As autumn sets in and the days grow shorter, it’s easy to think the garden has passed its prime. However, with the right long-blooming fall flowers, your garden can remain vibrant and full of color throughout the cooler months. If you’re looking to add flowers that will bloom well into fall and even through the first frosts, here are five purple-flowering species that will transform your garden into a stunning autumn display.
1. Asters
Asters are one of the most popular fall flowers, offering stunning colors from white to purple. With over 250 varieties, asters are perfect for extending your garden’s beauty into the cooler months. Among the best varieties for fall blooming are:
- Novi-belgii (New York asters): These asters come in a wide range of colors, from white to purple, and are perfect for brightening up your garden late into the season.
- Novae-angliae: Known for their hardiness, these asters bloom profusely, making them a reliable choice for fall.
- Aster ericoides: Featuring small, star-shaped flowers, this variety creates a misty, airy effect, adding texture to flowerbeds.
- Aster cordifolius: With delicate flowers, this variety is perfect for borders or rockeries, offering a gentle touch to your garden.
2. Japanese Anemones
Japanese anemones are perfect for creating a graceful, fall garden. They produce either single or double flowers in shades of white, pink, or purple, and are ideal for semi-shaded areas. These plants bloom from August to October, continuing through until the first frosts. Their enduring beauty makes them a popular choice for amateur gardeners who want long-lasting fall blooms.
3. Chrysanthemums
Chrysanthemums, also known as mums, are classic fall flowers that are beloved for their vibrant colors and long blooming period. These flowers can endure through the cooler weather, even blooming under the first snow. In addition to purple, chrysanthemums come in a variety of colors, and their versatility makes them a staple for any autumn garden. They’re known for being hardy, often continuing to bloom until the first frosts.
4. Sedums
Sedums, a hardy succulent plant, are famous for their long flowering period and ability to withstand harsh conditions. These plants can thrive even in temperatures as low as -15°C, making them an excellent choice for gardens in colder climates. Sedums require minimal maintenance, offering not only long-lasting blooms but also resilience during fall and early winter. Their unique form and texture bring an interesting contrast to the fall garden.
5. Cyclamens of Naples
Cyclamens of Naples are known for their striking blooms, which appear in various shades of purple, white, and pink. While they are relatively easy to grow, they thrive best in cool and shady conditions. These flowers can bloom for 8 to 10 weeks, making them a great addition for late fall and early winter color. However, be mindful of the climate—cyclamens prefer temperatures between 12-20°C, so they may not perform well in extreme heat.
Create a Vibrant Fall Garden
As you can see, fall doesn’t have to mean the end of beautiful blooms. With these long-blooming fall flowers, you can enjoy vibrant colors and lovely scents until the first frost. Whether you’re looking for something with purple petals or a mix of different colors, these flowers can brighten your garden during the cooler months, lifting your spirits as the days get shorter.
Why not create your own fall flower haven with these beautiful and resilient species? Your garden will be the envy of the neighborhood, offering a splash of color even when the gray clouds return.
