Different types of flowers add personality and flair to your modern landscape. From bold and colorful to delicate and subtle – think impatiens and calla lilies – these plants will elevate the look of any outdoor space.
In this article, we’ll introduce you to each of these unique flowers and provide tips for care and maintenance. Whether you’re a professional gardener or just starting, this resource will help add visual interest to your garden.
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Eye-catching Flowers for Your Landscape
1. Dahlias
Dahlias boast showy, brightly colored flowers and large, bushy plants with dark green foliage. The blooms come in single or double forms, displaying numerous petals. These plants add vibrant charm to any garden.
Optimal growth requires abundant sunlight and well-drained soil. Regular watering and proper fertilizing are essential. To maintain their form, diligent deadheading and sturdy staking are necessary.
Their blooms come in an array of colors such as red, pink, orange, yellow, and white. Some varieties display bi-colored or multicolored petals, and the flower's color can vary based on different environmental conditions.
Dahlias typically bloom in late spring and continue their vibrant display into the fall season. This extended blooming period allows for a prolonged period of colorful garden enjoyment.
Dahlias are popular flowers and flowering plants native to Mexico and Central America. They are known for their vibrant, bright flowers that bloom in various shapes and sizes. Dahlias have large, bushy plants with dark green foliage, and the flowers have numerous petals that are often single or double in form.
The colors of dahlia flowers include shades of red, pink, orange, yellow, and white, and the shape of the flowers can be anything from a small, single bloom to a large, full, ball-shaped flower. Dahlias are popular for gardens and floral arrangements due to their vibrant color and long flowering period.
They are typically in season from late spring to early fall, like a globe thistle, depending on the specific variety and the growing region. Dahlias are easy to care for and can be grown in various soil types as long as they are well-draining. They require regular watering and fertilization and benefit from being deadheaded to encourage more blooms. Also, dahlias can have many companion plants around them!
2. Begonias
Begonias exhibit lush, glossy green leaves coupled with a diverse array of flowers ranging in hues and shapes. Their succulent-like texture not only adds visual interest but also indicates their adaptability to varying moisture levels.
They thrive in bright, indirect light, making them ideal for indoor spaces. Their well-being relies on well-draining soil that prevents water stagnation, and they appreciate regular watering and misting.
They display a vivid spectrum, ranging from vibrant pinks and reds to delicate whites. Their blooms boast a rich palette of fuchsia, orange, and yellow hues, adding a burst of color to gardens.
These flowers bring perennial charm, enhancing garden aesthetics year-round. With their vibrant foliage and varied blooms, they infuse spaces with enduring allure.
Begonias are a diverse group of plants that belong to the Begoniaceae family (looks like a fan flower). They are a local plant in tropical and subtropical regions known for their bright and colorful flowers.
The plants come in a wide range of sizes, from small, upright varieties to large, trailing types. Some begonias are grown for their foliage, which can be bronze, green, or red, and others for their beautiful flowers, which can be pink, red, orange, or white. They can be grown outdoors in warmer climates but often as indoor plants in cooler regions.
Begonias are known for their versatility and can be grown in various settings, including hanging baskets, window boxes, and as ground cover. They are also famous for use in container gardens and as houseplants. Because of their wide range of colors and sizes, begonias can complement any garden or indoor space in the same way an ice plant does.
They are also relatively low maintenance, making them an amazing choice for gardeners of all skill levels.
3. Impatiens
Impatiens, with their vivid hues and glossy leaves, exude a delicate charm, enhancing any garden. Their graceful presence brings a burst of color, transforming spaces into lively, vibrant showcases.
They thrive in shade or filtered sunlight, needing consistent moisture. Regular fertilization and deadheading ensure vibrant, continuous blooms. These simple practices foster lush, colorful displays in gardens.
These plants display a wide array of colors, including vibrant pinks, reds, and oranges. Many varieties boast delightful combinations of these hues, adding a burst of natural artistry to gardens.
They bloom from spring to early autumn, adding vibrant colors to gardens. They thrive in the refreshing spring and continue their beauty until early fall, making gardens lively and colorful.
Impatiens is a type of flowering plant that is local to tropical regions of Asia and Africa. They are also known as touch-me-not or busy Lizzie. They are popular as shade-loving annual flowers that produce many bright flowers – they have many colors: pink, white, red, purple, and salmon.
They are known for their delicate and dainty appearance, with flowers generally 1-2 inches wide and glossy and bright green leaves. You should be extra careful while watering them since impatiens can easily be overwatered!
They are also famous for use in hanging baskets, pots, and window boxes, much like gerbera daisy, California poppy, and crown imperial. They flower from late spring to fall and are known to be very floriferous and to fill out very well.
They can be grown quickly from seed, and cuttings can propagate them and count as exotic flowers. Impatiens are a staple in many gardens due to their colorful and long-lasting blooms that can add color to any shady spot.
4. Petunias
With their trumpet-shaped flowers and hairy green leaves, petunias boast bright, showy blooms. These vibrant flowers add a burst of color to gardens, making them a popular choice among gardeners.
For optimal growth, these plants thrive in full sun to partial shade, requiring regular watering and well-drained soil. Removing spent flowers, a process known as deadheading, encourages continuous blooming.
They display a diverse spectrum, ranging from bubble pink, purple, red, white, and yellow hues. Some varieties boast unique shades like lavender, burgundy, and peach, adding depth and visual appeal to gardens.
These flowers bloom vibrantly during the warmth of summer, extending their beauty into early fall. Their seasonal flourish brings lively colors to gardens in all landscapes.
Petunias are a beloved and popular flowering plant known for their vibrant colors and showy blooms. They resemble the flowers known as morning glory.
Though they have many colors, they are best known as vibrant yellow flowers like pearly everlasting. These plants, including tomatoes and nightshades, belong to the Solanaceae family and are native to South America.
Petunias are typically considered annual plants, meaning they complete their entire life cycle within one growing season. They are generally planted in the spring and bloom throughout summer until the first frost.
However, some varieties of Petunias are perennials, but they are not cold-hardy and should be treated as annuals in areas with frost. In milder climates, petunias can be grown as perennials, and they may bloom again in the fall if they are protected from frost.
Petunias are not high-maintenance plants, but regular attention to their basic needs will reward them with an abundance of colorful blooms throughout the summer. They are perfect for adding a burst of color to any outdoor space and are easy to grow.
Nature makes them a popular choice among gardeners of all levels of experience. Though they may not smell like sweet peas, petunias are great all on their own! And, the best thing about petunias is that you can plant them together with other plants.
5. Marigolds
They display a vivid array of colors, sporting single or double blooms. Their large, showy petals surround a contrasting central disk. Their green lobed or finely divided leaves add a delightful pop of color and texture to gardens.
For vibrant growth, these flowers need ample sunlight, thriving in well-drained, organically rich soil. Moderate watering keeps them healthy, ensuring their radiant blooms enhance any garden.
They boast a diverse palette, showcasing hues like yellow, orange, red, maroon, and bicolored varieties. The prevalent bright orange shade is complemented by different shades within the same color spectrum.
Sow the seeds of vibrant marigolds in spring, ensuring a blooming spectacle by planting in early summer. This strategic timing yields robust, colorful flowers.
Marigold is a plant that flowers in the daisy family, native to Mexico and Central America. The plants are known for their bright and cheerful flowers, which come in various colors, including orange, yellow, gold, and red.
The flowers are usually daisy-like, with a central disc and a ring of petals, but some varieties feature more crested or fluffy petals. The leaves are green and feathery, and the plants typically grow about 12 to 24 inches tall among flowering trees.
Marigolds are popular plants in gardens and landscapes due to their hardiness and ease of growth as flowering shrubs. They are also considered a symbol of passion, creativity, and endurance. They thrive in warm weather and can bear a wide range of soil varieties, although they prefer well-drained soil (do not overwater marigolds to avoid root rot and other diseases). They also prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade as well.
Marigolds are known for repelling pests among different flower types, such as aphids and whiteflies, making them a good companion for other plants prone to these pests. These flowers are the exact opposite of dusty miller. However, they look more like a densely populated golden marguerite.
6. Zinnias
Transform your garden with the lively hues of daisy-like blooms. Zinnias dazzle in vibrant colors, adding a touch of natural splendor. Their varied sizes and shapes create a dynamic visual tapestry.
For the best growth and blooms, ensure your plants receive ample sunshine, well-drained soil, and regular watering. These simple measures foster a thriving, colorful haven for your garden.
Zinnias boast a vivid palette: red, orange, yellow, and white hues, along with captivating bi-colored and tri-colored combinations. Their diverse colors add an enchanting touch to any garden.
They bring vibrant hues to gardens during the summer and fall, transforming outdoor spaces with their lively colors. Planting them ensures a burst of natural beauty that lasts well into the warm seasons.
Zinnia is a type of annual and perennial flax flowers in the daisy family, native to the Americas. They are known for their brightly colored and long-lasting flowers that come in various colors, including yellow, orange, red, pink, and white, like baby’s breath.
They have a wildflower appearance with a central disc and a ring of petals like a pincushion flower, and some varieties feature frilly petals. The leaves are typically green, and the plants can grow quite tall, up to 36 inches.
Zinnias are famous for their beauty and long-lasting blooms, making them a favorite among gardeners and floral designers, much like rock soapwort. They are easy to grow, tolerate various soil types, and adapt to different lighting conditions.
Zinnias grow best in the spring. Zinnias are not particular about their soil but require plenty of space. So, if you’re planting zinnia seeds of a smaller variety, leave at least 6 inches between plants. Larger zinnias require at least 12 to 18 inches between plants for proper air circulation and disease prevention.
When sowing zinnia seeds, put two or three seeds in each hole to increase the likelihood of a seed germinating in that location. Remove the weakest seedlings after growing 2 to 3 inches if two or three plants sprout. Only the most robust one should be kept.
7. Cardinal Flower
With their trumpet-shaped flowers and long, narrow leaves, cardinal flowers add an elegant touch to gardens. Their vibrant blooms attract pollinators, making them a delightful choice for gardeners.
For optimal growth, these plants thrive in moist, well-drained soil and prefer partial shade. Providing adequate water and nutrients ensures their vibrant blooms.
The gorgeous flower is renowned for its stunning brilliant red blooms, with no variations in color. This unique hue adds a vibrant touch to gardens.
During the summer and early fall, the cardinal flower graces gardens with its vivid presence. Its seasonal bloom offers a burst of color, creating a captivating sight.
The flower (Lobelia cardinalis) is a striking perennial plant that is known for its vibrant red flowers. The plant typically grows about 2-4 feet tall, with sturdy, square stems supporting the large, showy blooms. The leaves of the flower are long and narrow and are arranged opposite each other on the stem.
Like a bleeding heart, the flowers themselves are trumpet-shaped and comprise numerous small, tubular florets tightly packed together to form a dense, elongated spike resembling a shooting star.
Each flower is about 1-2 inches long and is held on a long stem above the foliage. The blooming period is typically in late summer to early fall, lasting several weeks.
The flower is a hardy, long-lived perennial and will produce flowers yearly. It is a popular plant for gardens and is often used in wildflower and native plant gardens and is also known as “Cardinal lobelia,” which can be mistaken for black-eyed Susan. It does not give black flowers as the name suggests.
8. Calla Lily
With its large, trumpet-shaped annual flowers and smooth, glossy petals, the calla lily stands as an elegant beauty in gardens. Its long, narrow leaves complement the splendid blooms.
For optimal growth, this plant thrives in partial shade, requiring well-drained soil to prevent water stagnation. Shield it from frost, ensuring its protection during colder months.
The hues of this gorgeous plant's blooms span from the purest whites to warm yellows and delicate pinks, adding an array of elegant tones to your garden.
These elegant blooms grace gardens in the late spring or early summer months, ushering in a season of natural beauty and adding a touch of grace to your outdoor sanctuary.
The lilies are a type of white flower in the Araceae family that differs from water lilies or water lilies and Peruvian lilies. They are well-known for their large, trumpet-shaped blooms in various colors, such as white, yellow, pink, and purple. The flower’s petals are smooth and glossy, and the leaves are long and narrow, similar to baby’s breath, Queen Anne’s lace, and shasta daisy.
Calla lilies are native to southern Africa, but they are now grown as ornamental plants worldwide, alongside spider flower, helianthus annuus, and centaurea cyanus. The flower meaning is beautiful and is frequently used in flower bouquet arrangements and is popular for wedding and other special occasion bouquets. They also have fragrant flowers, like cherry blossoms.
It is also known for its elegance and simplicity and symbolizes beauty and purity, like the geranium flowers and water lilies. They can be grown in gardens, in pots, or as houseplants. They prefer well-drained soil and partial shade and should be protected from frost.
9. Cosmos
Graceful and daisy-like, cosmos feature delicate, finely divided leaves on tall, branching stems. Their airy appearance adds a touch of charm to gardens. Blooming in various colors, they're a delightful choice for any landscape.
These low-maintenance flowering bulbs thrive in full sun, requiring only low to moderate water. Perfect for hassle-free gardening, they bring vibrant colors to your garden.
With vibrant hues ranging from bright pink to calming lavender and purple, these summer flowers add a lively touch to any garden. Some varieties even boast elegant white and yellow blooms.
Cosmos flowers bloom gracefully in late spring, adorning gardens from the onset of summer until the first gentle kiss of fall frost. Their fleeting yet enchanting presence brings a touch of natural splendor.
Cosmos is a genus of flowering plants in the sunflower family, native to Mexico and Central America. The plants are tall, like a balloon flower or a bee balm, reaching 6 feet tall, with a graceful, lean habit and delicate, fern-like foliage.
The flowers are large and showy, with a daisy-like appearance, typically in shades of pink, white, yellow, or red. They are attractive to pollinators, like bees and butterflies, making them a popular flower for gardeners looking to attract beneficial insects to their yards.
Cosmos flowers like spider lilies are straightforward to grow and are often planted in large drifts for a striking display. They tolerate various soil types and can adapt to lighting conditions like gerbera daisies. They like full sun but can tolerate partial shade as well. They are also drought-tolerant and can handle dry spells, making them an excellent option for gardeners in arid regions.
They have long blooming periods, generally from mid-summer to fall, similar to primrose flowers, which provide a constant supply of color and food for pollinators. They are also cut flowers, often used in arrangements, providing a long vase life.
10. Lantana
Lantana graces gardens with vibrant, multi-colored clusters, painting landscapes in hues of red, orange, yellow, and pink. Its opposite, ovate leaves and woody, branching habit add a touch of natural elegance.
For optimal growth, this plant thrives in full sun, relishing well-drained soil that prevents waterlogging. Regular watering ensures hydration, fostering its vibrant colors.
Vibrant hues adorn gardens, ranging from sunny oranges and yellows to delicate pinks and reds. Diverse white and purple varieties also enrich the palette, offering captivating contrasts.
In spring, lively blooms grace gardens, vibrant and full of life. When fall arrives, they gracefully bid adieu, offering a natural rhythm to your landscape.
The tropical perennial flower lantana is native to Central and South America. It is a hardy and simple-to-grow shrub with bright and colorful flowers. The plant spreads, and flowers grow up to 3 feet tall; it has a low-lying habit and a dense, branching structure.
The leaves are green and glossy, with ovate or elliptic shapes that resemble coral bells. Depending on the cultivar, Lantana flowers are typically clustered and come in various colors, including orange, yellow, pink, red, and white. From spring to fall, the flowers bloom profusely, creating a vibrant display of color in the garden.
They’re also popular in hanging baskets, pots, and ground cover. Lantana plants are known for being tough, low-maintenance, and drought-tolerant, making them an excellent choice for those looking for a low-care plant that will still provide a lush and colorful garden.
11. Red-hot Poker
The red-hot poker adds the all-important eye-catching moment to a design by being strong and compact. The PyromaniaTM Orange Blaze Kniphofia (shown in the center) is a hybrid with bright orange flowers and grass-like foliage.
This plant has unique foliage and spikes, which add an exotic touch to the garden, creating a mesmerizing focal point. A testament to nature's artistry, they bring a touch of wild beauty to any landscape.
Thriving in diverse gardens, they are tolerant when it comes to different environments. Well-drained soils are their preference, allowing them to flourish gracefully.
Vibrant hues ranging from reddish tones to sunny yellows and pure whites adorn this plant. These colors add a striking visual appeal to any garden, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
During late spring and early summer, these plants burst into colorful bloom. This timing aligns with the warmer weather, ensuring a vibrant display when gardens are in full swing.
Red-hot poker plants have evolved to include subtle shades of cream, primrose, lemon, and burnt apricot with fine, grassy foliage—try PyromaniaTM Flashpoint (yellow), ‘Toffee Nosed’ (cream), or ‘Little Maid’ (cream) (yellow-green).
12. Agapanthus
Space-age flower globes float above mounds of strappy foliage, making them appealing even when not in bloom. Plant in groups or a pot.
With their elegant white blossoms and variegated leaves, these plants bring a touch of sophistication to any garden. Their graceful appearance adds a serene ambiance, making them a favorite among gardeners.
For thriving agapanthus, prioritize their need for abundant sunlight and partial shade. In addition, plant them in well-drained soils to ensure optimal growth.
Delicate hues of white and off-white define agapanthus, exuding purity and elegance in any garden. These serene colors lend a touch of sophistication and create a tranquil ambiance.
During the mid-summer to early fall months, nature adorns itself with the timeless hues of blooming life. This season witnesses the vibrant resurgence of various botanical wonders such as agapanthus.
This South African conservatory plant made its way outside in the 1940s, just in time to become a modernist favorite. Plants with white flowers (‘White Heaven’), variegated foliage (‘Tinkerbell,’ and dwarf (‘Peter Pan’) or giant (‘Storm Cloud’) forms have resulted from further breeding.
13. Sedum
Sedums are an easy collectible for any garden designer looking for an attractive, hardworking plant that plays well with others of the same ilk, such as grasses—just ask Oehme, van Sweden. They are tolerant of most soil types, drought- and disease-resistant, and have interesting foliage and long-lasting flowers that appear late in the season.
Sedum's spiky leaves rise gracefully, forming bunch-like flowers that paint a unique foliage portrait. These captivating plants add a touch of elegance to any landscape, embracing both beauty and resilience.
These plants are extremely tolerant and undemanding, simply craving well-drained soils. Their resilience illuminates gardens, promising vibrant life with minimal fuss.
The flowers of Sedum plants come in different colors like reddish, bluish-gray, and pink. These colors add variety to your garden, creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere.
Sedum graces gardens with its vibrant hues in late spring and early summer. This period showcases the plant's beauty, adding a touch of nature's splendor to your outdoor space.
Continuous sedum breeding has resulted in the introduction of excellent wide varieties, which share the comprehensive benefits of its family, and bubblegum pink flowers that attract butterflies and bees. After the blooming season, attractive seed heads appear.
14. Lily Turf
The attractiveness of smart and functional lily turf is explained by its cast-iron constitution, shade tolerance, and ease of upkeep (Liriope muscari). However, it has been overused to the point of cliché, as have many other stalwart ground covers.
Lily turf brings a touch of elegance with its grass-like foliage. Its blooms, displayed on delicate spikes, add a charming contrast, making it a delightful addition to any garden.
This plant thrives in consistently moist, neutral soils. Ensuring the right balance of moisture and pH levels creates an ideal environment, promoting healthy growth without the need for excessive maintenance.
This gorgeous plant displays elegant white and vibrant blue flowers, adding a touch of natural beauty to your garden. Their subtle hues create a calming atmosphere.
This plant graces gardens in fall and early spring, offering bursts of natural splendor. Planting during these seasons ensures robust growth, vibrant blooms, and a flourishing green space.
On the other hand, Liriope muscari ‘Pee Dee Ingot’ is revered by cutting-edge gardeners for its fountains of chartreuse foliage—chartreuse and black, the color for foliage fanciers today.
15. Sweet Peas
Few annual flowers have the enduring beauty and rustic appeal of sweet peas. They appear to be the polar opposite of our hectic lives, twining lazily around a rustic trellis. With their seductive fragrance, sweet peas make excellent garden and bouquet flowers. Learn how to plant and care for sweet peas by reading our Sweet Pea Growing Guide!
Sweet peas are a sight to behold with their graceful climbing vines. Their thin, delicate stems support exquisite flowers, making them a charming addition to any garden.
For flourishing sweet peas, ensure they bask in full sun or partial shade. These conditions provide the ideal environment for their delicate beauty to bloom vibrantly in your garden.
In shades of pink, mauve, and white, this plant brings a soft and elegant palette to your garden. These hues add a touch of serenity and charm, enhancing the overall visual appeal of your landscape.
During early spring to early summer, your garden comes to life with vibrant blooms of the sweet pea plant. This period allows plants to thrive in the most optimal conditions.
Lathyrus odoratus is an annual flower that looks great in a cutting garden, border garden, woodland, or twining on a trellis or arch. The flowers are now available in various colors, from pearly white to ice cream pastels to ritzy magentas and deep purples.
Conclusion
All the flowers listed above are annuals, known for their bright, colorful blooms and easy-to-grow nature. Here are some important points from the article:
- They prefer full sun and will bloom in the summer and fall, except for impatiens, which can grow well in the shade.
- They are perfect for adding color to flower beds, gardens, or pots.
- They are perfect for beginner and experienced gardeners.
Take good care of them and see how your landscape becomes an attractive haven!