Ornamental Perennials – Plant Once, Enjoy for Years

Perennials form the backbone of every garden. Unlike annuals, which you must reseed or replant every year, perennials overwinter in the soil and reliably sprout and reflower each spring. The initial investment pays for itself many times over – plants gradually expand, and by dividing them you can obtain new specimens for free for additional beds or to give to friends.

Browse our selection of ornamental perennials and seeds of ornamental plants.

What Are Perennials?

Perennials (perennials) are herbaceous plants whose above-ground parts die back in autumn, while the root system survives winter in the soil. In spring the plant re-sprouts and resumes growth. Some species are evergreen (bergenia, hellebore) or sub-shrubby (lavender, rosemary), so the bed comes alive not just during the season but contributes to the garden structure year-round.

Advantages of Perennials

• Longevity – with proper care they last 5 to 20 or more years
• Low maintenance – after establishment they require only basic care
• Economy – by dividing clumps you get new plants for free
• Support biodiversity – they attract pollinators and beneficial insects
• Variety – thousands of species suitable for every location and condition

Perennials vs. Annuals vs. Biennials

Planning a Perennial Border

Site Analysis

Before you start shopping, carefully assess the conditions of the specific location. An inappropriately chosen perennial will weaken and waste space, while a plant placed on the right site requires minimal care and rewards you every year with abundant flowering.

Light conditions:
- Full sun (6+ hours of direct sun daily): Echinacea, Rudbeckia, lavender, sage, sedum
- Partial shade (3–6 hours): Hosta, astilbe, bergenia, brunnera, heuchera
- Shade (less than 3 hours direct sun): Hosta, periwinkle, pachysandra, lily of the valley

Soil type and moisture:
- Dry, well-draining: Lavender, sedum, achillea, echinacea
- Moderately fertile, garden soil: Suitable for the vast majority of perennials
- Moist, heavy: Astilbe, Iris sibirica, ligularia

Composition Principles

1. Height gradation: Place tall perennials in the back (delphinium, helenium), medium ones in the middle of the bed (echinacea, sage), low ones in front (heuchera, geranium)
2. Color harmony: Work with 2–3 main colors and supplement them with neutral tones – white or silver-gray
3. Continuous decoration: Combine species with different flowering times to cover the period from spring to autumn
4. Texture contrast: Alternate fine, divided foliage (veronica) with striking broad leaves (hosta) or stiff succulent ones (sedum)
5. Planting in groups: Plant in odd numbers (3, 5, 7), the bed then looks natural and cohesive

Top 20 Perennials for Czech Gardens

Sunny Borders

1. Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea)

One of the most popular perennials of recent decades. Large daisy-like flowers in shades of pink, white, orange and yellow bloom from July to September. It tolerates drought, attracts butterflies and bumblebees, and its seeds are sought by birds in winter. Modern varieties (Magnus, White Swan, Cheyenne Spirit) offer a diverse palette of colors.

• Height: 60–100 cm | Flowers: VII–IX | Site: Sun, well-draining soil

2. Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia)

Brilliantly yellow "black-eyed Susans" bloom reliably from summer until the first frosts. The variety R. fulgida "Goldsturm" justly maintains its position as a classic in Czech gardens – it is robust, branches well and requires virtually no care.

• Height: 60–90 cm | Flowers: VII–X | Site: Sun, ordinary garden soil

3. Sneezeweed (Helenium)

Warm autumn tones – yellow, orange, fiery red-brown. They flower from July to October and are excellent for cut flowers. To prevent plants from collapsing, it is advisable to cut them back early in spring (Chelsea Chop method) – they will branch and remain more compact.

• Height: 80–150 cm | Flowers: VII–X | Site: Sun, moist soil

4. Aster (Aster / Symphyotrichum)

Autumn dominant of the border. Species A. novae-angliae and A. novi-belgii bring blue-violet, pink and white flowers from September to November, when most other perennials have long finished flowering. Choose mildew-resistant varieties like "Andenken an Alma Pötschke" or "Herbstschnee".

• Height: 30–150 cm (depending on species) | Flowers: IX–XI | Site: Sun, ordinary soil

5. Iris (Iris)

Majestic flowers in virtually all colors of the rainbow. Iris germanica (bearded iris) flowers in May and June and requires shallow planting – the rhizome must be two-thirds above ground. Iris sibirica flowers in June and July, tolerates moist sites and is more resistant to disease.

• Height: 60–100 cm | Flowers: V–VII | Site: Sun, well-draining soil

6. Peony (Paeonia)

Rich, fragrant flowers in May and June are among the highlights of the garden season. Peonies are exceptionally long-lived – on the right site they bloom for decades and dislike unnecessary moving. Plant them so the eye buds (red buds) are at most 2–3 cm below the soil surface, otherwise they won't flower.

• Height: 70–100 cm | Flowers: V–VI | Site: Sun to partial shade, fertile, well-draining soil

7. Delphinium (Delphinium)

Imposing tall spires in blue, purple, pink and white are indispensable in the back of the border. Requires support, fertile spot and regular watering. After the first flowering, cut the stems just above ground level – in favorable weather they will resprout and flower a second time in August and September.

• Height: 120–200 cm | Flowers: VI–VII (+ possibly VIII–IX) | Site: Sun, fertile soil

8. Lupine (Lupinus)

Candle-like spires in a whole range of colors enliven the border in May and June. Nodule bacteria on the roots of lupine fix atmospheric nitrogen and naturally enrich the soil. The plant is short-lived (3–4 years) but self-seeds abundantly and naturally regenerates the border.

• Height: 80–120 cm | Flowers: V–VI | Site: Sun, ordinary to slightly poor soil

9. Large Stonecrop (Sedum spectabile / Hylotelephium)

Late-summer perennial with flat umbels literally covered in butterflies and bees from August. Drought-tolerant, maintenance-free, and the dry seed heads remain decorative throughout winter. Leave them standing until spring – they will beautify the garden even under snow.

• Height: 40–60 cm | Flowers: VIII–X | Site: Full sun, well-draining soil

10. Woodland Sage (Salvia nemorosa)

One of the longest-flowering perennials ever. Blue-violet, purple or pink spikes flower from June and after cutting wilted stems rebloom in August and September. It is aromatic, repels some pests and is an excellent nectar source for bumblebees and honeybees.

• Height: 40–60 cm | Flowers: VI–IX | Site: Full sun, dry well-draining soil

11. Yarrow (Achillea)

Flat umbrella-like flowers in yellow, red, orange, pink and white bloom all summer. Strongly drought-loving and frost-resistant, practically untroubled by disease. Excellent for dried arrangements – color is preserved even after drying.

• Height: 60–80 cm | Flowers: VI–VIII | Site: Full sun, dry well-draining soil

12. English Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

Aromatic sub-shrub with blue spikes and silver-gray foliage is a symbol of the Mediterranean garden. In Czech conditions, hardy varieties "Hidcote" and "Munstead" reliably overwinter. Prune after flowering, always only into the green part – lavender does not regrow from old wood.

• Height: 30–60 cm | Flowers: VI–VIII | Site: Full sun, dry well-draining soil

13. Feathered Pink (Dianthus plumarius)

Fragrant, delicately fringed flowers on compact evergreen cushions are part of the traditional perennial border. Excellent for front edges of borders, rock gardens and containers. Regular removal of spent stems significantly extends the flowering period.

• Height: 15–40 cm | Flowers: V–VII | Site: Sun, well-draining soil

14. Panicle Phlox (Phlox paniculata)

Large spherical flower clusters fill the garden with fragrance and color from July to September. Prone to mildew – choose resistant varieties like "David" (white) or "Blue Paradise" (blue-violet). Thinning stems in spring also helps improve air circulation.

• Height: 80–120 cm | Flowers: VII–IX | Site: Sun to partial shade, moist fertile soil

15. Bellflower (Campanula)

Romantic bell-shaped flowers in blue, white and pink will decorate the border from June to August. The range of species is enormous – from low rockery Campanula carpatica (15 cm) through medium-height C. persicifolia (70 cm) to impressive C. lactiflora exceeding one meter.

• Height: 15–100 cm (depending on species) | Flowers: VI–VIII | Site: Sun to partial shade, ordinary soil

Partial Shade and Shade

16. Hosta

Queen of shaded borders. An amazing assortment of varieties offers foliage from miniature to enormous, in green, blue, yellow, white and various combinations. White or violet tubular flowers are pleasantly fragrant, but the undisputed main decorative value lies in the leaves. The main pest is slugs – see FAQ below.

• Height: 15–100 cm (depending on variety) | Flowers: VI–VIII | Site: Partial shade to shade, moist soil

17. Astilbe (Astilbe)

Fluffy plumes in pink, red, white and salmon enliven moist and shaded spots where other perennials refuse to grow. Never let astilbe dry out – dry soil is fatal for it. Dry brown plumes remain ornamental late into autumn.

• Height: 40–120 cm | Flowers: VI–VIII | Site: Partial shade, constantly moist soil

18. Geranium (Geranium)

Reliable, undemanding ground cover perennial with delicate simple flowers. Geranium macrorrhizum will cover even problematic dry and shaded spots under trees. Do not confuse it – garden geranium (Geranium) is a completely different genus from balcony pelargonium, with which it is commonly confused.

• Height: 20–60 cm | Flowers: V–VII | Site: Sun to shade (depends on species), ordinary soil

19. Heuchera (Heuchera)

Grown primarily for year-round decorative foliage in purple, lime, caramel, silver and bronze – it creates a strong color accent in the border by itself. Tiny bell-shaped flowers on tall stems are a bonus. Excellent as a border edging or in containers.

• Height: 20–40 cm (foliage), 40–60 cm (flower stems) | Flowers: VI–VII | Site: Partial shade, well-draining soil

20. Columbine (Aquilegia)

Airy, elegant flowers with characteristic spurs bring lightness and romance to the border. It readily self-seeds and naturally naturalizes the garden. It is short-lived (3–5 years) but thanks to spontaneous seedlings the border continuously regenerates – and through crosses ever new color combinations arise.

• Height: 40–80 cm | Flowers: V–VI | Site: Partial shade, ordinary garden soil

Bloom Time Overview Table

Perennial Care Calendar

March–April (Spring)

• Remove winter mulch and dry above-ground parts left over winter
• Apply ripe compost or granular perennial fertilizer
• Divide overgrown clumps – spring is ideal for most summer and fall-flowering species
• Plant new additions from our selection of ornamental perennials
• Check for winter losses – replant any casualties

May–June (Early Summer)

• Mulch borders with bark or compost in a layer 5–7 cm thick – mulch suppresses weeds and retains moisture
• Support tall species before the first heavy rain (delphinium, peony, phlox)
• Continuously remove spent stems to encourage further flowering
• During dry periods water deeply but less frequently – encourage roots to grow deeper

July–August (Summer)

• Continue deadheading
• Cut back early-flowering species after first bloom (sage, delphinium) for a second flowering
• Water during drought, preferably in the morning, directly at the plant base
• Monitor for mildew (phlox, aster), aphids and slugs and respond promptly

September–October (Fall)

• Fall is the second ideal time for planting – roots establish over winter and the plant grows vigorously in spring
• Divide spring and summer-flowering perennials – iris, peonies should not be divided (see table below)
• Collect seeds from fading perennials for spring sowing
• Gradually reduce watering and let plants enter dormancy

November–February (Winter)

• Do not remove dry above-ground parts prematurely – they protect the root crown and provide shelter for overwintering insects
• Add light mulch of leaves or straw to sensitive and newly planted species
• Use the winter to plan changes, sketch borders and order next season's novelties

Dividing Perennials – Step by Step

Division is the easiest and cheapest method of propagating perennials. It also serves an important hygiene function – by removing the old, spent center of the clump and planting young outer portions, you restore the plant's vitality and encourage abundant flowering.

When to Divide

• Spring and early-summer flowering perennials (iris, peony): Divide in fall (September–October)
• Summer and fall-flowering perennials (echinacea, aster, rudbeckia): Divide in spring (March–April)
• Main rule: Divide in the opposite season from flowering – avoid disrupting bloom

Division Steps

1. Water the perennial thoroughly the day before division – moist soil and turgid roots divide more easily
2. Dig up the entire clump with garden forks, not a spade – forks cause less root damage
3. Shake off soil and inspect the clump – you'll reveal the old exhausted center and healthy outer portions
4. Divide the clump into smaller pieces by hand, with two forks back-to-back, or with a sharp disinfected knife
5. Each piece should have 3–5 shoots and sufficiently developed healthy roots
6. Remove old, woody or empty central parts – these no longer flower well
7. Plant divisions into pre-prepared, loosened and enriched soil if needed
8. Water thoroughly immediately after planting and maintain even moisture for the first 2–3 weeks

Division Frequency

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

Which perennials flower the longest?

The longest-flowering are woodland sage (June–September), rudbeckia (July–October), echinacea (July–September) and helenium (July–October). For continuous color from spring to fall, combine species with different flowering times – see the overview table above.

Which perennials suit shade?

The most reliable perennials for shaded spots are hosta, astilbe, geranium (Geranium macrorrhizum – tolerates dry shade under trees), bergenia and lily of the valley. Detailed overview is in the table above.

Do I need to cover perennials in winter?

The vast majority of species in our top 20 are fully frost-hardy in Czech conditions and require no protection. Leave dry above-ground parts standing over winter – they naturally protect the root crown and serve as shelter for overwintering insects. Freshly planted plants and more sensitive species (some echinacea varieties, penstemon) will benefit from light mulch of dry leaves or straw.

When is the best time to plant perennials?

Most suitable are spring (March–May) and fall (September–October). Fall planting has one key advantage – the plant doesn't lose energy to above-ground growth over winter and concentrates on establishing roots, so it starts much more vigorously in spring. Summer planting from containers is possible but requires regular watering and shading in hot days.

How do I fight slugs on hostas?

Slugs are among the most stubborn enemies of hostas. Effective protection involves several methods: beer traps (slugs are attracted and drown), nematodes (biological control using natural predators, applied by watering to moist soil), copper tape around borders or containers, and above all choosing more resistant varieties with thicker waxy leaves, such as Blue Angel, Sum and Substance or Halcyon.

Can I grow perennials from seed?

Yes, many perennials can be successfully grown from seeds of ornamental plants. Echinacea, rudbeckia, columbine, lupine and lavender germinate fairly reliably. Note that seedlings usually flower only the second year, and with hybrid varieties offspring may not be identical to the parent plant.

Conclusion

Perennials are an investment that appreciates with each passing year. A thoughtfully planned and properly planted border once brings you colorful displays from spring to fall with minimal effort. The key to success is a trio of principles: choose species suited to your site, combine them with attention to flowering time and height, and rejuvenate every few years by dividing. Browse our selection of ornamental perennials and seeds of ornamental plants and start building a garden you'll enjoy for many years to come.

Sources

• Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) – Perennials: rhs.org.uk/plants/types/perennials
• Czech Horticultural Society – Ornamental Perennials for Czech Gardens
• Hansen, R., Stahl, F. – Perennials and Their Garden Habitats (Cambridge University Press)
• Institute of Botany CAS – Native Perennial Species in Central Europe