SIX OF THE BEST Late-flowering perennials
Give your garden a new lease of life with an injection of colour from flowers that come into bloom during the late summer – group them together for maximum impact.
1. Kniphofia
Commonly referred to as red-hot pokers, these bold beacons of colour will illuminate any border with their exotic vibrancy. They’re easy to grow, but have a preference for free-draining soil in full sunlight, which explains why they do so well in coastal gardens.
2. Liriope muscari
A small, clump-forming perennial that produces attractive wands of long-lasting, deep-violet flowers amid grass-like foliage. This is a tough little plant that’s able to withstand difficult conditions, such as shade and drought. Ideal for the front of a border.
3. Rudbeckia fulgida var. deamii
From August to October this late-summer performer produces a profusion of golden-yellow, daisy-like blooms that are beloved by bees and butterflies alike. Leave the dark-brown seed heads on over winter to give the birds something to enjoy.
4. Verbena bonariensis
A must-have, airy plant that looks just as comfortable in the front of the border as it does in the back. A haze of purple flowers at head-height attracts all manner of insects for weeks on end.
5. Geranium ‘Rozanne’
Of all the perennial geraniums, this variety is one of the best performers and doesn’t become invasive like some of its cousins. Rozanne produces a mass of violetblue flowers with white centres from early summer all the way to early autumn.
6. Perennial Lobelia
Not to be confused with the annual lobelia that’s a summer stalwart for pots and hanging baskets. The hardy perennial lobelia graces borders in late summer with tall flower spikes in a wide range of colours. In order for it to thrive, however, it needs moist, fertile soil.
Add a touch of exoticism to your
garden with Kniphofia
Fill a shady spot at the front of a border with Liriope muscari