Top 10 Sun-Loving Perennials
Perennials That Soak Up The Sun
Nothing beats the vibrant colors and lush foliage of perennials in your garden, and when it comes to finding ones that can thrive in the sun, the choices are plentiful. For this post, we've rounded up the top 10 perennials specifically suited for sunny locations. From striking blooms to interesting textures, these perennials are sure to add a burst of beauty to your outdoor space.
African Daisy
Dozens of daises bloom in spring, summer and fall. Choose from pink, yellow, purple, and white.
Catmint
Short spikes bearing dozens of pale, blue-purple flowers appear sporadically from summer through fall.
Coneflower
All summer into fall, upright perennial produces large, daisy-like, pure white blooms with conical centers.
Lantana
These pincushion-like flowers bloom from spring until first frost. Available in a wide array of colors.
Lavender
Aromatic purple blooms protrude from sage green foliage. Choose from English, French, and Spanish varieties.
Pincushion Flower
Multiple spikes, topped with pincushion-like flowers bloom from spring to fall. Adored by butterflies.
Red Hot Poker
Tall flower spikes rise above grassy foliage in summer or fall. Red, orange, yellow buds change in color as they open.
Rudbeckia
Cheerful daisies with a brown conical center that bloom prolifically from summer through fall.
Verbena
Broad, round clusters of flowers bloom continuously from spring until frost.
Yarrow
Large, flat flower clusters in a range of bright colors on tall stalks atop aromatic, feathery foliage. Blooms from summer to frost.
Care Tips For Perennials
Soil: Most of the perennials on our list prefer well-draining soil with good fertility. Consider adding compost or other organic matter to your soil to improve its structure and nutrient content.
Watering: While some of these perennials are generally drought-tolerant, they still need consistent moisture during the growing season, especially when newly planted. Water deeply and infrequently to encourage deep root growth.
Fertilization: In general, these perennials don't need heavy fertilization, but you may want to apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring to give them a boost.
Pruning: Most of the perennials on your list will benefit from periodic pruning to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to keep the plants looking tidy and to promote additional flowering.
Winter Care: Many of these perennials die back in the winter and re-emerge in the spring. To help them overwinter successfully, consider adding a layer of mulch to protect their roots and crowns from freezing temperatures.
Watering: While some of these perennials are generally drought-tolerant, they still need consistent moisture during the growing season, especially when newly planted. Water deeply and infrequently to encourage deep root growth.
Fertilization: In general, these perennials don't need heavy fertilization, but you may want to apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring to give them a boost.
Pruning: Most of the perennials on your list will benefit from periodic pruning to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to keep the plants looking tidy and to promote additional flowering.
Winter Care: Many of these perennials die back in the winter and re-emerge in the spring. To help them overwinter successfully, consider adding a layer of mulch to protect their roots and crowns from freezing temperatures.
