For the best perennial plants in this roundup, I’d put Proven Winners Blue Chiffon Rose of Sharon first for its shrub-scale presence and showy summer flowers, while Heuchera ‘Shades of Purple’ stands out for compact foliage color in shade. For covering bare ground, Creeping Jenny live plants offer a quicker start than seed-grown creeping thyme. The main tradeoffs are how quickly a plant establishes, how much space and care it needs, and whether you want flowers, foliage, or coverage. Plant form matters too: live pots, bare roots, bulbs, and seeds call for different levels of patience. Continue reading for the full breakdown of all 15 options and how I’d match them to a garden.
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Key Takeaways
- Blue Chiffon Rose of Sharon is the standout shrub pick: it gives the list a taller, flowering focal point, though it needs more room than compact perennials and ground covers.
- Heuchera and hostas fill a different job than the flowering picks: their value is in foliage and shade planting, not a long display of showy blooms.
- Live ground-cover plants offer a head start over seed: Creeping Jenny and Ajuga arrive growing, while creeping thyme seeds can cover more area on paper but require time and attentive establishment.
- Planting format changes the effort involved: potted plants are the most direct route to a visible garden; bare roots, bulbs, and seeds ask for more patience and care.
- Lavender choices are not interchangeable: potted lavender plants suit buyers seeking an earlier start, while ‘Vera’ seeds give more plants but add uncertainty and a longer growing process.
| Perennial Farm Anemone × hybrida ‘Pamina’ Live Plant |  | Best for Late-Season Blooms | Plant type: Perennial flower | Container: #1 container | Bloom color: Deep rose-pink | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Creeping Jenny (Lysimachia nummularia), 4 Live Plants |  | Best for Fast Groundcover | Plant type: Trailing perennial groundcover | Plant count: 4 | Mature height: About 4 inches | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Red Chrysanthemum Live Perennial Plant, 15 in. Tall, 12 in. Wide, 3 Qt. Pot |  | Best for a Ready-to-Plant Fall Accent | Plant type: Live perennial flower | Bloom color: Red | Expected height: Up to 24 inches | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Lavender Live Plants, 2-Pack, Purple Blooms |  | Best for Low-Water Sunny Gardens | Plant type: Live perennial | Pack size: 2 plants | Pot size: 1 pint | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Heuchera (Coral Bells) – Shades of Purple Live Shade Perennial, 10″ Tall x 6″ Wide, 2 qt Pot |  | Best for Shade Foliage | Plant type: Live shade perennial | Color: Shades of purple and maroon | Listed height: 10 inches | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Proven Winners 2 Gallon Blue Chiffon Rose of Sharon (Hibiscus) Shrub |  | Best for a Tall, Late-Season Flowering Screen | Container size: 2 gallons | Mature height: 96–144 inches | Mature width: 48–72 inches | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Mixed Hosta Perennials, 6 Bare-Root Plants |  | Best for a Small Starter Hosta Group | Quantity: 6 bare-root plants | Plant type: Hosta | Growth diameter: About 18 inches | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 12 Purple Oxalis Triangularis Bulbs for Indoor or Outdoor Planting |  | Best for Indoor-Friendly Foliage Color | Quantity: 12 bulbs | Plant type: Flower | Scientific name: Oxalis triangularis | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Gardening4Less 9-Pack Hosta Bare Root Perennial Plants |  | Best for Filling a Shady Bed | Quantity: 9 bare-root plants | Plant type: Perennial hosta | Hardiness zones: 3–8 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 10 Mixed-Color Gladiolus Bulbs (Sword Lilies) for Gardens and Containers |  | Best for Summer Cut Flowers | Quantity: 10 corms | Plant type: Perennial flower | Colors: Mixed | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Home Grown English Lavender ‘Vera’ Seeds, 1,500+ Seeds |  | Best for Fragrant, Multiuse Plantings | Variety: English lavender ‘Vera’ (Lavandula angustifolia) | Seed quantity: 1,500+ | USDA hardiness zones: 4–9 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Ajuga (2 Pack) – Live Flowering Ground Cover Perennial, 8″ Tall by 5″ Wide in 1 Qt Pot |  | Best Live Ground Cover for Part Shade | Plant type: Live flowering ground-cover perennial | Unit count: 2 | USDA hardiness zones: 4–9 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Proven Winners Double Play Doozie Spirea Shrub, 2-Gallon |  | Best for Long-Season Shrub Color | Botanical name: Spiraea × Double Play Doozie | Plant type: Deciduous shrub | Container size: 2 gallons | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 600 New England Aster Heirloom Flower Seeds (Aster novae-angliae) |  | Best for Fall Pollinator Gardens | Botanical name: Aster novae-angliae | Seed count: 600 | USDA hardiness zones: 2–8 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 20,000 Creeping Thyme Seeds for Planting, Perennial Ground Cover (Thymus serpyllum) |  | Best for Sunny, Low-Growing Coverage | Botanical name: Thymus serpyllum | Seed quantity: 20,000 | Plant type: Perennial ground cover | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| perennial plant | Plant type | USDA hardiness zones |
|---|---|---|
| Perennial Farm Anemone × hybri | Perennial flower | — |
| Creeping Jenny | Trailing perennial groundcover | 4–9 |
| Red Chrysanthemum Live Perenni | Live perennial flower | 5–9 |
| Lavender Live Plants | Live perennial | 5–9 |
| Heuchera | Live shade perennial | 4–9 |
| Proven Winners 2 Gallon Blue C | — | 5–9 |
| Mixed Hosta Perennials | Hosta | — |
| 12 Purple Oxalis Triangularis | Flower | — |
| Gardening4Less 9-Pack Hosta Ba | Perennial hosta | — |
| 10 Mixed-Color Gladiolus Bulbs | Perennial flower | 7–10 |
| Home Grown English Lavender ‘V | — | 4–9 |
| Ajuga | Live flowering ground-cover perennial | 4–9 |
| Proven Winners Double Play Doo | Deciduous shrub | 3–8 |
| 600 New England Aster Heirloom | — | 2–8 |
| 20,000 Creeping Thyme Seeds fo | Perennial ground cover | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Perennial Farm Anemone × hybrida ‘Pamina’ Live Plant
‘Pamina’ Japanese anemone earns its place for gardeners who want color after many perennials have finished flowering. Its deep rose-pink, semi-double blooms arrive from late summer into fall, while its roughly 36-inch height gives borders a taller focal point than the compact Red Chrysanthemum. It also suits full sun to part shade, making it a useful choice where a garden gets some afternoon shade. Bees and butterflies may visit the flowers, and the plant is listed as deer resistant. The tradeoff is its preference for moist, rich soil; it is a poorer fit for dry beds or gardeners seeking a low-watering perennial like the lavender pick. Winter shipments may arrive dormant and trimmed, so the plant may not look actively growing on arrival.
Pros:- Deep rose-pink flowers extend color from late summer into fall.
- Grows about 36 inches tall, adding height behind shorter border plants.
- Tolerates full sun to part shade.
- Listed as deer resistant and attractive to bees and butterflies.
Cons:- Prefers moist, rich soil and may struggle in beds that dry out.
- May arrive dormant and trimmed during winter shipping.
Best for: Gardeners with a moist border or partly shaded bed who want tall, late-season flowers and pollinator visits.
Not ideal for: Gardeners with dry, low-maintenance beds or buyers who expect a leafy, actively growing plant during winter delivery.
- Plant type:Perennial flower
- Container:#1 container
- Bloom color:Deep rose-pink
- Bloom period:Late summer to fall
- Expected height:About 36 inches
- Sun exposure:Full sun to part shade
- USDA hardiness zone:Zone 3 (as listed)
- Spacing:18 inches
Our verdict“Choose ‘Pamina’ for late-season height and flowers if you can provide reliably moist soil.”
Creeping Jenny (Lysimachia nummularia), 4 Live Plants
This four-plant Creeping Jenny pack is the lineup’s clearest choice for covering low, open ground: its chartreuse foliage spreads into a dense mat, unlike the upright flowers of ‘Pamina’ Japanese anemone or the mounded purple Heuchera. At about four inches tall, it can soften pathway edges, spill from containers, and help suppress weeds or limit erosion. Full sun and partial shade both suit it, and its listed zones 4–9 cover a broad range. That fast spread is also a limitation: it is best placed where a trailing groundcover is wanted, not where neighboring plants need clear boundaries. Regular watering is part of the care routine, so it is less suitable for a dry garden than the lavender pick. Planting timing also depends on the local zone.
Pros:- Four live plants provide a head start on covering an area.
- Chartreuse foliage adds color even when flowers are not the main attraction.
- Grows in full sun or partial shade.
- Low, spreading habit suits borders, hanging baskets, and erosion control.
Cons:- Needs regular watering rather than dry conditions.
- Fast spreading can make placement and boundaries harder to manage.
- Planting timing varies by growing zone.
Best for: Gardeners who need a low, spreading plant for pathway edges, containers, or open ground where weed suppression is welcome.
Not ideal for: Gardeners who want a contained clump, have dry soil, or cannot accommodate a fast-spreading groundcover.
- Plant type:Trailing perennial groundcover
- Plant count:4
- Mature height:About 4 inches
- Mature spread:About 18 inches
- Sunlight exposure:Full sun or partial shade
- USDA hardiness zones:4–9
- Soil type:Well-draining
- Watering:Regular watering
Our verdict“Pick this pack when quick, bright ground coverage matters more than a restrained growth habit.”
Red Chrysanthemum Live Perennial Plant, 15 in. Tall, 12 in. Wide, 3 Qt. Pot
For a more immediate red flower accent, this 3-quart chrysanthemum is a more substantial starting point than the two pint-size lavender plants, though its listed dimensions and expected mature height differ. It blooms in summer and fall, giving it some seasonal overlap with ‘Pamina’ Japanese anemone; the chrysanthemum is the more direct choice if red is the color priority, while ‘Pamina’ offers deep rose-pink blooms and a taller stated height. Full sun or partial shade gives it some placement flexibility, and zones 5–9 define its listed hardiness range. It needs well-draining soil and consistent watering, so it is not a set-and-forget option. Bloom timing and suitability also depend on local growing conditions, making it a less predictable pick for buyers seeking a specific display date.
Pros:- Red blooms bring a clear seasonal accent to summer and fall gardens.
- Supplied in a 3-quart pot for a more established starting size than small-pot options.
- Can grow in full sun or partial shade.
- Listed for USDA hardiness zones 5–9.
Cons:- Requires consistent watering and well-draining soil.
- Blooming and planting suitability vary with local growing conditions.
- Listed dimensions differ from the stated expected mature height.
Best for: Gardeners in zones 5–9 who want a potted red flowering accent for a sunny or partly shaded outdoor bed.
Not ideal for: Gardeners seeking a low-water perennial, a confirmed bloom schedule, or a plant suited to zones outside 5–9.
- Plant type:Live perennial flower
- Bloom color:Red
- Expected height:Up to 24 inches
- Listed dimensions:15 inches tall by 12 inches wide
- Pot size:3 qt.
- Blooming period:Summer and fall
- Sunlight exposure:Full sun or partial shade
- USDA hardiness zones:5–9
Our verdict“Choose this chrysanthemum for a potted red fall accent if you can provide steady moisture and suitable drainage.”
Lavender Live Plants, 2-Pack, Purple Blooms
Among these live plants, the two-pack lavender has the clearest fit for a sunny bed where lower water needs matter. Its compact 18–24-inch mound and purple, fragrant blooms suit borders, containers, and herb gardens, while pollinators may visit and deer may be deterred. Unlike Creeping Jenny, which spreads low and asks for regular watering, lavender is a clumping accent that needs little water once established. It also differs from the Red Chrysanthemum in bloom timing, flowering from late spring into summer rather than summer and fall. The tradeoff is a narrower site preference: it requires full sun and well-draining soil, so it is a poor choice for damp or shaded gardens. The listing also varies on plant size and pot details, which leaves some uncertainty about what arrives.
Pros:- Fragrant purple blooms add sensory interest as well as color.
- Needs little water once established.
- Compact mounded growth suits borders, containers, and herb gardens.
- Can attract pollinators and deter deer.
Cons:- Requires full sun and well-draining soil.
- Plant size and pot details vary across the listing.
- Listed hardiness is limited to zones 5–9.
Best for: Gardeners with a sunny, well-drained border or container who want fragrant flowers and lower watering needs after establishment.
Not ideal for: Gardeners planting in shade, persistently wet soil, or sites outside the listed zones 5–9.
- Plant type:Live perennial
- Pack size:2 plants
- Pot size:1 pint
- Expected mature height:18–24 inches
- Expected spread:18–24 inches
- Bloom period:Late spring to summer
- Sunlight:Full sun
- USDA hardiness zones:5–9
Our verdict“Choose this lavender pair for a sunny, freely draining spot where fragrance and lower water needs are priorities.”
Heuchera (Coral Bells) – Shades of Purple Live Shade Perennial, 10″ Tall x 6″ Wide, 2 qt Pot
Purple Heuchera fills a role the flowering picks cannot: season-long foliage color for partial to full shade. Its purple and maroon leaves form a compact mound, providing visual interest from spring through fall without relying on the late-season flowers of ‘Pamina’ Japanese anemone or the summer-to-fall red blooms of the chrysanthemum. That makes it a strong candidate for woodland-style borders or a decorative container where flowers may be less dependable. It is listed for zones 4–9 and grows to about 24 inches tall with a 12–18-inch spread. Its main care compromise is moisture: it needs regular watering, but overwatering can lead to root rot, so drainage matters. Choose it for foliage and shade adaptability, not for a flower-heavy display or a drought-tolerant planting.
Pros:- Purple and maroon foliage supplies color from spring through fall.
- Tolerates partial to full shade, unlike the full-sun-only lavender.
- Compact mound suits borders, woodland settings, and containers.
- Listed for USDA hardiness zones 4–9.
Cons:- Requires regular watering.
- Overwatering can cause root rot, so drainage needs attention.
- Foliage, rather than a prominent bloom display, is the main source of color.
Best for: Shade-garden owners who want lasting purple foliage in a compact border, woodland planting, or decorative container.
Not ideal for: Gardeners seeking showy seasonal flowers or a drought-tolerant plant, and those whose soil stays waterlogged.
- Plant type:Live shade perennial
- Color:Shades of purple and maroon
- Listed height:10 inches
- Expected height:Up to 24 inches
- Expected spread:12–18 inches
- Pot size:2 qt.
- USDA hardiness zones:4–9
- Moisture needs:Regular watering
Our verdict“Choose this Heuchera for enduring foliage color in shade if you can balance regular moisture with good drainage.”
Proven Winners 2 Gallon Blue Chiffon Rose of Sharon (Hibiscus) Shrub
Blue Chiffon Rose of Sharon earns this spot for gardeners who want a substantial flowering shrub rather than a small border perennial. Its blue flowers with lacy centers bring color late in the season, while a mature height of up to 12 feet can add screening or structure where lower plants such as Ajuga would leave the view open. It suits USDA zones 5–9 and can grow in full sun or partial shade, giving it broader placement options than the full-sun gladiolus in this lineup. The tradeoff is its eventual footprint: allow 8–12 feet of spacing and expect to provide regular moisture. It is also a 2-gallon shrub, so it makes more sense for a long-term landscape feature than for instant, compact color.
Pros:- Large blue flowers with distinctive lacy centers
- Late-season blooms extend color into fall
- Grows in full sun or partial shade
- Can serve as a hedge, landscape accent, or container plant
Cons:- Mature size requires substantial spacing
- Needs regular watering to thrive
- Its shrub-scale growth is less suited to small beds than compact options such as oxalis
Best for: Gardeners in zones 5–9 who have room for a tall flowering screen or a substantial landscape accent.
Not ideal for: Small-yard gardeners or anyone seeking a compact, low-water perennial that needs little spacing.
- Container size:2 gallons
- Mature height:96–144 inches
- Mature width:48–72 inches
- USDA hardiness zones:5–9
- Sun exposure:Full sun to partial shade
- Bloom period:Spring to fall
- Water needs:Regular watering
- Flower color:Blue
Our verdict“Choose Blue Chiffon if you have room for a tall, flowering shrub and want more late-season structure than a small perennial can provide.”
Mixed Hosta Perennials, 6 Bare-Root Plants
This six-pack is a straightforward way to start a hosta planting without committing to the larger quantity in the Gardening4Less 9-Pack. Bare-root starts take less space to ship and can fill out into foliage clumps around 18 inches across, but they do ask for patience while roots establish. The listing describes the plants as low-maintenance and perennializing, making them appealing for gardeners who want recurring foliage rather than a seasonal display like the mixed-color gladiolus. One concern is the stated full-sun exposure, which conflicts with the description of hostas as shade plants; that mismatch makes placement harder to judge than with the Gardening4Less hostas, which specify full to partial shade. I would choose this pack only if the seller clarifies the light needs or the planting site can accommodate them.
Pros:- Includes six bare-root plants for a grouped planting
- Perennial growth can return beyond the initial season
- Low-maintenance growth habit is suited to foliage-focused beds
- Plants are described as reaching about 18 inches in diameter
Cons:- Full-sun listing conflicts with the description of hostas as shade plants
- Bare-root starts require establishment time before forming full clumps
- The provided details do not specify hardiness zones
Best for: Gardeners who want a modest six-plant hosta grouping and can confirm suitable light conditions before planting.
Not ideal for: Shaded-garden buyers who need clearly stated shade guidance, or anyone unwilling to establish bare-root plants.
- Quantity:6 bare-root plants
- Plant type:Hosta
- Growth diameter:About 18 inches
- Blooming period:Summer through fall
- Listed sunlight exposure:Full sun
- Water needs:Moderate
- Usage:Indoor or outdoor
- Color:Green
Our verdict“Pick this six-pack over the Gardening4Less 9-Pack when you want fewer hostas, but verify the light requirements before buying.”
12 Purple Oxalis Triangularis Bulbs for Indoor or Outdoor Planting
Purple Oxalis triangularis stands apart from the lineup because its main draw is richly colored, triangular foliage—not the large garden footprint of Blue Chiffon Rose of Sharon or the spreading leaves of the hosta packs. A dozen bulbs offer several chances to establish a display, and the indoor-or-outdoor listing gives it flexibility for growers with containers or a suitable garden spot. Its possible blooms add seasonal interest, but the available details do not promise a fixed flowering schedule. Oxalis needs sufficient light, so it is not a solution for a dim room or a deep-shade bed; the Gardening4Less hostas are a clearer fit for those shaded garden conditions. The instruction to plant bulbs soon after delivery also leaves less room to set the package aside than a more established potted plant.
Pros:- Distinctive triangular purple leaves with rose-colored markings
- Twelve bulbs allow for a grouped display
- Listed for indoor or outdoor growing
- May produce flowers across multiple seasons
Cons:- Needs sufficient light for germination and growth
- Bulbs should be planted soon after delivery
- The provided details do not state hardiness zones or mature size
Best for: Indoor plant keepers and container gardeners seeking distinctive purple foliage and willing to provide sufficient light.
Not ideal for: Gardeners with low-light indoor spaces, deep-shade beds, or no opportunity to plant bulbs soon after arrival.
- Quantity:12 bulbs
- Plant type:Flower
- Scientific name:Oxalis triangularis
- Color:Purple
- Usage:Indoor or outdoor
- Expected blooming period:Spring, summer, fall, and winter
- Expected planting period:Spring
- Special feature:Air purification
Our verdict“Choose oxalis for unusual purple foliage in a bright indoor spot or container, not for a low-light or reliably shade-tolerant planting.”
Gardening4Less 9-Pack Hosta Bare Root Perennial Plants
For a larger shade planting, I rank the Gardening4Less 9-Pack ahead of the six-plant Mixed Hosta pack because its light guidance is more useful: full shade to partial shade. The nine bare-root plants also offer more coverage potential, with listed spreads ranging from 20 to 60 inches, though that broad range makes the finished layout less predictable. Green foliage with varied textures carries the display, while purple or white bell-shaped flowers provide a shorter midsummer accent. Unlike the Blue Chiffon Rose of Sharon, these hostas stay focused on lower, shade-friendly foliage rather than height and screening. The tradeoffs are bare-root establishment, an unspecified hosta variety, and blooms that last about two weeks. This is a foliage-first choice, not a dependable long-blooming flower display.
Pros:- Nine plants provide more starting coverage than the six-plant hosta pack
- Suitable for full shade or partial shade
- Hardy across USDA zones 3–8
- Green foliage has varied textures, with purple or white summer flowers
Cons:- Bare-root plants need time to establish
- The listing does not identify a specific hosta variety
- Flowers last about two weeks
Best for: Gardeners with a full-shade or partial-shade bed who want several foliage plants and can wait for bare roots to establish.
Not ideal for: Buyers seeking named hosta cultivars, predictable plant dimensions, or flowers that last through much of the season.
- Quantity:9 bare-root plants
- Plant type:Perennial hosta
- Hardiness zones:3–8
- Light requirements:Full shade to partial shade
- Flower color:Purple or white
- Blooming period:Mid to late summer
- Spread:20–60 inches
- Growth rate:Medium
Our verdict“Choose this pack to build a shade-tolerant foliage bed, provided variety-level identification and long-lasting blooms are not priorities.”
10 Mixed-Color Gladiolus Bulbs (Sword Lilies) for Gardens and Containers
Mixed-color gladiolus is the clearest pick here for gardeners who want tall, cuttable summer stems rather than a foliage-led perennial bed. The spikes can reach 48 inches, bringing vertical color to a sunny garden or container and making them more suited to bouquets than the low, spreading hostas. Ten corms give you a grouped planting, but this option comes with a narrower climate fit: it is listed for USDA zones 7–10, while the Blue Chiffon Rose of Sharon suits zones 5–9. Gladiolus also needs full sun, well-drained soil, and planting after frost has passed, so it is less flexible for shaded sites or early spring planting. Choose it for seasonal height and cut flowers, not for effortless year-round structure.
Pros:- Mixed colors create varied summer flower displays
- Flower spikes grow up to 48 inches and suit cutting
- Can be grown in gardens or containers
- Ten corms support a grouped planting
Cons:- Listed for USDA zones 7–10, limiting its climate fit
- Planting must wait until after frost has passed
- Requires full sun and well-drained soil
Best for: Gardeners in zones 7–10 who have a sunny, well-drained bed or container and want tall stems for summer bouquets.
Not ideal for: Gardeners in colder zones, shaded locations, or anyone seeking a low-maintenance perennial that can be planted before the last frost.
- Quantity:10 corms
- Plant type:Perennial flower
- Colors:Mixed
- Maximum height:48 inches
- Blooming period:Summer
- Sunlight:Full sun
- USDA hardiness zones:7–10
- Planting depth:1–2 inches
Our verdict“Choose these gladiolus corms for sunny summer height and cut flowers if your climate and planting schedule fit their narrower requirements.”
Home Grown English Lavender ‘Vera’ Seeds, 1,500+ Seeds
‘Vera’ lavender suits gardeners who want a perennial with uses beyond its flowers: its traditional fragrance can serve aromatic or culinary projects, and established plants tolerate drought. Compared with the live Lavender Plants, 2-Pack elsewhere in this roundup, seeds offer a much larger starting quantity, but they require more patience and preparation before you get established plants.
Plan for 2–4 weeks of cold stratification to improve germination, plus a reliably sunny site; it is a poor fit for shaded beds. Its listed zones 4–9 give it a broad planting range, and the plants can grow indoors or outdoors, though indoor growing still needs strong light. I’d choose this seed packet for gardeners who enjoy raising plants from seed, not anyone seeking immediate color.
Pros:- Traditional fragrance supports aromatic and culinary uses
- More than 1,500 seeds offer scope for multiple sowings
- Established plants are drought-tolerant
- Listed for indoor or outdoor growing
Cons:- Cold stratification is recommended to improve germination
- Full-sun needs limit placement in shaded gardens
- Seed-growing takes longer than starting with a live lavender plant
Best for: Gardeners in zones 4–9 who want to raise fragrant lavender from seed for sunny beds, containers, or aromatic and culinary use.
Not ideal for: Buyers who want an established plant quickly or have only shaded growing space; germination benefits from stratification and the plants need full sun.
- Variety:English lavender ‘Vera’ (Lavandula angustifolia)
- Seed quantity:1,500+
- USDA hardiness zones:4–9
- Sun exposure:Full sun
- Stratification:Cold stratify for 2–4 weeks
- Expected height:2 feet
- Expected bloom period:Spring to fall
- Seed features:Heirloom, non-GMO
Our verdict“Choose ‘Vera’ seeds if you have a sunny spot and want to grow plenty of fragrant lavender yourself rather than buy an established plant.”
Ajuga (2 Pack) – Live Flowering Ground Cover Perennial, 8″ Tall by 5″ Wide in 1 Qt Pot
Ajuga is the practical pick for quick ground coverage where a packet of seeds would leave you waiting for a carpet to fill in. This two-plant live option brings evergreen foliage and spring blue flowers, while its dense growth can help suppress weeds. Compared with creeping thyme seeds in this roundup, Ajuga is better suited to partly shaded areas; thyme is the more natural match for sunny paths and rock gardens.
Ajuga’s flexibility from partial shade to full sun helps with difficult borders, woodland gardens, and slopes, but it still needs moderate watering and well-drained soil. That moisture requirement makes it less carefree than the drought-tolerant ‘Vera’ lavender once established. I’d pick Ajuga for buyers who want living plants now and can keep the soil from drying out, rather than for a dry, low-water site.
Pros:- Live plants provide a faster start than ground-cover seeds
- Evergreen growth forms a dense carpet that can suppress weeds
- Blue spring flowers add seasonal color
- Tolerates partial shade as well as full sun
Cons:- Needs moderate watering and consistently moist conditions for best growth
- Well-drained soil is required
- Two plants may not cover a large area quickly
Best for: Gardeners who want two established ground-cover plants for a partly shaded border, slope, or woodland-style bed.
Not ideal for: Gardeners with dry, low-water sites or anyone seeking ground cover for a hot, sunny path without regular moisture.
- Plant type:Live flowering ground-cover perennial
- Unit count:2
- USDA hardiness zones:4–9
- Sunlight:Partial shade to full sun
- Plant height:6 inches
- Flower color:Blue
- Soil:Well-draining soil
- Moisture needs:Moderate watering
Our verdict“Pick this Ajuga pair for living, shade-tolerant ground cover if you can provide moderate moisture.”
Proven Winners Double Play Doozie Spirea Shrub, 2-Gallon
Double Play Doozie spirea is the strongest choice here for gardeners who want a substantial, recurring display from a single landscape shrub. Deep red spring foliage gives way to purple-red flowers that can continue from late spring through fall. That extended show sets it apart from the New England aster seeds, which concentrate their color in fall, and from ground covers such as Ajuga, which stay much lower.
Its seedless, non-invasive character, drought tolerance, and deer resistance add practical appeal, and it can grow in a container or a landscape bed. The tradeoff is its 24–36-inch mature size and deciduous habit: it needs room and loses foliage in winter. Dormant shipping during winter through early spring also means it may not arrive looking leafy. I’d choose it for a shrub-scale planting, not for evergreen coverage.
Pros:- Flowers from late spring through fall
- Seedless and described as non-invasive
- Drought-tolerant and deer-resistant
- Suitable for landscape planting or containers
Cons:- Deciduous foliage drops in winter
- Needs room for a mature spread and height of 24–36 inches
- May ship dormant during winter through early spring
Best for: Gardeners who want a compact, flowering shrub for a sunny-to-partly-shaded landscape bed or large container.
Not ideal for: Buyers who need winter foliage, have little planting space, or expect a leafy plant when it ships during its dormant season.
- Botanical name:Spiraea × Double Play Doozie
- Plant type:Deciduous shrub
- Container size:2 gallons
- USDA hardiness zones:3–8
- Mature size:24–36 inches wide × 24–36 inches high
- Sun exposure:Full sun to partial shade
- Bloom period:Spring to fall
- Flower color:Red to purple
- Recommended spacing:24 inches
Our verdict“Choose Double Play Doozie for a space-allowing garden that needs a long-blooming shrub, not year-round foliage.”
600 New England Aster Heirloom Flower Seeds (Aster novae-angliae)
New England aster gives gardeners a tall, late-season perennial for pollinators and cut flowers. Its purple blooms can reach up to 48 inches, making it a more vertical, autumn-focused choice than the low-growing creeping thyme seeds in this lineup. Bees and butterflies are part of its appeal, while the long stems suit arrangements; it serves a different purpose from the long-blooming Double Play Doozie spirea, which offers shrub structure and flowers over a broader season.
The main cost is planning time and bed space: these seeds call for eight weeks of cold stratification, full sun, regular watering, and 18–24 inches between plants. That spacing can rule it out in a small border. Its listed zones 2–8 cover a wide range, but buyers seeking low-effort sowing or compact growth should look elsewhere. I’d choose it for a roomy, sunny garden built around fall flowers.
Pros:- Tall stems suit cut-flower arrangements
- Purple blooms attract bees and butterflies
- Listed for USDA zones 2–8
- Heirloom and GMO-free seeds
Cons:- Requires eight weeks of cold stratification
- Needs 18–24 inches of spacing, so a sizable bed is needed
- Regular watering is required
Best for: Gardeners with a sunny, spacious bed who want tall fall flowers for pollinators and cut arrangements.
Not ideal for: People with limited bed space or little patience for seed preparation; the plants need wide spacing and eight weeks of cold stratification.
- Botanical name:Aster novae-angliae
- Seed count:600
- USDA hardiness zones:2–8
- Plant height:Up to 48 inches
- Sunlight:Full sun
- Bloom period:Fall to winter
- Soil type:Loam
- Water needs:Regular watering
- Seed features:Heirloom, GMO-free, made in USA
Our verdict“Choose New England aster if you can prepare the seeds and spare garden space for tall, pollinator-friendly fall blooms.”
20,000 Creeping Thyme Seeds for Planting, Perennial Ground Cover (Thymus serpyllum)
Creeping thyme is the low-profile ground-cover option for sunny borders, rock gardens, and paths where a taller shrub or flower would get in the way. Its 2–4-inch foliage and purple blooms make a very different planting from the six-inch Ajuga pair: thyme is aimed at sunnier, lower-growing coverage, while Ajuga offers live plants and better shade tolerance. The listing’s 20,000 seeds also suit gardeners who want to sow a broad area rather than add just a couple of established plants.
That quantity does not guarantee quick coverage, though: the product provides no germination or growing-time information, so buyers cannot readily plan how long a bare patch may remain open. It can help suppress weeds once established, but it still has to be grown from seed. I’d favor it for patient gardeners with a sunny site, not anyone who needs immediate ground cover.
Pros:- Large seed quantity supports sowing a broad area
- Low 2–4-inch growth suits paths and rock gardens
- Purple flowers add color to ground-level planting
- Perennial growth can return year after year
Cons:- No germination or growing-time information is provided
- Seed-grown coverage takes longer to establish than live Ajuga
- Full sun is a better fit than deeply shaded areas
Best for: Gardeners willing to grow ground cover from seed across sunny paths, rock gardens, or borders.
Not ideal for: Buyers who need quick, predictable coverage or have mostly shaded planting areas; germination and growing-time details are not provided.
- Botanical name:Thymus serpyllum
- Seed quantity:20,000
- Plant type:Perennial ground cover
- Light:Full sun to partial shade
- Plant height:2–4 inches
- Spread:Up to 18 inches per plant
- Flower color:Purple
Our verdict“Choose creeping thyme seeds for a patient, sunny-site gardener seeking low ground cover rather than instant results.”
How We Picked
I ranked these options by how well they meet the promise of a perennial planting: useful repeat-season garden value, a clear role in a planting plan, and a reasonable match between the product format and the work a buyer must do. I compared live potted plants, bare roots, bulbs, and seeds separately, since their starting size and establishment demands affect how soon a gardener can expect a visible result. I also weighed the listed size, quantity, and likely use, such as shade foliage, flowering height, or ground coverage.
The higher positions go to options with a distinct role and a comparatively straightforward path to that result. Blue Chiffon Rose of Sharon ranks first as a substantial flowering shrub, while compact Heuchera and live ground covers serve narrower but practical garden needs. Larger seed and bulb counts can offer broad planting potential, but they rank lower when buyers must wait longer, grow more plants from an early stage, or have less certainty about the finished display. Plant suitability still depends on local climate, soil, light, and care; I treat the listed products as candidates, not universal fits.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Perennial Plants
Before choosing a perennial, I’d match the plant to the job and growing conditions rather than start with flower color or package quantity. These broader checks can prevent a plant that looks appealing in a listing from becoming the wrong scale, format, or workload for your garden.
Match the plant to light and local climate
Start by checking the light the planting area receives across the day, not just whether it seems sunny at noon. Shade-oriented foliage plants and sun-loving flowering plants answer different garden problems, and neither will perform as intended in a mismatched spot. Then compare the plant’s hardiness range and heat tolerance with your location using reliable local growing guidance. A plant described as perennial may not survive winter in every region, and some gardeners grow it as an annual or bring it indoors. If you are unsure, favor a plant suited to your local conditions over a tempting color or unusually large seed count.
Choose a format that fits your patience and skill
Potted plants provide an established start, but they still need correct planting depth, water, and time to settle in. Bare-root plants and bulbs can be easier to ship and plant in quantity, yet they may look unimpressive at first and can be vulnerable if they dry out or go into cold, wet soil. Seeds usually give the greatest number of potential plants, but germination, spacing, and early care add work, and results may take a season or more to fill in. Don’t compare a large seed count directly with a small number of live plants as if they offer the same immediate coverage. Pick the starting format you can care for during its most vulnerable stage.
Plan for mature width, height, and spread
Use the listed dimensions as a starting point, then check mature size from a trusted plant reference before deciding where each plant belongs. A compact perennial can fit a border or container, while a shrub needs room for both its mature canopy and airflow around it. Ground covers spread beyond their initial footprint, which can be useful on open ground but troublesome beside delicate neighbors or paths. Crowding plants to make a new bed look full can reduce airflow and create more maintenance later. Leave space based on mature growth, and use temporary annuals if you want color while perennials establish.
Decide whether you need blooms, foliage, or coverage
Perennials differ in what they contribute most: flowers for a seasonal display, foliage for structure, or spreading growth to cover soil. A garden built only around bloom time can have gaps once flowers fade, while foliage-focused plants can keep the planting visually composed for longer. Ground covers may reduce exposed soil, but they are not instant weed-proof mats and can spread into places where you do not want them. For a balanced bed, combine plants with different heights and seasonal roles rather than buying several options that all peak at the same time. This also helps you judge whether a flowering shrub, a shade foliage plant, or a low-growing spreader is the best use of your available space.
Read quantity as potential, not finished coverage
Package counts can be misleading unless you know the planting distance and the expected germination or establishment rate. A large packet of seed may produce many starts, but it does not guarantee a dense, even bed. A smaller pack of live plants can make an immediate visual impact, though filling a large area with them may require more units. Check the seller’s guidance for spacing, sowing depth, and expected mature spread, then calculate how many plants your site actually needs. If you have limited time to thin seedlings or manage a nursery tray, a smaller number of established plants may be the more practical choice.
Set a realistic maintenance and containment plan
Think beyond planting day: some choices call for pruning, deadheading, division, or seasonal cleanup, while seed-grown plants require extra attention early on. Spreading plants deserve a boundary plan, especially near lawns, paths, or neighboring beds. Shrubs need enough room for pruning without being cut back harshly to fit a space that is too small. Check whether your plant is invasive or restricted in your region before buying, since the same vigorous growth that makes a ground cover useful can make it difficult to control. Choose a maintenance level you can keep up with over several seasons, not just during the first flush of planting enthusiasm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these perennial plants suitable for every growing zone?
No single plant in the list is a safe choice for every climate. Winter hardiness, summer heat, humidity, and drainage all affect whether a perennial returns reliably where you live. Check the specific cultivar’s growing range against a local extension service or trusted regional plant source before ordering. In colder areas, some plants may need winter protection or may behave as annuals; in hot climates, afternoon shade or extra moisture may matter. If the listing does not provide clear regional guidance, treat that as a reason to verify the plant before planting a whole bed.
Should I buy live plants or seeds if I want a fuller garden soon?
Live plants are generally the more direct choice when you want visible growth sooner, though they still need time to establish and may not cover their final area right away. Seeds can produce many plants for a larger planting, but germination and early growth introduce more uncertainty and work. Your timeline should include the season of planting, local growing conditions, and the plant’s mature spread—not just the package count. A practical compromise is to use live plants as anchors and sow seed in open areas where a slower fill-in is acceptable. Avoid expecting first-year seedlings to create the same effect as a mature planting.
Can I use spreading ground covers beside other perennials?
Yes, but the pairing needs planning because a vigorous ground cover can compete with smaller or slower-growing plants. Check the expected spread and whether the plant can be edged, divided, or contained without harming it. Keep it away from delicate seedlings until you understand how quickly it expands in your conditions. Paths, edging, or a clear buffer can help define its area, although no barrier replaces occasional maintenance. If you want a tidy mixed border, choose a slower or more compact ground cover rather than relying on regular rescue pruning.
Which planting format is least forgiving for a first-time gardener?
Seeds tend to demand the most attention at the start because they need suitable sowing conditions, moisture, light, and sometimes thinning before they become established plants. Bare roots and bulbs also need correct depth and timely planting, but they avoid the earliest seedling stage. Potted plants provide a more developed starting point, although improper planting or watering can still set them back. A beginner with limited time may find a small number of live plants easier to manage than hundreds of seeds. Anyone choosing seeds should follow the supplier’s sowing directions closely and plan for the added care.
How should I choose between a flowering shrub and smaller perennials?
Choose based on the space’s role and scale: a shrub can anchor a bed and add height, while smaller perennials are easier to fit into borders, containers, or layered plantings. A shrub also calls for a longer-term location because moving an established woody plant is more demanding than shifting a smaller perennial. Check mature width, nearby structures, and access for pruning before planting it. If your garden is compact or you want flexible seasonal arrangements, smaller plants may make more sense. If you need a focal point and have room for long-term growth, the shrub format can provide structure that low-growing choices cannot.
Conclusion
For an all-purpose focal point, I’d choose Blue Chiffon Rose of Sharon, the best overall pick for buyers with room for a flowering shrub. Creeping Jenny live plants are my best value-style choice for gardeners seeking established ground cover, while Heuchera ‘Shades of Purple’ is the best compact option for adding foliage interest in a suitable shade location. Beginners who want a more developed starting point can favor the live potted lavender or Heuchera over seeds and bare roots, while experienced gardeners with time to raise plants may prefer the lavender, aster, or creeping thyme seed packets. For a shade bed, compare Heuchera with the hosta packs; for spreading coverage, weigh Ajuga and Creeping Jenny against the slower seed-grown thyme. Match the plant to your climate, available space, and willingness to maintain it, and the right choice becomes much clearer.
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