Perennial vs. Annual

• The ultimate perennial flowerImage by Flickr.com, courtesy of MAM
  
  Annuals have a longer bloom time but die at the end of the blooming period. Perennials average a 3-6 week bloom time and may die to the ground during the winter, but will return every spring or summer.
  
  

Spring Perennials

• Clematis, Dianthus and Phlox are prime examples of spring-blooming perennial flowers. They come in a wide variety of colors, especially Clematis. Roses are the ultimate spring perennials.
  
  

Summer Perennials

• Examples of summer-blooming perennials are Delphinium, Foxglove, and Yarrow, which are available in many colors. A great number of Clematis also bloom in summer.
  
  

Fall Perennials

• Iceplant, Coneflowers, and Sedums bloom in the fall. While the variety of fall-blooming perennials is minimal, planting these flowers ensures color in your garden well into the autumn months.
  
  

When Shade is All You Have

• Luckily, there are plenty of shade perennials that will provide flowers with little to no sun. Some examples are Bleeding Hearts, Coral Bells and many varieties of Violets.
  
  

Versatility

• There is a flowering perennial to fill any need. Perennials come in both flowering and non-flowering varieties such as Hostas; choose carefully if flowers are what you want. Keep in mind that your choices are limited to your climate zone.