As the summer blooms fade, the autumn landscape beckons with its rich tapestry of colors. Embrace the season’s enchantment by adorning your garden with a vibrant array of fall flowers to plant. From annual delights to perennial treasures and flowering shrubs, these floral gems will infuse your outdoor spaces with a captivating autumnal elegance.
Table of Contents
Fall Flowers to Plant
Discover a captivating selection of fall flowers to plant, ideal for both pots and ground cultivation. Choose from an assortment of annuals and perennials to enrich your autumn garden landscape.
African Daisies (Osteospermum spp.)
African Daisies, with their cheerful and vivid daisy-like blossoms, are a delightful addition to fall gardens. These annuals offer a vibrant color palette ranging from deep purple hues to soft pinks and pristine whites, creating a captivating display. Their low-maintenance nature and ability to thrive in full sun make African Daisies an excellent choice for adding a burst of radiant beauty to your autumn landscape with fall flowers to plant.
- Plant Type: Annual
- Suggested USDA Hardiness Zones: 9-11
- Size: 8-24 inches tall (20-60 cm), 8-12 inches wide (20-30 cm)
- Care Requirements: Full sun, well-drained soil.
- Expected Blooming: Late spring to early fall
Recommended reading: How to Grow African Daisies from Seed
Amaranth (Amaranthus spp.)
Renowned for its striking, feathery plumes that sway gracefully in the breeze, amaranth is a true showstopper in fall gardens. This annual’s vibrant hues range from fiery reds to tangerine oranges and rich, golden tones, adding a dramatic and eye-catching touch. The bold, almost otherworldly blooms create a mesmerizing display, complementing the autumnal palette with their warm, radiant colors that seem to glow in the golden light.
- Plant Type: Annual
- Suggested USDA Hardiness Zones: 2-11
- Size: 24-72 inches tall (60-180 cm), 12-36 inches wide (30-90 cm)
- Care Requirements: Full sun, well-drained soil.
- Expected Blooming: Summer to fall
Autumn Crocus (Colchicum autumnale)
In the autumn garden, the exquisite beauty of the Autumn Crocus shines through with its delicate, crocus-like flowers. These blooms, available in shades of pink, purple, or white, add a charming allure to any landscape. Brightening gardens as the days grow shorter, this plant is a delightful choice for those seeking to infuse their outdoor spaces with the enchantment of fall.
- Plant Type: Perennial
- Suggested USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-8
- Size: 4-6 inches tall (10-15 cm), 4-6 inches wide (10-15 cm)
- Care Requirements: Full sun to partial shade, well-drained soil.
- Expected Blooming: Fall
Recommended reading: How to Grow Crocus
Autumn Joy Stonecrop (Hylotelephium telephium ‘Herbstfreude’ (‘Autumn Joy’)
The Autumn Joy Stonecrop showcases its succulent nature through thick, fleshy leaves. Adorned with abundant clusters of pink blooms, this plant undergoes a stunning transformation as autumn approaches, with its flowers transitioning to a rich rust-red hue. A true standout in fall gardens, it offers both visual appeal and resilience throughout the changing seasons with fall flowers to plant.
- Plant Type: Perennial
- Suggested USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-9
- Size: 18-24 inches tall (45-60 cm), 18-24 inches wide (45-60 cm)
- Care Requirements: Full sun, well-drained soil.
- Expected Blooming: Late summer to fall
Begonia (Begonia spp.)
Begonias are beloved for their exquisite, almost luminous blooms that boast a vibrant array of colors and a delightfully waxy texture. These shade-loving beauties flaunt a remarkable diversity of leaf shapes, from delicately ruffled to boldly angular, creating a captivating tapestry of foliage. Thriving in the dappled shade of fall gardens, begonias offer a refreshing burst of radiance with their vivid flowers, providing a stunning contrast against the changing hues of the season.
- Plant Type: Annual
- Suggested USDA Hardiness Zones: 10-11
- Size: 6-15 inches tall (15-38 cm), 6-12 inches wide (15-30 cm)
- Care Requirements: Partial shade to shade, well-drained soil.
- Expected Blooming: Spring to fall
Bidens (Bidens spp.)
Bidens, with their vibrant yellow, daisy-like blooms, are renowned for their vigorous flowering habits, making them a magnet for pollinators. Their prolific blooms not only add a burst of color to the garden but also serve as a vital food source for bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, contributing to a thriving ecosystem.
- Plant Type: Annual
- Suggested USDA Hardiness Zones: 9-11
- Size: 10-20 inches tall (25-50 cm), 12-24 inches wide (30-60 cm)
- Care Requirements: Full sun, well-drained soil.
- Expected Blooming: Spring to fall
Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta)
Black-Eyed Susans, boasting cheerful golden-yellow petals with dark centers, are beloved fixtures in both cultivated gardens and untamed wildflower meadows. Their vibrant blooms not only lend a touch of warmth and cheer to any landscape but also serve as resilient perennials, effortlessly naturalizing and brightening up outdoor spaces with their radiant presence as fall flowers to plant.
- Plant Type: Perennial
- Suggested USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-9
- Size: 24-36 inches tall (60-90 cm), 18-24 inches wide (45-60 cm)
- Care Requirements: Full sun, well-drained soil.
- Expected Blooming: Summer to fall
Recommended reading: Cut and Come Again Flowers: Continuous Blooms for Your Garden
Blanket Flower (Gaillardia x grandiflora)
Blanket Flowers are a true feast for the eyes, with their vibrant blooms that resemble miniature sunbursts. Their petals radiate in a kaleidoscope of fiery reds, warm oranges, and sunny yellows, creating a dazzling display that seems to glow in the autumn light. These cheery flowers are not only visually arresting but also irresistible to butterflies, whose delicate wings flutter amidst the blossoms in a captivating dance. Blanket Flowers bring a touch of radiant joy to fall gardens. Here is where I recommend buying Blanket Flower seeds.
- Plant Type: Perennial
- Suggested USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-10
- Size: 12-24 inches tall (30-60 cm), 12-24 inches wide (30-60 cm)
- Care Requirements: Full sun, well-drained soil.
- Expected Blooming: Summer to fall
Bluebeard (Caryopteris × clandonensis)
Bluebeard, a deciduous shrub renowned for its exquisite late summer to early fall blooms, boasts stunning blue flowers that beckon bees and butterflies to its fragrant embrace. With its alluring floral display and wildlife-friendly appeal, this plant adds both beauty and ecological value to gardens, creating a captivating haven for pollinators during the waning days of summer and the onset of autumn.
- Plant Type: Perennial
- Suggested USDA Hardiness Zones: 5-9
- Size: 24-36 inches tall (60-90 cm), 24-36 inches wide (60-90 cm)
- Care Requirements: Full sun, well-drained soil.
- Expected Blooming: Late summer to fall
Calibrachoa
Calibrachoa, often likened to small petunias, graces gardens with its abundant and vibrant miniature flowers, blooming profusely in a kaleidoscope of hues. These charming blooms, available in an array of colors, add a delightful touch to containers, hanging baskets, and garden beds, enhancing outdoor spaces with their cheerful presence as fall flowers to plant. With their vigorous blooming habit, Calibrachoa offers a stunning display of color throughout the growing season, attracting admiration and enlivening any landscape.
- Plant Type: Annual
- Suggested USDA Hardiness Zones: 9-11
- Size: 6-12 inches tall (15-30 cm), 12-24 inches wide (30-60 cm)
- Care Requirements: Full sun to partial shade, well-drained soil.
- Expected Blooming: Spring to fall
Canna Lily (Canna spp.)
Canna Lilies make a bold statement in fall gardens with their lush, tropical-inspired foliage and larger-than-life blooms. Their broad, paddle-shaped leaves create a rich, verdant backdrop for the show-stopping flowers that burst forth in vibrant hues of crimson red, tangerine orange, and golden yellow. These exotic beauties exude a sense of warmth and vitality, their showy blossoms seemingly defying the cooler temperatures of autumn with their sun-drenched colors and flamboyant presence.
- Plant Type: Perennial
- Suggested USDA Hardiness Zones: 8-11
- Size: 36-72 inches tall (90-180 cm), 18-24 inches wide (45-60 cm)
- Care Requirements: Full sun, moist, well-drained soil.
- Expected Blooming: Summer to fall
Cockscomb (Celosia argentea)
Cockscomb, celebrated for its distinctive ruffled blooms that bear a striking resemblance to a rooster’s comb, dazzles with a palette of vibrant red, yellow, and orange hues. These flamboyant flowers, with their velvety texture and bold colors, add a touch of whimsy and charm to gardens and floral arrangements alike. A favorite among gardeners for its eye-catching appearance, Cockscomb brings a burst of color and personality to any landscape, ensuring admiration and delight throughout the growing season.
- Plant Type: Annual
- Suggested USDA Hardiness Zones: 10-11
- Size: 12-36 inches tall (30-90 cm), 12-18 inches wide (30-45 cm)
- Care Requirements: Full sun, well-drained soil.
- Expected Blooming: Summer to fall
Cosmos (Cosmos sulphureus, Cosmos bipinnatus)
Cosmos, with their delicate, daisy-like flowers and feathery foliage, offer a touch of ethereal beauty to gardens. Available in a captivating spectrum of shades including pink, white, and orange, these charming blooms evoke a sense of whimsy and grace as fall flowers to plant. Their airy appearance and abundant flowering make them a delightful addition to borders, meadows, and cutting gardens, enchanting observers with their simple yet enchanting allure. Whether planted en masse or as solitary blooms, cosmos infuse outdoor spaces with a sense of charm and romance.
- Plant Type: Annual
- Suggested USDA Hardiness Zones: 2-11
- Size: 12-72 inches tall (30-180 cm), 12-36 inches wide (30-90 cm)
- Care Requirements: Full sun, well-drained soil.
- Expected Blooming: Summer to fall
Recommended reading: How to Start a Cut Flower Garden: Plan and Layout
Dahlia (Dahlia spp.)
Dahlias are highly prized for their breathtaking, multi-petaled blooms that unfurl in a dazzling array of colors, ranging from delicate pastels to bold, vibrant hues. These exquisite flowers boast intricate, layered petals that create a mesmerizing depth and texture, captivating the eye with their intricate beauty. From soft blush pinks to rich, velvety burgundies and radiant oranges, dahlias offer a kaleidoscope of hues that add a touch of elegance and drama to fall gardens.
- Plant Type: Perennial
- Suggested USDA Hardiness Zones: 8-11
- Size: 12-60 inches tall (30-150 cm), 12-24 inches wide (30-60 cm)
- Care Requirements: Full sun, well-drained soil.
- Expected Blooming: Summer to fall
Recommended reading: How to Grow Dahlias
Dusty Miller (Jacobaea maritima)
Dusty Miller is a true gem in fall gardens, valued for its delicate, lacy foliage that boasts a captivating silvery-gray hue. The finely cut, almost feathery leaves shimmer in the autumn light, creating a striking contrast against the rich, warm tones of the season. This unique plant adds a touch of whimsy and texture to the landscape, its ethereal foliage providing a cool, calming counterpoint to the vivid colors that surround it, making it a truly versatile and eye-catching addition.
- Plant Type: Annual
- Suggested USDA Hardiness Zones: 8-10
- Size: 6-18 inches tall (15-45 cm), 6-12 inches wide (15-30 cm)
- Care Requirements: Full sun, well-drained soil.
- Expected Blooming: Late spring to fall frosts
Floss Flower (Ageratum houstonianum)
Floss Flowers, also known as Ageratum houstonianum, burst forth with fluffy, pom-pom-like blooms in enchanting shades of blue, pink, and white, infusing gardens with texture and whimsy as fall flowers to plant. These charming blooms, nestled among their lush green foliage, create a soft and inviting ambiance, perfect for borders, containers, and cottage-style gardens.
- Plant Type: Annual
- Suggested USDA Hardiness Zones: 2-11
- Size: 6-24 inches tall (15-60 cm), 6-12 inches wide (15-30 cm)
- Care Requirements: Full sun to partial shade, well-drained soil.
- Expected Blooming: Spring to frost
Fuchsias
Fuchsias are prized for their exquisite, pendulous blooms that boast a captivating two-toned beauty. These delicate flowers seem to dance gracefully on their slender stems, with vibrant petals that blend alluring shades, creating a mesmerizing ombre effect. Fuchsias are especially popular for hanging baskets and shaded garden areas, where their enchanting blossoms can truly steal the show. Their rich, jewel-like colors add a touch of elegance and romance to the fall garden, inviting admirers to pause and appreciate their exquisite charm.
- Plant Type: Perennial
- Suggested USDA Hardiness Zones: 10-11
- Size: 12-24 inches tall (30-60 cm), 12-18 inches wide (30-45 cm)
- Care Requirements: Partial to full shade, moist, well-drained soil.
- Expected Blooming: Spring to frost
Recommended reading: Fuchsia magellanica and Varieties
Goldenrod (Solidago spp.)
Goldenrod’s tall, stately spikes are adorned with a profusion of bright yellow blossoms that seem to radiate warmth and cheer in the fall garden. These sun-kissed flowers beckon to bees and butterflies, who flit and flutter amidst the golden plumes, drawn to their nectar-rich bounty. As the cool autumn breezes rustle through the sturdy stems, the goldenrod sways gracefully, creating a mesmerizing dance of golden hues that complement the changing foliage, adding a touch of vibrant beauty to the seasonal landscape.
- Plant Type: Perennial
- Suggested USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-9
- Size: 24-72 inches tall (60-180 cm), 12-36 inches wide (30-90 cm)
- Care Requirements: Full sun to partial shade, well-drained soil.
- Expected Blooming: Late summer to fall
Hydrangeas (Hydrangea spp.)
Hydrangeas, renowned for their magnificent, globe-like flower clusters, are revered for their wide spectrum of colors, ranging from serene blues to delicate pinks and pristine whites as fall flowers to plant. These captivating blooms, adorning lush green foliage, command attention and lend an air of elegance to any garden landscape. Whether as focal points in borders or graceful accents in floral arrangements, hydrangeas enchant with their timeless beauty and versatile appeal, making them cherished favorites among gardeners seeking to imbue their outdoor spaces with enchantment and allure. Here is where I recommend buying Endless Summer Hydrangea.
- Plant Type: Perennial
- Suggested USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-9
- Size: 36-120 inches tall (90-300 cm), 36-120 inches wide (90-300 cm)
- Care Requirements: Partial shade to full sun, moist, well-drained soil.
- Expected Blooming: Early summer to late fall
Recommended reading: Fertilizer for Hydrangeas: How and When to Fertilize
Joe Pye Weed (Eutrochium purpureum)
Joe Pye Weed, characterized by its towering, robust stems, showcases clusters of enchanting pinkish-purple flowers that serve as a magnet for fluttering butterflies. Rising majestically above verdant foliage, these blooms create a picturesque scene in gardens and naturalized areas, offering a feast for the eyes and a haven for pollinators. With its commanding presence and wildlife-friendly attributes, Joe Pye Weed stands as a beacon of beauty and biodiversity, enriching outdoor spaces with its graceful silhouette and ecological significance.
- Plant Type: Perennial
- Suggested USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-9
- Size: 36-84 inches tall (90-210 cm), 24-48 inches wide (60-120 cm)
- Care Requirements: Full sun to partial shade, moist, well-drained soil.
- Expected Blooming: Late summer to fall
Marguerite or Oxeye Daisy (Leucanthemum vulgare)
Marguerite or Oxeye Daisy is a quintessential garden classic, with its pristine white petals radiating outward from a sunny yellow center. These cheerful blooms seem to embody the pure, unbridled joy of summer days, adding a refreshing touch of brightness to fall gardens. As they sway gently in the breeze, their delicate petals flutter like butterfly wings, inviting pollinators to bask in their simple yet captivating beauty. The Marguerite’s timeless charm and effortless elegance make it a beloved addition to any autumnal landscape.
- Plant Type: Perennial
- Suggested USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-8
- Size: 12-36 inches tall (30-90 cm), 12-18 inches wide (30-45 cm)
- Care Requirements: Full sun, well-drained soil.
- Expected Blooming: Late spring to early fall
Mums (Chrysanthemum spp.)
Mums, beloved for their autumnal charm, unfurl dense, colorful flower heads in a splendid array of hues, including radiant yellows, fiery oranges, and regal purples, as fall flowers to plant. As fall’s signature blooms, they paint gardens with vibrant splendor, adding a festive touch to seasonal landscapes. These favorites, with their resilient nature and abundant blooms, infuse outdoor spaces with warmth and vitality, epitomizing the essence of autumn and delighting onlookers with their rich and varied palette.
- Plant Type: Perennial
- Suggested USDA Hardiness Zones: 5-9
- Size: 12-36 inches tall (30-90 cm), 12-24 inches wide (30-60 cm)
- Care Requirements: Full sun, well-drained soil.
- Expected Blooming: Late summer to fall
Nasturtium (Tropaeolum spp.)
Nasturtiums, adorned with round leaves and vibrant, funnel-shaped flowers, are cherished for their dual role as ornamental delights and culinary treasures. Renowned for their peppery flavor, these blooms add a zesty kick to salads and dishes, delighting gastronomes with their unique taste. Their cheerful appearance and versatile culinary appeal make them a must-have in gardens, where they not only dazzle with their colorful blooms but also offer a flavorful addition to culinary creations, elevating both the palate and the landscape.
- Plant Type: Annual
- Suggested USDA Hardiness Zones: 9-11
- Size: 12-96 inches tall (30-240 cm), 12-36 inches wide (30-90 cm)
- Care Requirements: Full sun to partial shade, well-drained soil.
- Expected Blooming: Summer to fall
New England Asters (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae)
New England Asters burst forth with abundant clusters of daisy-like flowers, resplendent in shades of regal purple, delicate pink, or serene blue, each adorned with a cheerful yellow center. These enchanting blooms serve as a beacon for pollinators, drawing them in with their nectar-rich allure. A staple of late summer and early fall gardens, New England Asters not only captivate with their vibrant hues but also contribute to the ecological tapestry, supporting a myriad of beneficial insects and adding a burst of color to the seasonal landscape.
- Plant Type: Perennial
- Suggested USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-8
- Size: 36-72 inches tall (90-180 cm), 24-36 inches wide (60-90 cm)
- Care Requirements: Full sun, well-drained soil.
- Expected Blooming: Late summer to fall
Nippon Daisy (Nipponanthemum nipponicum)
Nippon Daisy, known for its hardiness, showcases large white flowers with bright yellow centers, making it an excellent choice for fall flowers to plant. Bringing a classic charm to coastal gardens, this resilient plant flourishes in seaside environments, withstanding salty winds and sandy soils. Its robust nature and striking blooms make it a standout in landscapes, offering a bright, cheerful presence that endures the elements.
- Plant Type: Perennial
- Suggested USDA Hardiness Zones: 5-9
- Size: 24-36 inches tall (60-90 cm), 18-24 inches wide (45-60 cm)
- Care Requirements: Full sun, well-drained soil.
- Expected Blooming: Late summer to fall
Pansies (Pansies spp.)
Pansies are beloved for their cheerful, face-like flowers that come in a delightful array of vibrant colors and intricate patterns. These charming blooms are garden favorites, brightening up landscapes with their whimsical appearance and hardy nature. Perfect for adding splashes of color to borders, containers, and window boxes, pansies thrive in cooler weather, making them ideal for early spring and fall planting.
- Plant Type: Annual
- Suggested USDA Hardiness Zones: 7-10
- Size: 6-9 inches tall (15-23 cm), 6-12 inches wide (15-30 cm)
- Care Requirements: Full sun to partial shade, well-drained soil.
- Expected Blooming: Early spring to fall or winter frosts
Petunia (Petunia spp.)
Petunias offer abundant, trumpet-shaped flowers in a dazzling array of colors, making them ideal for brightening containers, hanging baskets, and garden borders. These versatile and prolific bloomers thrive in sunny spots, providing continuous color from spring through fall. With their vibrant hues and ease of care, petunias are a favorite among gardeners, adding a lively splash of beauty to any outdoor space.
- Plant Type: Annual
- Suggested USDA Hardiness Zones: 10-11
- Size: 6-18 inches tall (15-45 cm), 12-36 inches wide (30-90 cm)
- Care Requirements: Full sun, well-drained soil.
- Expected Blooming: Spring to frost
Pot Marigold (Calendula officinalis)
Pot Marigolds are celebrated for their bright, daisy-like orange or yellow flowers, making them an excellent choice for fall flowers to plant. These versatile plants not only add vibrant color but are also valued for their medicinal properties, frequently used in herbal remedies. Pot Marigolds are easy to grow and maintain, thriving in full sun and well-drained soil.
- Plant Type: Annual
- Suggested USDA Hardiness Zones: 2-11
- Size: 12-24 inches tall (30-60 cm), 12-18 inches wide (30-45 cm)
- Care Requirements: Full sun, well-drained soil.
- Expected Blooming: Spring to frost
Red Salvia (Salvia splendens)
Red Salvia produces tall spikes of vibrant red flowers, creating a stunning display that attracts hummingbirds and other pollinators. These striking plants are perfect for adding height and color to garden borders and flower beds. Red Salvia thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, blooming profusely from spring to fall. Their bold, fiery blossoms and ease of care make them a favorite among gardeners looking to create dynamic, wildlife-friendly landscapes.
- Plant Type: Annual
- Suggested USDA Hardiness Zones: 10-11
- Size: 12-30 inches tall (30-75 cm), 12-18 inches wide (30-45 cm)
- Care Requirements: Full sun, well-drained soil.
- Expected Blooming: Spring to fall
Roses (Rosa spp.)
Roses are timeless garden favorites, cherished for their fragrant, layered blooms that come in a wide range of colors. Their classic beauty and enchanting scent make them a staple in gardens worldwide. Roses thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, rewarding gardeners with stunning flowers from spring to fall. Whether grown in borders, containers, or as climbing varieties, these elegant blooms add a touch of romance and sophistication to any landscape. Here is where I recommend buying Roses.
- Plant Type: Perennial
- Suggested USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-11
- Size: 24-72 inches tall (60-180 cm), 24-72 inches wide (60-180 cm)
- Care Requirements: Full sun, well-drained soil.
- Expected Blooming: Spring to fall
Recommended reading: How to Fertilize Roses: A Comprehensive Guide
Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia)
Russian Sage, with its tall spikes of small, lavender-blue flowers and aromatic, silvery foliage, adds a touch of elegance to fall gardens. This hardy perennial thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it a low-maintenance choice for garden borders and beds. Blooming from late summer to fall, Russian Sage attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, enhancing the ecological value of your garden with its enduring beauty and charm.
- Plant Type: Perennial
- Suggested USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-9
- Size: 36-48 inches tall (90-120 cm), 24-36 inches wide (60-90 cm)
- Care Requirements: Full sun, well-drained soil.
- Expected Blooming: Late summer to fall
Sedum (Sedum spp.)
Sedum, or stonecrop, is a versatile succulent known for its fleshy leaves and clusters of star-shaped flowers, making it an excellent choice for rock gardens and ground cover. This hardy perennial thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, requiring minimal care. Sedum blooms from late summer to fall, displaying vibrant flowers in shades of pink, red, and yellow.
- Plant Type: Perennial
- Suggested USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-9
- Size: 4-24 inches tall (10-60 cm), 6-24 inches wide (15-60 cm)
- Care Requirements: Full sun, well-drained soil.
- Expected Blooming: Late summer to fall
Snapdragon (Antirrhinum majus)
Snapdragons, renowned for their tall spikes of colorful flowers resembling dragon heads, are cherished in gardens. These charming annuals, blooming from spring to fall, offer a spectrum of hues, adding vertical interest and vibrant pops of color to garden beds. Their unique shape and cheerful blooms make them favorites for floral arrangements, enhancing the beauty of any space with their enchanting presence.
- Plant Type: Annual
- Suggested USDA Hardiness Zones: 7-10
- Size: 6-48 inches tall (15-120 cm), 12-24 inches wide (30-60 cm)
- Care Requirements: Full sun, well-drained soil.
- Expected Blooming: Spring to fall
Recommended reading: How to Propagate Snapdragons Step by Step
Sneezeweed (Helenium autumnale)
Sneezeweed has daisy-like flowers in vibrant shades of yellow, orange, and red, adding a burst of color to gardens. Blooming profusely in late summer to fall, this perennial thrives in full sun and moist, well-drained soil. Ideal for borders and wildflower meadows, Sneezeweed’s striking blooms attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Here is where I recommend buying Sneezeweed seeds.
- Plant Type: Perennial
- Suggested USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-8
- Size: 36-60 inches tall (90-150 cm), 18-24 inches wide (45-60 cm)
- Care Requirements: Full sun, moist, well-drained soil.
- Expected Blooming: Late summer to fall
Strawflower (Xerochrysum bracteatum)
Strawflowers boast papery, daisy-like blooms in vivid colors that maintain their shape and hue even when dried. These resilient annuals thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, making them perfect for adding bursts of long-lasting color to garden borders and floral arrangements. Their ability to retain their vibrant appearance when dried makes them popular choices for crafting projects and dried flower arrangements.
- Plant Type: Annual
- Suggested USDA Hardiness Zones: 8-11
- Size: 24-36 inches tall (60-90 cm), 12-24 inches wide (30-60 cm)
- Care Requirements: Full sun, well-drained soil.
- Expected Blooming: Summer to fall
Sumac (Rhus spp.)
Sumac, a shrub or small tree, is renowned for its brilliant red autumn foliage and clusters of vibrant red fruit. This deciduous plant thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, adding a splash of vivid color to fall landscapes. While some varieties are prized for their ornamental value, others are used in culinary and medicinal applications.
- Plant Type: Perennial
- Suggested USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-9
- Size: 36-240 inches tall (90-600 cm), 24-120 inches wide (60-300 cm)
- Care Requirements: Full sun, well-drained soil.
- Expected Blooming: Spring flowers, but the drupes appear in fall
Sunflower (Helianthus annuus)
Sunflowers, towering and iconic, boast large yellow blooms that track the sun’s movement, creating a striking display in gardens. These annuals are not only visually stunning but also produce edible seeds, making them both ornamental and functional. Thriving in full sun and well-drained soil, sunflowers are easy to grow and attract pollinators, enhancing the biodiversity of the garden while adding a touch of natural beauty.
- Plant Type: Annual
- Suggested USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-9
- Size: 36-144 inches tall (90-360 cm), 12-36 inches wide (30-90 cm)
- Care Requirements: Full sun, well-drained soil.
- Expected Blooming: Summer to fall
Sweet Alyssum (Lobularia maritima)
Sweet Alyssum, with its small, honey-scented flowers in delicate shades of white, pink, or purple, adds charm to borders and containers. This annual thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil, making it versatile for various garden settings. Its low-growing habit and sweet fragrance make it ideal for edging pathways or spilling over containers.
- Plant Type: Annual
- Suggested USDA Hardiness Zones: 5-9
- Size: 4-8 inches tall (10-20 cm), 6-12 inches wide (15-30 cm)
- Care Requirements: Full sun to partial shade, well-drained soil.
- Expected Blooming: Spring to fall
Violet (Viola spp.)
Violets, known for their delicate and fragrant flowers in shades of purple, blue, and white, flourish in cooler weather conditions. These perennial beauties add a touch of elegance to gardens with their charming blooms and heartwarming scent. Thriving in partial shade and well-drained soil, violets are perfect for brightening up shady corners or woodland gardens.
- Plant Type: Perennial
- Suggested USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-9
- Size: 4-12 inches tall (10-30 cm), 4-12 inches wide (10-30 cm)
- Care Requirements: Partial shade, well-drained soil.
- Expected Blooming: Late spring to fall frosts
Zinnias (Zinnia spp.)
Zinnias, vibrant and easy-to-grow annuals, boast a wide array of flower colors and shapes, attracting butterflies to the garden. These cheerful blooms thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, making them ideal for beds, borders, and containers. With their vivid hues and prolific flowering, zinnias bring joy and life to any outdoor space, creating a haven for pollinators and a visual feast for garden enthusiasts looking to add vibrant fall flowers to plant.
- Plant Type: Annual
- Suggested USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-10
- Size: 12-48 inches tall (30-120 cm), 12-24 inches wide (30-60 cm)
- Care Requirements: Full sun, well-drained soil.
- Expected Blooming: Summer to frost
Recommended reading: How to Plant Zinnias from Seeds
Fall Flowers to Plant Chart
| Flower | Blooming Season | Annual or Perennial | USDA Hardiness Zones |
|---|---|---|---|
| African Daisies | Late spring to early fall | Annual | 9-11 |
| Amaranth | Summer to fall | Annual | 2-11 |
| Autumn Crocus | Fall | Perennial | 4-8 |
| Autumn Joy Stonecrop | Late summer to fall | Perennial | 3-9 |
| Begonia | Spring to fall | Annual | 10-11 |
| Bidens | Spring to fall | Annual | 9-11 |
| Black-Eyed Susan | Summer to fall | Perennial | 3-9 |
| Blanket Flower | Summer to fall | Perennial | 3-10 |
| Bluebeard | Late summer to fall | Perennial | 5-9 |
| Calibrachoa | Spring to fall | Annual | 9-11 |
| Canna Lily | Summer to fall | Perennial | 8-11 |
| Cockscomb | Summer to fall | Annual | 10-11 |
| Cosmos | Summer to fall | Annual | 2-11 |
| Dahlia | Summer to fall | Perennial | 8-11 |
| Dusty Miller | Late spring to fall frosts | Annual | 8-10 |
| Floss Flower | Spring to frost | Annual | 2-11 |
| Fuchsias | Spring to frost | Perennial | 10-11 |
| Goldenrod | Late summer to fall | Perennial | 3-9 |
| Hydrangeas | Early summer to late fall | Perennial | 3-9 |
| Joe Pye Weed | Late summer to fall | Perennial | 4-9 |
| Marguerite or Oxeye Daisy | Late spring to early fall | Perennial | 4-8 |
| Mums | Late summer to fall | Perennial | 5-9 |
| Nasturtium | Summer to fall | Annual | 9-11 |
| New England Asters | Late summer to fall | Perennial | 4-8 |
| Nippon Daisy | Late summer to fall | Perennial | 5-9 |
| Pansies | Early spring to fall or winter frosts | Annual | 7-10 |
| Petunia | Spring to frost | Annual | 10-11 |
| Pot Marigold | Spring to frost | Annual | 2-11 |
| Red Salvia | Spring to fall | Annual | 10-11 |
| Roses | Spring to fall | Perennial | 4-11 |
| Russian Sage | Late summer to fall | Perennial | 4-9 |
| Sedum | Late summer to fall | Perennial | 3-9 |
| Sneezeweed | Late summer to fall | Perennial | 3-8 |
| Snapdragon | Spring to fall | Annual | 7-10 |
| Strawflower | Summer to fall | Annual | 8-11 |
| Sumac | Spring flowers, but the drupes appear in fall | Perennial | 3-9 |
| Sunflower | Summer to fall | Annual | 4-9 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Spring to fall | Annual | 5-9 |
| Violet | Late spring to fall frosts | Perennial | 3-9 |
| Zinnias | Summer to frost | Annual | 3-10 |
When to Plant Fall Flowers?
Planting times for fall flowers can vary depending on your location and the specific flower species. In general, it’s best to plant fall flowers in late summer or early fall, typically around late August to early September. This allows the plants to establish themselves before the cooler temperatures set in. However, you should always check the recommended planting times for the specific flowers you want to grow, as some may have different optimal planting windows. Additionally, consider factors like your local climate and frost dates when planning your planting schedule. Verify your USDA Hardiness Zone in our post for tailored planting advice.
