Non-native ornamental
Lavender
Lavandula angustifolia
Calming fragrance and soft purple spikes that bees work all day. Chosen for the sensory planter's sense of smell.
JanBlooms Jun–JulDec
Non-native ornamental
Garden Mums
Chrysanthemum × morifolium
Asteraceae (aster family)
The classic fall flower, in every color, for a burst of late-season color and a light floral scent.
Bloom calendar
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Classic fall flowers that come in many colors and shapes. Mums provide a burst of seasonal color for the sense of sight and a light floral fragrance that enhances the garden's overall atmosphere.
Single-flowered mums with an open center offer some nectar to late bees; the tightly doubled florist types are mostly for show. For a native alternative with the same season and far more wildlife value, plant New England aster.
Quick facts
- Cultivated in China for more than 2,500 years.
- Hardy mums can overwinter if planted early and mulched.
How to grow it
- Plant early in fall for the best chance of overwintering.
- Water regularly.
- Pinch back until July for bushy plants.
More plants
Related plants
Non-native ornamental
Ornamental Cabbage
Brassica oleracea
Ruffled, rose-like leaves in cream and purple that get brighter as the weather gets colder.
JanGrown for foliageDec
Non-native ornamental
Sage
Salvia officinalis
Soft, fuzzy, gray-green leaves you cannot help but rub, with a scent that says Thanksgiving.
JanBlooms May–JunDec
Non-native ornamental
Ornamental Peppers
Capsicum annuum
Tiny jewel-toned peppers in red, orange, and purple that add a fun, unexpected texture.
JanBlooms Jul–AugDec