The Hollyhock flower is a stunning addition to any garden with its distinctive feather-like petals and tall stalks. Be mindful of planting it in a space where it can grow up to 7-feet tall. This winter-hardy plant attracts butterflies and bees, making it a popular choice for a perennial garden. For strong growth the next year, cut the stalks off at the base after the flowers have faded. With a variety of colors available, from pink to black, Hollyhocks can thrive in zones 3-8. If you’re interested in growing Hollyhocks yourself, seeds or plants are readily available on Amazon or Etsy. Another great addition to your garden is the Evening Primrose.
The Evening Primrose is an irresistible plant with its buttercup yellow flowers that bloom in late summer or early fall. These flowers grow abundantly on tall stems with purple-tinged leaves, creating a striking contrast between the deep green foliage and splashy blooms. It is a popular choice for full-sun perennial gardens due to its hardiness and beauty. The scent of sweet lemons adds to its allure. Interestingly, some Evening Primrose flowers only open at night, which attracts evening pollinators and gave it its name. This species thrives in zones 3-9. You can purchase seeds or plants from Amazon or Etsy. Another stunning flower to consider is the Pincushion Flower (Scabiosa).
The peculiar and eye-catching flowers known as Pincushion Flowers have been named so because of their white stamens that protrude straight up from the fluffy center of the flower, resembling pinheads on a pincushion. These vibrant flowers thrive in sunny locations, and we appreciate them for their exceptional appearance, low maintenance needs, and ability to blend seamlessly into any flower garden due to their small size. When purchasing seeds or starts, it’s essential to note that there are annual and perennial variations available. The foliage of Pincushion Flowers is also noteworthy, boasting grayish-green lance-shaped basal leaves mixed with deeply lobed stem leaves. Some excellent cultivars to consider include Pink Mist, Fama White, and Fama Deep Blue, which are hardy in zones 4-8. Amazon and Etsy are great sources to acquire seeds or plants.
Moving on to another fantastic plant – Candytuft.
This petite shrub-like plant with its dense and abundant white flowers is perfect for creating borders, walkways, and lining fences. Standing at a modest height of 6-12 inches, it may be small but definitely packs a punch in terms of its visual appeal. The Candytuft plant blooms twice a year, with masses of sweet white flowers that appear like fluffy clouds above the lush green foliage. The flowers are so abundant that the leaves underneath are often barely visible. This sun-loving perennial is known for its drought resistance and its ability to attract pollinators. It is hardy in zones 3-8. Purchase seeds or plants from popular online marketplaces such as Amazon or Etsy.
Moving on to another beautiful plant, we have the Gaura.
Gaura, also known as “Whirling Butterflies,” is a delicate and wispy plant that can add an elegant touch to any garden. Its star-shaped flowers are graceful and lovely, twirling in the breeze during late summer. The flowers usually start off white and gradually shift to pink or deep coral as time passes, although some variations remain white throughout the season. Gaura looks stunning along borders or as a focal point in the garden. Despite its fragile appearance, it is drought-tolerant, easy to maintain, and native bees and butterflies love to visit it. This wildflower is from Texas and can grow up to 5-feet tall. It’s hardy to zones 5-9 and you can purchase seeds or plants from Amazon or Etsy. Another beautiful option for your garden is Meadowsweet.
Meadowsweet is a beautiful plant that adds a lot of charm to any garden with its delightful foliage and flowers. The creamy-white flowers on thin branches look like fluffy clouds and have a sweet wintergreen smell, while the dark-green fern-like leaves give off an almond scent. This carefree native plant requires little attention and blooms for months, making it a favorite among bees, birds, and butterflies. You can easily get seeds or plants from online marketplaces like Amazon or Etsy. Hardiness zones 3-8.
Torch Lily, also known as Red Hot Poker, is a remarkable plant that produces stunning cascades of tubular flowers on tall stalks ranging from 2-5 feet in height. With its vibrant and multi-colored blooms, Torch Lily definitely makes a dramatic statement in any garden. To make the most of this beautiful flower, make sure to plant it in a visible spot. Depending on the variety, Torch Lily blooms at different times, so consider planting several for a season-long display. The tubular flowers usually start out red before transitioning to orange and then golden yellow, with all three colors often present at the same time. Nowadays, there is an abundance of Torch Lily color variations available on the market, so take some time to explore your options before making a purchase. Among our favorites are “Bee’s Knees (yellow/green),” “Buttercup (yellow/orange),” “Flamenco (red/orange/yellow),” and “Mango Popsicle (bright orange).” Torch Lilies are hardy to zones 5-9, and you can easily get seeds or plants from Amazon or Etsy.
Moving on to another fascinating plant, we have Indian Pink. This North American native plant, scientifically known as Spigelia marilandica, boasts clusters of trumpet-shaped flowers in vibrant shades of red and yellow. Native Americans used the roots of Indian Pink for medicinal purposes such as treating snakebites and malaria. Today, this showy yet low-maintenance plant is a favorite among gardeners and hummingbirds alike. If you want to add a touch of brilliant color to your garden, Indian Pink is definitely worth considering.
The Indian Pink plant is gaining popularity as a landscaping option due to its stunning upright tubular flower clusters that are beloved by hummingbirds. The crimson red petals of the flowers open up to reveal a bright yellow 5-petal star, making it an exquisite sight to behold. Native to the region, Indian Pink is perfect for a pollinator garden and is known to be a top choice for attracting hummingbirds. This hardy plant is easy to grow, flowers abundantly in late spring through the summer, and is rated as a “Top 10 Hummingbird Plant.” You can easily get seeds or plants from online marketplaces like Amazon and Etsy. Another great plant option to consider for your garden is the Daylily.
One of the must-haves in any garden is the breathtaking annual Daylilies display. These flowers are a sight to behold with their large and brilliantly colored blooms that stand tall on stalks above the foliage. While they are commonly used as border plants, they can also be combined with other low-growing perennials and annuals for a stunning effect. With thousands of cultivars available, you are sure to find a type that suits your taste. What’s more, daylilies are hardy in zones 1-10 depending on the cultivar. Some of our favorite cultivars include “Ruby Spider,” “Bela Lugosi,” “Country Melody,” and “Moonlight Masquerade.” You can easily get seeds or plants from online shops such as Amazon and Etsy. Another great plant to consider is Liatris.
Liatris, a common plant found in North American meadows and marshes, may not be the most eye-catching when not in bloom. However, once this beauty flowers, you’ll be absolutely smitten! Known as Blazing Star Plants, Liatris grows clusters of deep purple wispy flowers atop tall spikes that reach 2-5 feet above its grass-like foliage. Its fuzzy flowers resemble thistle or a bottle-brush, and they’re irresistible to butterflies, making it a perfect addition to any native flower or butterfly garden. Liatris is hardy to zones 3-8, and you can get seeds or plants from trusted sources like Amazon and Etsy.
Next up, let’s talk about the wonderful Bee Balm plant!
The vibrant and lively bee balm flowers are a sight to behold, bursting forth like dazzling fireworks and attracting a variety of pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. It is an indigenous plant that is perfect for growing to attract native pollinator species. Bee balm comes in different varieties, some growing up to 4-feet tall and others just 10-inches. Nonetheless, the fringed petals with their brilliant shades will add a splash of color to your yard. The flower colors vary from red, pink, lavender, white, to mauve. Another advantage of this native plant is that it is not favored by deer and rabbits. Plant bee balm in full sun along walkways, herb gardens, or flower gardens in clusters for a massive summer explosion of color or as a solitary centerpiece. Bee balm is able to withstand zones 4-9. You can obtain seeds or plants from Amazon or Etsy.
12. Butterfly Weed
This plant may be called Butterfly Weed, but don’t be fooled by the name – it’s not a type of weed. However, it does attract a lot of butterflies, including the Monarch butterfly which is endangered. But even without its butterfly-enticing qualities, we would still recommend adding this flower to your native garden. The bright orange star-shaped flowers are lively and inviting to both humans and pollinators. While it may take a bit of time to get going in the spring, once it starts growing, it grows quickly. The flowers come in dense clusters on tall stems, usually measuring 2-4 feet in height. It’s important to not mix up this plant with the non-native Butterfly Bush. Butterfly Weed is able to survive in zones 3-9.
If you’re interested in adding this delightful plant to your garden, you can purchase seeds or plants from Amazon or Etsy. Another great addition to your garden is the Balloon Flower.
The name of this sun-loving perennial flower is derived from its unique balloon-like buds. These buds swell up to resemble a balloon or an inflated paper bag, adding a fun element to your garden. However, once the buds burst, they reveal gorgeous, star-shaped flowers that are sure to impress. These flowers are held upright on a stalk and consist of a small cluster of upward-facing blooms. Apart from the stunning flowers, the Balloon Flower’s foliage is also attractive, with blueish-green lance-shaped leaves that turn light purple or yellow in the fall. While the classic color of Balloon Flowers is blue or violet-blue, they are available in white, pink, and an array of blue and purple shades. These flowers can thrive in zones 3-9 and can be easily obtained from online stores like Amazon or Etsy as seeds or plants. Another beautiful sun-loving perennial flower is the Blanket Flower.
If you want to add a pop of color to your garden that will brighten up any day, Blanket Flowers are the perfect choice. These beautiful flowers are native to the area and have a unique shape that is sure to impress. They look like daisies but are much more vibrant and eye-catching. The classic Blanket Flower has red petals with yellow tips that resemble a spinning pinwheel in the wind. Although the foliage is nothing special, once the flowers bloom, your garden will be transformed. There are now many different varieties available in shades of red, orange, yellow, and even pink, some with intricate petal shapes. Some of our favorite varieties include Celebration, Arizona Sun, Mesa Peach, Sun Devil, and Sun Flare. These plants are hardy in zones 3-10 and can be purchased as seeds or plants from Amazon or Etsy. Another great option for adding color to your garden is the Rock Rose.
Rock Rose is a type of evergreen perennial shrub that can thrive in poor or dry soil. It gets its name from its ability to grow effortlessly in rocky, harsh soil and the flower’s striking resemblance to roses. These shrubs can range in size, with some reaching up to 7 feet tall and others only 1 foot in height. The Rock Rose produces large, delicate petals in shades of lavender, white, and pink, which are simple yet highly attractive. Although each flower only lasts a few hours, they open every morning for several weeks, providing a cheerful and ruffled display. Rock Roses are heat-loving plants and can withstand zones 6-11. To purchase seeds or plants, check out Amazon or Etsy. Another beautiful flower to consider adding to your garden is Delphinium, also known as Larkspur.
The tall and eye-catching spikes of blue or purple flowers are a stunning addition to any summer garden. Some species of delphiniums can even grow flower stalks as high as 8-feet! Though they require some extra attention, the effort is well worth it for the breathtaking display they offer. The large flowers bloom upwards along the stem, covering the entire length with numerous wide five-petaled blooms. However, because of their towering height, delphinium flower stalks are prone to bending and breaking, so it’s important to stake them or plant them in front of a tall fence or wall that can shield them from strong winds. Keep in mind that delphiniums are short-lived perennials, meaning they will only flower for 2-3 years before losing vitality. These plants come in various colors such as white, lavender, violet, pink, and scarlet and can survive in zones 3-9. To get your hands on seeds or plants, check out Amazon or Etsy.
Moving on to sedum, also known as stonecrop, this low-maintenance perennial is perfect for those who don’t have much time to devote to gardening. Sedums have small, succulent leaves and grow in clusters, creating a mat-like appearance. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, and some species even produce beautiful pink, red, or yellow flowers during the summer. Sedums are hardy in zones 3-9 and can tolerate drought and poor soil conditions. They’re also great for attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies to your garden. You can easily find sedum seeds or plants online or at your local garden center.
There are two kinds of succulent plants that are perfect for your sun-garden, and we adore them both. The Clumping or Tall Sedum varieties grow to about 1-3 feet tall, with their beautiful flowers blooming on stalks above the foliage. In contrast, the Creeping Sedum grows close to the ground, forming a stunning and colorful flower carpet. Their drought-tolerant nature makes these succulents ideal plants for any garden. We love the green or green and white foliage of these succulents, and the bright and vibrant star-shaped flower clusters are an added bonus.
Creeping Sedum is an excellent choice for rooftop or wall gardens as they are easy to grow and require minimal care once established. Our preferred Clumping Sedum varieties are “Class Act,” “Autumn Joy,” “Cloud Walker,” and “Carmen.” With so many variations of Sedum plants available, you may find yourself wanting to fill your entire garden with them! These plants are hardy to zones 4-9, and you can purchase seeds or plants from Amazon or Etsy.
Moving on to the Ice Plant (Delosperma), this plant produces stunningly beautiful flowers that resemble daisies. The intensity of their color will leave you in awe! These plants need full sun exposure to thrive and require well-draining soil to avoid waterlogging. You can use them for ground cover, and they look great in rock gardens. They are also drought tolerant, making them low maintenance and perfect for those who don’t want to spend too much time caring for their plants. You can buy these plants from Amazon or Etsy, and they are hardy to zones 5-9.
A garden treasure is a succulent that thrives in sunny environments and can withstand the cold. Ice Plants are perfect for this purpose, as they are low-lying plants that come in a variety of beautiful flower colors such as pink, orange, yellow, purple, and even bi-colored options. The colorful daisy-like flowers burst above the plant, making them look like fireworks just above the ground cover. These plants typically grow between 3-6 inches in height and provide excellent contrast and aesthetic appeal to any garden. Our favorites include “Red Mountain Flame,” “Jewel of the Desert,” “Fire Spinner,” and the new addition of 2019, “Granita Orange.” You can easily purchase seeds or plants from Amazon or Etsy. Another stunning addition to your garden could be Lonicera, also known as Honeysuckle.
Honeysuckle plants offer a wide range of options that are perfect for any sunny garden space. Whether you prefer climbing vines, shrubs, or bushes, there is a honeysuckle plant that suits your taste. However, it is essential to avoid the Japanese Honeysuckle (L.japonica) as it is invasive in many parts of the country. Apart from being attractive, honeysuckle flowers emit a delightful fragrance that attracts hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies. They come in various colors, including violet, magenta, orange, pink, and yellow. The delicate tubular flower clusters with long-reaching stamens add an exquisite wispy quality to garden aesthetics and can serve as a stunning hedge plant. Once the flowers fade, small red berries appear, providing an excellent food source for birds. Choose from native honeysuckle varieties like L.hispidula (sweet pink flowers), L.sempervirens (bright scarlet flowers, or cultivars with orange, red, or yellow flowers), L.dioica (with magenta-pink blooms), or L.flava (with brilliant yellow flowers). The hardiness of honeysuckle plants ranges from zones 4-9, depending on the variety. You can acquire honeysuckle seeds or plants from online platforms such as Amazon or Etsy.
20. Foxglove
During the summer season, the majestic foxglove plant displays its stunning flowers that elevate the appearance of any sun garden. The plant can grow up to 2-3 feet tall and is adorned with a dozen or more magnificent purple bell-shaped flowers. The striking beauty of each flower is heightened by the white and deep-purple speckles that cover its throat, creating a dramatic visual effect. Although foxglove flowers are technically biennial, they have a tendency to self-seed easily, giving off the illusion of being perennial. Hummingbirds and bees share our love for the drooping flower bells. However, it’s essential to be mindful of where you plant them since they can be invasive in certain parts of the country, primarily the Pacific Northwest. Foxglove flowers come in various colors, including white, pink, and yellow, and are hardy to zones 4-10. You can purchase seeds or plants from online marketplaces such as Amazon and Etsy.
21. Hibiscus
If you’re looking to add a tropical vibe to your garden, consider planting Hibiscus. These large and vibrant flowers are sure to bring a touch of the tropics into your backyard. With colors ranging from red, pink, white, to yellow, each bloom can measure up to 12 inches wide with a contrasting center and protruding stamen. Hibiscus is perfect for sunny areas as it is a tropical plant. Interestingly, some cultivars are cold-hardy and can survive as perennials in zones 5-12. We especially love the dazzling and colorful “Dinnerplate” varieties, as well as the cheerful blooms of “Pink Chiffon,” “Ruffled Satin,” and “Cranberry Crush.” Keep in mind that Hibiscus hardiness can vary depending on the type, so choose wisely.
To get started, you can purchase seeds or plants from online retailers such as Amazon or Etsy. Another option to consider is Rock Cress, a lovely ground-cover plant that can add a splash of color to any landscape.
There are some plants that don’t need to be grand and flamboyant to be visually appealing. The Rock Cress is a ground cover that grows low to the ground and creates a delightful display of bright purple flowers in the late spring or early summer season. These small flowers often hide the green foliage beneath them, making it a perfect choice for borders, rock gardens, pathways, edging, and areas with dry and rocky soil. It’s not just humans who appreciate the charming carpet of flowers, but also bees and butterflies, making it an excellent addition to any perennial garden. The Rock Cress typically reaches a height of 4-12 inches and is highly drought-resistant once established. It can thrive in zones 4-9, making it an ideal choice for most climates. You can find Rock Cress seeds or plants on popular online marketplaces such as Amazon or Etsy.
Next on our list is the Owls’ Claw, commonly known as Sneezeweed. This plant produces stunning daisy-like flowers that come in various shades of orange, yellow, and red. The flowers bloom in late summer and fall seasons, making it a perfect choice for adding some color to your late-season garden. The Owls’ Claw can grow up to 6 feet tall and is an excellent choice for borders, meadows, or wildflower gardens. Bees, birds, and butterflies love the nectar-rich flowers, making it an excellent choice for attracting wildlife to your garden. The Owls’ Claw is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of soil types and can thrive in full sun or partial shade. You can get Owls’ Claw seeds or plants from reputable online nurseries or garden centers.
This wildflower is a natural wonder that boasts striking golden-yellow blooms, making it a popular choice for butterflies, bees, and nature enthusiasts alike! While resembling daisies in shape, the flower rays are much larger and truly breathtaking.
Owl’s Claw is perfect for adding color along borders, walkways, or as a stunning backdrop. In addition, these blooms last an exceptionally long time, providing a sunny atmosphere to your yard or garden. For those living in zones 3-7, Owl’s Claw is a hardy plant that will thrive in your garden.
To get started, you can purchase seeds or plants from online retailers like Amazon or Etsy. We encourage you to transform your backyard into a vibrant and captivating floral display, even if you only have a small space to work with.
By planting native varieties like Owl’s Claw, you’ll not only enjoy their beauty but also help increase the bee, butterfly, and hummingbird populations in your yard. So why not brighten up your walkway, fence, or driveway area today?
