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Click on underlined plant names to see a picture.
Low = under 15 inches, Medium = 15 inches to 30 inches, Tall = over 30 inches
PPL means that the perennial is included in the Portland Plant List of recommended plants.
FR = Fire Resistant
Low Spring Perennials
Medium Spring Perennials
Tall Spring Perennials
Low Summer Perennials
Medium Summer Perennials
Tall Summer Perennials
Low Fall Perennials
Medium Fall Perennials
Tall Fall Perennials
Low Winter Perennials
Medium Winter Perennials
Tall Winter Perennials
Low All Year Perennials
Medium All Year Perennials
Tall All Year Perennials
Low Spring Perennials
Scientific name USDA Zone Height X Width Description
Common name Water Exposure
Ajuga reptans 3-9 5" X 12" Evergreen. Blue flowers. Green
Carpet Bugle Med. Sun-Part bronze purple or varieg. leaves. FR
Anemone blanda 4 4" X 6" Bulb. Single blue, pink or white
Windflower Low Part Sun flower in March.
Anemone pulsatilla 5 1' x 1' Low mound of feathery leaves.
Pasque Flower Med. Sun-Part Violet flowers in spring.
Arabis caucasica 4-9 6" X 2' White flowers on fleshy leaves in
Rock Cress Med. Sun March to April. Good rock garden.
Arctostaphylos uva-ursi 3-8 8" X 4' Native evergreen. Pink flowers.
Kinnikinnick Low Sun-Part Red berries. Good groundcover.PNP FR
Arenaria montana 5-8 4" X 18" Low mound of white flowers from
Montana Sandwort Med. Sun-Part March to April. Likes lime.
Armeria maritima 3-9 10" X 1' Native evergreen. Mound of leaves.
Sea Thrift Med. Sun-Part Pink or white flowers April-June. FR
Asarum caudatum 4-8 4" X 2' Native. Large, heart shaped leaves.
Wild Ginger High Shade-Part Brown flowers early Spring. PNP
Asarum splendens 5-9 6" X 2' Large, heart shaped leaves with
Chinese Ginger High Shade-Part white stripes. Tiny red flowers.
Aubrieta deltoidea 4-8 5" X 15" Low mat of red to blue flowers in
Rock Cress Med. Sun-Part March to May. Good in rock walls. FR
Aurinia saxatilis 4-8 10" X 1' Evergreen. Green gray leaves with
Basket Of Gold Med. Sun-Part yellow flowers from April-June. FR
Bellis perennis 4 5" X 6" Red, rose, and white flowers in
English Daisy Med. Sun-Part April and May. Good in lawns.
Bergenia cordifolia 3-8 12" X 2' Evergreen. Large heart shaped
Heartleaf Bergenia Med. Sun-Part leaves. Pink flowers in spring. FR
Calceolaria biflora 6 12" X 8" Evergreen. Pouch-like flowers of
Pocketbook Flower Med. Shade-Part yellow and red in May and June.
Ceanothus gloriosus 7-9 12" X 3' Evergreen. Blue flowers in late
Point Reyes Ceanothus Low Sun spring. Good groundcover. FR
Convallaria majalis 3-8 6" X 15" Small fragrant bell-shaped white
Lily-of-the-Valley Med. Shade-Part flowers in May. Poisonous.
Cornus unalaschkensis 1-8 3" X 2' Native deciduous. White flowers in
Western Bunchberry Med. Shade-Part spring. Red berries in fall. PNP
Cotoneaster dammeri 1-8 5" X 6' Evergreen. White flowers in
Bearberry Cotoneaster Low Sun-Shade spring. Orange berries in fall.
Cotula squalida 4-8 2" X 1' Evergreen. Button flowers in May-
Brass Buttons Med. Part Sun June. Fern-like foliage creeps.
Crocus vernus 3-8 4" X 4" Bulb. White, pink, blue, or purple
Dutch Crocus Low Sun-Part flowers in February to March. FR
Dianthus species 4-8 1-3' X 1' Low mound or tall cut flower in
Carnation or Pinks Med. Sun-Part pink, red and white May to July. FR
Dicentra formosa 3 12" X 18" Native. Dark fern-like leaves.
Western Bleeding Heart Low Shade-Part Pink flowers April to June. PNP
Epimedium grandiflorum 5-9 1' X 3' Evergreen. Red white pink or
Bishop's Hat Med. Part Shade violet flowers. Bronze leaves.
Fragaria 'Lipstick' 3-9 4" X 24" Evergreen groundcover. Large, rose
Lipstick Strawberry Med. Sun-Part colored flowers in spring.
Fragaria chiloensis 5-9 6" X 1' Native evergreen groundcover. White
Wild Strawberry Med. Sun-Part flowers in spring. Red berries. FR
Galanthus nivalis 3-9 8" X 8" Bulb. Dainty white bells in Feb. to
Snowdrop Med. Shade-Part March. Naturalizes under trees.
Galium odoratum 4-8 8" X 2' Small white flowers on dense mat
Sweet Woodruff Med. Shade of green from May to August.
Gaultheria procumbens 3-8 6" X 18" Native evergreen. Pink bell flowers
Wintergreen Med. Sun-Shade in spring. Red edible berries.
Geranium macrorrhizum 4-8 1' X 2' Magenta flowers in May to July.
Bigroot Geranium Low Sun-Part Groundcover. Attracts butterflies.
Heucherella tiarelloides 4-8 1' X 2' Hybrids between Heuchera and Tia-
Foam Flower Med. Part shade rella. Colorful foliage.
Hyacinthus orientalis 3-9 8" X 6" Bulb. Very fragrant spikes of blue,
Hyacinth Low Sun-Part white, pink or purple April-May.
Iberis sempervirens 4-8 8" X 1' Evergreen. White flowers in April
Candytuft Low Sun cover low mound of small leaves.
Iris "Dutch Hybrid" 5-8 8" X 5" Bulb. Slender stalks topped by iris
Dutch Iris Med. Sun-Part flower in many colors in April.
Leontipodium alpinum 3-8 6" X 8" White woolly leaves. Flowers and
Edelweis Med. Sun-Part floral leaves in May to July.
Leucojum vernum 4-8 6" X 6" Bulb. Clusters of white bells in
Snowflake Med. Shade March. Naturalizes under trees.
Lewisia cotyledon 3-8 10" X 5" Evergreen. Pink to orange flowers
Lewisia Low Sun-Part in May-Aug. above rosette leaves.
Lithodora diffusa 5-8 5" X 3' Evergreen. Brilliant blue flowers
Lithospermum Med. Sun-Part May to July. Likes good drainage.
Mazus reptans 5-8 2" X 18" Evergreen groundcover. Blue flowers
Mazus Med. Sun-Part in spring. Moist well drained.
Muscari armeniacum 4-8 6" X 6" Bulb. Bright blue flowers on 6"
Grape Hyacinth Low Sun-Part spikes in March and April.
Myosotis sylvatica 3-8 8" X 8" Blue, pink, or white flowers May to
Forget-Me-Not Med. Sun-Shade September. Spreads easily.
Narcissus species 4-8 1-2' X 1' Bulb. Yellow, orange, or white
Daffodils Low Sun-Part flowers in March to April. Easy.
Oxalis oregana 3 7" X 30" Native groundcover for shade. White
Wood sorrel Med. Shade-Part flowers April-June. PPL
Pachysandra terminalis 5-9 8" X 1' Evergreen. White flower spikes.
Japanese Spurge High Shade-Part Dark green leaves. Groundcover. FR
Phlox subulata 3-9 4" X 1' Evergreen. Dense mat of color in
Creeping Phlox Med. Sun May-June. Needs good drainage. FR
Ranunculus asiaticus 4 12" X 1' Large yellow, orange, red, pink, or
Persian Ranunculus Med. Sun white flowers in April to June.
Rhodohypoxis baurii 4 4" X 4" Mass of rose red flowers in spring
Rhodohypoxis Med. Sun and summer. Good rock garden.
Sagina sublata 4 2" X 1' Dense mat of dark green with small
Irish Moss Med. Sun-Part white flowers in spring.
Sagina sublata 'Aurea' 4 2" X 1' Dense mat of light green with small
Scotch Moss Med. Sun-Part white flowers in spring.
Saponaria species 3 1' X 3' Dark, oval leaves with pink flowers
Soapwort Low Sun in spring. Good groundcover.
Saxifraga species 4 1' X 18" Small white star-like flowers with
Rockfoil Med. Shade-Part a reddish tinge in April-June.
Silene species 5 12" X 15" Groundcover. Magenta to cream flow-
Moss Campion Med. Sun-Part ers in spring.
Sisyrinchium angustifolium 3 1' X 1' Green or bluish leaves. Purple &
Blue-eyed Grass Med. Sun yellow flowers in May to June.
Sisyrinchium idahoensis 3-8 12" X 12" Native. Thin, grass-like leaves.
Idaho Blue-eyed Grass Low Sun Purple flowers on tip of stalk. FR
Tiarella cordifolia 4 8" X 2' Fast spreading groundcovers. White
Foamflower High Shade-Part to pink flowers.
Trillium ovatum 4 1' X 6" Native. Three leaves with white or
Wake Robin High Shade-Part yellow flowers in March.
Tulipa hybrid 4 6-24" X 8" Bulb. Many colors of flowers in
Tulip Med. Sun-Part March to May. Needs good drainage
Verbena canadensis 6 10" X 3' Evergreen. Purple flowers spring to
Homestead Purple Verbena Med. Sun fall. Good groundcover.
Vinca minor 4 1' X 3' Evergreen. Blue, white or purple
Periwinkle Med. Sun-Shade flowers in spring and summer. FR
Viola glabella 6 8" X 8" Native. Small heart-shaped flowers.
Yellow Wood Violet Med. Shade-Part Small yellow spring flowers. PPL
Viola odorata 6 6" X 1' Dark purple flowers and a lovely
Sweet Violet Med. Sun-Shade fragrance in February to April.
Waldestenia fragarioides 2 3" X 8" Evergreen. Strawberry-like plant.
Barren Strawberry Med. Sun-Part Yellow flowers in spring.
Medium Spring Perennials
Scientific name USDA Zone Height X Width Description
Common name Water Exposure
Allium cristophii 4-8 2' X 1' Bulb. Large round clusters of
Star of Persia Low Sun lavender flowers in May.
Anemone coronaria 6 2' X 15" Bulb. Red, blue, purple or white
Wind Flower Med. Part shade flowers May and June. Good cut.
Aquilegia formosa 3-9 2' X 1' Native. Red flowers in May to Aug.
Western Columbine Low Part Sun Attracts hummingbirds. PPL FR
Aquilegia species 3 2' X 18" Red white or blue flowers in May.
Columbine Med. Sun-Shade Attracts hummingbirds/butterflies
Brunnera macrophylla 5 15" X 1' Airy clusters of blue flowers above
Siberian Bugloss High Part Shade heart shaped leaves in March-June
Camassia quamash 6 18" X 12" Native bulb. Blue flowers in
Common Camas High Sun Spring. PPL
Chrysanthemum coccinneum 4 30" X 2' Finely divided leaves. Pink, red,
Painted Daisy Med. Sun or white flowers in May.
Dianella tasmanica 7 2' X 2' Evergreen. Blue/purple flowers in
Flax Lily Med. Sun-Part spring. Blue-green leaves.
Dicentra formosa 3 30" X 3' Native. Dainty pink or white
Bleeding Heart Low Shade-Part flowers in April to June.
Dicentra spectabilis 3 30" X 3' Dainty pink or white flowers in
Bleeding Heart Med. Shade-Part April to June.
Doronicum cordatum 4 18" X 12" Low mound. Yellow daisy flowers on
Leopard's Bane Med. Part Shade tall stems April-June. Good cut.
Euphorbia species 6 2' X 2' Green to purple leaves. Chartreuse
Spurge Low Sun to burgundy flowers.
Fern, Dryopteris erythrosora 6 18" X 18" Evergreen. New fronds are coppery
Autumn Fern Low Shade-Part red, mature to green.
Freesia species 3 15" X 1' Bulb. Fragrant flowers in many
Freesia Med. Sun-Part colors in May. Good cut flower.
Fritillaria species 5 2-4' X 1' Bulb. Unusual flowers of orange,
Fritillaria Med. Sun-Part yellow or checkered purple/white.
Gaultheria shallon 6 2' X 3' Native evergreen. Pink flowers in
Salal Med. Sun-Shade spring. Black edible berries. PPL
Helleborus argutifolius 6-8 2' X 2' Evergreen. Pointed leaves. Pale
Corsican Hellebore Low Shade-Part green flowers Feb-April.
Helleborus orientalis 4 18" X 1' Leathery dark green leaves. White,
Lenten Rose High Shade-Part pink, red, yellow, green flowers.
Heuchera sanguinea 3-8 15" X 18" Evergreen. Tall stalks of dainty
Coral Bells Med. Sun-Part coral flowers in April-August. FR
Hyacinthoides hispanica 4-8 15" X 12" Bulb. Spikes of blue white or pink
Spanish Wood Hyacinths Med. Sun-Part flowers in April-May. Easy to grow.
Hyacinthoides non-scriptus 4-8 15" X 12" Bulb. Spikes of blue flowers in
Bluebells, Wood Hyacinths Med. Sun-Part March to May. Easy to grow.
Iris tenax 5-9 15" X 18" Native. Purple flowers with yellow
Oregon iris Low Sun-Part or white. Drought tolerant. PPL FR
Libertia peregrinans 7 18" x 18" Narrow leaves are bright orange on
New Zealand Iris Med. Sun-Shade the edges. White flowers Spring.
Ligularia tussilaginea (Farfugiu 8 2' X 2' Thick leaves with yellow spots.
Leopard Plant Med. Sun-Part Yellow flowers. Good indoors.
Lychnis coronaria 6 2' X 18" Silky white foliage. Magenta to
Rose campion Low Sun-Part crimson flowers from May to July.
Mertensia virginica 3 20" X 1' Native. Pink turning to blue petti-
Virginia Bluebells Med. Shade-Part coat flowers in April and May.
Narcissus hybrids 4-8 24" X 20' Bulb. Yellow, orange, pink or white
Daffodils Low Sun-Part flowers in March to April. Easy.
Narcissus tazetta 8-9 14" X 12' Bulb. Fragrant yellow or white
Paperwhites Low Sun-Part flowers in March to April. Easy.
Paeonia lactiflora 4 2' X 2' Ever popular plant in many colors
Bush Peony Med. Sun-Part in May. Good cut flowers.
Papaver nudicaule 3-7 15" X 10" 3-4" flowers in many colors from
Iceland Poppy Low Sun-Part April to September. Good cut. FR
Polygonatum biflorum 3 30" X 2' Pairs of greenish white flowers on
Solomon's Seal Med. Shade-Part arching stems. Blue-black berries
Rosmarinus officinalis 8 2' X 5' Aromatic leaves with blue flowers
Rosemary Low Sun in spring. Needs good drainage.
Tricyrtis hirta 6 2' X 2' Purple spotted flowers in spring.
Toad Lily High Shade-Part
Trollius species 3 2' X 2' Deciduous. Gold or yellow flowers
Globeflower High Sun-Part May-June.
Zantedeschia species 2 2' X 2' White, yellow or pink flowers in
Calla Lily High Sun-Part May.
Tall Spring Perennials
Scientific name USDA Zone Height X Width Description
Common name Water Exposure
Aster frikartii 5 3' X 2' Large lavender blue daisies from
Frikart's Aster Med. Sun May to frost if deadheaded.
Delphinium spp. 3-7 3-6' X 2' Tall spikes of blue, lavender, or
Larkspur Med. Sun white in June. Good cut. FR
Dierama pulcherrimum 7 5' X 5' Sword-like leaves. Purple to white
Wand Flower High Sun bell-shaped flowers May-June.
Digitalis purpurea 4 4' X 1' Spike of white to pink spotted
Pink Foxglove Med. Part shade flowers. Leaves are poisonous.
Euryops pectinatus 8 5' X 3' Bright yellow daisy-like flowers
Golden Shrub Daisy Low Sun March-October. Needs protection.
Hesperis matronalis 5 3' X 2' Old fashioned plant. Fragrant lav-
Dame's Rocket Med. Sun-Part ender or pink flowers May-June.
Incarvillea delavayi 5 3' X 2' Clusters of 3" long purple trumpet
Hardy Gloxinia Med. Sun-Part in May-July.
Iris ensata 3-9 3' X 2' Large white, lavender, purple or
Japanese Iris High Sun-Part blue flowers in May. Wet or dry. FR
Iris hybrids 3-9 3' X 2' Many sizes and colors of flowers in
Bearded Iris Med. Sun May and June. FR
Iris sibirica 3-9 3' X 2' White, yellow, lavender, purple or
Siberian Iris High Sun-Part blue flowers in May. Wet or dry. FR
Paeonia suffruticosa 6 5' X 5' Large flowers up to 1' across in
Tree Peony Med. Sun-Part many colors in May. Some double.
Rheum palmatum 3 4' X 3' Deciduous. Green, bronze & dark red
Ornamental Rhubarb High Sun-Part leaves. Red flower stalks in May.
Rodgersia aesculifolia 5 5' X 3' Creamy white flowers late spring to
Rodger's Flower High Shade-Part early summer. Huge fingered leaf.
Romneya coulteri 7-9 6' X 3' Fragrant large white flowers May
Matilija Poppy Low Sun to July. Good cut flowers.
Sidalcea cusickii 7-9 3' X 1' Native. Pink flower spikes May-July
Cusick's Checkermallow Med. Sun-Part Attracts butterflies.
Sidalcea malviflora 6 3' X 2' Pink or red flowers resemble holly-
Checkermallow Med. Sun-Part hocks. Attracts hummingbirds.
Smilacina racemosa 3 3' X 1' Tall plumes of fuzzy white flowers.
False Solomon's Seal High Shade-Part Red & white speckled fruit. PPL
Thalictrum species 5 3' X 2' Airy plants with fuzzy flowers in
Meadow Rue High Sun-Part white, pink or purple.
Veratrum californicum 3 5' X 2' Native. Green flowers May-June.
California Corn Lily High Shade-Part Deep veined leaves. Poisonous roots.
Low Summer Perennials
Scientific name USDA Zone Height X Width Description
Common name Water Exposure
Aegopodium podagraria variegata 1 6" X 30" Low, dense mass of light green
Variegated Bishop's Weed Med. Sun-Shade leaves with white edges. Spreads.
Alchemilla mollis 3 15" X 1' Scalloped leaves hold raindrops.
Lady's Mantle Med. Sun-Part Good cut greenish flowers in June
Artemisia species 3 1' X 2' Silvery leaves in many shapes.
Wormwood Low Sun Yellow flowers in August.
Aruncus sylvestris 4 1' X 1' Native. Creamy white flowers in
Goatsbeard Med. Shade-Part June and July.
Aster tongolensis 'Wartburg' 5 1' X 1' Violet flowers with golden orange
Wartburg Aster Med. Sun centers in June to September.
Cerastium tomentosum 3-7 6" X 2' Evergreen. Silvery gray leaves.
Snow-in-Summer Med. Sun-Part White flowers in early summer. FR
Conradina verticillata 5 1' X 3' Aromatic leaves. Lavender pink
Cumberland Rosemary Med. Sun flowers in June.
Convolvulus mauritanicus 7 5" X 2' Evergreen. Lavender blue trumpet
Ground Morning Glory Low Sun-Part flowers May to September.
Corydalis lutea 6 12" X 15" Masses of gray-green divided leaves
Corydalis High Part Shade Yellow flowers June-August.
Delosperma cooperi 5-10 4" X 18" Evergreen. Succulent foliage with
Ice Plant Low Sun magenta daisies July to Sept. FR
Diascia species 7 10" X 2' Low spreading plant with pink flow-
Twinspur Low Sun-Part ers from June to September.
Erodium reichardii 6 5" X 1' Evergreen. Tough low creeper with
Cranesbill Med. Sun-Part many flowers May to October.
Eschscholzia californica 1' X 2' Yellow, pink, or white poppies all
California Poppy Low Sun summer. Remove dead flowers.
Fern, Athyrium nipponicum 4 10" X 15" Deciduous. Green with silver-gray
Japanese Painted Fern Med. Shade-Part on burgundy stems.
Gentiana species 3 1' X 1' Dark blue flowers in July to Sept.
Gentian High Sun Needs good drainage & acid soil.
Geum coccinium 4 1' X 1' Stems of red to copper flowers
Geum, Grecian Rose Med. Sun-Part above divided leaves in summer.
Gomphrena globosa 4 10" X 1' Rounded flower heads in red, purple
Globe Amaranth Med. Sun-Part and white. Excellent dried.
Goniolimon tataricum 4 1' X 1' Many branched white flower-head in
German Statice Low Sun July-August. Excellent dried.
Grass, Acorus gramineus 5 12" X 18" Grass-like leaves resembles tiny
Sweet Flag High Sun-Part iris. Likes lots of water.
Grass, Arrhenath. elatius bulb. 4 12" X 18" Narrow leaves boldly edged with
Bulbous Oat Grass Med. Sun-Part white.
Grass, Hakonechloa macra 5 10" X 18" Graceful slender leaves with gold
Japanese Forest Grass High Shade stripes. Spreads slowly.
Grass, Scirpus cernuus 9 10" X 10" Small white seed on tip of each
Fiber Optic Grass High Sun-Part blade.
Helianthemum nummularium 4-7 6" X 1' Red, orange, yellow, pink, peach, &
Sunrose Low Sun white flowers in June to August. FR
Hypericum calycinum 7 12" X 2' Evergreen. Large yellow flowers
St. Johns Wort Med. Sun-Shade in summer.
Lamium maculatum 3-8 6" X 2' Silver leaves. Pink or white
Deadnettle Med. Part Shade flowers in May-July. FR
Leptinella squalida 5 1" X 1' Evergreen. Gray to black fern like
Brass Buttons Med. Sun-Shade leaves. Tolerates foot traffic.
Liriope species 5 15" X 18" Clumps of grass-like leaves with
Lilyturf Med. Shade-Part spikes of blue flowers July-Oct.
Lysimachia nummularia 3 6" X 3' Evergreen. Yellow flowers in
Creeping Jenny High Shade-Part summer. Good groundcover.
Matricaria recutia 8" X 1' Fine cut fern-like leaves with
Feverfew, Chamomile Low Sun white & yellow flowers June-July.
Muehlenbeckia axillaris 3 5" X 15" Evergreen groundcover. Translucent
Creeping Wire Vine Med. Sun-Part white fruit with black seeds.
Oenothera missouriensis 3-7 6" X 16" Large, light yellow flowers May to
Missouri Primrose Low Sun-Part September. Good groundcover. FR
Ophiopogon japonicus 6 8" X 10" Evergreen. Dark green tufts like
Mondo Grass Med. Sun-Shade grass. Lilac flowers in summer.
Ophiopogon planisca. 'Nigra' 5 10" X 2' Evergreen. Glossy black leaves.
Black Mondo Grass Med. Sun-Part Lilac flowers in late summer.
Potentilla verna nana 3 4" X 1' Yellow flowers in summer.
Dwarf Potentilla Med. Sun
Pratia pedunculata 4 3" X 1' Evergreen. Blue star-like flowers
Blue Star Creeper Med. Sun-Part in late spring and summer.
Pulmonaria species 4 1' X 18" Dark green leaves with white spots.
Lungwort Med. Shade-Part Deep blue flowers in June & July.
Salvia species 4-9 1-3' X 2' Narrow gray-green leaves. Fragrant
Garden Sage Low Sun-Part blue or pink flowers June-August. FR
Sedum oreganum 7-8 3" X 1' Native evergreen groundcover.
Oregon Stonecrop L-M Sun Yellow flowers in summer. PPL FR
Sedum species 3-8 3" X 1' Evergreen. Heat and drought resist-
Creeping Stonecrop Low Sun-Part ant. White to purple flowers. FR
Sempervivum species 4-9 6" X 12" Rosettes of green and purple leaves
Hen and Chicks Low Sun-Part Red or yellow flowers in summer. FR
Stachys byzantina 4-8 1' X 2' Soft, white, woolly leaves. Small
Lamb's Ear Low Sun-Part purplish flower spikes in June. FR
Syneilesis palmatum 3 18" X 18" Umbrella of finely divided leaves.
Shredded Umbrella Plant Low Shade-Part Light pink flowers in June-July.
Thymus species 4-9 4" X 1' Aromatic leaves with tiny red to
Thyme Low Sun-Part blue flowers. Good groundcover.
Trifolium repens 'Dark Dancer' 4 4" x 1' Evergreen groundcover. Low mat with
Dark Dancer Clover Med. Sun-Part dark spots on leaves. White flowers
Tritelaia hyacinthina 4 15" X 15" Native bulb. Clusters of white/purp-
White Brodiaea Med. Sun lish flowers in June-July.
Zauschneria species 3 5" X 18" Deciduous. Orange scarlet flowers
California Fuchsia Low Sun-Part in summer attract hummingbirds.
Medium Summer Perennials
Scientific name USDA Zone Height X Width Description
Common name Water Exposure
Achillea millefolium 3 30" X 2' Native. White, flat flowers in sum-
Common Yarrow Low Sun-Part mer. Good cut/dried flowers. PPL
Agapanthus africanus 7 2' X 2' Evergreen. Stalks of blue or white
Lily Of The Nile Low Sun-Part flowers in summer. Needs shelter.
Agastache species 6 2' X 1' Attracts hummingbirds. Masses of
Hyssop Med. Sun-Part red, pink or lavender flowers.
Alstroemeria hybrids 8 2' X 3' Orange yellow pink red and white
Peruvian Lily Med. Part Sun flowers June to July. Good cut.
Anaphalis margaritacea 3 2' X 1' Native. Gray-green leaves. Papery
Pearly Everlasting High Sun white flowers in late summer. PPL
Anthemis tinctoria 4 2' X 2' Pale yellow daisies in summer.
Hardy Marguerite Daisy Med. Sun Great cut flowers.
Aquilegia formosa 3-9 2' X 2' Native. Red flowers in May to Aug.
Red Columbine Low Part Sun Attracts hummingbirds. PPL FR
Asclepias cordifolia 4 2' X 3' Blue flowers from July to Sept.
Butterfly Weed Med. Sun Attracts butterflies.
Astilbe arendsii 3 2' X 18" Tall spikes of red pink or white
Astilbe High Sun-Shade flowers from May to July.
Astrantia major 4 2' X 2' Red, pink or white flowers in
Masterwort Med. Sun-Part summer. Good cut or dried.
Ballota nigra 'Archers Variety' 4 2' X 3' Leaves have white streaks and spots
Variegated Horehound Low Sun Tiny purple flowers in summer.
Campanula species 4 1-5' X 1' Bell or star shaped flowers. Many
Bellflower High Shade-Part forms and colors are available.
Catananche caerulea 4 18" X 1' Gray green leaves. Deep blue flow-
Cupid's Dart Low Sun ers June to August. Good dried.
Ceratostigma plumbaginoides 6 18" X 2' Intense blue flowers from July to
Dwarf Plumbago Med. Sun-Part September. Reddish new leaves.
Convolvulus cneorum 8 2' X 2' Evergreen. White or light pink
Silver Bush Morn. Glory Low Sun-Part trumpet flowers May to September.
Coreopsis verticillata 3-9 18" X 18" Profuse yellow daisies from June
Coreopsis, Tickseed Low Sun-Part to September. FR
Cosmos atrosanguineus 8 2' X 2' Deep brownish red flowers with
Chocolate Cosmos Med. Sun chocolate or vanilla fragrance.
Dietes bicolor 8 18" X 15" Iris-like leaves with yellow and
African Iris Med. Sun-Part maroon flowers spring to fall.
Erigeron species 7 18" X 1' Aster-like white, lavender or pink
Fleabane Med. Sun-Part flowers August to frost. Native.
Eryngium amethystinum 4 2' X 1' Thistle-like plant. Steel blue or
Sea holly Low Sun amethyst flowers July to Sept.
Erysimum linifolium 6 2' X 2' Yellow to purple flowers all summer
Wallflower Med. Sun-Part long.
Eucomis comosa 7 3' X 3' Large, strap-like leaves with tall
Purple Pineapple Lily Med. Sun-Part bloom resembling a pineapple.
Felicia amelloides 9 18" X 4' Sky-blue, yellow-centered daisies
Blue Marguerite Med. Sun all summer. Fragrant leaves.
Fern, Adiantum pedantum 2 18" X 18" Fronds fork in finger-like pattern
Western Maidenhair Fern High Shade-Part on slender black stems.
Fern, Blechnum spicant 7 2' X 2' Low spreading sterile fronds and
Deer Fern Med. Shade upright fertile fronds. PPL
Fern, Dryopteris expansa 4 2' X 2' Finely divided upright fronds die
Wood Fern Med. Shade-Part down in winter.
Gaillardia grandiflora 3-9 2' X 2' Daisy-like flowers of yellow, red,
Blanket Flower Low Sun orange and maroon June to frost. FR
Gaura lindheimeri 7 18" X 2' Pink buds open into white flowers
Gaura Low Sun like white butterflies June-Sept.
Geranium species 4-9 2' X 2' Small to large cut leaves. White to
Cranesbill Geranium Med. Sun-Part purple flowers in summer. FR
Grass, Carex buchananii 5 2' X 3' Grass-like clumps of reddish bronze
Fox Red Curly Sedge High Sun-Part with curly tips. Moist soil.
Grass, Carex testacea 6 16" X 1' Fine blades turn almost orange in
Orange Sedge High Sun-Shade sun, olive green in shade.
Grass, Deschampsia caespitosa 4 18" X 12" Native. Dark green clump of grass.
Tufted Hair Grass High Sun-Part Seed stalks produce plantlets.PPL
Grass, Elymus glaucus 4 2' X 2' Native. Dense clumps of blue grass.
Blue Wild Rye Low Sun blue grass. PPL
Grass, Helictotrichon semperv. 4 2' X 2' Evergreen. Mound of blue grass.
Blue Oat Grass Med. Sun
Grass, Imperata cylindr. 'Rubra' 5 18" X 18" Top half of stems are blood red.
Japanese Blood Grass Med. Sun-Part Purplish in winter.
Grass, Stipa tenuissima 7 2' X 2' Deciduous. Soft, fine, bright green
Mexican Feather Grass Med. Sun foliage.
Hosta species 3 30" X 18" Colorful leaves with tall stalks of
Hosta Med. Shade-Part lavender flowers. Bait for slugs.
Leucanthemum x superbum 4 2-4' X 2' Large white single or double
Shasta Daisy Med. Sun-Part flowers May to October. Good cut.
Liatris spicata 3 2' X 1' Narrow plume of fluffy rose-purple
Spike Gayfeather Low Sun flowers July-Sept. Excellent cut.
Limonium latifolium 4 2' X 18" White and blue or pink flowers from
Sea Lavender Low Sun May to July. Needs good drainage.
Linum lewisii 5-8 15" X 12" Native. Delicate blue flowers on
Blue Flax Low Sun slender stalks. Drought tolerant. FR
Linum perenne 5-8 18" X 12" Profuse light blue flowers May to
Perennial blue flax Low Sun September. Fern-like leaves. FR
Lupinus hybrid 4-6 30" X 18" Stately flower spikes up to 1' from
Hybrid Lupine Med. Sun June to August. Good cut flowers. FR
Monarda didyma 4 2' X 18" White, scarlet, or purple flowers
Bee balm, Bergamot Med. Sun June-August attract hummingbirds.
Nepeta racemosa 4-8 2' X 2' Lavender blue flowers April-Sept.
Catmint Low Sun-Part Walker's Low is seedless.
Parahebe perfoliata 7 2' X 3' Evergreen. Bluish-gray foliage.
Digger's Speedwell Med. Sun-Part Blue-violet flowers May-August.
Penstemon hybrid 5-8 2' X 2' Soft pink to deep purple flowers
Penstemon, Beard Tongue Low Sun June-Sep. Attracts hummingbirds. FR
Phlox paniculata 4 2' X 2' Many colors available, some with a
Summer Phlox Any Sun contrasting eye.
Polemonium caeruleum 4 2' X 1' Clusters of sky blue flowers above
Jacob's Ladder High Sun-Shade ladder-like leaves June to August
Rudbeckia hirta 3 30" X 2' Large yellow flowers with brown
Black Eyed Susan Med. Sun center from June to October.
Santolina chamaecyparissus 7 18" X 2' Silvery-gray, finely divided leaves
Lavender Cotton Low Sun are fragrant when crushed.
Scabiosa columbaria 5 18" X 18" Blue, pink or white flowers June to
Pincushion Low Sun-Part frost. Good cut or dried.
Solidago species 5 2' X 18" Large clusters of golden yellow
Goldenrod Med. Sun-Part flowers July to October.
Stokesia laevis 5 18" X 18" Aster-like flowers of blue, violet,
Stokes Aster Med. Sun or white in June to September.
Syneilesis palmata 5 18" X 18" Umbrella of finely divided leaves.
Shredded Umbrella Plant Low Shade-Part Light pink flowers in June-July.
Tanacetum coccineum 5 30" x 18" Pink to red daisies in June-July.
Painted Daisy Med. Sun Natural insecticide.
Tradescantia virginiana 3 18" X 18" Arching branches with white or blue
Spiderwort High Part Shade flowers in summer.
Veronica species 3-8 2' X 1' Deep blue or red flower spikes.
Speedwell Med. Sun-Part 'Red Fox' is good for cut flowers FR
Tall Summer Perennials
Scientific name USDA Zone Height X Width Description
Common name Water Exposure
Acanthus mollis 6 3' X 3' Large, shiny green leaves. Spike
Grecian Pattern Plant Med. Sun-Part of lilac or rose flowers in June.
Achillea species 4-8 3' X 2' Yellow or pastel flowers heads in
Yarrow Low Sun-part June-Sept. Good cut or dried. FR
Aconitum napellus 3 4' X 18" Blue or soft pink helmet-shaped
Monkshood High Sun-Part flowers July-August. Poisonous.
Alcea rosea 3 5' X 2' Biennial. Old fashioned favorite
Hollyhock Med. Sun now in many colors July-August.
Allium giganteum 4 5' X 1' Bulb. Ball-like clusters of lilac
Giant Allium Med. Sun flowers in July.
Baptisia australis 4 3' X 4' Spikes of small indigo blue flowers
False Indigo Low Sun in summer. Attractive seeds.
Brugmansia species (Datura) 8 3-8'X 3-8' Tender perennial needs protection.
Angel's Trumpet Med. Sun-Shade Large, fragrant white flowers.
Canna species 7 3-6' X 2' Tall stalk with large leaves and
Canna Med. Sun many colored flowers.
Centranthus ruber 4 3' X 18" Rosy red flowers from June to Sept.
Jupiter's Beard Low Sun-Part Good cut flowers. Needs drainage.
Cimicifuga racemosa 4 6' X 3' Spikes of white flowers from July
Bugbane, Black Cohosh High Shade-Part to Oct. Seed clusters good dried.
Crocosmia crocosmiliflora 4 3' X 18" Strings of orange-crimson flowers
Montbretia Low Sun in July and August. Good cut.
Cynara cardunculus 7 5' X 4' Large, toothed silvery leaves. Blue
Cardoon Med. Sun violet flowers July-September.
Dahlia hybrids 8 2-6'X 2-4' Tuber. Many colors and forms. Dig
Dahlia Med. Sun-Part or cover with mulch in the Fall.
Echinacea purpurea 3-8 2' X 3' Showy flowers of drooping purple
Purple Coneflower Med. Sun-Part petals in summer. FR
Echinops exaltatus 4 3' X 1' Coarse, prickly, gray-green leaves.
Globe thistle Med. Sun Steel blue flowers July to Sept.
Eupatorium maculatum 4 5' X 3' Narrow leaves with showy chartreuse
Joe Pye Weed Med. Sun-Part bracts. Blooms from July to Sept.
Fern, Athyrium filix-femina 4 2' X 2' Fine double cut leaves arch up and
Lady Fern Med. Shade out. PPL
Fern, Matteuccia struthiopteris 4 3' X 2' Tall deciduous fronds with shorter
Ostrich Fern High Shade-Part evergreen fronds.
Fern, Osmunda cinnamomea 4 4' X 3' Long bluish-green and reddish-brown
Cinnamon Fern High Shade fronds emerge in spring.
Fern, Osmunda regalis 4 4' X 4' Large, handsome fronds die down in
Royal Fern High Shade winter.
Filipendula palmata 4 3' X 2' Tiny pink flowers in tall umbels,
Siberian Meadowsweet Med. Sun-Shade June to August. Good cut.
Grass, Stipa gigantea 6 6' X 6' Clumps of 3' leaves with 6' tall
Giant Feather Grass Med. Sun and wide yellowish seed heads.
Gunnera manicata 7 8' X 6' Huge leaves with prominent veins.
Dinosaur Plant High Part shade Tiny red fruit. Needs rich soil.
Gypsophila paniculata 4 3' X 3' Tiny pink flowers on branched stems
Baby's Breath Med. Sun July to October. Good cut.
Helenium autumnale 4 3' X 3' Daisy-like flowers of red, yellow,
Sneezeweed Low Sun copper Summer to early fall.
Helianthus species 4 5' X 2' Tall stalk with yellow flowers from
Sunflower High Sun July to September. Good cut.
Heliopsis helianthoides 3 3' X 3' Deciduous. Large yellow flowers in
Ox Eye High Sun summer. Needs well drained soil.
Heliotropium arborescens 9 4' X 4' Tender perennial. Very fragrant
Heliotrope High Sun-Part blue flowers in summer.
Hemerocallis hybrids 3-9 3' X 2' Yellow orange bronze red or white
Daylily Med. Sun flowers May to October. Easy care FR
Hibiscus moscheutos 4 5' X 5' 8" red, pink, rose or white flowers
Rose Mallow Med. Sun from June until frost.
Kirengeshoma palmata 4 4' X 3' Palmate leaves with yellow flowers
Yellow Waxbells Med. Shade-Part in August.
Kniphofia uvaria 4-9 3' X 2' Spikes of orange-red flowers June
Red Hot Poker Low Sun to August. Attracts hummingbirds. FR
Lavandula species 4-8 3' X 3' Evergreen. Gray leaves with fra-
Lavender Low Sun grant lavender flowers July-Aug. FR
Lavatera thuringiaca 6 5' X 5' Evergreen. Hollyhock like pink
Tree Mallow Low Sun flowers all summer.
Ligularia dentata 4 3' X 30" Large heart-shaped red leaves with
Golden Ray Med. Shade-Part yellow flowers August to Sept.
Lilium orientalis hybrids 4 3' X 18" Many colors of very fragrant
Asian Lily Med. Sun flowers in late summer. Good cut. FR
Linaria purpurea 3' X 1' Purple snapdragon-like flowers all
Toadflax Med. Sun summer and fall.
Lobelia cardinalis 5 3' X 1' Flame red flowers in June-July at-
Cardinal Flower Med. Sun tract hummingbirds & butterflies.
Meconopsis betonicifolia 4 3' X 18" Sky blue poppies on a tall leafy
Himalayan Blue Poppy Med. Shade-Part stem in June to July.
Nepeta faassenii 4 3' X 2' Violet blue flowers above blue-gray
Catmint Low Sun-Part leaves July to September.
Papaver orientalis 3-7 3' X 18" Large hairy divided leaves. 3-6"
Oriental Poppy Low Sun-Part flowers in May to June. FR
Perovskia atriplicifolia 5 4' X 3' Gray-green leaves. Violet blue
Russian Sage Low Sun flower spikes July to Sept.
Phlomis fruticosa 6 4' X 3' Silver-gray leaves. Yellow flowers
Jerusalem Sage Low Sun attract bees and butterflies.
Phormium tenax 8 2-5' X 8' Dramatic clumps of strap-like leaves
New Zealand Flax Any Sun-Part with red flowers. Salt tolerant.
Phygelius capensis 7 3' X 3' Red, coral, pink or yellow tubular
Cape Fuchsia Low Sun-Shade flowers all summer.
Physostegia virginiana 3 3' X 2' Tall spikes of pink or white flow-
Obedient Plant Med. Sun-Part ers in late summer.
Platycodon grandiflorus 4 3' X 2' Balloon-like buds open to blue pink
Baloon Flower Med. Part Shade or white flowers June to August.
Plumbago auriculata 9 5' X 8' Semi-evergreen. White to blue
Cape Plumbago Low Sun flowers April until frost.
Ratibida pinnata 4-9 4' X 2' Yellow ray flowers with brown cent-
Prairie Coneflower Med. Sun ers. FR
Romneya coulteri 4 6' X 3' Fragrant large white flowers May
Matilija Poppy Low Sun to July. Good cut flowers.
Senecio greyi 8 3' X 3' Evergreen. Silvery leaves with
Daisy Bush Low Sun yellow daisy flowers in summer.
Sidalcea malviflora 6 3' X 2' Pink or red flowers resemble holly-
Checkerbloom Med. Sun-Part hocks. Attracts hummingbirds.
Verbascum bombyciferum 5-9 5' X 18" Biennial. White wooly leaves with
Giant Silver Mullein Low Full Sun yellow flowers in summer.
Verbascum species 5-9 3' X 1' White woolly leaves. Yellow or
Mullein Low Sun-Part purple flowers in summer.
Xerophyllum tenax 3 5' X 3" Native evergreen. Grass like leaves
Beargrass Low Sun-Part and creamy plume flowers.
Low Fall Perennials
Scientific name USDA Zone Height X Width Description
Common name Water Exposure
Colchicum autumnale 5 6" X 4" Bulb. Leaves in the spring.
Autumn Crocus Low Sun Lilac flowers in the fall.
Cyclamen hederifolium 6 4" X 1' Leaves marbled silver and white.
Hardy Cyclamen Med. Sun-Part White or pink flowers August-Oct.
Osteospermum barberae 4 12" X 18" Purple flowers from fall to spring.
African Daisy Med. Sun Needs good drainage.
Medium Fall Perennials
Scientific name USDA Zone Height X Width Description
Common name Water Exposure
Amaryllis belladona 6 2' X 1' Fragrant pink trumpet flowers on
Naked Lady Low Sun-Part naked stalks after leaves die.
Anemone huphensis 5 2' X 15" Purple to white flowers in fall.
Japanese Anemone Med. Sun-Part Excellent for cut flowers.
Aster species 4 18" X 1' Daisy flowers in many colors bloom
Asters Med. Sun August to frost. Good cut.
Chrysanthemum morifolium 4 2' X 3' Many colors and styles of flowers
Garden Chrysanthemum Med. Sun August to frost. Good cut.
Schizostylis coccinea 7 2' X 2' Cup-shaped red to pink flowers over
Kaffir Lily Med. Sun-Part iris-like leaves in fall.
Sedum species 4 18" X 15" Succulent leaves with large pink,
Fall Sedum Low Sun-Part red, or orange flowers in fall.
Tall Fall Perennials
Scientific name USDA Zone Height X Width Description
Common name Water Exposure
Boltonia asteroides 4 4' X 3' Thousands of white or pink daisies
False Starwort Low Sun in August to October.
Chelone species 5 3' X 2' Unusual white pink or red flowers
Turtlehead High Sun-Part resemble a turtle's head.
Grass, Calamagrostis acutiflora 4 4' X 3' Tall grass with feathery tops.
Feather Grass Med. Sun Golden yellow in the fall.
Grass, Cortaderia sell. 'Pumila' 5 5' X 6' Large clump of grass with white or
Ivory Feathers Pampas Gr Any Sun-Part pink plumes in fall.
Grass, Miscanthus sinensis 5 5' X 4' Tall, graceful grass. Tan or brown
Japanese Maiden Grass Med. Sun-Shade in winter.
Grass, Molinea caerulea 4 5' X 4' Dark green grass. Turns yellow in
Moor Grass Med. Sun fall.
Grass, Panicum virgatum 4 4' X 3' Blue to red blades in summer. Airy
Switch Grass Med. Sun seed heads in fall.
Grass, Pennisetum alopecuroides 5 3' X 3' Dense, rounded clump topped with
Fountain Grass Low Sun-Part purple flower stalks. Likes dry.
Grass, Pennisetum seta. 'Rubrum' 6 4' X 3' Dense, rounded clump topped with
Purple Fountain Grass Low Sun-Part purple flower stalks. Likes dry.
Typha latifolia 4 6' X 4' Native bog plant. Makes thick
Cattails High Sun clumps in moist soil. PPL
Low Winter Perennials
Scientific name USDA Zone Height X Width Description
Common name Water Exposure
Grass, Bouteloua gracilis 3-10 18" X 18" Interesting seed heads last all
Blue Gramma Low Sun winter. Attracts birds.
Primula species 5 6" X 6" Hardy flowers in late winter in
Primroses High Sun-Part many colors. Needs good drainage.
Viola wittrockiana 5 6" X 6" Winter pansies in many colors can
Pansy Med. Sun-Shade bloom all year in part shade.
Medium Winter
Scientific name USDA Zone Height X Width Description
Common name Water Exposure
Helleborus niger 4 18" X 1' Leathery dark green leaves. White
Christmas Rose High Shade-Part flowers turn purplish. Dec-April.
Helleborus foetidus 4 18" X 1' Evergreen. Lacy light green leaves.
Bear's Foot Hellebore High Shade-Part Pale green flowers Jan-Apr.
Low All Year Perennials
Scientific name USDA Zone Height X Width Description
Common name Water Exposure
Fern, Polystichum setiferum 6 2' X 2' Evergreen. Low spreading, finely
Alaskan Fern Med. Shade-Part cut fronds.
Grass, Carex morrowii expallida 5 12" X 18" Drooping leaves striped with white.
Variegated Japane. Sedge High Sun-Part Prefers moist soil.
Grass, Festuca ovina 'Glauca' 4 10" X 10" Evergreen. Low clumps of fine blue
Blue Fescue Grass Low Sun-Part grass. Needs good drainage.
Grass, Scirpus cernuus 8 8" X 8" Drooping green threadlike leaves
Fiber Optic Grass High Part Shade with brown tip. Good in pots.
Herniaria glabra 5 2" X 1' Tiny green leaves turn bronzy in
Green Carpet Med. Sun-Shade winter. Good groundcover.
Mentha requienii 5 1" X 1' Evergreen. Very low. Very fragrant
Corsican Mint High Shade-Part when bruised or crushed.
Raoulia australis 7 3" X 1' Evergreen groundcover. Tiny gray
Raoulia Med. Sun leaves. Needs perfect drainage.
Rubus calycinoides 6 6" X 3' Evergreen groundcover. Small white
Creeping Raspberry Low Sun-Part flowers. Edible fruit.
Scaevola aemula 9 6" X 3' Evergreen. Lavender blue flowers
Fan Flowers Med. Sun almost all year. Good groundcover.
Selaginella kraussiana 7 2" X 1' Evergreen. Dense mat with great
Spikemoss High Part Shade color in shade gardens.
Soleirolia soleirolii 7 1" X 1' Evergreen. Dense mat. Tolerates
Baby Tears Med. Shade foot traffic.
Tolmiea menziesii 7 15" X 2' Native groundcover. Tiny reddish
Piggyback Plant High Shade-Part flowers. PPL
Medium All Year Perennials
Scientific name USDA Zone Height X Width Description
Common name Water Exposure
Aspidistra elatior 7 18" X 3' Evergreen. Strap like leaves.
Cast Iron Plant Med. Shade Tolerates deep shade. Very tough.
Asplenium scolopendrium 6 18" X 15" Native evergreen. Strap-like fronds
Hart's Tongue Fern Med. Shade-Part with wavy edges.
Fern, Cyrtomium falcatum 8 2' X 2' Evergreen, but tender at 25 degrees
Holly Fern High Shade-Part Does well indoors.
Fern, Polystichum munitum 6 3' X 3' Native evergreen. Excellent for
Western Sword Fern Low Shade woodsy area. Tolerates dry. PPL
Fern, Polystichum polyblepharum 6 2' X 2' Evergreen. Fronds unfurl backwards
Tassel Fern High Shade-Part creating a tassel.
Grass, Carex tumulicola 8 18" X 18" Native evergreen grass. Tuft of
Berkeley Sedge Med. Sun-Part narrow green leaves. PPL
Grass, Juncus effusus 5 2' X 2' Native evergreen. Tolerates wet
Soft Rush High Sun-Part soil. J. e. Spiralis is twisted.
Tall All Year Perennials
Scientific name USDA Zone Height X Width Description
Common name Water Exposure
Fern, Dicksonia antarctica 9 12' X 15' Evergreen. 6' arching fronds.
Tasmanian Tree Fern High Shade Protect from frost.
More about fire resistant landscaping with pictures and descriptions of plants can be found at Fire Resistant Plants.
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