Captivating Summer Perennials

Dennis Patton

Horticulture Agent

OLATHE, Kan ‒ Gardeners are continually in search of the latest and greatest plant recommendations. I am fortunate to be surrounded by knowledgeable and experienced Extension Master Gardener volunteers (EMG) who share their tips with me. Our network of nine demonstration gardens allows me an opportunity to experiment with many plants.

As summer ends, let me share a few perennial plants to consider adding to your garden. These plants are beginning to put on their show as the garden transitions from summer to fall.

Rudbeckia ‘Henry Eilers’

The flower of ‘Henry Eilers’ is unique as the sunshine yellow petals are not flat but have a rolled, tubular look. These cheery flowers with a brown center stand on upright stems reaching three to five feet. Reduce the height by cutting back the plant by one half in early spring. This not only reduces height but also results in stockier, sturdy stems.

‘Henry Eilers’ grows best in full sun. Like most plants, it prefers evenly moist soils but will tolerate a mild drought. Divide this plant’s slow-spreading clump every few years to keep its size in check. It makes an impressive focal point in the back of a bed for a pop of summer color.

Helenium

Helenium, also known as Sneezeweed, may have the worst common name ever. Breeders have refined this old-fashion plant in recent years. A couple of beautiful cultivars include ‘Salud Embers’ and ‘Mardi Gras.’ Prized for their brightly colored flowers, these varieties include a mix of yellow, orange, red and browns brightening the garden.

Helenium is also best grown in full sun with even moisture. Drought will decrease vigor and blooms. Like the Rudbeckia, the plant can be cut back by half in late May or June to reduce the height as the plant can reach three feet or higher. Fertilization is not recommended as it can lead to taller, leggy plants that tend to flop. Divide every few years to keep the clump in check.

The vivid flowers attract pollinators like butterflies and bees. It is reported to be deer and rabbit resistant, even more of a reason to add Helenium to the garden.

Solidago ‘Fireworks’

As the name implies, this perennial explodes with bright, yellow flowers heading into fall. Stiff plume branches loaded with the small, yellow flowers cover the plant like a firework bursting in air. ‘Fireworks’ is loved for its unique flowering habit. Blooms provide a source of pollen for bees and butterflies.

Like the other perennials, the plant can reach three to four feet in height. Cutting back retains a three foot height and develops a woody like stem to keep the plant upright. Full sun to light shade is best as it tolerates dry to moist soils. The plant spreads by rhizomes so divide as needed.

These are just a few plants to consider adding to your garden this fall as they are sure to captivate your attention.