Perennials are plants that live for many years, typically blooming at a specific time and often continuing sporadically after that throughout the year. Most remain through the winter while some will die back in fall and return in spring.

Perennials are primarily grown for their flowers although some like Artemisia and ferns are grown for the ornamental value of their foliage. Perennials can be grown in borders or beds, along walkways and under or in front of shrubs. They are ideal companions for spring blooming bulbs, providing a succession of bloom after the bulbs are finished and hiding the bulb foliage as it dies back. Perennials also make a fine background for groups of late spring and summer blooming bulbs like allium and lilies as well as for all of the spring, summer and fall annuals that become available.

There are many types of perennials and likewise many different cultural requirements. Become familiar with your specific plants to provide the proper care. One of the benefits of perennials is that once established they generally require little more than average care and an occasional pruning for peak performance and appearance.