Perennial Possibilities for Autumn

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These late-blooming all-stars keep flowering through to early October, or longer if frost holds off.

Japanese anemone (Anemone x hybrida)

With flowers in shades of pink or pristine white, these late summer bloomers make a nice contrast to the russets, golds and reds of many later season perennials.

Echinacea

Although many of the coneflowers are considered midsummer perennials, with deadheading they will flower right until the end of the gardening season. New cultivars boast flowers in shades of orange, salmon and yellow as well as the traditional purple, pink and white.

Yellow corydalis (Corydalis lutea)

This dainty little perennial begins flowering in late May and continues through until autumn frosts. It’s ideal for the front of the border or for rock gardens.

Boneset, Joe-pye weed (Eupatorium)

For gardeners who like to attract butterflies, this tall perennial, native in some parts of North America, is a great performer with its broad flower heads of dusky rose. Newer cultivars boast bronze-purple foliage that makes the plant as attractive in bloom as out.

Helenium

Helen’s flower is also known by the unappealing name ‘sneezeweed’, but it doesn’t trigger allergies. This underused and beautiful perennial covers itself in small daisy-like flowers in rich autumn colours.

Hemerocallis

Numerous cultivars of daylilies are rebloomers, putting on a brilliant display until well into autumn. Check with your nursery for recommended varieties.

Sedum

There are many more sedum choices than the often-used ‘Autumn Joy’; many have variegated or purple foliage that adds to their appeal.

Hibiscus

Along with the woody species of hibiscus, there are perennial species that die right to the ground but return each year, displaying spectacular, huge, flowers.

Fall Asters

Probably the perennial we most commonly associate with autumn gardens. You can find these beauties ranging from compact plants less than a foot high to towering specimens of 5 feet or more. Colours range from hot pink and magenta to cool mauve, lavender, and white.

Get ready for gardening indoors:

Understanding Your Soil

Potted Plant Secrets

Indoor Gardening 101

Bring In a Hint of Green