Annual vs. Perennial: What’s the Difference?

Annuals vs. Perennials

It’s easy to confuse annuals and perennials, especially when you are new to gardening. There is even something called a biennial. From home gardeners to nursery owners, it seems like everyone is throwing these words around. But what do they mean? Why does it matter for your garden? Are they really all that different? 

So what is the difference?

Annual plants grow, flower, seed, and die off in a single year

Biennial plants form vegetative growth in the first year, and flower, seed, and die off in the second year

Perennial plants grow, flower, and seed year after year

What do you need in your garden?

So that leaves us with the question: which do you need for your outdoor space? The answer is simple; it’s up to you! 

Every garden is unique and so are the gardeners who make them. Most gardens have a combination of annuals and perennials. Some have one or the other. And some gardens have all three: biennials, annuals, and perennials.

At the end of the day, your garden can be composed of whichever plants you prefer. As long as you are selecting plants that you like and fit with your garden design, there are no wrong choices.

How do I choose annuals for my garden?

Before you decide on buying annuals (or biennials) it is wise to get a feel for your garden. Ask yourself the following:

  • What kind of soil do I have?
  • Is my garden on a hill or at the bottom of one?
  • How much effort can I put into my garden?
  • What do I want to achieve with my outdoor space?
  • What is my budget?

From here, you can decide whether or not you want to start your flowers from seed or if you want to buy them already grown. From there, you can decide what plants you want for your garden. 

Making decisions on plants can be challenging. Selecting plants that are beautiful and serve a purpose (and your wallet) is a priority. You may wonder, ‘ annuals vs perennials: which is more cost-effective?’

Are Perennials worth it?

Imagine getting a plant that you only have to buy one time and that plant would last for years, or even decades. With perennials, you don’t have to imagine. These plants are long-lived. And, often they need little maintenance if any. 

Perennials may cost more upfront than annuals. However, in terms of overall savings, perennials are well worth the investment. Annuals have to be grown from seed or re-purchased each year. Perennials, however, are a one-time purchase.

Most nurseries sell annuals because they are profitable and ensure repeat customers. Many businesses see little value in providing a plant that will survive and thrive for years. That’s what makes us different. We want you to have plants that you can enjoy for years to come. 

Our Top 10 Perennials

We offer a wide range of perennials that can be shipped directly to you. We have plants that suit a wide variety of styles, preferences, and interests. 

Most of our plants (94% in fact) are native to North America. Native plants are beneficial because they are (or were once) naturalized to your area. They support beneficial insects meaning fewer pest control issues. Since they are suited to your region, native plants are less susceptible to diseases.

Without further ado, here are our top 10 perennials:


10. Indian Pink

Indian Pink perennial thrives in warmer climates and does best in zones 5 to 9. This exotic-looking flower stands out among its foliage. It should come as no surprise that it draws pollinators. This plant blooms summer-long and can go in any sunny spot in the garden. 

Check out the Indian Pink product page here

9. Citronella Geranium

Citronella geranium perennials are native to the United States and grow best from zone 3 to 8. They are pollinator-friendly with their delicate, purple flowers. Perhaps the greatest feature of Citronella Geranium is its ability to repel mosquitos. The leaves of this plant release an oil that repels mosquitos. Many bug repellants contain the repelling oil of this plant. This plant is an excellent way to keep mosquitos away from your garden and you, naturally!

 

8. Red Hot Poker

If desert vibes are your thing or if you want a unique plant in your garden, the Red Hot Poker may be for you. This perennial grows in the warmer zones of 6 through 9 and likes to be in sunny locations. The flowers are vibrant with bright yellow bases that turn to flashy red at the tips. It is another easy-to-grow plant that will return year after year. 

 

7. Hepatica

Hepatica is a perennial that is part of the buttercup family. Native to Northern America, Hepatica grows mostly in woodlands. It does best in part shade to full shade in zones 4 through 8. Hepatica brings much-needed color and liveliness to spring. 

Check out the Hepatica product page here

6. Virginia Spring Beauty 

The Virginia Spring Beauty lives up to its name. This perennial is native to woodlands in the eastern United States and is best suited for zones 4 through 9. Its exotic pink-streaked white petals emerge from below leaves and through the foliage to peak out during early spring. They are small treasures suitable for any garden with a little shade.

 

5. Great White Trillium

The Great White Trillium is a flower that is so beautiful, it’s hard to believe it’s real. Its flowers have three large, rippled, white petals with soft yellow stamen in the center. Though it appears tropical, it does best in zones 3 to 9. Great White Trillium is a perennial native to the eastern United States and prefers part sun or part shade. 

Check out the Great White Trillium product page here

4. Blood Root

Blood Root gets its name from the red liquid its root secretes when cut. Because of the red liquid it secretes, many artists and crafters use it to dye fabrics. This perennial plant does best in woodland settings and can be grown anywhere from zone 3 to zone 7. 

Check out the Blood Root product page here

3. Milkweed Plant

Milkweed is one of the most important perennial plants in native-plant gardens today. Many gardeners have been planting it to encourage pollinators, but more importantly to save the Monarch Butterflies. Without this plant. Monarchs would not be able to lay their eggs. Fortunately, Milkweed is easy to grow and can thrive in zones 4 through 9.

Check out the Milkweed Plant product page here

2. Virginia Bluebells

Blue is the rarest color in nature making the Virginia Bluebell one special plant! There are many flowers that are said to be blue, but are actually purple. This is not the case for Virginia Bluebells. They are a true blue flower that is native to the eastern United States. They grow best in full shade in zones 3 to 8.

Check out the Virginia Bluebells product page here

1. Butterfly Weed

Number one on our perennial best sellers list is the Butterfly Weed. This drought-tolerant, heat-tolerant pollinator magnet is a must-have for any true butterfly garden. The Butterfly Weed can be planted in full sun in zones 4 through 9.

Check out the Butterfly Weed product page here

The best garden is the one that brings you joy. There are endless plants to choose from, but hopefully, this list gave you some fun ideas. Whether you want a garden full of annuals or just perennials, it is your choice!

Spigelia Indian Pink

Spigelia Indian Pink

Spigelia Indian Pink is a native wildflower beloved for its striking tubular, red-and-yellow flowers, which attract hummingbirds and thrive in shaded woodland gardens. Incorporating landscaping projects offers many benefits, enhancing outdoor spaces' visual aesthetics, ecological diversity, and overall vibrancy. This unique perennial plant presents distinct features that contribute to various aspects of landscape design. Spigelia Indian Pink is a stunning herbaceous perennial native to woodland areas across the inland regions from Texas to Florida and Virginia to Missouri. This wildflower plant has a distinctive flower and is commonly grown in gardens as an ornamental plant. After a closer look at this beautiful flower in the Astrid family, you can easily incorporate it into your landscaping design. The Eye-Catching Beauty Spigelia Indian Pink (Spigelia marilandica) This wildflower has a stunning look that is easily identifiable. The flowers bud straight out from the top of the stems in an elongated fashion. This bright red or pink bud then sprouts a small, delicate flower at the top. This yellow flower has a star-like shape with six petals. The large, pointed leaves have a dusty green hue. When the plants are in full bloom, usually in May, you can enjoy a sea of green, red, and yellow in your garden. Spigelia Indian Pink is Great For Supporting Wildlife  This plant strongly attracts hummingbirds to its flowers. Hummingbirds are natural pollinators, promoting the health of other plants in your garden. In addition, hummingbirds eat wasps, mosquitoes, aphids, ants, and other pesky insects that you may prefer to keep out of your space. The roots of this lovely plant also dispel several types of worms that could otherwise damage the plants. The Hardiness Of Spigelia Indian Pink While this wildflower plant prefers moist soil, it is hardy enough to withstand drought. When it has adequate moisture, the plant will grow taller and thicker. The dry months of the year stymie growth and often transition into the colder weather season when the plant lies dormant. However, the blooms will return in the spring months. Spigelia Indian Pink grows in clumps up to two feet tall and two feet wide. When planted ornamentally, these plants are often shaped through pruning. Commonly, they are rounded to appear as bushes. However, they can also grow broadly by retaining their free, wildflower look. The plants spread through natural propagation, and you can facilitate growth by planting the cut stems. Where Does Spigelia Indian Pink Grow Best  Indian Pink requires partial to full shade location and grows best in moist, well-drained soil that is rich with organic matter. These plants are indigenous to wooded habitats, so they're well suited to shaded gardens.  How tall does Spigelia Indian Pink get?  This perennial plant can grow between 12 to 18 inches high and is suitable in borders, woodlands, and container arrangements.  How To Grow Spigelia Indian Pink  Plant it in the part of the garden that receives shade or partial sunlight and on soil that is moist and fertile at all times. Irrigate frequently when the plants are growing only and employ mulching in order to conserve moisture on the roots.  What is the color of Spigelia Indian Pink?  The Spigelia Indian Pink has big tubular red flowers that have a bright yellow interior. They are much loved and favored by pollinators such as hummingbirds and butterflies.  Can Spigelia Indian Pink be Divided  Yes, Spigelia can be divided; it is generally done during spring or in the fall. Dig the plant gently and then divide the roots and replant so they can regrow again.

Hepatica - TN Nursery

Hepatica

Hepatica (acutiloba, Americana) is an attractive perennial wildflower that blooms early in the spring and needs little attention. Ideal for woodland gardens or shady spaces, it adds sophistication and unobtrusive beauty to naturalized landscapes. Ease of Planting and Maintenance For the Hepatica Perennial Hepatica is extremely easy to plant and maintain, which makes it a fabulous plant for any beginner gardener. It is preferentially shade-tolerant, preferring humus-rich, well-drained soil. Sow by loosening the soil, burying the roots just below the surface, covering the plant lightly with soil, and watering thoroughly. Hepatica needs minimal upkeep once planted, aside from occasional irrigation when dry and incorporating organic mulch to keep moisture in and enrich the soil. Seasonal Blooms and Color Changes of the Acutiloba, Americana Hepatica flowers early in the spring and is often seen before other plants come into bloom from their winter slumber. Its little star-shaped flowers, which vary in color from white and pale pink to lavender and blue, provide an attractive splash of color. The blooms last several weeks and are followed by shiny, lobed green leaves that recur throughout the growing season. The foliage can turn bronze or red in autumn before dying back for the winter. Shape and Longevity of Hepatica Plant Hepatica spreads in dense clumps and grows 6-12 inches tall, so it is suitable for borders, rock gardens, or woodland ground cover. As a perennial, it blooms year after year and brings you long-lasting beautification with very little work. Hepatica Life Cycle at TN Nursery Hepatica is carefully planted and shipped at TN Nursery as healthy, bare-root specimens ready for planting. These hardy plants spread quickly, giving you magical flowers and leaves season after season. Plant Hepatica in your garden and be sure of its timeless appeal for years to come!    

White Trillium - TN Nursery

White Trillium

White Trillium is a spring-blooming wildflower with large, white, three-petaled flowers and a distinctive, whorled arrangement of leaves, typically found in woodland habitats. It is prized for its large, showy, white flowers that bloom in the spring. The blooms can add a touch of elegance and beauty to your landscaping. It is a native North American wildflower that can provide several landscaping benefits. White Trillium, commonly known as the "wood lily "and the "large-flowered wake-robin," is a long-lived perennial wildflower that grows in eastern North America. Its bright to dark-green foliage blooms with large, colorful flowers in April, May, and June. The Habitat Of The Great White Trillium (Trillium grandiflorum Its native range includes woodlands from Quebec to Georgia. In the wild, the plant grows in deciduous or mixed forested areas and on mesic slopes, as well as on rich rock ridges and in thickets and swamps. In Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains, the herb sometimes produces mixed populations of rose-pink and white blossoms. The Appearance Of White Trillium Its flowers have showy white blossoms that stretch more than 4" in diameter. Their long, pointed petals take on a pink tint over time. Each outwardly curved flower rises above three glossy, green, oval-shaped leaf-like bracts with a visibly veined appearance and pointed tips. A short rhizome that serves as the plant's stem branches out into peduncles aboveground that grow up to 15" tall. The plant commonly forms large, dense colonies that spread slowly as they age. Woodland Gardens Look Elegant With White Trillium  Whether you're designing a woodland or wildflower garden or want to add a little texture to a shady spot, it will make a lovely addition to your landscape. These spring-blooming flowers complement hosta, ferns, iris, and jack-in-the-pulpit beautifully and make your yard a natural haven. Since they go dormant during the summer, pairing them with groundcover plants and perennials will help them flourish into autumn. White Trillium Is Great For Wildlife White Trillium serves as host plants for the American angle shades moth and the black-patched clips. During the blooming season, native and honey bees visit the blooms to pursue nectar. Ants eat the lipid-rich elaiosome surrounding the seeds, then drop them on the soil, where they grow into healthy new plants. The plant colonies can provide habitat and coverage for small mammals in places where the plant grows prolifically. White-tailed deer also enjoy grazing the blossoms and foliage. White Trillium Life Span  White trilliums are perennials, they can live for 20-25 years given the right care. Make sure the plants are adequately watered and are away from the critters. White trillium grows as a small seed, which is years away from developing into a plant. It flowers in the spring, a pretty white flower that goes pink when the plant is dormant.  Do White Trilliums Smell Good  White trilliums are delicate, and uncomplicated. They aren't especially perfumed, but the smell makes up for it in appearance.  Which conditions are best for white trilliums?  White trillium plants like sunny or partially sunny locations with deep, good-quality soil. They like landscapes like the forest floor with organic added on.  How Is White Trillium Pollinated  The pollinators for white trilliums are ants and bees. The flowers hold nectar for pollinators, and the seeds are carried away by ants on their way to their nests.

Bloodroot Plant - TN Nursery

Bloodroot Plant

Bloodroot has spring blossoms, attracts pollinators, requires little maintenance, and is historically significant, making it a natural beauty in gardens and landscapes. It is a stunning native perennial that offers several benefits when incorporated into landscaping. Its unique characteristics and ecological value make it an attractive addition to gardens and natural areas. It is an herbaceous perennial native to the eastern part of North America. It is the only species in its genus and is part of the poppy family. Often seen brightening up woodlands and on the banks of peaceful streams, it has many nicknames, including bloodwort and red puccoon.  Bloodroot Plant (Sanguinaria canadensis) Is a Medicinal Herb  Bloodroot Plant (Sanguinaria canadensis) is a member of the Poppy Family (Papaveraceae) known for its striking white flowers with a vibrant yellow center. The plant acquired its name from the blood-like reddish-orange sap that exudes from its roots and stems when cut. Many Native American groups use its roots for medicinal purposes and to make dye.  It grows abundantly in the rich woodlands of Florida, Wisconsin, North Carolina, Alabama, and the eastern region. What's interesting about this wildflower plant is that it stays closed and clustered until it gets sunlight. Once it receives sunlight, it flaunts its bold yellow center and lush foliage.  Bloodroot is one of the first plants to bloom from late February to early April. However, its blooming period lasts only about 14 days. So, if you are passionate about gardening, adding one to your landscaping will create a striking sight that is hard to beat.  Features of Bloodroot Plant  Bloodroot plants can grow in full sun, but they best thrive in moist, acidic, well-drained soils in partially to fully shaded gardens where they can receive at least four hours of sunlight. If growing conditions are ideal, the plants will form large colonies.  Bloodroot plants thrive in U.S.D.A. hardiness zones 3 – 8, making them ideal for growing in almost any environment. In the best conditions, it can grow up to 10 inches in height and 8 inches in width.  Bloodroot Plant's Benefits  The plant is ideal for low-maintenance garden settings as it is effortless to grow and demands minimal upkeep. However, you must check and occasionally ensure the soil's moisture is perfect. You also want to make sure the plant grows within the intended. Bloodroot Is A Stemless Wildflower TN Nursery has a bloodroot plant for sale and other plants that grow well, including Virginia Bluebell, Merrybells, and Carex. How Long Do Bloodroots Live  Bloodroot plants are perennials and can live for several decades under favorable conditions. They spread via rhizomes, which helps them live longer in woodland environments.  What is the difference between Wild Ginger And Bloodroot Plants  They are both woodland plants but look different from each other. Bloodroot yields white, daisy-like flowers and has red sap, whereas wild ginger has heart-shaped leaves and brown flowers nearly level to the ground.  Where does the bloodroot plant grow best?  Bloodroot is a plant that grows well in shady or partially shaded locations and in well-draining soil. It originally grows in the woodland or in gardens with similar conditions; for this reason, it is often used to naturalize shaded areas.  What is the best fertilizer for Bloodroot?  Organic manure such as compost or well-rotted leaf mold is the best to grow Bloodroot. The organic fertilizer provides an environment similar to the nutrient-rich forest floor, which helps with the proper growth of the plant.  What Are The Companion Plants For The Bloodroot Plant  Bloodroot may be used successfully in combination with other plants, such as ferns, wild ginger, trilliums, and Jack-in-the-pulpit. All of these plants require the same type of soil and light conditions, so they will all prosper within the woodland garden.

Milkweed Plant - TN Nursery

Milkweed Plant

The milkweed plant is known for attracting monarchs. It is a native perennial with clusters of showy, pink to mauve flowers and lance-shaped leaves. The plant attracts pollinators while thriving in moist, wetland habitats. It boasts numerous benefits when incorporated into landscaping designs. Its unique features contribute to outdoor spaces' aesthetic appeal and ecological value. With clusters of vibrant and captivating flowers, it adds a burst of color and charm to gardens while also serving as a vital component in supporting local ecosystems. Milkweed Plant (Asclepias Incarnata) The Asclepias Incarnata variety of Milkweed is a flowering perennial that, in addition to its ornate floral growths, is highly beneficial for local ecosystems. Today, we will examine this truly stunning and unique plant. The Asclepias Incarnata Milkweed can grow to about 59 inches tall and is known for the vibrant, clustering flowers at the top of the narrow stem. The flowers have a purplish-pink hue and pink shafts reaching the main plant stem. The plant's leaves have a sword-like shape and a deep green hue that remains for most of the year.  When the flowers are in full bloom, they create a stunning contrast against the natural earth colors of the leaves, making them stand out in any garden or landscape. The Asclepias Incarnata Milkweed has opposite leaves that grow in pairs on either side of the stem. Thus, the plant alone has an elegant, tidy, and elegant air. The green leaves work well in drab areas of your garden that could use some brightening. Aside from the innate beauty of Asclepias Incarnata, with its green foliage and glowing pink flowers, this plant also attracts a different kind of beauty-monarch butterflies.  The nectar of the Asclepias Incarnata Milkweed is the only known food source for the larvae of monarch butterflies - That's a Primary Reason Monarch are now going extinct  The monarchs will frequently visit these flowers to nourish themselves with their nectar and lay their eggs in them so the larvae can thrive. As a perennial with rich, nectar-filled flowers, the Asclepias Incarnata Milkweed attracts beautiful hummingbirds. The shifting colors of the hummingbird breast will also contribute to the palette of your outdoor areas. The length of the Asclepias Incarnata leaves varies from 2 ½ inches to 6 inches. They are narrow and have light green veins running through them. They don't grow densely, leaving the flowers to take center stage in their bouquet. The near-neon hue of this Milkweed's flowers makes them great companion pieces for other bright-blooming flowers. Gardeners and landscapers like to plant this variety of Milkweed to add a splash of unique color that instantly breathes new life into dull spaces. Benefits of Milkweed (Asclepias Incarnata) Yes, the Asclepias Incarnata looks stunning in full bloom. However, there are perhaps even more important reasons you should consider adding this perennial to your garden. It's A Native Plant - The Asclepias Incarnata Milkweed grows natively in North America. They have been observed to grow wild from Texas to Nova Scotia. This means they will be easy for you to plant, cultivate, and maintain even if you don't have much gardening experience. Asclepias Tuberosa Plant Supports the Local Honey Bee Population  Honeybees are vital to your local ecosystem as they are natural pollinators. In fact, according to Farmers.gov, honey bees are responsible for the pollination of nearly 80% of our flowering plants. Keeping Milkweed can attract bees that pollinate your garden's flowers and other plants. The honey bee population is dramatically declining, and providing sanctuaries for these critical links in the ecosystem has never been more important.  Keeps Pests Away Asclepias Incarnata contains a natural latex that repels invasive insects and animals that would otherwise feast on the plant. This Milkweed in your garden can, therefore, repel these pests and keep your other plants healthier. Ornamental Value - If you look closely at the flowers, you will see they are made of smaller, intricate flowers. This gives them a stunning appearance, while the purple-pink coloration adds ornamental value to many landscapes. Plus, the flowers have a fragrant aroma that some have said is reminiscent of cinnamon. T Monarch Butterfly Population-Like honey bees, the monarch butterfly population is in decline. Some leading conservation groups have even classified them as endangered. You can do your part to support the migration patterns of the Monarch butterfly by keeping the Asclepias Incarnata Milkweed in your garden.  Milkweed F.A.Q.s If you still have questions about the Asclepias Incarnata Milkweed, please look at the following answers to some of the most common questions:  Is Asclepias Incarnata Sun or Shade?  The Asclepias Incarnata Milkweed does well in full sun or partially shaded areas. However, the seeds germinate quickly with heat, so these plants need at least some direct sunlight. When do you Plant Asclepias Incarnata? The best time to plant this Milkweed is in the fall when the soil is likely wet. The Asclepias Incarnata prefers wet and moist soil, so if your area receives a good amount of rain in the Spring, you can also plant it in early Spring. How Tall are Asclepias Incarnata Milkweeds During Maturity? The Asclepias Incarnata Milkweed can grow to about five feet tall depending on how it is maintained and how much room the root system has to grow. When Should I Prune Asclepias Incarnata? The best time to prune this plant is in the Spring before it sprouts new growths. Pruning helps make the plant look more attractive and encourages the development of new leaves. However, it may not be necessary if the plant is already healthy. Do Monarchs Like Asclepias Incarnata? Absolutely. The females lay their eggs on them as they provide a food source for Monarch butterfly larvae. Adult monarch butterflies are also attracted to the nectar of the Milkweed flowers. Your Milkweeds Are Here. No matter what type of Milkweed plant you want, we have them available here at TN Nursery. We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee, making us a perfect choice for experienced and new gardening enthusiasts. Order now to paint your outdoor spaces with vibrant colors. It is a tall plant noted for its pink to purple flowers. It is one of 115 plants in the Asclepiadaceae family, named after Asklepios, the Greek god of medicine. This is appropriate because it is known for containing high levels of cardiac glycosides, which are used in some treatments for heart disease. This same substance also serves as the only source for Monarch butterfly larvae. Where Does Milkweed Grow It is native to the midwestern and eastern regions of the United States and Canada, but it can also be found further west. It is most commonly found in more open habitats, such as pastures, prairies, fields, and roadsides. It needs total sun to grow but can tolerate light shade as well. You’ll typically find it commonly clustered together into large patches, which are called colonies.  It can grow to be over five feet tall. The foliage can grow up to 8 inches, elongated nearly four inches wide, and is somewhat thick. The upper part of the oval-shaped leaves is usually darker greenish, while the underside is much lighter green and sometimes even white. When cut, both the leaves and the stems reveal a milky latex. The flowers can grow nearly an inch long and half an inch wide with a midrib that runs beneath them. They have a pink to purple coloring over them with a greenish tint and are very sweetly scented. Milkweed Plant Has Striking Pink-Purple Blooms The pink-to-purple colors contrast nicely against lush green fields and dry yellow prairies. Gardeners like it for its distinctive appearance and sweet, fragrant aromas. Find Milkweed and more at TN Nursery. Another reason why gardeners often like it is that it serves as the host plant for the beautiful monarch butterfly. These butterflies will lay their eggs on it, and as mentioned previously, the nectar also serves as the only food source for the Monarch larvae. Gardeners who like monarch butterflies or are otherwise concerned about their declining population can grow it to provide these butterflies with a natural habitat. The flowering perennial is named for its cardenolide-bearing latex, which benefits butterflies and insects. Monarch butterflies use and require specific species, including Asclepias syriaca and Asclepias incarnata, as host plants: their genus name, Asclepias, honors Asklepios, the Greek god of medicine.  Asclepias contains hundreds of species native to Africa, North America, and South America. Asclepias syriaca and Asclepias incarnata are native to the American continents and standard across the central and eastern United States. The sun-loving Asclepias syriaca grows naturally in fields, prairies, and pastures, while Asclepias incarnata grows along creeks, ponds, and bogs. Their flowers typically bloom from June through August. Asclepias produces complex blossoms that have similarities to orchids. Their large, spherical clusters of five-petaled blossoms are at the top of their thick stems. Each Asclepias growth usually carries two to five clusters of flowers. The individual blossoms are about three-quarters of an inch long and emit a strong, sweet fragrance. Asclepias syriaca has greenish-pink to rosy pink blooms, while Asclepias incarnata's flowers tend toward a brighter purplish-pink hue. It can grow up to five feet tall. Their thick, bright green leaves are six to eight inches long and two to three-and-one-half inches wide. The leaves' upper surfaces are darker than their whitish undersides. Asclepias plants form colonies in nature and landscapes and need room to spread out. Asclepias incarnata is highly ornamental and fairly quickly contained, making it well-suited to perennial, butterfly, and pollinator gardens. Asclepias syriaca works well in meadow gardens without defined borders. They increase from seed and spread as their rhizomes expand. They can be propagated in the late fall or early spring. Asclepias syriaca and Asclepias incarnata are the food sources for monarch butterflies, beetles, moths, and other insects that evolved to feed on their nectar. In the midwestern and northeastern regions of the United States, their leaves are the most crucial source of nourishment for monarch caterpillars, and their presence helps to fortify and increase monarch populations. Planting Milkweed Will Bring the Butterflies to Your Garden If you want to encourage monarch butterflies and other pollinators to make your garden home, you'll surely want to add Milkweed Plant to your landscape. Where can I plant milkweed Milkweed needs full sun and well-drained soil. - Grow somewhere where you're receiving 6-8 hours of full sunlight a day. The flower is a habitat for monarch butterflies.  Where can I find the most milkweed?  North American milkweed grows on the prairie, meadow, and roadside. It is best established in the brightest places.  What are the features of the milkweed plant Milkweed is an herbaceous perennial that grows tall and has wide leaves and sweet-smelling flowers. It has seed pods that pop open and shed seeds containing silky hairs.  What does milkweed look like?  Milkweed resembles common plantain and has wide-eared green leaves and flowers of pink, orange, or white, depending on the variety. It blooms in oblong spikes, and it's good for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.  How long does a milkweed plant live Milkweed can last for years in most cases. Annual plants are annual, that is, they seed to flower in a year, but they also self-sow.

Virginia Bluebell - TN Nursery

Virginia Bluebell

Virginia Bluebell is a spring-blooming wildflower native to the United States recognized for its delicate, bell-shaped, sky-blue flowers forming clusters and carpeting the forest floor in early spring. It is a captivating perennial plant that offers numerous benefits when incorporated into landscaping designs. Its enchanting appearance and adaptability have made it a favorite among gardeners and landscapers. Virginia Bluebell (Mertensia virginica) produces Sky sky-blue bell-shaped flowers These flowers start as shades of pink and gradually transition to a soothing sky-blue hue, creating a stunning gradient effect that adds a touch of elegance to any landscape. The lush green foliage further complements the vibrant blooms, enhancing the overall visual impact. Besides its visual appeal, it is positively adjustable to various soil types, making it a perfect option for landscaping projects in multiple environments. Its preference for partially shaded to fully shaded areas makes it ideal for underplanting trees or placing them along the edges of woodland gardens. This versatility allows landscapers to create visually appealing designs catering to light conditions. Another benefit of incorporating them is their role in supporting local ecosystems. These plants are attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies, making them valuable contributors to biodiversity. By attracting these pollinators, they aid in reproducing nearby plants and promote a healthier ecosystem within the landscape. They also require little maintenance, making them appealing to amateur and experienced gardeners. Once established, they require minimal care, allowing landscapers to focus on other design aspects. In conclusion, perennial plants offer a range of benefits that enhance the overall appeal and ecological value of landscaping projects. With their captivating appearance, adaptability to various environments, support for local wildlife, and low maintenance needs, these perennial plants are a valuable addition to any landscape design seeking a harmonious blend of beauty and functionality. Virginia Bluebell Is Known For Its Beauty  The Virginia Bluebell, or Mertensia virginica, is a stunning and delicate native wildflower that graces eastern North America's woodlands and meadows. This perennial plant, belonging to the Boraginaceae family, is renowned for its enchanting beauty and is often considered one of the most striking spring wildflowers in its native range. Standing at heights 1 to 2.5 feet, the wildflower is a herbaceous plant that emerges from the forest floor early to mid-spring. Its growth cycle is a true spectacle as it undergoes a remarkable transformation. Initially, the plant's lance-shaped leaves are tinged with an attractive reddish-purple hue, but as they unfurl, they transition to a soft, gray-green color, creating a stunning contrast with its vibrant blue flowers. The Virginia Bluebell Has Mesmerizing Fairy-Like Flowers The flowers themselves are the main attraction of the plant. They are composed of clusters of pendulous, trumpet-shaped blooms that are a breathtaking shade of sky blue or pale pink, depending on the soil conditions. These blossoms are unique because they start as pink buds, gradually shifting to their iconic blue hue as they mature. The floral clusters adorn the plant's upright stems, creating a sea of blue that sways gently in the spring breeze. One of their most remarkable aspects is their ability to thrive in shaded woodland areas. They are often found in the dappled sunlight beneath deciduous trees, creating a serene and ethereal ambiance in these natural settings. Their preference for moist, rich soils ensures they are frequently spotted along stream banks and low-lying areas. Aside from its visual appeal, it plays an essential ecological role. They provide nectar for early-emerging pollinators like bees and butterflies, helping to kickstart the pollination process for various plants in their ecosystem. The Virginia Bluebell symbolizes grace and fleeting beauty in the natural world.  Its striking blue flowers and unique life cycle make it a beloved harbinger of spring, enriching the landscapes it graces and captivating all who have the privilege to witness its brief but glorious bloom. What is the best fertilizer for Virginia Bluebells Virginia bluebells grow best under a light mulch of organic compost or the use of slow-release balanced fertilizer in early spring. As these plants prefer soils with natural fertility, fertilization may not be compulsory.  How often should I water Virginia Bluebells?  Irrigate Virginia bluebells often during their growing period to ensure the soil is wet but not saturated. They need less water once they have been established.  Can I grow Virginia Bluebells indoors Virginia bluebells are best suited for the landscapes but can be started inside in containers. These plants require only moderate lighting conditions and should be shifted outside only when weather permits.  What is the lifespan of Virginia Bluebells?  The Virginia bluebells are perennials, meaning that they will grow back year after year. If well taken care of, they can propagate and grow well and will do very well when placed in shaded garden sections where they will bring beautiful displays.  Where do Virginia Bluebells grow best Virginia Bluebells prefer moist, well-drained soil and in light shade or fully shaded conditions. They prefer a habitat similar to woodland settings.

Butterfly Milkweed - TN Nursery

Butterfly Weed

Butterfly weed is a type of milkweed that attracts many butterflies and pollinators. It's the #1 perennial used in pollinator gardens and our best-selling plant at TN Nursery. The Asclepias Tuberosa (Latin) is superior to most other plants due to its attractive winged beauty and resilient nature with low maintenance care.  Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa) Plant Attracts Monarchs  With nectar-rich blooms of deep orange, this plant is drought tolerant and native to the southeastern United States. It grows natively in some areas in dry sandy soils and is a Monarch's favorite rich nectar-filled plant from which to feast.   Butterfly Weed Is The #1 Staple In Butterfly Gardens Butterfly Weed was used in sanctuaries and gardens for over half a decade but is almost extinct. Perennial gardens are very popular with homeowners. Native plant varieties are hardy, pest—and disease-resistant, making them very popular. Butterfly Weed Is Pest and Disease Resistant Looking for plants that live for decades, reseed themselves, and never have to be taken up for harsh winter weather? Opt for native plants and perennials. TN Nursery has a massive selection of over 345 native plants in stock and is ready to ship to your door. We are a family-owned and operated nursery located in the heart of the nursery capital near McMinnville, Tennessee. Shop For Butterfly Weed At TN Nursery Today

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