How to Identify Perennial Flowers

Perennials are plants that faithfully return to life each year, typically dying back and becoming dormant during the winter, followed by new growth and a brief period of flowering. Many home gardeners plant different types of perennials to keep things bright and lively with progressive blooming throughout the better part of the year. Being able to identify perennial flowers allows you to access the information you need to provide proper care for your flowers and plan your garden.

Things You'll Need

• Flower identification books
• Camera
• Notebook
• Pen

Instructions

1. Take pictures of the perennial flowers that you wish to identify. Take pictures before, during and after blooming.

2. Gather as much information as you can about the plant, including its height and growing habitat, foliage, flowers (shape, color, season), climate, soil type and the plant's age. Keep all of your information organized in a notebook with the pictures.

3. Consult flower identification books such as "Rodale's Illustrated Encyclopedia of Perennials" to help you identify the perennial flowers.

4. Submit a picture of your perennial flower online (See Resources) for help in the identification process.

5. Visit a nursery, where you can usually find someone very knowledgeable in plant identification. Make sure to bring along your photos and information, or even a live specimen.

6. Contact your local Cooperative Extension office to find an expert who can provide useful, research-based information on any agricultural enterprise (see Resources).

Resources

• Plant Identification Help
• Locate Your Cooperative Extension Office