Here is an overview of some of the best choices for perennial plants considering hardiness, ease of maintenance, beauty, fragrance, pollinator attraction, and sustainability.
USDA Hardiness Zones: 3 to 8Sun Exposure: Full sunSoil Needs: Well-drained, fertile; top dress with manure in autumnPopular Varieties: ‘Sarah Bernhardt’ (large double pale pink, fragrant), ‘Festiva Maxima’ (white with splashes of raspberry, fragrant), ‘Moonstone’ (white to pale blush, fragrant), ‘Karl Rosenfield’ (deep crimson)
USDA Hardiness Zones: 4 to 9Sun Exposure: Full to partial shade, some tolerate full sunSoil Needs: Well-drained, tolerant of many soil conditionsPopular Varieties: ‘Blue Angel’ (large blue puckered leaves), ‘Patriot ‘(medium size, deep green with wide white margins), ‘Krossa Regal’ (vase shaped with pointed blue leaves), ‘Royal Standard’ (heart-shaped, glossy green leaves, white flowers)...