The best flowering plants for early- to late-spring color By Anne Balogh — Updated: 04/14/2022
The spectacle put on by flowering bulbs and perennials each spring is one of Mother Nature’s best performances. She keeps them hidden under a blanket of snow-covered soil until the lengthening days and warming sun signal that it’s time for their grand entrance. Right on cue, they rise out of their beds to banish our winter blues and remind us that spring has arrived. By planting a wide variety of spring flowers, you can enjoy this glorious display from late February through mid-June. Here are some of the top performers for season-long color.
On this page: Early to Mid-Spring | Late Spring to Early Summer
On this page:
- EARLY TO MID-SPRING
- LATE SPRING TO EARLY SUMMER
EARLY TO MID-SPRING
Wedding Party® ‘True Love’ hellebore. Photo by: Proven Winners
HELLEBORE
Helleborus x hybridus
Zones: 4-9
Exposure: Partial shade
Also known as Lenten rose, this spring flower comes in many colors and can really brighten up shady locations. Hellebores bloom early in the season with flowers lasting two months or longer. Hellebores grow best in an area protected from extreme conditions, such as extreme cold or full sunlight.
Learn more about growing hellebores.
Snowdrop. Photo by: Christiane / Pixabay.com
SNOWDROP
Galanthus
Zones: 3-9, depending on the variety
Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
Snowdrops prefer cooler climates and light shade and defy the cold by pushing their white flowers up through a blanket of snow. Their short stature makes them the perfect choice for woodland or rock gardens and borders. For the best massing effect, plant snowdrops in clusters of at least 25 bulbs, spacing them about 3 inches apart.
Read more about growing and caring for snowdrops.
Daffodil. Photo by: Capri23auto / Pixabay.com
DAFFODIL
Narcissus
Zones: 3-9
Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
A dependable and easy flower to grow, daffodils require very little care and are a great choice for beginning gardeners. Their trumpet-shaped flowers are typically yellow or white and they grow best in full sun or light shade. For best results, plant in masses in a perennial garden, or let them naturalize in a woodland garden.
Learn more about growing daffodils.
Grape Hyacinth. Photo by: PublicDomainPictures / Pixabay.com
GRAPE HYACINTH
Muscari
Zones: 3-9
Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
The deep violet flowers of grape hyacinth bloom in early spring and last as long as three weeks. Their bell-shaped flowers resemble upright clusters of miniature grapes. They grow best in full sun or partial shade and are easy to care for. They will naturalize and spread through an area, though not aggressively.
Read more about how to grow grape hyacinth.
Bearded Iris. Photo by: Marc Pascual / Pixabay.com
BEARDED IRIS
Iris germanica
Zones: 3-9
Exposure: Full sun
Bearded iris come in a range colors, heights, and bloom times. The shortest varieties bloom as early as mid-March, with taller irises blooming from mid-May to June; some even re-bloom in summer or fall. For best results, plant bearded iris between July and September, while they are dormant.
Learn more about growing iris.
Dutch Crocus. Photo by: HansLinde / Pixabay.com
DUTCH CROCUS
Crocus vernus
Zones: 3-8
Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
Dutch crocus flowers bloom in early spring and flowers last for about three weeks. Flowers close at night and open up in the morning. Plants perform best in gritty, well-drained soils. Mass in lawns, under trees or in sunny woodland areas.
Learn more about growing crocus flowers.
Primrose. Photo by: Walters Gardens, Inc
PRIMROSE
Primula
Zones: 4-8
Exposure: Partial shade
Blooming in early spring, primrose comes in many vibrant colors. They prefer rich, well-drained soil, regular water, partial sun to deep shade, and perform best in cooler climates. Primrose combine well and can be naturalized in a woodland setting or use as an accent in a mixed border or container.
Winter Aconite. Photo By: Just killing time / Pixabay.com
WINTER ACONITE
Eranthis hyemalis
Zones: 3-7
Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
Winter aconite is a late winter to early spring bloomer with cup-shaped, upward facing, bright yellow, flowers. These plants will often push their flowers up through the snow. They enjoy full sun at the time of blooming and then the increasing shade as trees leaf out overhead.
Bloodroot. Photo by: YREA / Pixabay.com
BLOODROOT
Sanguinaria canadensis
Zones: 3-8
Exposure: Partial to full shade
Bloodroot is a stemless wildflower that blooms in early spring. The flowers are short lived (1-2 days), and open in the sun and close at night. Bloodroot is best when planted in mass in shaded areas of woodland, wildflower, native plant or rock gardens where plants can be allowed to naturalize.
Photo by: Janet Loughrey
BLEEDING HEART
Dicentra
Zones: 3-9
Exposure: Partial sun
Bleeding heart bears white, pink, or red heart-shaped flowers on arching stems above fern-like leaves. Plant these alongside bold-leafed plants that will grow up and cover the dying foliage. They grow best in rich, well-draining soil with regular moisture.
Learn more about how to grow bleeding heart plants.
Forget-me-not. Photo by: Janet Loughrey
FORGET-ME-NOT
Myosotis sylvatica
Zones: 3-9, depending on the species
Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
Forget-me-not, is a hairy, tufted, spring-flowering plant. They are easily grown in organically rich, consistently moist, well-drained soils. Plant where they can naturalize, as they spread aggressively.
Trillium. Photo by: Wokandapix / Pixabay.com
TRILLIUM
Trillium
Zones: 3-9, depending on the species
Exposure: Partial sun
Trilliums feature three leaves in a spiral pattern with a single flower. Blossom colors sometimes appear yellowish bronze or reddish-green. Flowers often have a sweet but faint fragrance. The blooms give way to berry-like capsules and seeds are disbursed by ants.
Read more about growing trillium flowers.
Lily-of-the-Valley. Photo by: Walters Gardens, Inc
LILY-OF-THE-VALLEY
Convallaria majalis
Zones: 2-7
Exposure: Partial sun to shade
Lily-of-the-valley blooms dainty bell-shaped flowers in the spring and have a heavenly fragrance. The lance-shaped leaves last all summer, serving as an attractive groundcover. This shade-loving plant isn’t fussy about soil, but will spread aggressively, so avoid placing it near perennial gardens or borders.
See more about growing lily-of-the-valley plants.
Pansy. Photo by: Caranfinwen/Pixabay.com
PANSY
Viola x wittrockiana
Zones: 6-10
Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
Popular bedding plants for cool weather, pansies come in a wide variety of colors often with contrasting markings in the center. Pansies are usually grown as annuals or biennials. The plants will inevitably succumb to the summer heat, at which point they should be removed from the garden.
Learn more about growing pansies.
LATE SPRING TO EARLY SUMMER
Flowering Onion. Photo by: Walters Gardens, Inc
FLOWERING ONION
Allium
Zones: 3-8, depending on variety
Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
Blooming in late spring, the spherical blooms of alliums are striking in any garden, and their scent helps keep unwanted pests away. They don’t need much space to grow and are great among any annual or perennial garden. Alliums grow best in full sun and well-drained soil. Allow the foliage to die back naturally before removing it. Divide them if they become overcrowded, and replant the bulbs in the fall.
Learn more about growing flowering onion plants.
Paeonia lactiflora. Photo by: PaylessImages / 123RF
PEONY
Paeonia
Zones: 2-8, depending on species
Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
This classic spring favorite is grown for its large showy blooms that come in a range of colors. Plants come in bush or tree form, with single or double fragrant flowers that are good for fresh bouquets.
Learn more about how to grow peonies.
Bloomerang® Dark Purple. Photo by: Proven Winners
LILAC
Syringa
Zones: Most are hardy in Zones 3-8, with a few hardy to Zone 2 or Zone 9.
Exposure: Full sun
An old-time standard of homesteads and cottage-style gardens, the small fragrant flower panicles of lilac occur in clusters, with shades of white, purple, pink, blue, or yellow. This reliable shrub is exceptionally hardy, low maintenance, and long-lived.
Learn more about how to grow lilacs.
Color Spires® 'Violet Riot'. Photo by: Proven Winners
SALVIA
Salvia
Zones: 4-9, depending on the species
Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
Salvia is a large genus of annuals and perennials that includes varieties that bloom in mid to late spring. This mint relative produces aromatic foliage and long-lasting flowers that come in a range of colors and shapes. Plants are easy-care, drought tolerant, and low maintenance.
Learn more about how to grow salvia plants.
Photo by: Fabian Junge / Shutterstock
PIN CUSHION FLOWER
Scabiosa
Zones: 3-11, depending on the species
Exposure: Full sun
Frilly pincushion-like flowers bloom on compact plants from late spring through summer in shades of pink, white, blue, lavender or chocolate. Grow this reliable perennial in borders, rock gardens or massed in the landscape.
'Bridal Veil' astilbe. Photo by: Proven Winners
ASTILBE
Astilbe
Zones: 3-9, depending on the species
Exposure: Partial to full shade
Stately flower plumes add elegance to woodland borders and shade gardens. This water lover thrives along streams or ponds. Combine with ferns, bleeding heart, and columbine for elegant springtime color.
Learn more about how to grow astilbe.
Perfecto Mundo® Epic Pink azalea. Photo by: Proven Winners
AZALEA
Rhododendron
Zones: 3-9, depending on the species
Exposure: Partial to full shade
Closely related to rhododendrons, these versatile deciduous or evergreen shrubs are useful in foundation plantings, as hedging, in mixed borders, or massed in the landscape. Trumpet-shaped flowers come in a wide range of colors.
Learn more about how to grow azaleas.
Happy Jack® Purple clematis. Photo by: Proven Winners
CLEMATIS
Rhododendron
Zones: 4-9, depending on the species, with a few suitable for Zone 3 or 10
Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
One of the most popular flowering vines, clematis produces flowers in a wide range of colors, shapes and sizes. Use these vigorous deciduous or evergreen climbers to cover arbors, trellises, fences, or walls.
Learn more about how to grow clematis vines.
Photo by: Flower_Garden / Shutterstock
CRANESBILL
Geranium
Zones: 3-9, depending on the species
Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
Not to be confused with annual geranium (Pelargonium spp.), this tough long-blooming perennial is a favorite companion for rose bushes. Use in mixed borders, as a groundcover, or massed in the landscape. Open flowers occur in shades of pink, purple, white, or blue.
Photo by: Hudson Valley Seed Library
TULIP
Tulipa
Zones: 3-8, depending on the species
Exposure: Full sun
One of the most beloved spring flowering bulbs, tulips occur in nearly every color except blue. Plant this versatile spring bloomer in beds, borders, containers, rock gardens, or massed in the landscape.
Learn more about how to grow tulips.
Photo by: Glenn W. Wheeler / Shutterstock
COLUMBINE
Aquilegea
Zones: 3-9, depending on the species
Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
Native to mountainous regions throughout the Northern Hemisphere, this charming perennial produces bonnet-shaped nodding flowers in colors of pink, blue, purple, white, yellow, chocolate, red, or peach. Add color to woodland gardens, mixed borders, or rock gardens.
Photo by: Proven Winners
ANEMONE
Anemone
Zones: 3-9, depending on the species
Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
Charming daisy or poppy-like flowers occur in colors of pink, white, blue, red, pink, or purple. Use these groundcover or upright plants in woodland borders, mixed plantings, containers, rockeries, or massed as an underplanting.
Learn more about how to grow tulips.
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Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts
As an expert in gardening and horticulture, I can provide you with information about the concepts used in the article "The best flowering plants for early- to late-spring color" by Anne Balogh. I have extensive knowledge and hands-on experience in this field, which I will demonstrate by discussing each concept mentioned in the article.
Flowering Bulbs and Perennials
Flowering bulbs and perennials are plants that bloom and produce flowers year after year. They are known for their ability to provide vibrant colors and beauty to gardens, especially during the spring season. These plants go through a dormant period during the winter months and then emerge in the spring, producing flowers that can last for weeks or even months. They are a popular choice among gardeners for adding visual interest and variety to their landscapes.
Spring Flowers
Spring flowers are a specific category of plants that bloom during the spring season. They are often associated with the renewal and rebirth that comes with the arrival of warmer weather. Spring flowers come in a wide range of colors, shapes, and sizes, offering a diverse array of options for gardeners to choose from. These flowers can be planted in various locations, including shady areas, woodland gardens, rock gardens, borders, and containers.
Hellebore
Hellebore, also known as Lenten rose, is a spring flower that thrives in partial shade. It is a popular choice for shady locations as it can brighten up these areas with its colorful blooms. Hellebores are known for their long-lasting flowers, which can bloom for up to two months or more. They are best grown in areas protected from extreme conditions such as extreme cold or full sunlight.
Snowdrop
Snowdrops are early spring flowers that are known for their ability to push through a blanket of snow. They prefer cooler climates and light shade, making them an excellent choice for woodland or rock gardens and borders. Snowdrops are typically planted in clusters to create a massing effect and spaced about 3 inches apart. They can add a touch of elegance and beauty to any garden.
Daffodil
Daffodils are another popular choice for early spring color. They are easy to grow and require very little care, making them a great choice for beginners. Daffodils produce trumpet-shaped flowers in various shades of yellow and white. They prefer full sun or light shade and can be planted in masses in a perennial garden or allowed to naturalize in a woodland garden.
Grape Hyacinth
Grape hyacinth is a spring flower that blooms in early spring and lasts for about three weeks. Its deep violet flowers resemble clusters of miniature grapes. Grape hyacinth is easy to care for and can grow in full sun or partial shade. It has the ability to naturalize and spread through an area, adding a touch of vibrant color to the landscape.
Bearded Iris
Bearded iris is a spring flower that comes in a range of colors, heights, and bloom times. Some varieties even re-bloom in summer or fall. Bearded iris prefers full sun and is best planted between July and September while it is dormant. These flowers can add a stunning visual impact to any garden with their vibrant colors and unique flower structures.
Dutch Crocus
Dutch crocus flowers bloom in early spring and last for about three weeks. They are known for their ability to open up in the morning and close at night. Dutch crocus plants perform best in gritty, well-drained soils and can be massed in lawns, under trees, or in sunny woodland areas. They are a great choice for adding pops of color to the garden.
Primrose
Primrose is a spring flower that blooms in early spring and comes in many vibrant colors. It prefers rich, well-drained soil, regular water, and partial sun to deep shade. Primroses can be naturalized in a woodland setting or used as accents in mixed borders or containers. They are a popular choice for adding a splash of color to shady areas.
Winter Aconite
Winter aconite is a late winter to early spring bloomer that produces bright yellow cup-shaped flowers. These plants often push their flowers up through the snow, creating a beautiful contrast. Winter aconite enjoys full sun at the time of blooming and then prefers increasing shade as trees leaf out overhead. They can add a cheerful touch to any garden during the early spring season.
Bloodroot
Bloodroot is a stemless wildflower that blooms in early spring. Its flowers are short-lived, opening in the sun and closing at night. Bloodroot is best planted in mass in shaded areas of woodland, wildflower, native plant, or rock gardens. These plants can naturalize and spread, creating a stunning carpet of white flowers.
Bleeding Heart
Bleeding heart is a perennial plant that produces heart-shaped flowers in white, pink, or red. It grows best in rich, well-draining soil with regular moisture. Bleeding heart plants are often planted alongside bold-leafed plants that will cover the dying foliage. They add a touch of elegance and charm to any garden.
Forget-me-not
Forget-me-not is a hairy, tufted, spring-flowering plant that can be easily grown in organically rich, consistently moist, well-drained soils. These plants have aggressive spreading tendencies, so they are often planted where they can naturalize. Forget-me-nots come in various colors, including pink, white, blue, lavender, or chocolate.
Trillium
Trillium is a plant that features three leaves in a spiral pattern with a single flower. These flowers can appear yellowish bronze or reddish-green and often have a faint fragrance. Trillium plants produce berry-like capsules, and their seeds are disbursed by ants. They are a unique addition to woodland borders and mixed plantings.
Lily-of-the-Valley
Lily-of-the-valley is a shade-loving plant that blooms dainty bell-shaped flowers in the spring. It has lance-shaped leaves that last throughout the summer, serving as an attractive groundcover. While lily-of-the-valley isn't fussy about soil, it can spread aggressively, so it's important to avoid planting it near other perennial gardens or borders.
Pansy
Pansies are popular bedding plants for cool weather. They come in a wide variety of colors, often with contrasting markings in the center. Pansies are usually grown as annuals or biennials and are known for their ability to add vibrant color to gardens. However, they are not heat-tolerant and will succumb to summer heat, at which point they should be removed from the garden.
These are just some of the concepts mentioned in the article. If you have any specific questions or need more information about a particular concept, feel free to ask!
