Types of Flowers That Come Back Each Year

Many of the most popular flowering plants are perennials, plants that grow for several seasons. Perennials come in all shapes, sizes, styles and colors. Plan a perennial flower bed or use them in containers and garden beds with other plants such annuals or bulbs.

Helenium

Heleniums have vibrant blooms.

There about 40 species of Helenium and they range in color from brilliant yellows, Helenium hoopesii, to orange-red, Helenium autumnale. The flowers resemble daisies and the plants grow from two to five feet tall, depending on the variety. Heleniums grow well in full sun and can be propagated by division in spring. Deadhead spent flower stems and remove dead foliage throughout the season. Cut the plants back to ground level after the first frost.

Aster

Asters come in blue, violet, pink red or white.

Asters come in a wide variety but they all bloom in late summer through the fall. The hardy perennial grows in large clumps that can be divided in late winter for propagation. Asters grow best in full sun, though they will tolerate light shade. Keep the flower bed mulched with well-rotted organic matter to counter disease. Cut off spent flowers after blooming.

Lupine

Lupines are generally placed at the rear of a garden bed.

Lupines produce tall, densely packed spires of blooms in pink, red, white or blue. They flower in May to June. Growing to a height of three to six feet, they are often planted near the back of a border. Lupines grow in full sun or semi-shade but should be planted in a protected area such as along a fence or wall. Deadhead the flowers regularly and cut the flower stalk down to the base once the blooming season is over. Because lupines produce their own nitrogen, use a high phosphorous-low nitrogen fertilizer.

Carnation

Carnations are known for their scent.

There are more than 300 species of Dianthus, which includes carnations, pinks and Sweet William. Carnations, D. caryophyllus, grow between 12 to 20 inches high. They are known for their spicy, clove-like scent and layered flowers. They come in colors such as pink, red, salmon, purple, white and yellow. Carnations prefer well-drained, fertile soil and a sunny location. They can be propagated by cuttings taken at almost any time during the season. Remove spent flowers to encourage more blooms.

References

• "Gardening With Perennials"; Editors of Horticulture; 2004
• "Perennials for Every Purpose"; Larry Hogsdon; 2003
• Clemson Cooperative Extension: Dividing Perennials
• "The Garden Flower Book"; Murdoch Books; 2009

Resources

• Ohio State University Extension