Pretty Perennial Color

Steadfast Bloomers

Do flowers last all summer?

Some, such as candytuft and 'Bath's Pink' dianthus produce flowers lasting only several weeks. Others continue for most of the summer. 'Miss Huff' lantana, false aster, and the numerous verbenas flower continually.

There are also steadfast bloomers that offer color for several months at a time. When they finish blooming, just cut them back. Be sure, however, to plant with a succession of blooms in mind. Irises anchor the spring border, then, coneflowers -- like the purple variety pictured at left -- take on summer, with perennial sunflowers rounding out autumn.