North American native
Bee Balm
Monarda didyma
Shaggy scarlet flowers that hummingbirds cannot resist, on a fragrant plant you can make tea from.
JanBlooms Jul–AugDec
North American native
Sedum (Stonecrop)
Sedum / Hylotelephium spp.
Crassulaceae (stonecrop family)
Thick, smooth succulent leaves and late-season flower clusters that bees and butterflies crowd onto in fall.
Bloom calendar
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A hardy succulent with thick, smooth leaves and clusters of small flowers. Its unique texture invites touch, while its late-season blooms provide visual interest and support for bees and butterflies.
Some sedums, such as woodland stonecrop (Sedum ternatum), are native to the eastern United States; the big autumn-blooming garden types come from Asia. All are non-invasive and drought-proof.
Quick facts
- Stores water in its leaves, so it shrugs off drought.
- Seed heads stay attractive all winter.
How to grow it
- Full sun, lean soil.
- Never overwater.
- Leave stems up through winter.
More plants
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North American native
Fern
Polypodiopsida
Lush, cool green texture and fronds that invite touch. The sensory planter's shade and touch plant.
JanGrown for foliageDec
North American native
Gaillardia (Blanket Flower)
Gaillardia spp.
Fiery red-and-yellow daisies that bloom for months and pull in butterflies.
JanBlooms Jun–OctDec