Herbaceous perennials
Herbaceous perennials are perennials which, depending on the local climate, may bloom over the spring and summer, die back in the autumn and winter then re-grow from their root-stock in the spring. They are great for adding colour and texture each summer. Like all perennials, they will survive frost and live in the ground for more than 2 years, as opposed to annuals and biennials which last for one and two years. Herbaceous perennials are easy-to-grow, reliable performers that make up the backbone of the flower garden. There is a huge range to choose from with varying colours, styles, growth habits and textures. Flowering periods are similarly diverse spanning anything from 2 weeks to 2-3 months. Traditionally, perennials are planted in a border or island bed, but they also combine well with shrubs and help bring colour and interest to woodland or water-side settings, whilst clump-forming varieties look great under-planted around the edge of a larger plant in a container. See our guide on how to grow perennials for more information.