21 Perennial Flowers That Thrive in Minnesota Gardens
Gardening in Minnesota can be a rewarding experience, especially when you choose the right perennial flowers for your outdoor space. These hardy blooms not only survive the region’s harsh winters but also come back year after year, making them a great choice for any garden enthusiast. Whether you’re enhancing your backyard or planning a day trip to admire nature’s beauty, these plants will inspire and beautify.
Black-Eyed Susans
Black-eyed Susans are a garden favorite. These cheerful, yellow flowers with dark centers thrive in full sun and are drought-resistant. They’re easy to grow and make great cut flowers.
Coneflowers (Echinacea)
Coneflowers are known for their daisy-like petals and resilience. They can handle both drought and cold winters, making them ideal for Minnesota gardens.
Daylilies
Daylilies are versatile and come in a wide variety of colors. They grow well in sunny or partially shaded areas and can adapt to different soil types.
Siberian Iris
The Siberian iris adds elegance to any garden with its tall stems and striking flowers. It grows well near water features or in areas with moist soil.
Hostas
Hostas are perfect for shaded spots. Their lush foliage ranges in color from deep green to variegated patterns, giving your garden texture and depth.
Peonies
Peonies are classic, fragrant flowers that flourish in Minnesota’s cooler climate. They bloom in late spring and are a perfect addition for cutting gardens.
Bee Balm (Monarda)
Bee balm is not only striking with its bright red, pink, or purple flowers but also attracts butterflies and hummingbirds. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil.
Sedum (Stonecrop)
Sedum is a drought-tolerant succulent that’s easy to grow. It produces clusters of tiny flowers, making it an excellent ground cover or border plant.
Coral Bells
Coral bells are known for their vibrant foliage, which comes in shades of purple, green, and bronze. They do best in partial shade and well-drained soil.
Bleeding Heart
Bleeding hearts are a romantic addition to any shaded garden. Their heart-shaped flowers dangle delicately, adding charm and color to woodland areas.
Lavender
Lavender is not only aromatic but also hardy in sunny, well-drained spaces. It’s a low-maintenance plant that adds both beauty and fragrance to gardens. They are in full bloom in June and July. Check out the Lavendar Barn in Farmington to walk through a field or visit their farm shop year-round.
Lupines
Lupines offer tall spikes of colorful flowers and thrive in Minnesota’s cooler summers. They’re great for adding height and drama to your garden. They are a common site along the highway on the North Shore Scenic Drive in June.
Astilbe
Astilbe is prized for its feathery plumes of flowers and thrives in partial shade. It’s perfect for creating texture in perennial beds or borders.
Daisy Fleabane
This easy-to-grow plant produces dainty white flowers with yellow centers. It’s ideal for naturalistic or cottage-style gardens.
Yarrow
Yarrow is a hardy perennial that comes in a variety of colors. Its flat-topped flowers and fern-like foliage are both attractive and functional.
Hardy Geraniums
Hardy geraniums bring pops of purple, pink, or blue to your garden. These low-maintenance plants do well in sunny or partially shaded spots.
Phlox
Phlox is a fragrant, colorful perennial that attracts pollinators. There are both creeping and tall varieties to suit various garden styles.
Balloon Flower
Balloon flowers are unique with their buds that resemble tiny balloons before blooming. They thrive in sunny to partly shaded areas.
Anemones
Anemones are dainty perennials that bloom in spring or fall, depending on the variety. They prefer well-drained soil and partial sun.
Coreopsis
Coreopsis, or tickseed, is a sun-loving flower that blooms profusely throughout the summer. It’s perfect for adding long-lasting color to your garden.
Veronica (Speedwell)
Veronica adds spikes of vibrant blue, pink, or white flowers to sunny gardens. It’s a low-maintenance choice that pairs well with other perennials.
What will you plant this year?
These 21 perennial flowers are perfect for Minnesota gardens, offering beauty and resilience across the seasons. Incorporating these plants ensures your outdoor space remains vibrant and lively year after year. I recommend purchasing plants from farmers markets, and local greenhouses, to ensure that you’ll have Minnesota hearty plants that last.
For more inspiration, consider visiting Minnesota’s stunning public gardens, such as the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, where you’ll find even more ideas to transform your own backyard into a blossoming retreat.
