Late summer doesn't have to mean the end of garden color. In fact, some of the most dependable perennials are just hitting their stride. Adding a few late-blooming favorites now can refresh garden beds, fill gaps left by earlier bloomers, and keep the landscape colorful as we head toward fall.
Here are three tried-and-true perennials that shine this time of year and make excellent additions to the late-summer garden.
Rudbeckia 'Goldsturm'
Few plants say late summer quite like Rudbeckia 'Goldsturm'. Commonly known as black-eyed Susan, this dependable perennial produces masses of golden-yellow, daisy-like flowers with dark centers.
'Goldsturm' is especially effective when planted in groups, where its bright flowers can create a bold splash of color in perennial borders and mixed plantings. Once established, it's an easy-care choice that performs best in a sunny location and pairs beautifully with ornamental grasses and other late-season bloomers.
The flowers are also attractive to pollinators, making Rudbeckia a great choice for adding both color and activity to the garden.
Echinacea 'Magnus'
Another late-summer classic, Echinacea 'Magnus' features large rosy-purple flowers surrounding prominent orange-brown cones. Its upright habit and distinctive blooms make it an excellent choice for the middle or back of a sunny perennial border.
Also known as coneflower, Echinacea is valued for its long bloom period and ability to attract butterflies and other pollinators. Leaving some of the spent flower heads in place later in the season can also provide seeds for visiting birds.
Pair 'Magnus' with Rudbeckia for an easy combination of purple and gold that looks right at home in the late-summer landscape. You can also learn more about the many different varieties available in our Colorful Coneflowers guide.
Perovskia 'Little Spire'
For something a little different, Perovskia 'Little Spire' brings an airy texture and cool color to late-summer gardens. Also known as Russian sage, it produces lavender-blue flowers above silvery foliage, creating a soft contrast to the brighter yellows, oranges, and pinks found elsewhere in the garden.
'Little Spire' offers a more compact habit than many traditional Russian sage varieties, making it easier to incorporate into smaller gardens and mixed perennial beds. It thrives in sunny, well-drained locations and is an excellent companion for Rudbeckia, Echinacea, ornamental grasses, and other sun-loving plants.
Plant Now, Enjoy for Years
Late summer is a great time to look around the garden and identify where more seasonal color is needed. Because these perennials are blooming now, it's also easy to see exactly how their colors, heights, and textures will fit into your landscape.
Keep newly planted perennials consistently watered while they establish their roots, especially during warm or dry weather. Our Summer Planting Guide has additional tips for helping new plants get established during warm weather, while our Perennial Planting Guide covers everything from soil preparation to proper planting technique.
Whether you choose the golden flowers of Rudbeckia, the classic blooms of Echinacea, the airy blue of Perovskia, or a combination of all three, late-blooming perennials are an easy way to keep your garden looking fresh and colorful as summer winds down.