Caucasus, this iris thrives in well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. Its striking, fragrant blooms are a welcome sight after winter.
Plant Iris reticulata bulbs about 4 inches deep and 3 inches apart. They are perfect for rock gardens, borders, and containers. Iris reticulata is non-invasive and can naturalize if left undisturbed, adding a splash of early spring color to your garden.
Grape Hyacinths (Muscari)
Grape Hyacinths are small, sturdy bulbs known for their clusters of tiny, grape-like flowers. Native to the Mediterranean region, they bloom in shades of blue, purple, and white in early spring. Grape Hyacinths thrive in well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Plant grape hyacinth bulbs about 3 inches deep and 2 inches apart. They naturalize easily, spreading to form dense mats of color. These non-invasive plants are ideal for borders, rock gardens, and under trees, providing a cheerful burst of early spring blooms.
Dutch Hyacinths (Hyacinthus orientalis)
Dutch Hyacinths are famous for their large, fragrant flower spikes that come in a variety of colors. Native to the eastern Mediterranean, these perennials prefer well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. Their bold, colorful blooms are a highlight of early spring.
Plant Dutch Hyacinth bulbs about 6 inches deep and 4-6 inches apart. They are perfect for borders, containers, and cutting gardens. Dutch Hyacinths are non-invasive and can be enjoyed indoors as forced bulbs during the winter months.
Anemone blanda (Grecian Windflower)
Anemone blanda, or Grecian Windflower, produces charming daisy-like flowers in shades of blue, pink, and white. Native to southeastern Europe and Turkey, this plant thrives in well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. Its delicate blooms appear in early spring, adding a touch of elegance to the garden.
Plant Anemone blanda tubers about 2 inches deep and 3 inches apart. They naturalize well, forming lovely carpets of color under trees and in woodland gardens. Grecian Windflowers are non-invasive and require minimal maintenance once established.
English Primrose (Primula vulgaris)
English Primrose is a classic spring bloomer with clusters of fragrant, colorful flowers. Native to Europe, this plant prefers well-drained soil and partial shade. English Primrose blooms in early spring, providing a burst of color when few other plants are flowering.
Plant English Primrose in rich, well-draining soil, spacing the plants about 8-12 inches apart. They are ideal for borders, containers, and woodland gardens. English Primrose is non-invasive and can be divided every few years to maintain vigor.
Lungwort (Pulmonaria)
Lungwort is valued for its attractive, spotted foliage and clusters of pink, blue, or white flowers. Native to Europe and western Asia, this plant thrives in well-drained soil and partial to full shade. Lungwort blooms in early spring, providing early nectar for pollinators.
Plant Lungwort in rich, well-draining soil, spacing the plants about 12-18 inches apart. They are perfect for woodland gardens and shaded borders. Lungwort is non-invasive and can be divided every few years to promote healthy growth.
Virginia Bluebells (Mertensia virginica)
Virginia Bluebells are beloved for their clusters of bell-shaped, blue flowers that bloom in early spring. Native to eastern North America, these perennials prefer moist, well-drained soil and partial to full shade. Virginia Bluebells are a stunning addition to woodland gardens and shaded borders.
Plant Virginia Bluebells about 12 inches apart in rich, well-draining soil. They naturalize well and can form large colonies over time. These non-invasive plants go dormant in the summer, allowing other plants to take center stage.
Bleeding Heart (Dicentra spectabilis)
Bleeding Heart is known for its delicate, heart-shaped flowers that dangle from arching stems. Native to Siberia, northern China, Korea, and Japan, this plant thrives in well-drained soil and partial to full shade. Bleeding Heart blooms in early spring, adding a touch of romance to the garden.
Plant Bleeding Heart about 18-24 inches apart in rich, well-draining soil. They are ideal for woodland gardens and shaded borders. Bleeding Heart is non-invasive and can be divided every few years to maintain vigor.
Wood Anemone (Anemone nemorosa)
Wood Anemone is a charming, low-growing plant with delicate, white or pink flowers. Native to Europe and Asia, this plant thrives in well-drained soil and partial shade. Wood Anemone blooms in early spring, creating a carpet of color in woodland gardens.
Plant Wood Anemone tubers about 2 inches deep and 3 inches apart. They naturalize well and can form large colonies over time. Wood Anemone is non-invasive and requires minimal maintenance once established.
Corydalis
Corydalis is known for its fern-like foliage and clusters of tubular, brightly colored flowers. Native to Europe, Asia, and North America, this plant thrives in well-drained soil and partial to full shade. Corydalis blooms in early spring, providing early nectar for pollinators.
Plant Corydalis about 12 inches apart in rich, well-draining soil. They are perfect for woodland gardens and shaded borders. Corydalis is non-invasive and can be divided every few years to promote healthy growth.
Epimedium (Bishop’s Hat)
Epimedium, or Bishop’s Hat, is valued for its heart-shaped leaves and delicate, star-like flowers. Native to China, Japan, and Korea, this plant thrives in well-drained soil and partial to full shade. Epimedium blooms in early spring, adding a touch of elegance to the garden.
Plant Epimedium about 12-18 inches apart in rich, well-draining soil. They are ideal for woodland gardens and shaded borders. Epimedium is non-invasive and can be divided every few years to maintain vigor.
Brunnera (Siberian Bugloss)
Brunnera, or Siberian Bugloss, is known for its attractive, heart-shaped leaves and clusters of tiny blue flowers. Native to eastern Europe and Asia, this plant thrives in well-drained soil and partial to full shade. Brunnera blooms in early spring, providing early nectar for pollinators.
Plant Brunnera about 12-18 inches apart in rich, well-draining soil. They are perfect for woodland gardens and shaded borders. Brunnera is non-invasive and can be divided every few years to promote healthy growth.
Toad Lily (Tricyrtis)
Toad Lily is valued for its orchid-like flowers that bloom in late summer to early fall. Native to eastern Asia, this plant thrives in well-drained soil and partial to full shade. Toad Lily adds an exotic touch to the garden with its unique, spotted blooms.
Plant Toad Lily about 12-18 inches apart in rich, well-draining soil. They are ideal for woodland gardens and shaded borders. Toad Lily is non-invasive and can be divided every few years to maintain vigor.
Checkered Lily (Fritillaria meleagris)
Checkered Lily, or Snake’s Head Fritillary, is known for its unique, checkerboard-patterned flowers. Native to Europe, this plant thrives in moist, well-drained soil and partial shade. Checkered Lily blooms in early spring, adding a touch of whimsy to the garden.
Plant Checkered Lily bulbs about 4 inches deep and 4 inches apart. They naturalize well and can form lovely colonies over time. Checkered Lily is non-invasive and requires minimal maintenance once established.
