Summer is a great time to celebrate! We celebrate dads, we celebrates grads and even the flag. So, why not celebrate those wonderful perennials that come back each year in the garden?
Perennials are considered to be ornamental plants that do not die after one season of growth. This does not mean they live forever, however, they do offer a repeat performance for several seasons. The term perennial is generally reserved for plants with showy flowers, excluding ornamental grasses and other plants mainly grown for their foliage. The term herbaceous perennial further narrows the group to plants with soft, green stems that die back to the ground in colder climates. Trees, shrubs and other woody stemmed plants are excluded.
We love planting perennials in the landscape. They can create a border, focal point, accent or even fill a container. They are a source of back-ground in color and size and provide an abundance of cut flowers. With so many colors to choose from, there is one that is perfectly suited for your garden.
In the garden center now are some of our faves:
Mexican Petunia (Ruellia Purple Showers)
This beautiful, long blooming perennial thrives in hot, sunny conditions. Deep green foliage with hints of burgundy provide the perfect backdrop for the scores of vibrant blue-purple flowers. Works well in combination plantings, in borders, or in pots.
Coreopsis Moonbeam
Enjoy creamy-yellow blooms all summer long! This perennial loves the sun but tolerates some shade. The daisy-like flower is lovely in the garden or in containers. So versatile, yet so simple to grow!
Homestead Purple Verbena
This tough perennial is another great heat and drought tolerant plant that blooms continuously throughout the summer. Beautiful deep purple flowers bloom from spring until frost. Excellent as groundcover, in mixed color bowls, borders or in the landscape. Trying pairing with yellows or orange for vibrant color.
Miss Huff Lantana
Vibrant yellow, pink & orange blooms with light green foliage - you simply can't beat lantana for summer-long blooms and heat tolerance. This easy to grow perennial attracts butterflies too. Plant in full sun or light shade. As it is a spiller, this is a great plant for containers.