21 Best Low Maintenance Perennials (Perfect for Spring)

Spring is the perfect time to refresh your garden with vibrant, long-lasting blooms that require minimal effort. In this blog post, we’ll introduce you to 20 low-maintenance perennials that are ideal for spring planting.

These hardy plants not only survive but thrive with minimal care, providing you with beautiful flowers year after year.

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener looking to simplify your garden or a beginner seeking easy-to-grow options, these perennials will bring colour and life to your outdoor space without demanding too much of your time and effort. Let’s dive into the world of hassle-free gardening!

Black-Eyed Susan (Gloria Daisy)

Black-Eyed Susan is a popular and hardy perennial known for its bright yellow or orange petals surrounding a dark brown or black central cone, giving it its distinctive “black-eyed” appearance. The plant typically grows to a height of 2-3 feet, with a spread of about 1-2 feet. Its sturdy, upright stems support the vibrant blooms, which are about 2-3 inches in diameter.

Habitat: Native to North America, Black-Eyed Susans thrive in various environments, including meadows, prairies, and gardens. They are adaptable to a range of soil types but prefer well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.

Bloom Time: These plants typically bloom from late June to September, providing a long season of colour.

Maintenance: Low-maintenance; deadheading spent flowers can promote more blooms and prevent self-seeding if desired. Cutting back the plants in late fall helps maintain a tidy garden appearance.

Hosta

Hostas are perennial plants prized for their attractive foliage, which comes in various shapes, sizes, and colours. The leaves can be heart-shaped, lance-shaped, or oval, with textures ranging from smooth to heavily corrugated.

Colours include shades of green, blue-green, chartreuse, and variegated patterns with white or yellow margins. Hostas produce tall, slender flower spikes with lily-like blooms, typically in shades of lavender, white, or pale blue, during the summer.

Habitat: Native to Northeast Asia, Hostas thrive in shaded or partially shaded areas, making them ideal for woodland gardens and shaded garden spots. They prefer moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter.

Bloom Time: While the main attraction of Hostas is their foliage, they do bloom in mid to late summer. The flower spikes rise above the foliage and can add an extra layer of interest to the plant.

Maintenance: Low-maintenance; removing spent flowers can improve the plant’s appearance. Dividing clumps every few years helps maintain vigour and prevent overcrowding.

Daylily

Daylilies are hardy perennial plants known for their striking, trumpet-shaped flowers and grass-like foliage. The name “daylily” reflects the fact that each flower typically lasts for only one day, although the plant produces numerous blooms over an extended period.

Flowers come in a wide range of colours, including yellow, orange, red, pink, purple, and even near-white, often with eye-catching patterns or contrasting throats. Daylilies typically grow in clumps, with arching, strap-like leaves that form a dense, attractive ground cover.

Habitat: Native to Asia, daylilies have been widely cultivated and can thrive in a variety of climates and conditions. They are particularly well-suited to temperate regions and can be found in gardens worldwide.

Bloom Time: Daylilies bloom from late spring to summer, depending on the variety. Some cultivars are everblooming or reblooming, offering a longer flowering season.

Maintenance: Low-maintenance; removing spent flowers (deadheading) encourages more blooms and prevents seed formation, helping the plant focus on producing more flowers. Cutting back the foliage in late fall or early spring keeps the garden neat and promotes healthy growth.

Coneflowers

Coneflowers, or Echinacea, are striking perennial plants known for their distinctive daisy-like flower heads. They feature a prominent central cone, typically spiky and coloured in shades of orange, brown, or black, surrounded by downward-drooping petals that can be purple, pink, or white. The plants vary in height from 2 to 5 feet, with lance-shaped, rough-textured leaves that are arranged alternately along the stems.

Habitat: Coneflowers are native to North America, thriving in the central and eastern regions of the United States. They are commonly found in prairies, open woodlands, and along roadsides. These adaptable plants prefer well-drained soils and full sunlight but can also tolerate a range of soil types and partial shade.

Bloom Time: Coneflowers have a long blooming period, typically from early summer to fall. They are known for their robust and continuous flowering, which can last for several weeks. This extended bloom time makes them valuable for maintaining garden colour throughout the growing season.

Maintenance: Coneflowers are relatively low-maintenance plants, ideal for gardeners of all skill levels. They are drought-tolerant once established and require minimal watering. Regular deadheading of spent flowers can encourage further blooming and prevent self-seeding.

Sedum

Sedum plants, commonly known as stonecrops, are a diverse group of succulent plants belonging to the Crassulaceae family. They are prized for their hardiness, low maintenance, and attractive foliage and flowers.

Sedum plants come in a variety of shapes and sizes, ranging from low-growing ground covers to upright varieties. They have thick, fleshy leaves that store water, making them drought-tolerant.

Habitat: Sedum plants are native to many parts of the world, including North America, Europe, and Asia. They are incredibly versatile and can thrive in a variety of environments.

Bloom time: Sedum plants typically bloom from late summer to early fall. During this time, they produce clusters of tiny, star-shaped flowers that attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Maintenance: Sedum plants are very low-maintenance and easy to care for. They require well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. Overwatering should be avoided, as their succulent leaves store moisture.

Lavender

Lavender plants, belonging to the genus Lavandula, are popular perennial herbs known for their aromatic fragrance, attractive flowers, and versatile uses in gardens, culinary arts, and herbal remedies.

Lavender plants are small, woody shrubs with narrow, silver-green leaves and long, slender stems. The flowers, typically purple, though they can also be blue, pink, or white, are arranged in dense spikes and are highly fragrant. The plant’s height can range from 1 to 3 feet, depending on the species and growing conditions.

Habitat: Native to the Mediterranean region, lavender thrives in sunny, well-drained environments. It is commonly found in dry, rocky, or sandy soils and can tolerate drought once established.

Bloom time: Lavender typically blooms from late spring to early summer, though the exact timing can vary based on the species and climate. Some varieties may have a second, lighter bloom in late summer or early fall.

Maintenance: Lavender is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, with a preference for slightly alkaline conditions. Overwatering should be avoided to prevent root rot. Pruning lavender after its blooming period helps maintain a compact shape and encourages new growth.

Yarrow

Yarrow, scientifically known as Achillea millefolium, is a hardy perennial herb known for its feathery foliage and clusters of small, fragrant flowers. It has been valued for centuries for its medicinal properties and ornamental appeal.

Yarrow plants typically grow to a height of 1 to 3 feet. They have finely divided, fern-like leaves that are aromatic and often described as feathery or lacy. The plant produces flat-topped clusters of tiny flowers, which can be white, yellow, pink, or red, depending on the variety. The flowers are long-lasting and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Habitat: Yarrow is native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, including North America, Europe, and Asia.

Bloom time: Yarrow typically blooms from late spring to early fall, with peak flowering often occurring in the summer.

Maintenance: Yarrow is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow. It is drought-tolerant once established and requires minimal watering. Yarrow benefits from well-drained soil and full sun but can adapt to various soil conditions.

CatMint

Catmint, known botanically as Nepeta, is a genus of flowering plants in the mint family, Lamiaceae. It is cherished in gardens for its aromatic foliage, long blooming period, and attractiveness to pollinators.

Catmint is a hardy perennial with square stems and opposite, gray-green leaves that are slightly fuzzy and aromatic, often with a minty scent. The plant typically grows in a mounding or sprawling habit, ranging from 1 to 3 feet in height and spread.

Habitat: Catmint is native to Europe, Asia, and parts of Africa but has been widely cultivated and naturalized in many parts of the world.

Bloom time: Catmint typically blooms from late spring to early fall, with peak flowering in early to mid-summer.

Maintenance: Catmint is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow. It is drought-tolerant once established and requires minimal watering. Catmint prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.

Coral Bells

Coral bells, scientifically known as Heuchera, are popular perennial plants prized for their attractive foliage and delicate flowers. They are commonly used in gardens for their vibrant leaf colours and versatility in various garden settings.

Coral bells have a clump-forming growth habit, with rounded, lobed leaves that come in a wide array of colours, including shades of green, purple, red, silver, and orange. The leaves often have intricate veining and can be smooth or slightly ruffled.

Habitat: Native to North America, coral bells are naturally found in woodland settings, rocky cliffs, and open meadows.

Bloom time: Coral bells typically bloom from late spring to early summer, although the exact timing can vary depending on the specific variety and growing conditions. While the flowers are attractive, the plant’s foliage is often the main ornamental feature and provides year-round interest.

Maintenance: Coral bells are relatively low-maintenance plants. They prefer well-drained soil and benefit from regular watering, especially during dry periods, but they do not tolerate waterlogged conditions. Mulching can help retain soil moisture and keep the roots cool.

Shasta Daisy

The Shasta daisy is a popular perennial plant renowned for its cheerful, classic daisy-like flowers. It is a hybrid species developed from several European daisy species and named after California’s Mount Shasta.

Shasta daisies have a robust and upright growth habit, typically reaching heights of 2 to 3 feet. They feature dark green, lance-shaped leaves and produce large, showy flowers that are characterized by white petals surrounding a bright yellow central disk.

Habitat: Shasta daisies thrive in full sun and well-drained soil. They prefer rich, loamy soil but can adapt to a variety of soil types as long as there is good drainage. These plants are native to garden environments and can be found in perennial borders, cottage gardens, and as part of mixed flower beds.

Bloom time: Shasta daisies typically bloom from early summer to early fall. Their long blooming period and prolific flower production make them a favourite for continuous garden colour.

Maintenance: Shasta daisies are relatively low-maintenance plants. They require full sun for optimal flowering and should be planted in well-drained soil to prevent root rot. Regular watering is needed, especially during dry spells, but they are fairly drought-tolerant once established.

Russian Sage

Russian sage is a woody perennial known for its silvery-gray foliage and tall, airy spires of small, lavender-blue flowers. It can grow up to 3 to 5 feet in height and spread, with a bushy, upright habit. The leaves are finely divided and aromatic when crushed.

Habitat: Native to central Asia, Russian sage thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. It is drought-tolerant and can handle poor, dry soils, making it ideal for xeriscaping and low-water gardens.

Bloom time: Russian sage blooms from mid-summer to early fall. Its long-lasting flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Maintenance: Russian sage is low-maintenance. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil, and once established, it requires minimal watering. Pruning in late winter or early spring to remove dead wood and promote new growth is recommended. It is resistant to pests and diseases.

Peony

Peonies are long-lived perennials with large, often fragrant flowers that come in various colours, including pink, red, white, and yellow. They have glossy, dark green foliage and can grow up to 3 feet tall and wide.

Habitat: Peonies prefer well-drained, fertile soil and full sun to partial shade. They are commonly found in temperate regions and are well-suited to garden borders and beds.

Bloom time: Peonies typically bloom in late spring to early summer, with each plant blooming for about 7-10 days. The flowers attract pollinators and are excellent for cutting.

Maintenance: Peonies require minimal maintenance. They benefit from being planted in a location with good air circulation and full sun. Mulching helps retain moisture and prevent weeds. Support may be needed for the large blooms. Deadheading spent flowers and cutting back the foliage in the fall helps maintain plant health. Peonies are generally pest and disease-resistant.

Lamb’s Ear

Lamb’s Ear is a low-growing perennial known for its soft, velvety, silver-gray leaves that resemble a lamb’s ear. It forms dense, spreading clumps and produces small, purplish-pink flowers on tall spikes in late spring to early summer.

Habitat: Native to the Middle East, Lamb’s Ear thrives in well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It is drought-tolerant and well-suited to rock gardens, borders, and ground cover.

Bloom time: Lamb’s Ear blooms in late spring to early summer, though the foliage is the primary ornamental feature.

Maintenance: Lamb’s Ear is low-maintenance. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Overwatering should be avoided to prevent root rot. Pruning back spent flower stalks and old foliage helps maintain its appearance. It is resistant to pests and diseases but can be susceptible to leaf rot in humid conditions.

Bee Balm

Bee Balm is a perennial herb known for its bright, tubular flowers in shades of red, pink, purple, and white. It has aromatic, lance-shaped leaves and can grow 2 to 4 feet tall. The flowers form in dense, rounded clusters and are highly attractive to pollinators.

Habitat: Native to North America, Bee Balm prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It is often found in meadows, along stream banks, and in garden beds.

Bloom time: Bee Balm blooms from mid-summer to early fall, providing a long season of colour and attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

Maintenance: Bee Balm requires moderate maintenance. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and regular watering, especially during dry periods. To prevent powdery mildew, good air circulation is essential. Deadheading spent flowers encourages continued blooming. Dividing the plants every 2-3 years helps maintain their vigour.

Coreopsis

Coreopsis, commonly known as tickseed, is a perennial plant with daisy-like flowers in bright shades of yellow, gold, and occasionally pink or red. The plants typically grow 1 to 3 feet tall with a bushy habit and fine, green foliage.

Habitat: Native to North America, Coreopsis thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. It is commonly found in prairies, meadows, and open woodlands.

Bloom time: Coreopsis blooms from early summer to fall, with a long flowering period that provides continuous colour in the garden. The flowers attract bees and butterflies.

Maintenance: Coreopsis is low-maintenance. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil but can tolerate poor soils and drought conditions. Regular deadheading of spent flowers promotes continuous blooming. Dividing the plants every few years helps maintain their health and vigour. Coreopsis is generally resistant to pests and diseases, making it a reliable choice for gardeners.

Bergenia

Bergenia, commonly known as elephant ears or pig squeak, is a hardy perennial with large, glossy, evergreen leaves that form dense rosettes. The leaves are leathery and can take on reddish hues in colder weather. In early spring, Bergenia produces clusters of bell-shaped flowers on thick stems, with blooms ranging in color from pink to red to white.

Habitat: Native to central and East Asia, Bergenia thrives in a variety of environments but prefers partial shade to full shade and well-drained, humus-rich soil. It is commonly used in shaded garden borders, woodland gardens, and as ground cover.

Bloom time: Bergenia blooms in early spring, often providing one of the first floral displays of the season. The flowers are attractive to early pollinators.

Maintenance: Bergenia is low-maintenance and easy to grow. It prefers partial to full shade and moist, well-drained soil but can tolerate some drought once established. Removing spent flower stalks and old, damaged leaves keeps the plant looking tidy. Bergenia is generally pest and disease-resistant.

Japanese Anemone

Japanese Anemones are elegant perennials with tall, wiry stems and delicate, saucer-shaped flowers that range in color from white to pink to lavender. The flowers have a central cluster of yellow stamens and bloom above a mound of dark green, deeply lobed foliage.

Habitat: Native to China and naturalized in Japan, Japanese Anemones thrive in partial shade to full sun and prefer moist, well-drained soil. They are well-suited to woodland gardens, borders, and cottage gardens.

Bloom time: Japanese Anemones bloom from late summer to fall, providing a late-season splash of color in the garden. The flowers attract butterflies and other pollinators.

Maintenance: Japanese Anemones require moderate maintenance. They prefer partial shade and consistently moist soil, especially during dry periods. Mulching helps retain soil moisture and keep roots cool. Plants can be slow to establish but will spread over time. Cutting back the stems after flowering and dividing clumps every few years can help maintain their vigour.

Bleeding Heart

Bleeding Heart is a graceful perennial known for its unique, heart-shaped flowers that hang from arching stems. The flowers are usually pink with white tips, though there are white-flowered varieties as well. The plant has fern-like, green foliage that provides an attractive backdrop to the flowers.

Habitat: Native to Asia, Bleeding Heart thrives in partial shade and prefers moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. It is ideal for shaded borders, and woodland gardens, and as a companion plant for other shade-loving perennials.

Bloom time: Bleeding Heart blooms in spring to early summer, with flowers lasting several weeks. After flowering, the plant may go dormant in the heat of summer, especially if conditions are dry.

Maintenance: Bleeding Heart is relatively low-maintenance. It prefers partial to full shade and consistently moist soil. Mulching helps retain moisture and keep the roots cool. After flowering, the foliage should be allowed to die back naturally. Dividing clumps every few years helps maintain plant health. Bleeding Heart is generally pest and disease-resistant.

Astilbe

Astilbe is a perennial known for its feathery, plume-like flower spikes that come in shades of pink, red, white, and purple. The flowers rise above fern-like, dark green foliage. Depending on the variety, Astilbe can range from 1 to 4 feet in height.

Habitat: Native to Asia and North America, Astilbe thrives in partial shade and moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. It is commonly found in woodland gardens, shaded borders, and along streams or ponds.

Bloom time: Astilbe blooms in late spring to summer, with some varieties blooming into early fall. The flowers are long-lasting and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Maintenance: Astilbe requires moderate maintenance. It prefers partial shade and consistently moist soil. Regular watering is essential, especially during dry periods. Mulching helps retain soil moisture and keep roots cool. Removing spent flower spikes and dividing clumps every 3-4 years helps maintain vigor and prevent overcrowding. Astilbe is generally pest and disease-resistant.

Salvia

Salvia, commonly known as sage, is a diverse genus of plants that includes both annuals and perennials. Salvias are known for their aromatic leaves and spikes of tubular flowers that come in a variety of colors, including blue, purple, red, pink, and white. Depending on the species, plants can range from 1 to 4 feet in height.

Habitat: Native to a variety of regions worldwide, including the Mediterranean, Central and South America, and Asia, Salvias thrive in full sun and well-drained soil. They are versatile and can be used in borders, herb gardens, and containers.

Bloom time: Salvias have a long blooming period, typically from late spring to fall. The flowers attract pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

Maintenance: Salvia is relatively low-maintenance. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Regular watering is needed, especially during dry spells, but established plants are drought-tolerant. Deadheading spent flowers encourages continuous blooming. Cutting back the plants after the first bloom can promote a second flush of flowers. Salvia is generally pest and disease-resistant. Propagation is typically done through seeds, cuttings, or division.

Overall, these plants add beauty and diversity to gardens with their unique characteristics and relatively low maintenance requirements.