Top 10 Perennials Ideal for the Midwest

This stunning daylily basks in the final light of the day. Check out more photos of perennial flowers. ©iStockphoto.com/TerryStraehley

Maintaining a garden can be quite a challenge. To reduce both the time and cost involved, consider planting perennials. These plants return year after year on their own, so by choosing the right ones for your climate, you can enjoy their blooms season after season.

The USDA has divided North America into 11 plant hardiness zones, based on the average temperature of each region. These zones help gardeners identify which plants thrive in their specific climate [source: United States National Arboretum]. The lower the zone number, the colder the climate — with zone 11 being the warmest. If you’re gardening in the Midwest, you’ll likely fall within zones 3, 4, 5, or 6.

Using these zone numbers as a guide is key to selecting the right plants. Most nurseries or online gardening resources will indicate which plants are best suited for each zone. Picking the right plants for your climate zone and soil type will save you time and money in the long run.

Along with considering climate and soil, take into account whether your garden will be in the sun or shade, and what types of garden pests are common in your region. It’s also helpful to spend some time planning your space with a sketch.

Creating a perennial garden requires more planning than simply planting annuals. Most perennials take around three years to fully establish and flourish. However, once settled, they typically require minimal maintenance.

10: Bleeding Heart

Bleeding hearts come in colors ranging from white to pale pink, soft rosy pink, and vibrant cherry red. iStockphoto/Thinkstock

Despite its delicate name and appearance, bleeding heart is a resilient and fast-growing perennial that thrives in partial to full shade across zones three to eight. Some varieties of Dicentra cucullaria, also known as bleeding heart, can even tolerate zones as cold as two or as warm as nine [sources: Dayton Nurseries; Midwest Gardening]. The plant blooms profusely from May through June, with clusters of flowers hanging gracefully from curved stems. The flowers come in shades of white, pale pink, rosy pink, and deep cherry red, while the fernlike foliage ranges from grayish green to deep green [source: Dayton Nurseries].

Bleeding heart thrives in moist, acidic, well-drained soil, particularly at woodland edges where it's shielded from strong winds and early frosts [sources: Dayton Nurseries; Midwest Gardening]. Native to North America, it's commonly found across the eastern United States. This plant is easy to divide and transplant during fall or spring.

Looking for a plant that thrives in drier conditions or sunnier spots? Check out the next perennial on our list.

9: Stonecrop

Stonecrop is perfect for borders and rock gardens due to its minimal need for soil or water.

This well-known perennial, botanically named Sedum cauticola, is often called stonecrop, reflecting its ease of growth. It’s ideal for borders and rock gardens as it requires little soil or water, thriving even under drought and neglect conditions [sources: Dayton Nurseries; Midwest Gardening]. Its thick, succulent leaves come in colors ranging from gold to silvery green to dark burgundy and nearly black, while its flowers bloom in various dusty pinks and deep reds. Stonecrop flowers late summer through fall, and it can be pinched or divided to keep its compact form. It’s resistant to deer and other pests, flourishing in full sun to light shade in hardiness zones three through eight. It can handle almost anything except overwatering or excessive shade, making it an excellent choice for Midwest gardeners.

If you're looking for another Midwest favorite that's easy to grow, even for beginners, be sure to check out the adaptable plant on the next page.

8: Yarrow

Yarrow blooms in a variety of colors, ranging from white and gold to shades of pink, purple, and red, and is known to attract butterflies. iStockphoto/Thinkstock

Thriving in full sun, yarrow is drought-tolerant and adds beauty to both fresh and dried flower arrangements, making it a popular choice among gardeners in the Midwest and beyond. Known scientifically as Achillea, Achillea millefolium, or Achillea filipendulina, this plant comes in a wide array of colors, from white to gold to vibrant pinks, purples, and reds. Yarrow attracts butterflies, while also resisting deer, rabbits, and pests. It even endures

salt, making it an ideal candidate for roadside plantings [sources: Midwest Gardening; Dayton Nurseries].

Yarrow thrives in containers, beds, and border gardens, with some compact varieties even making great groundcovers [source: Better Homes & Gardens]. However, its fast-growing nature means many varieties can spread rapidly, so it’s advisable to contain them in pots or trim them back to keep them from overtaking your garden. Yarrow is suitable for hardiness zones three to nine, and most varieties bloom from late spring through early fall, especially if deadheading is done to encourage new blooms.

Next on our list is a timeless favorite, known for adding both vibrant color and impressive height to any garden.

7: Hollyhock

Hollyhocks are classified as biennials, which means they require two years to complete their full life cycle. iStockphoto/Thinkstock

Hollyhocks, scientifically known as Alcea rosea, are biennial plants, completing their life cycle in two years. However, they are self-seeding, meaning they naturally return year after year once established, making them a low-maintenance choice [sources: Texas Cooperative Extension; Roberson]. They can grow between 6 to 8 feet tall, often needing support such as stakes or a sturdy fence or wall for support [source: Midwest Gardening].

Hollyhocks bloom from June to August, displaying bright colors that attract both butterflies and hummingbirds. Unlike drought-resistant plants like yarrow and stonecrop, hollyhocks thrive on ample water and do best in well-drained soil. They come in a wide variety of colors, including white, yellow, pink, and red, and are excellent for both fresh and dried flower arrangements. These plants are hardy in both hot and cold temperatures, flourishing in zones two through eight, with some varieties thriving best in zones three through nine.

The next perennial might look quite different from the hollyhock, but it’s still a wonderful addition to any garden in the Midwest.

6: Artemisia

The silver mound variety of Artemisia is known for its drought tolerance and performs well in both full sun and partial shade. iStockphoto/Thinkstock

In contrast to the tall, upright hollyhock, Artemisia is a low-growing perennial valued for its striking silver-green foliage. Its various common names—mugwort, wormwood, ghost plant, silver sage, silver mound, and sagebrush—might sound like magical ingredients, yet Artemisia brings soft, appealing texture to garden containers, borders, and even floral arrangements [source: Dayton Nurseries]. Though it’s resistant to deer, pests like aphids, mealybugs, and slugs often find it quite appetizing.

Artemisia is quite drought-tolerant and thrives in full sun to partial shade. It grows well in zones three through ten across the Midwest, and with its varied forms, you’re likely to find one suited for your garden. However, make sure to choose wisely, as some varieties of Artemisia spread quickly and work best as groundcover, while others form larger shrub-like mounds that are ideal for the center of garden beds. Some varieties can even become invasive without proper containment [source: Better Homes & Gardens].

Some claim that the next plant on our list can help fight off the common cold. While that claim hasn't been proven, there's no question that this perennial is a great choice for gardens across the Midwest.

5: Coneflower

Echinacea, also known as purple coneflower, is another name for this well-known plant. ©iStockphoto.com/sangfoto

Coneflowers are favored for their vibrant and full blooms. They thrive best in sunlight but can tolerate partial shade if the soil is nutrient-rich. In sunny spots, they also do well in drier soil. Initially, regular watering is needed while they establish their roots, but once settled, they become quite self-sufficient. However, avoid heavy clay or excessively moist soils as these can prevent the plant from thriving, as coneflowers typically don't survive in these conditions.

The scientific name Echinacea purpurea is derived from Greek words meaning 'reddish purple hedgehog,' and it may remind you of the ingredient on your cough drop package. For years, the roots of this popular perennial have been used to support the immune system. While it doesn't have antibacterial properties, it's often used to help prevent colds or soothe sore throats. The term 'reddish purple' refers to the typical color of the common coneflower, while 'hedgehog' alludes to its distinctive half-circle cone shape, which resembles the spiky features of the animal.

4: Peonies

Peony blossoms have a delightful fragrance and make a beautiful addition to any floral arrangement. ©iStockphoto.com/Photogal

Peonies have been a staple in gardens for over 2,000 years. Throughout history, many believed that peonies possessed medicinal qualities. The Chinese, in particular, adored the flower, calling it "sho yu," which translates to "most beautiful" [source: Flowers and Plants]. If it's been cherished for thousands of years, surely it's a great choice for your Midwest garden, right? Absolutely. And if you're after vibrant color, the peony, or Paeonia, is one of the most beloved and colorful perennials in America's heartland.

Tough and durable, peonies are perfectly suited for the changing seasons of the Midwest. These hardy plants can return year after year for over 100 years, unaffected by disease or pests [source: Koehne]. Resilient in the face of neglect, their blooms -- which come in red, pink, or white -- are a fragrant signal that summer has arrived.

The cold actually benefits this plant, as it requires a period of dormancy between its blooming cycles. While it may grow slowly in its initial years, eventually it can reach a height of 2 to 3 feet (roughly .6 to 1 meter). To ensure optimal growth, peonies thrive best when planted in well-drained, loamy soil with plenty of sunlight.

The herbaceous peony exists in five variations: single, double, semi-double, anemone, and Japanese. For those seeking a larger plant, a peony tree is a good choice, although it’s technically more of a shrub. In the fall and winter, only the flower head dies off, leaving the rest of the shrub standing tall throughout the year. However, the blooms on these shrubs are less robust compared to their herbaceous counterparts.

Pairing peonies with coneflowers is not only visually appealing but also creates a lasting combination. Both of these flowers are significantly more resistant to deer than other plants, which makes them perfect for the deer-populated woodlands of the Midwest.

3: Hibiscus

The vibrant red hibiscus flower serves as a beautiful reminder of tropical journeys, evoking memories of Hawaiian gardens.

Even individuals who aren't gardeners are likely familiar with the well-known hibiscus plant. Often linked to tropical destinations like Hawaii, where the flower serves both decorative and cultural purposes, the hibiscus holds significant meaning. For instance, women wear the flower behind their left ear to indicate marriage and behind their right ear to signify that they are single. But don’t be fooled into thinking that this beloved perennial only thrives in warm, island climates. Some varieties also grow well in the Midwest.

The perennial hibiscus, Hibiscus moscheutos, will bloom throughout the summer if planted in full sunlight and moist soil. The lower zones, particularly five and six, provide the ideal conditions for these plants due to the abundant sun exposure. While the color options are limited to pink, red, and white, these plants will continue to bloom for several months, ensuring your garden stays vibrant into the fall.

The hibiscus that survives the Midwest winter is not exactly the same as the tropical flower you're probably familiar with, but they share a similar appearance. To identify a perennial hibiscus, look for a plant with heart-shaped leaves in a muted green hue. The blooms will be large and come in shades of white, pink, or red. The buds themselves can measure between 2 and 4 inches (5.08 and 10.16 cm) long. This hardy variety is capable of surviving the Midwest's unpredictable seasons, dying back to the ground each winter and regrowing in the spring.

For mature hibiscus plants, the stem and foliage are very robust, often described as resembling bark. In various cultures, the bark has numerous practical uses. When soaked in sea or salt water, the fibers soften and can be stripped into thin strips. These fibers are then used in a range of products, including grass skirts and wigs [source: Flower Expert].

2: Hostas

There are over 500 different varieties of hosta, making it one of the most diverse groups of perennials available. ©iStockphoto.com/HKPNC

If your garden is shaded, don't worry—there’s a perfect perennial for you. Hostas thrive in shaded, well-drained, and moist soil, and can grow in zones three and above. Their sizes range from 6 inches to as tall as 6 feet (15 cm to 1.83 meters), and they complement ferns well, which are another excellent choice for shady areas. Hostas are often grown for their lush foliage, which comes in a variety of colors and shapes, such as round, oval, or heart-shaped leaves.

You’re likely not the first to plant hostas in your neighborhood, as this perennial is one of the Midwest's favorites. Their popularity is primarily due to their low maintenance and shade tolerance, making them ideal for gardens, especially in the Midwest’s climate. However, they still require a balance of sunlight and shade. While they thrive in full sun with vibrant blooms, too much direct sunlight can dry them out and damage the foliage. To optimize their growth, plant them where they’ll receive a few hours of morning sun and be shaded for the rest of the day [source: Hosta Guy].

Hostas are typically planted from potted plants, which makes their establishment easier. This method offers flexibility in timing, as they’ll establish quickly whether planted in late spring or early fall. Initially, it's essential to keep the plant well-watered and enriched with compost or organic matter to nourish the soil. Once established, hostas can support themselves, although they’ll thrive best with consistent watering throughout their life.

1: Daylilies

This stunning daylily (Hemerocallis) basks in the final rays of the evening sun. ©iStockphoto.com/TerryStraehley

Daylilies, or Hemerocallis, prove their resilience by flourishing and spreading along roadsides. Various varieties bloom through the summer months. For the best results, plant them in well-drained soil under full sunlight, in zones three through ten. To enhance the visual appeal, consider positioning your daylilies in front of shrubs, where their tall, vibrant blooms will stand out against the dense greenery.

The name of this perennial says it all—its beautiful bloom lasts for only one day. But don’t fret, as these plants are full of bulbs that are ready to bloom right after the previous flowers fade. Thanks to this constant cycle, established daylilies can produce flowers continuously from May until early October.

Like hostas, daylilies not only look similar but also share a low-maintenance nature. They are often transplanted from pots, making them ideal for planting throughout the warmer months of the Midwest. To plant, dig a hole about 12 inches deep and 9 inches wide (31 by 23 centimeters), place the roots in, and fill with a blend of soil and fertilizer. Leave about a foot or two (one-third to two-thirds of a meter) of space between plants, ensuring the root crown is level with or above the soil surface [source: Hittle]. Be sure to water weekly until the plant establishes itself.

Daylilies might even be easier to care for than hostas, as they don’t require regular watering. They are known to withstand both drought and overwatering conditions [source: Hittle]. Their hardy nature makes them tolerant of sun exposure, so plant them in an area where they’ll get anywhere from half to a full day of sunlight.

Although daylilies are relatively easy to care for, they can attract a variety of common pests. Aphids, spider mites, slugs, snails, cutworms, beetles, and bulb mites may all be tempted to feast on your beloved plants. Deer might also enjoy nibbling on the blooms. To keep these invaders at bay, consider installing fencing or consulting your local garden center for advice on pesticides [source: American Hemerocallis Society].