Toad Lily
Adorned with speckles of alabaster and hues of amethyst, these orchid-esque blossoms unfurl in the autumnal months, persisting into the early winter. Toad lilies demand minimal upkeep, though they are a favored delicacy of deer.
Blooming Period: Late summer to fallOptimal Planting Location: Moderate to full shadeIdeal Planting Time: Late fall or early springUSDA Hardiness Zones: 4 to 9
Cornflower
Distinguished by their vivid azure petals, cornflowers were historically nurtured as ornamental weeds in grain fields across the United States. Now, threatened by herbicides and extensive farming, they are making a resurgence in domestic gardens.
Blooming Period: Summer into fallOptimal Planting Location: Full sunIdeal Planting Time: March to May; also in fall in regions with mild wintersUSDA Hardiness Zones: 2 to 11
Beautyberry
Year-round enchantment characterizes these swiftly growing shrubs, with lilac-like blooms and purple berries enduring into winter. Beautyberry seeds and berries attract avian visitors and white-tailed deer.
Blooming Period: FallOptimal Planting Location: Full to partial sunIdeal Planting Time: Spring or fallUSDA Hardiness Zones: 7 to 11
Pansy
These vibrant annuals thrive in the coolness of fall, boasting heart-shaped petals and a central face-like pattern. Winter varieties can even recover from light snowfall and near-freezing temperatures.
Blooming Period: Spring and fallOptimal Planting Location: Full morning sunIdeal Planting Time: Early spring or fallUSDA Hardiness Zones: 6 to 11
Flowering Kale
Flowering kale introduces unexpected splashes of green, purple, and white to your autumn garden, lasting through winter in milder climates.
Blooming Period: Fall through winterOptimal Planting Location: Partial to full sunIdeal Planting Time: Early summer (by the first of July)USDA Hardiness Zones: 2 to 11
Sweet Alyssum
Despite belonging to the mustard family, Sweet Alyssum is celebrated for its fragrant aroma and delicate blooms. They serve as excellent ground cover, growing only 3 to 6 inches tall, and are resilient across most climates except winter.
Blooming Period: June through OctoberOptimal Planting Location: Full sun to partial shadeIdeal Planting Time: SpringUSDA Hardiness Zones: 7 to 11
Helenium
As members of the daisy family, these fiery blossoms thrive in rain gardens and moist soil. Known as “sneezeweed” by native Americans who used the plant to make snuff, Helenium is a vibrant addition to any garden.
Blooming Period: Late summer to first frostOptimal Planting Location: Full sun to partial shadeIdeal Planting Time: Early spring (in the ground); spring to fall (in containers)USDA Hardiness Zones: 3 to 8
Chinese Lantern
Characterized by their striking orange pods, physalis alkekengi make a bold statement both indoors and outdoors. While they can be directly seeded in your garden, be mindful of their invasive nature as they spread rapidly.
Blooming Period: Early fallOptimal Planting Location: Full sun to partial shadeIdeal Planting Time: From fall to springUSDA Hardiness Zones: 3 to 9
Amaranthus
For an exotic flair, amaranthus with its cascading tassel-like flowers adds height and drama to your fall garden.
Blooming Period: Mid-summer to first frostOptimal Planting Location: Full sunIdeal Planting Time: Mid-springUSDA Hardiness Zones: 2 to 11
Verbena
Although more renowned for its use in perfumes and essential oils, verbena also boasts exquisite flowers in shades of blue, white, pink, and purple. Varieties require different care, so thorough research is recommended prior to planting.
Blooming Period: Summer and fallOptimal Planting Location: Full sunIdeal Planting Time: Mid-summer to first frostUSDA Hardiness Zones: 5 to 11
Colchicum
Known as “meadow saffron” or “autumn crocus,” colchicum injects a whimsical burst of purple into your fall garden. These delicate flowers require minimal care and watering once planted.
Blooming Period: FallOptimal Planting Location: Full sun to partial shadeIdeal Planting Time: Mid to late summerUSDA Hardiness Zones: 5 to 9
