10 Best Perennials for Beginners: Easy Flowers That Keep Growing Year After Year

If you’ve ever planted flowers in the spring, only to have them wither away by fall, you might be dealing with annuals. But what if I told you there’s a better way to enjoy beautiful blooms without all that yearly replanting? That’s where perennials come in! These hardy plants return year after year, making them perfect for beginners who want a garden that keeps on giving.

Whether you’ve got a green thumb or you’re just learning, here are 10 of the best perennials to start with—ones that don’t require much fuss but will still make your yard look like a Southern dream every spring.

1. Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta)

If sunshine had a flower form, it would be Black-Eyed Susans. These cheerful yellow blooms with dark centers thrive in full sun and can handle heat like a champ. They’re drought-tolerant, easy to grow, and attract butterflies, making them a must-have for any beginner’s garden.

2. Coneflower (Echinacea)

A true Southern staple, coneflowers are not only stunning but also tough as nails. They come in shades of purple, pink, white, and even orange. Plus, they’re pollinator magnets—bees, butterflies, and even hummingbirds love them!

3. Daylilies (Hemerocallis)

Y’all, if you want a plant that basically thrives on neglect, daylilies are your best bet. These hardy perennials bloom in a variety of colors and multiply over time, giving you more bang for your buck. Plant ‘em once, and they’ll keep coming back with minimal effort.

4. Hostas

Got a shady spot that looks a little sad? Hostas are your answer. These lush, leafy plants love the shade and bring a rich green (or variegated) beauty to your yard. They’re low-maintenance and can live for decades with the right care.

5. Lavender (Lavandula)

There’s just something about the scent of lavender drifting through the air on a warm evening. This drought-resistant perennial loves full sun and well-drained soil. Plus, it’s not just beautiful—it smells heavenly and can even be harvested for homemade sachets or teas.

6. Peonies (Paeonia)

Want show-stopping blooms with practically no effort? Peonies are your go-to. These gorgeous, fragrant flowers can live for decades (yes, decades!) and require very little maintenance once established. They bloom in late spring to early summer and add a touch of classic charm to any garden.

7. Shasta Daisy (Leucanthemum × superbum)

There’s just something so happy about a classic white Shasta daisy. These perennials bloom in early summer and keep going through fall, adding bright pops of white and yellow to your flower beds. They’re easy to grow and love full sun.

8. Bee Balm (Monarda)

If you want to attract hummingbirds and butterflies, bee balm is the way to go. These vibrant red, pink, and purple blooms love the sun and are resistant to pests. Plus, they have a light, minty fragrance that makes them even more delightful.

9. Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia)

For a touch of wild, wispy beauty, Russian sage is a stunning addition to any beginner’s garden. Its silvery foliage and soft purple flowers add texture and movement, and it thrives in poor soil and hot, dry conditions. A true survivor!

10. Sedum (Stonecrop)

If you forget to water your plants (or just don’t have the time), sedum is a lifesaver. This succulent-like perennial thrives in dry conditions and is practically unkillable. It blooms in late summer to early fall, adding gorgeous pops of pink, red, and yellow to your garden.