The fundamental element of perennial plant information is that they flower every year (once they are established) on their own. Annual plants must be replanted. Flower gardens are most often designed around either annuals or perennials. They can be and often are mixed, but such gardens do usually mean more careful maintenance. Planning for either begins during the winter.

The Basics of Perennial Plant Information

Gardens designed around perennials change dramatically from season to season. Timing of the bloom is critical, and probably the most convenient starting point in planning. A perennial's foliage--because of its visibility throughout the seasons even when the flower is in bloom and always when it is not--is no less important. The color of perennials that flower is always seen against the foliage.

Another basic bit of perennial plant information best not ignored is the tendency to spread. Some--Virginia creeper, ivy, emerald blue Phlox, and periwinkle, for a start--do so densely or aggressively and are thus often used as ground covers. Another popular perennial ground cover is Liriope, which has pale lavender flowers that bloom in late summer above wide grass-like dark leaves.

Last but not least in the stock of fundamental perennial plant information is how versatile this family of plants is. They can and do feature well in conventional flower beds as the focus of both flower and foliage. Hardy and enduring ground covers, they also complement a rose garden, create an oasis in the semi- or full shade, and thrive in container gardens.