A well-designed garden is one that showcases vibrant colors throughout the entire growing season. By incorporating a variety of plants that bloom at different times, you can ensure a continuous display of beauty throughout the entire growing season. After the cheerful hues of spring flowers fade, you will not regret planting a variety of summer bloomers that will be ready for their turn to fill your outdoor areas with color. If you are looking for some recommendations on late summer flowers to plant in your Colorado landscapes, we’ve compiled a list of 20 perennial flowers that bloom in late summer and early fall and are perfect for our arid environment.
1. Rudbeckia (aka Black-Eyed Susan)
Rudbeckia, commonly known as Black-Eyed Susan, is a cheerful, sun-loving perennial that brightens gardens with its vibrant, daisy-like flowers. Characterized by bright yellow petals surrounding a dark brown or black central cone, these blooms appear from mid-summer to early fall, creating a bold display in borders, meadows, and cottage gardens. Black-Eyed Susans are easy to grow, thriving in full sun and well-draining soil, and are highly attractive to pollinators like butterflies and bees. Their hardy nature and long-lasting blooms make them a garden favorite for adding color and charm to any landscape.
Black-Eyed Susan Characteristics:
Plant Type: Perennial
Hardiness Zone: 3 - 9, Hardy to 8,000'
Light Requirements: Partial Sun, Sun
Height: 24"
Width: 24"
Foliage Color: Green
Bloom Color: Yellow
Bloom Time: Fall, Summer
Attributes: Attracts Pollinators, Attracts Birds, Cut Flower, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Staff Favorite, Xeric
2. Delphinium (aka Larkspur)
Delphinium, also known as Larkspur, is a stunning perennial prized for its tall spikes of vibrant, densely packed flowers in shades of blue, purple, pink, and white. These elegant blooms rise above lush, deeply lobed foliage, creating a striking vertical accent in gardens. Larkspur thrives in cool climates and prefers full sun to partial shade with well-draining soil. Blooming in early to mid-summer, Delphiniums add height and a dramatic burst of color to borders, cottage gardens, and cutting gardens. While they require some care, including staking for taller varieties and regular watering, their breathtaking display makes them well worth the effort.
Delphinium Characteristics:
Plant Type: Perennial
Hardiness Zone: 3, Hardy to 9,000'
Light Requirements: Partial Sun, Sun
Height: 3' - 6'
Width: 18" - 24"
Foliage Color: Green
Bloom Color: White
Bloom Time: Fall, Summer
Attributes: Attracts Pollinators, Attracts Hummingbirds, Cut Flower, Deer Resistant, Rabbit Resistant
3. Hardy Hibiscus
Hardy Hibiscus is a stunning perennial known for its large, tropical-like flowers that can reach up to 12 inches in diameter. Blooming in a range of vibrant colors, including red, pink, and white, this resilient plant thrives in full sun and moist, well-draining soil. Hardy Hibiscus typically blooms from mid-summer to early fall, adding a dramatic splash of color to the garden. Despite its exotic appearance, it is cold-hardy and can withstand freezing temperatures, making it a beautiful and reliable addition to any landscape.
Hardy Hibiscus Characteristics:
Plant Type: Perennial
Hardiness Zone: 4
Light Requirements: Partial Sun, Sun
Height: 3' - 6' depending on the variety
Width: 3' - 6' depending on the variety
Foliage Color: Green
Bloom Color: Multicolor, Pink, White, Red
Bloom Time: Fall, Summer
Attributes: Attracts Pollinators, Attracts Hummingbirds, Deer Resistant, Easy Care, Fast Growing, Staff Favorite, Moist Conditions
4. Agastache (aka Hyssop/Hummingbird Mint)
Agastache, also known as Hyssop or Hummingbird Mint, is a fragrant perennial prized for its aromatic foliage and long-lasting spikes of tubular flowers in shades of pink, purple, orange, and red. This plant thrives in well-draining soil and full sun, making it ideal for xeriscapes and pollinator gardens. Blooming from mid-summer to early fall, Agastache attracts hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees, adding both beauty and wildlife interest to your garden. With its drought tolerance and easy care, it’s a perfect choice for adding color and fragrance to your landscape. Wait until spring to cut back old growth.
Agastache Characteristics:
Plant Type: Perennial
Hardiness Zone: 4 - 8
Light Requirements: Partial Sun, Sun
Height: 16" - 18"
Width: 12" - 16"
Foliage Color: Green
Bloom Color: Orange, Pink, Yellow, Red
Bloom Time: Fall, Summer
Attributes: Attracts Pollinators, Attracts Hummingbirds, Cut Flower, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Easy Care, Rabbit Resistant, Staff Favorite, Fragrant, Xeric
5. Phlox paniculata (aka Garden Phlox)
Garden Phlox (Phlox paniculata) is a popular perennial known for its fragrant, colorful clusters of late summer flowers. These eye-catching blooms, available in shades of pink, purple, white, and red, sit atop tall, sturdy stems with lush green foliage. Garden Phlox thrives in full sun and well-draining soil, making it a favorite in cottage gardens and perennial borders. Its ability to attract butterflies and resist mildew adds to its appeal, offering both beauty and ease of care to any landscape.
Garden Phlox Characteristics:
Plant Type: Perennial
Hardiness Zone: 4
Light Requirements: Partial Sun, Sun
Height: 30" - 3'
Width: 26" - 30"
Foliage Color: Green
Bloom Color: Pink, White, Purple
Bloom Time: Fall, Summer
Attributes: Attracts Pollinators, Attracts Hummingbirds, Cut Flower, Deer Resistant, Fragrant
6. Dianthus
Dianthus, commonly known as "pinks" or "carnations," is a charming perennial prized for its fragrant, fringed flowers and green foliage. The blooms, which come in shades of pink, red, white, and purple, often have a spicy, clove-like scent and are great late summer flowers to plant. Dianthus plants prefer well-draining soil and full sun but can tolerate partial shade. They're ideal for borders, rock gardens, and containers, adding a classic and cottage-like charm to any garden setting.
Dianthus Characteristics:
Plant Type: Perennial
Hardiness Zone: 4 - 9
Light Requirements: Partial Sun, Sun
Height: 6"
Width: 8" - 12"
Foliage Color: Blue, Green
Bloom Color: Multicolor, White, Pink, Red, Purple
Bloom Time: Fall, Summer
Attributes: Attracts Pollinators, Attracts Hummingbirds, Cut Flower, Deer Resistant, Easy Care, Rabbit Resistant, Fragrant
7. Delosperma (aka Ice Plant)
Delosperma, commonly known as Ice Plant, is a hardy, drought-tolerant succulent known for its vibrant, daisy-like flowers and thick, fleshy leaves. Blooming through the end of summer, the Ice Plant's blossoms come in a variety of bright colors, including pink, purple, yellow, and orange. It thrives in well-draining soil and full sun, making it an ideal choice for rock gardens, borders, or as ground cover plants. The Ice Plant is also known for its ability to withstand heat and poor soil conditions, adding a splash of color and texture to landscapes with minimal care. Tips from the pros: Wetness in the winter can cause die-back. Does not like bark mulch - consider gravel.
Delosperma Characteristics:
Plant Type: Groundcover, Perennial
Hardiness Zone: 5 - 9
Light Requirements: Partial Sun, Sun
Height: 1" - 2"
Width: 12" - 18"
Foliage Color: Green
Bloom Color: Pink, Orange, Purple
Bloom Time: Fall, Spring, Summer
Attributes: Attracts Pollinators, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant
8. Ratibida columnifera (aka Prairie Coneflower)
Ratibida columnifera, commonly known as Prairie Coneflower, is a hardy perennial native to North American prairies. This distinctive plant features tall, slender stems topped with drooping yellow or red petals surrounding a prominent, elongated central cone. Blooming from late spring to early fall, Prairie Coneflower thrives in full sun and well-draining soil, making it a perfect choice for wildflower gardens and xeriscapes. Its vibrant blooms attract pollinators, and its drought tolerance makes it an ideal, low-maintenance addition to any landscape. This plant is easy to establish, naturalizes readily, and is a heavy bloomer, with mature plants being capable of producing hundreds of flowers.
Prairie Coneflower Characteristics:
Plant Type: Perennial
Hardiness Zone: 4 - 8, Hardy to 7,500'
Light Requirements: Sun
Height: 15" - 24"
Width: 12" - 18"
Foliage Color: Green
Bloom Color: Yellow
Bloom Time: Fall, Summer
Attributes: Attracts Pollinators, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Native, Rabbit Resistant, Native
9. Ornamental Oregano
This long-blooming variety features aromatic, spicy foliage and striking flowers. Large clusters of vibrant amethyst blooms cascade from light green cones resembling hops. In Zone 5, it may require mulching for winter protection. Preferring average, dry soil with good winter drainage, this low-maintenance plant can be divided every 3-4 years in spring. Trim back old stems when new growth emerges and use gravel mulch to enhance its health. Removing old blooms will extend the flowering period, and while it’s not suitable for cooking, the dried flowers make a lovely decorative element.
Ornamental Oregano Characteristics:
Plant Type: Perennial
Hardiness Zone: 5 - 9, Hardy to 7,000'
Light Requirements: Sun
Height: 8" - 15"
Width: 18" - 24"
Foliage Color: Green
Bloom Color: Pink
Bloom Time: Fall, Summer
Attributes: Cut Flower, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Rabbit Resistant, Fragrant, Xeric
10. Tricyrtis formosana (aka Toad Lily)
Tricyrtis formosana, commonly known as Toad Lily, is a captivating perennial renowned for its intricate, orchid-like blooms. Native to East Asia, this plant features striking, speckled flowers that range in color from white to lavender, and are often adorned with purple or pink spots. Toad Lily thrives in shaded to partially shaded areas and prefers moist, well-draining soil. Blooming in late summer to early fall, it provides a unique burst of color when many other plants have finished flowering. With its elegant appearance and adaptability, Toad Lily adds a touch of exotic beauty to woodland gardens and shaded landscapes.
Toad Lily Characteristics:
Plant Type: Perennial
Hardiness Zone: 4 - 9
Light Requirements: Partial Sun, Shade
Height: 24" - 3'
Width: 18" - 24"
Foliage Color: Green
Bloom Color: Multicolor, Purple, White
Bloom Time: Fall
Attributes: Cut Flower
11. Chelone obliqua (aka Turtlehead)
Chelone obliqua, commonly known as Turtlehead, is a charming perennial celebrated for its distinctive, turtle-shaped pink to lavender flowers that resemble a turtle's head. This native plant thrives in moist, well-draining soil and partial to full sun, making it ideal for shady or woodland gardens. Blooming from late summer to early fall, Turtlehead attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies. Its clumping growth habit and attractive foliage provide visual interest throughout the growing season, and its ease of care makes it a valuable addition to any garden.
Turtlehead Plant Characteristics:
Plant Type: Perennial
Hardiness Zone: 3
Light Requirements: Partial Sun, Sun
Height: 24" - 30"
Width: 24"
Foliage Color: Green
Bloom Color: Pink
Bloom Time: Fall, Summer
Attributes: Attracts Pollinators, Deer Resistant, Moist Conditions
12. Veronica (aka Speedwell)
Veronica, commonly known as Speedwell, is a charming perennial that brings vibrant color and delicate beauty to any garden. It features spikes of small, tubular flowers in shades of blue, purple, pink, or white, which bloom from late spring to early summer. Speedwell's lush, green foliage forms a neat mound, providing a tidy backdrop for its colorful blooms. Preferring well-draining soil and full to partial sun, Veronica is low-maintenance and adds a touch of elegance to garden beds, borders, and containers. Remove spent flower spikes to encourage additional blooming. Plants may be cut back to basal growth after flowering.
Veronica Plant Characteristics:
Plant Type: Perennial
Hardiness Zone: 4 - 9, Hardy to 7,500'
Light Requirements: Partial Sun, Sun
Height: 18" - 24"
Width: 12" - 18"
Foliage Color: Green
Bloom Color: Blue
Bloom Time: Fall, Summer
Attributes: Attracts Pollinators, Attracts Hummingbirds, Cut Flower, Deer Resistant, Rabbit Resistant
13. Echinacea (aka Purple Coneflower)
The classic purple coneflower features vibrant rose-pink ray petals surrounding a striking coppery-brown, spiky center. The blooms start with a rich, intense color that gradually fades to a pale rose, creating a beautiful bicolor effect across the plant. Deadheading will extend the flowering period, but it's beneficial to leave some spent blooms through fall as their seeds offer winter food for finches and other birds. Additionally, the dried seed heads add vertical interest to your garden during the winter months.
Coneflower Characteristics:
Plant Type: Perennial
Hardiness Zone: 3 - 8
Height: 3'
Width: 18" - 24"
Foliage Color: Green
Bloom Color: Pink
Bloom Time: Fall, Summer
Attributes: Attracts Pollinators, Attracts Birds, Cut Flower, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Easy Care, Winter Interest, Xeric
14. Pardancanda (aka Candylily)
Pardancanda, commonly known as Candylily, is a charming perennial renowned for its vibrant, candy-striped blooms that resemble those of lilies and irises. It produces clusters of colorful flowers in shades of pink, orange, and yellow, which appear from mid-summer to fall. Candylily thrives in well-draining soil and full sun, making it a versatile choice for garden beds and borders. This low-maintenance plant is not only appreciated for its bright, eye-catching flowers but also for its resilience and ability to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Candylily Characteristics:
Plant Type: Perennial
Hardiness Zone: 5 - 9
Light Requirements: Partial Sun, Sun
Height: 12" - 18"
Width: 8" - 12"
Foliage Color: Green
Bloom Color: Multicolor, Orange, Pink, Purple, Red, Yellow
Bloom Time: Fall, Summer
Attributes: Attracts Pollinators, Cut Flower, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Xeric
15. Asters
Asters are versatile, perennial flowering plants known for their vibrant, daisy-like blooms and rich colors ranging from white and pink to purple and blue. Blooming in late summer to fall, asters add a burst of color to gardens as many other flowers start to fade. They are valued for their ability to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. Thriving in full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil, asters are low-maintenance and provide a cheerful, long-lasting display that enhances both garden beds and borders.
Aster Characteristics:
Plant Type: Perennial
Hardiness Zone: 5 - 8, Hardy to 8,500'
Light Requirements: Sun
Height: 12" - 16"
Width: 12" - 18"
Foliage Color: Green
Bloom Color: Purple
Bloom Time: Fall, Summer
Attributes: Attracts Pollinators, Cut Flower, Deer Resistant, Easy Care, Salt Tolerant
16. Coreopsis (aka Tickseed)
Coreopsis, commonly known as Tickseed, is a cheerful and hardy perennial that brightens gardens with its vibrant, daisy-like flowers. Blooming from early summer to fall, its flowers for late summer are usually yellow, red, or some combination of the two, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Coreopsis thrives in full sun and well-draining soil, and is known for its drought tolerance and low maintenance needs. Its fern-like foliage and long-lasting blooms make it a popular choice for late summer flowers to plant.
Coreopsis Characteristics:
Plant Type: Perennial
Hardiness Zone: 5
Light Requirements: Sun
Height: 12" - 18"
Width: 12" - 18"
Foliage Color: Green
Bloom Color: Yellow
Bloom Time: Fall, Summer
Attributes: Attracts Pollinators, Cut Flower, Deer Resistant, Easy Care
17. Gaura lindheimeri (aka Whirling Butterflies)
Gaura lindheimeri, commonly known as Whirling Butterflies, is a charming perennial celebrated for its airy, butterfly-like blooms that flutter along slender stems. This plant features delicate, white to pink flowers with a distinct twirling motion, creating a whimsical, fluttering effect in the garden. Whirling Butterflies thrives in full sun and well-draining soil, and is prized for its long blooming period from late spring to fall. With its drought tolerance and graceful appearance, it’s a favorite for adding movement and lightness to garden beds and borders.
Whirling Butterflies Plant Characteristics:
Plant Type: Perennial
Hardiness Zone: 5, Hardy to 6,500'
Light Requirements: Sun
Height: 24" - 3'
Width: 24" - 3'
Foliage Color: Green
Bloom Color: White
Bloom Time: Fall, Summer
Attributes: Attracts Pollinators, Attracts Hummingbirds, Cut Flower, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Easy Care, Rabbit Resistant, Staff Favorite, Xeric
18. Echium amoenum (aka Red Feathers)
This striking perennial is known for its tall, erect spikes of vibrant red or pink flowers that resemble feathers. This plant, native to mountainous regions, thrives in well-draining soil and full sun, making it an excellent choice for adding bold color to garden beds. Red Feathers attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. Its distinctive appearance and hardy nature make it a standout addition to both xeriscapes and traditional gardens.
Red Feathers Plant Characteristics:
Plant Type: Perennial
Hardiness Zone: 3 - 9, Hardy to 9,000'
Light Requirements: Partial Sun, Sun
Height: 12" - 16"
Width: 6" - 10"
Foliage Color: Green
Bloom Color: Red
Bloom Time: Fall, Summer
Attributes: Attracts Pollinators, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Staff Favorite, Xeric
19. Geranium (aka Cranesbill)
Cranesbill is a versatile perennial known for its charming, delicately lobed foliage and vibrant, cup-shaped flowers that come in various shades of pink, purple, blue, and white. This hardy plant thrives in well-draining soil and full to partial sun, making it suitable for a range of garden settings. Cranesbill offers long-lasting blooms from late spring to early fall and provides attractive ground cover with its dense growth habit. Its resilience and low maintenance requirements make it one of many popular late summer flowers to plant for adding color and texture to borders, containers, and woodland gardens.
Geranium Characteristics:
Plant Type: Perennial
Hardiness Zone: 4 - 8, Hardy to 8,000'
Light Requirements: Partial Sun, Sun
Height: 18" - 24"
Width: 24" - 30"
Foliage Color: Green
Bloom Color: Blue, Purple
Fall Color: Multicolor, Orange, Red
Bloom Time: Fall, Spring, Summer
Attributes: Attracts Pollinators, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Easy Care, Rabbit Resistant, Xeric
20. Scrophularia macrantha (aka Red Birds in a Tree)
Scrophularia macrantha, commonly known as Red Birds in a Tree, is a unique flowering perennial that features vibrant red, bird-shaped blooms that perch along tall, slender stems. Native to the Southwestern United States, this drought-tolerant plant thrives in well-draining soil and full sun. Red Birds in a Tree is great for attracting hummingbirds and adding a striking pop of color to any garden. Its low maintenance and adaptability make it an excellent choice for xeriscapes and rock gardens. Tips from the pros: Cut the stems back to about 4-6" in mid-spring when new growth is emerging. Mulch them with gravel or coarse mulch to keep the roots cool and conserve moisture. Deadhead early to increase vigor and preempt seed set. Avoid wet winter conditions.
Red Birds in a Tree Characteristics:
Plant Type: Perennial
Hardiness Zone: 4 - 9
Light Requirements: Partial Sun, Sun
Height: 30" - 3'
Width: 18" - 20"
Foliage Color: Green
Bloom Color: Red
Bloom Time: Fall, Summer
Attributes: Attracts Pollinators, Attracts Hummingbirds, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Staff Favorite, Xeric
Shop Late Summer Flowers at Bath Garden Center
If you are looking for flowers for late summer to add to your gardens and landscapes, stop by Bath Garden Center in Fort Collins! We have tons of options for late summer flowers to plant this season and would love to help guide you to the best options for your outdoor living space. Shop late summer flowers online today!