15 Flowering Perennials for a Gorgeous Spring Garden

Spring is a time of renewal in the garden, when plants shake off their winter dormancy and burst into life. While annuals certainly have their place, perennials are the true workhorses of spring gardens, returning reliably each year with increasingly impressive displays as they mature.

The best spring-flowering perennials combine stunning blooms with practical qualities like disease resistance, pollinator appeal, and manageable maintenance requirements. Many also offer extended seasons of interest beyond their flowering period, with attractive foliage, fall color, or architectural structure.

These 15 flowering perennials will bring consistent color and beauty to your spring garden, creating a landscape that improves with each passing year.

Bellini Raspberry Crape Myrtle

Bellini Raspberry crape myrtle brings vibrant raspberry-pink blooms to gardens much earlier than traditional crape myrtles. This compact variety typically begins flowering in late spring rather than midsummer, extending the season of color in your garden. The rich pink blooms stand out beautifully against the plant’s glossy green foliage.

Unlike standard crape myrtles that can reach towering heights, this dwarf variety matures to just 3-4 feet tall and wide, making it perfect for smaller gardens or as a front-of-border plant in larger landscapes. It maintains a naturally rounded shape with minimal pruning required.

Plant Bellini Raspberry in spring after all danger of frost has passed. Choose a location with full sun (at least 6 hours daily) and well-draining soil. While crape myrtles are drought-tolerant once established, regular watering during their first season helps develop strong root systems.

These hardy plants require little care once established. Avoid the common mistake of harsh pruning (sometimes called “crape murder”) as this compact variety doesn’t need it. Simply remove spent flowers to encourage continued blooming through summer and into fall. Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth begins. This variety also shows good resistance to powdery mildew, a common problem with older crape myrtle varieties.

White Wedding Hydrangea

‘White Wedding’ hydrangea offers spectacular cone-shaped blooms that emerge lime-green in spring before maturing to pristine white. These substantial flower panicles create a stunning display atop strong stems that don’t flop under the weight of the blooms, a significant improvement over older varieties.

This panicle hydrangea (Hydrangea paniculata) blooms on new wood, making it more reliable than macrophylla types in regions with unpredictable spring frosts. White Wedding typically begins flowering in late spring and continues well into fall, with blooms gradually developing pink blush tones as they age.

Plant ‘White Wedding’ in spring after frost danger has passed or in early fall to give roots time to establish before winter. Choose a location with morning sun and afternoon shade in hotter regions, or full sun in cooler areas. Unlike blue mophead hydrangeas, panicle types maintain their white color regardless of soil pH.

Prune this hydrangea in late winter or early spring before new growth begins, removing about one-third of the previous year’s growth to encourage fuller plants and larger blooms. Apply a slow-release fertilizer formulated for woody plants in early spring. While more drought-tolerant than other hydrangea types, consistent moisture produces the best flowering display, so water deeply during dry spells.

Grin and Tonic Reblooming Hydrangea

‘Grin and Tonic’ hydrangea brings reliability to the sometimes finicky world of bigleaf hydrangeas. This reblooming variety produces massive mophead flowers in a lovely blue-purple shade (in acidic soil) or pink (in alkaline soil). What sets this cultivar apart is its ability to bloom on both old and new wood, ensuring flowers even after harsh winters or ill-timed pruning.

Spring brings the first flush of flowers on last year’s growth, typically beginning in May or June, depending on your climate. Unlike older varieties that flower only once, Grin and Tonic continues producing new blooms throughout summer and into fall, living up to its reblooming promise.

Plant this hydrangea in spring after frost danger has passed, selecting a location with morning sun and afternoon shade in most regions. This protection from intense afternoon heat helps blooms last longer. The soil should be rich in organic matter and well-draining but consistently moist.

Unlike panicle hydrangeas, bigleaf types like ‘Grin and Tonic’ require minimal pruning. Remove only dead or damaged branches in early spring after new buds begin showing. Apply an acid-loving plant fertilizer in spring if you want to maintain or enhance blue flower color. Mulch around the base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds, being careful not to place mulch directly against the stems.

Cherry-Go-Round Hydrangea

‘Cherry-Go-Round’ hydrangea stands out with its striking cherry-red blooms that hold their color regardless of soil pH, a remarkable trait in the hydrangea world. This compact bigleaf hydrangea produces large, rounded flower heads that create a spectacular display from late spring through summer.

Like other newer hydrangea varieties, ‘Cherry-Go-Round’ blooms on both old and new wood, ensuring a reliable flowering display even after cold winters. The first flowers appear in late spring on last year’s growth, followed by new blooms on current-season stems that continue the show throughout summer.

Spring is ideal for planting this hydrangea, once soil can be worked and frost danger has passed. Choose a location with filtered sunlight or morning sun with afternoon shade, particularly in warmer regions. The soil should be rich, well-draining, and consistently moist but not soggy.

Maintain consistent moisture for the best flowering display, especially during dry spells. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth begins. Unlike blue hydrangeas that need acidic soil, Cherry-Go-Round maintains its red color regardless of soil pH, simplifying care. Prune lightly, removing only dead branches in early spring just as leaf buds begin to swell.

Double Knock Out Rose

‘Double Knock Out’ rose has revolutionized rose growing with its combination of beauty and virtually carefree maintenance. This variety produces fully double, cherry-red blooms from early spring until frost, with particularly prolific flowering in spring and early summer. Its exceptional disease resistance means you can enjoy roses without the fungal problems that plague traditional varieties.

Spring flowering begins earlier than most roses, often in April or May, depending on your climate. After the initial abundant flush, ‘Double Knock Out’ continues blooming throughout the growing season, taking brief rests before producing new flowers. The glossy green foliage remains attractive even when the plant isn’t in bloom.

Plant in early spring after the last frost or in early fall to allow for root establishment before winter. Choose a location with at least 6 hours of direct sun daily and good air circulation. While adaptable to various soil types, they perform best in well-draining soil amended with organic matter.

These low-maintenance roses require minimal care compared to traditional varieties. Prune in early spring before new growth begins, removing about one-third of the previous year’s growth to maintain shape and encourage fuller plants. Apply a slow-release rose fertilizer in spring and again in midsummer. Unlike many roses, Double Knock Out rarely needs spraying for black spot or powdery mildew, making it perfect for organic gardens.

Cinnamon Hearts Rose

‘Cinnamon Hearts’ rose brings old-fashioned romance back to the garden with its nostalgic, double ruffled blooms in a warm cinnamon-red color. This modern shrub rose combines the charm of heritage roses with improved disease resistance and reliability. The flowers have a light, spicy fragrance that adds another dimension to their appeal.

This rose begins flowering in late spring, typically May in most regions, with a massive initial flush that covers the plant. After a brief rest, it continues producing waves of blooms throughout summer and into fall. The flowers appear in clusters, creating a fuller, more abundant look than roses that produce single blooms.

Spring is ideal for planting ‘Cinnamon Hearts’ once the soil can be worked and frost danger has passed. To prevent fungal issues, select a location with at least 6 hours of direct sun daily and good air circulation. The soil should be rich in organic matter and well-draining, but able to retain some moisture.

Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the top inch of soil to dry between waterings. Apply a balanced rose fertilizer after the first spring bloom and again in midsummer. Prune in early spring before new growth begins, removing about one-third of the plant’s height and any dead or crossing branches. Deadhead spent flowers during the growing season to encourage more blooms, cutting just above an outward-facing leaf with five leaflets.

Scentsation Honeysuckle

‘Scentsation’ honeysuckle brings both beauty and intoxicating fragrance to spring gardens. This improved honeysuckle variety produces abundant yellow and white tubular flowers that emit a sweet perfume, especially noticeable in the evening. Unlike invasive Japanese honeysuckle, ‘Scentsation’ is a well-behaved vine that won’t take over your garden.

The primary flowering period begins in late spring, typically May, and continues heavily through early summer. After this main display, the plant continues producing scattered blooms until frost. The yellow and cream bicolor flowers attract hummingbirds and butterflies, adding movement and life to your garden.

Plant ‘Scentsation’ in spring after frost danger has passed. This vine performs best with a support structure in place at planting time – consider a trellis, fence, or arbor that can support its mature size. While honeysuckles adapt to partial shade, they flower most prolifically in full sun locations with at least 6 hours of direct light daily.

Once established, ‘Scentsation’ requires minimal care. Water deeply during dry spells, especially in the first year, as it establishes. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Prune after the main flowering period in early summer to control size and shape. Unlike many vining plants, ‘Scentsation’ doesn’t require extensive pruning to keep it in bounds – a light trimming usually suffices.

Nova Zembla Rhododendron

‘Nova Zembla’ rhododendron brings dramatic color to spring gardens with its clusters of vibrant red flowers. This cold-hardy variety withstands winter temperatures down to -25°F, making it suitable for northern gardens where many rhododendrons struggle. The plant maintains attractive, leathery evergreen foliage year-round, providing structure and interest even when not in bloom.

Flowering typically begins in mid to late spring, usually May in most regions. The trumpet-shaped blooms appear in large, rounded trusses that stand out dramatically against the dark green foliage. Each individual flower has a small red flare in the throat, adding depth and dimension to the display.

Plant ‘Nova Zembla’ in spring or early fall, selecting a location with filtered sunlight or morning sun with afternoon shade. Rhododendrons have shallow root systems and prefer acidic, well-draining soil rich in organic matter. If your native soil is alkaline or heavy clay, consider planting in raised beds or large containers with appropriate soil.

Maintain consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, but avoid waterlogged conditions that can lead to root rot. Apply an acid-loving plant fertilizer after flowering in late spring. Mulch with pine needles, pine bark, or oak leaf mold to conserve moisture and gradually acidify the soil. Prune only to remove dead or damaged branches, or to shape the plant slightly, doing so immediately after flowering to avoid removing next year’s flower buds.

Roseum Pink Rhododendron

‘Roseum Pink’ rhododendron creates a spectacular spring display with its abundant clusters of soft pink flowers. This classic variety has stood the test of time, remaining popular since its introduction for its reliable performance and gorgeous blooms. The rounded habit and evergreen foliage make it an excellent foundation plant that provides year-round structure.

Flowering occurs in mid to late spring, typically May in most regions. The soft pink blooms lighten toward the edges, creating a dimensional quality that adds depth to the display. Each truss contains numerous individual flowers, creating a mass of color that can transform the landscape during the blooming period.

Spring or early fall are ideal for planting ‘Roseum Pink’ rhododendron. Select a location with dappled shade or morning sun with afternoon protection. Like all rhododendrons, this variety requires acidic soil with excellent drainage but consistent moisture. The root system is shallow and wide-spreading, so avoid competition from aggressive tree roots.

Maintain even soil moisture, never allowing the soil to completely dry out but also avoiding soggy conditions. Apply a fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants after flowering finishes in late spring. Remove spent flower trusses to improve the plant’s appearance and direct energy toward growth rather than seed production. Protect from harsh winter winds in colder climates by planting on the east or north sides of buildings.

Juiced Orange Jessamine

‘Juiced Orange’ jessamine brightens spring gardens with its vibrant orange flowers and glossy, evergreen foliage. This improved variety offers more pronounced coloration than standard orange jessamines, with flowers that truly live up to the “juiced orange” name. The citrus-like fragrance adds another sensory dimension to its appeal.

The main flowering period begins in mid-spring and continues into early summer. In warmer climates, sporadic blooming may continue throughout the growing season. The star-shaped flowers appear in clusters, creating a bright display against the deep green, glossy foliage that remains attractive year-round.

Plant ‘Juiced Orange’ jessamine in spring after all danger of frost has passed. In colder regions, this tender evergreen is best grown in containers that can be moved to protected locations during winter. Choose a location with full sun to light shade and well-draining soil enriched with organic matter.

Water consistently during the establishment period, then reduce to moderate watering, allowing the top inch of soil to dry between applications. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring and again in midsummer to support flowering. Prune lightly after the main flowering period to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. In containers, provide a winter protection strategy for regions with temperatures below 40°F.

Amethyst Falls Wisteria

Amethyst Falls wisteria brings the romance of traditional wisteria in a more manageable package. This American wisteria variety produces beautiful cascades of fragrant, lavender-blue flowers without the aggressive growth habit of its Asian cousins. The compact size makes it suitable for smaller gardens and even large containers.

Flowering begins in late spring, typically May or early June, with a spectacular initial display. Unlike Chinese and Japanese wisterias that bloom on old wood before leaves emerge, Amethyst Falls blooms on new growth, often producing scattered repeat blooms throughout summer. This extended flowering season is a significant advantage over traditional varieties.

Plant Amethyst Falls in spring after frost danger has passed. Choose a sunny location with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for best flowering. While adaptable to various soil types, it performs best in well-draining soil amended with compost. Always provide sturdy support at planting time – even this more restrained variety needs something substantial to climb on.

Prune twice yearly for best results: once in late winter to shape the plant and again in summer after the main flowering period to control growth and potentially encourage more blooms. Apply a low-nitrogen, high-phosphorus fertilizer in early spring to promote flowering rather than excessive foliage growth. Unlike Asian wisterias that can take up to seven years to flower, Amethyst Falls typically begins blooming within its first or second year after planting.

Blue Moon Wisteria

‘Blue Moon’ wisteria combines extraordinary cold-hardiness with magnificent blue-violet blooms that transform spring gardens. This variety can withstand temperatures as low as -40°F, making it suitable for northern gardens where other wisterias fail. The fragrant flowers appear in long, pendulous racemes that create a dreamy, romantic atmosphere.

This wisteria typically begins flowering in late spring, usually May or early June, depending on your climate. What makes ‘Blue Moon’ exceptional is its reblooming habit – after the spectacular spring display, it often produces two additional waves of flowers in summer, extending the season of beauty.

Plant Blue Moon wisteria in spring once soil can be worked. Select a location with full sun to ensure abundant flowering. The soil should be well-draining but doesn’t need to be particularly rich – wisterias actually flower better in less fertile conditions. Provide substantial support at planting time that can handle the eventual weight of mature vines.

Annual pruning is essential to control growth and encourage flowering. In late winter, cut back side shoots to about 6 inches from main branches. After the first flush of flowers fades, trim long, whippy growth to about 18 inches. Apply a low-nitrogen, high-phosphorus fertilizer once in early spring. Be patient – even this relatively precocious variety may take 2-3 years to begin flowering abundantly.

Star Jasmine

Star jasmine fills spring gardens with intoxicating fragrance from its pristine white, star-shaped flowers. This versatile evergreen can be grown as a vine, ground cover, or mounding shrub depending on how it’s trained. The glossy, dark green foliage provides year-round structure and beauty even when the plant isn’t in bloom.

The main flowering period begins in mid to late spring and continues into early summer. The intensely fragrant blossoms are most noticeable in the evening, making star jasmine perfect near patios or windows where the scent can be enjoyed. In warmer climates, scattered reblooming may occur throughout summer.

Plant star jasmine in spring after frost danger has passed. In colder regions (below USDA zone 8), consider container growing so plants can be moved to protected locations in winter. Choose a location with morning sun and afternoon shade in hotter regions, or full sun in cooler areas. The soil should be well-draining but consistently moist until established.

Provide support if growing as a vine, though the plant lacks true tendrils and must be tied to its support initially. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Prune after the main flowering period to control size and shape. While relatively drought-tolerant once established, regular watering during dry periods promotes healthier growth and more abundant flowering.

Frost Proof Gardenia

Frost Proof gardenia lives up to its name with exceptional cold hardiness compared to traditional gardenias. This improved variety withstands occasional temperatures down to about 10°F without damage, extending the growing range for these beloved fragrant shrubs. The glossy, evergreen foliage provides year-round structure and beauty.

The primary flowering period begins in mid to late spring and continues into early summer. The pristine white, highly fragrant blooms stand out beautifully against the dark green foliage. While not a rebloomer, the main flowering display is so abundant that it satisfies even devoted gardenia lovers.

Plant Frost Proof in spring after danger of frost has passed, selecting a location with morning sun and afternoon shade in most regions. Gardenias require acidic soil (pH 5.0-6.0), so test your soil and amend if necessary with sulfur or peat moss before planting. Good drainage is essential, as gardenias won’t tolerate wet feet.

Maintain consistent soil moisture, never allowing the soil to completely dry out. Apply an acid-loving plant fertilizer in early spring and again after flowering. Mulch with pine straw or pine bark to help maintain soil acidity and conserve moisture. Avoid pruning except to remove dead or damaged branches, as gardenias set their flower buds in fall for the following spring’s display.

Radicans Gardenia

‘Radicans’ gardenia brings the intoxicating fragrance of traditional gardenias in a compact package perfect for smaller gardens or container growing. This dwarf variety typically reaches just 2-3 feet tall and wide at maturity, making it suitable for foundation plantings, borders, or even indoor growing in bright conditions.

Flowering begins in mid to late spring and often continues sporadically through summer and into fall in warmer climates. The double white flowers are smaller than standard gardenias but just as fragrant, filling the garden with their distinctive sweet scent. The glossy, dark green foliage provides an attractive backdrop to the blooms and remains evergreen in mild climates.

Plant ‘Radicans’ in spring after all danger of frost has passed. Choose a location with morning sun and afternoon shade in most regions. Like all gardenias, this variety requires acidic soil, so test and amend your soil before planting if needed. If your native soil is alkaline or poorly draining, consider container growing with appropriate soil mix.

Water consistently, maintaining even soil moisture without waterlogging. Apply an acid-loving plant fertilizer in early spring and again in midsummer. Yellowing leaves often indicate iron chlorosis from high pH soil – address this with iron supplements and soil acidifiers. Protect from cold winds in winter, especially if growing near the edge of its hardiness range (USDA zones 7-10).