A southern garden classic, hydrangeas have big, beautiful white flowers that bloom in both sunny and shady spots. They also attract butterflies and bees, which help other plants in the garden grow and stay healthy. Recommended Thriving Gardens hydrangeas: Oakleaf hydrangea, Hydrangea quercifoliaWild hydrangea,Hydrangea arborescens
Yellow-flowered leafcup is a native perennial with showy, yellow flowers that bloom in late summer. It is a good choice for naturalizing areas and attracts pollinators. Yellow-flowered leafcup has been used in herbal remedies for inflammation.
Moonflower silphium is native only in the Thrive region, though it’s becoming increasingly popular as a garden plant even in Europe. Its large, pale yellow flowers are produced in abundance on sturdy compact stems, and its large wooly leaves are a feature in themselves. It’s a great choice for gardens or meadows and supports a …Read More Moonflower Silphium
Tall ironweed is a native perennial with tall spikes of purple flowers that attract pollinators.
Rough-stemmed goldenrod is a native perennial with yellow flowers that add late summer color to the garden. This low-maintenance plant also attracts honey bees and birds.
Virginia bluebells are a native perennial with intensely blue bell-shaped flowers in spring. They are among the first to produce a flush of foliage in late winter, and then quietly retire after blooming and return again next year. They prefer soils rich in leaf mold or other organic matter.
Blazing star is a native perennial with tall spikes of purple flowers that attract pollinators. It is drought-tolerant, low-maintenance, and a great choice for meadows and prairies.
Jewelweed is a low-maintenance native annual with orange or yellow flowers that attracts ruby-throated hummingbirds in the fall. Indigenous people used the liquid from the plant for relief for itchy insect bites, poison ivy, or stinging nettle.
Whorled tickseed is a perennial with large, daisy-like flowers that attract pollinators. It is drought-tolerant, low-maintenance, and available in various colors.
Goat’s Beard is a tall perennial with feathery plumes of white flowers that bloom in spring. It is a good choice for naturalizing areas and provides a striking focal point in gardens.