As the heat intensifies, the garden comes to life and enthusiasts of sunny weather start to make their presence known. With a variety of woodlanders that sway and bold perennials, a group of specialists have put together a list of 60 flowers that are perfect for early summer. Don’t forget to sign up for Gardens Illustrated magazine to receive a set of Niwaki Sentei Secateurs!
To ensure that your garden remains delightful and lively throughout the year, it is crucial to carefully select the flowers that you plant. During early summer, which typically lasts from June to September, various types of flowers begin to emerge and add beauty to your garden. These early summer blooms serve as a sweet reminder that spring has transitioned into summer. We have compiled a list of the ideal early summer flowers, personally selected by renowned plantspeople such as Bob Brown, Fergus Garrett, Hans Kramer, Marina Christopher, Chris Marchant, Derry Watkins, and Matthew Reese. You can trust their expert opinions to guide you in choosing which flowers to plant. Don’t forget to check out our summer flowers list as well. One of the perfect choices for early summer flowers is Valeriana pyrenaica.
The Valeriana pyrenaica is a charming perennial that forms clumps and has light-green, heart-shaped leaves that are pointed, coarsely textured, and sharply serrated. These leaves are arranged oppositely in tiers on upright stems and create a loose cluster. This plant has dome-shaped clusters of pale pink to off-white flowers that are fragrant and grow throughout the plant. The flowers develop wispy, fluffy seedheads as they age, which elegantly float above the main body. When planted with common cow parsley, it creates a beautiful tapestry of pink and white. The Valeriana pyrenaica grows up to 1.2m tall and is naturally found alongside waterways in the Pyrenees and the Iberian system. It has been naturalized in the British Isles. This plant prefers moist soil and partial shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 4a-9b and blooms from May to July. Another lovely plant to consider is the Baptisia ‘Purple Smoke’.
Baptisia, a type of plant belonging to the pea family, gained renewed interest in the 1990s due to its multiple stem varieties and flower colors ranging from white, yellow, pink, blue, and indigo. One of the more commonly seen species in British gardens is Baptisia australis, which has upright stems and blue flowers. The late Rob Gardner of the North Carolina Botanical Garden introduced Baptisia ‘Purple Smoke,’ a hybrid between Baptisia australis var. aberrans and Baptisia albescens with dark stems and purplish-blue flowers, in 1996. This plant can grow up to 1.2m tall and is native to Eastern North America. For optimal growth, it requires well-drained soil and full sun exposure. It is hardy according to RHS H7 and USDA 3a-9b and blooms from May to June.
Dianthus cruentus is a beautiful flower worth discovering. Its petals are a shade of pink so deep that they appear almost red. They bloom in clusters atop long stems, making them perfect for bouquets or as accents in a garden. Take the time to appreciate the simple beauty of Dianthus cruentus.
The Dianthus cruentus plant has a neat appearance with its mounds of grass-like foliage. Its wiry flowering stems produce clusters of small, blood-red flowers with blue stamens. However, I discovered that my plants did not often set seed, and a friend explained that most plants were either all-male or all-female, with few having both sexes on the same plant. The flowerheads have a striking resemblance to fireworks and complement smaller grasses like Stipa tenuissima or Eragrostis curvula ‘Totnes Burgundy.’ This plant typically grows to a height of 45-60cm and originates from the Balkans. It thrives in well-drained, neutral to alkaline soil when exposed to sunlight. The plant can withstand harsh weather conditions, earning an RHS H5 hardiness level. You can expect to see it bloom from May to August. Another plant that pairs well with Dianthus cruentus is the Geranium ‘Orion.’
Dutch nurseryman Brian Kabbes made a discovery in the late 1990s – a seedling of Geranium ‘Brookside’, a hybrid between Geranium clarkei ‘Kashmir Purple’ and Geranium pratense, that had larger and darker blue flowers than its parent. The electric-purple veins on the petals of the Geranium ‘Orion’ lead insects to the central white disc, which must produce copious amounts of nectar as bees are drawn to the blooms in large numbers, despite the plant being sterile. This variety is known for its extended flowering season as it does not produce seeds. It has received the AGM award and can grow up to 60-75 cm in height. Geranium ‘Orion’ prefers reasonable soil in sun or dappled shade and has a hardiness rating of RHS H7, USDA 5a-9b. Its blooming season lasts from May to September. Also, check out more on hardy geraniums and Paeonia delavayi.
Maayke de Ridder describes owning a Paeonia delavayi, a simple but admirable tree peony that has flourished in her cold, dry, and draughty environment for over 25 years. Despite its relatively small blood-red flowers being partially obscured by the foliage, de Ridder finds the plant beautiful and healthy until autumn when its seedpods release shiny black seeds. This particular species of tree peony can grow up to two meters high, is native to China, and can thrive in any soil type with sun to partial shade. Its hardiness level is at least RHS H7 and USDA 5a-8b, and it typically blooms from May to June.
Crambe grandiflora is a plant species that belongs to the mustard family. It is also known as Colewort, Giant Kale, or Giant Sea Kale. This plant can grow up to 4 feet tall and has large, green leaves. It produces white flowers in the summer, which are arranged in clusters. Crambe grandiflora is commonly found in coastal regions and prefers well-drained soil. Its leaves can be cooked and consumed like kale, while its flowers can be used as an ornamental addition to gardens.
The Crambe grandiflora is a rare plant species from the Caucasus that combines the height of Crambe cordifolia and the low growth of Crambe maritima. It’s a shame that such a great plant is only found in the wild. The flowers start blooming at the end of May, emitting a sweet smell similar to rapeseed. The inflorescence is multi-branched with hundreds of white flowers, larger than the ones in Crambe cordifolia, and soft-yellow centres. It’s easy to set seed, and mass germination can occur in spring. This plant grows up to 1.2m tall and prefers alkaline fertile soil in a sunny location. It’s hardy with an RHS H7 rating and blooms in May. Another plant to consider is Polystichum setiferum Green Lace (= ‘Gracillimum’).
The Polystichum setiferum Green Lace, also known as ‘Gracillimum’, has been referred to as ‘dynamite’ by an American visitor to our nursery and it’s not hard to see why. This unique fern has fronds that are incredibly fine and almost thread-like, yet they remain green throughout the winter. It originated from a selected seedling of ‘Pulcherrimum Bevis’ and is a rare cultivar. Although old plants can grow up to one metre across, this will take years. Unfortunately, it’s impossible to propagate from spores or bulbils, so division is the only option. However, once you have it, you’ll have it for your lifetime. It can grow up to 70cm tall and is originally from European species. It prefers not too dry conditions and alkaline soil is no problem. Part shade to full shade is recommended, and it’s hardy up to RHS H7. It’s available all year round, and another plant to consider is the Erodium ‘Special Rose’.
The Erodium ‘Special Rose’ is a unique and long-lasting plant that stands out from other erodiums. This hybrid, which was previously known only as the ‘pink form’, produces beautiful pale, rose-pink flowers above its finely cut, grey leaves. Unlike most erodiums, this particular variety does not produce seeds and, therefore, continues to bloom for months on end. With optimal conditions of abundant sunshine and proper drainage, the Erodium ‘Special Rose’ will thrive for years – some plants have been known to last for over a decade. To propagate this plant, take little basal cuttings in March. Its height ranges between 15-20cm, and it is a hybrid of Erodium chrysanthum x Erodium sp. The Erodium ‘Special Rose’ is hardy and can withstand conditions ranging from RHS H5 to USDA 5a-9b. Its blooming season typically lasts from May to October.
Let’s talk about the beautiful Astrantia plant and one of its varieties called ‘Buckland’. This flower is a sight to behold with its delicate petals and intricate patterns. ‘Buckland’ is a unique cultivar that stands out with its pink and white flowers that bloom in the summertime. This plant is a great addition to any garden or landscape and will surely bring joy to anyone who sees it.
Astrantias are a great addition to any garden, as they establish quickly and self-seed easily. However, the modern hybrids are sterile, meaning they put all their energy into flowering instead of producing seedlings. They bloom thickly in May and June and can be cut back in early July for a magnificent second bloom in September and October. My personal favorite is the pale-pink Astrantia Buckland, whose tiny Victorian posy-like flowers are surrounded by pale-pink bracts. While they are known to prefer shade, I find that my best astrantias grow in damp, sunny locations. Just make sure they don’t dry out! These plants can reach a height of 70cm and are a hybrid of Astrantia major and Astrantia maxima. They prefer soil that’s not too dry and can withstand hardiness ratings of RHS H7 and USDA 4a-7b. Look for them to bloom from May to June and then again in September. Also, keep an eye out for the Uvularia grandiflora var. pallida.
Spring woodlanders are a favorite of mine, despite their short-lived nature. Every day brings new potential as these plants emerge and bloom before being shaded by the forest canopy. The particular variety of merrybells I adore features hanging flowers in a pale greenish-yellow hue on thin, curvy stems with simple, lance-shaped leaves. The six delicate petals twist gracefully and dance in even the gentlest breeze. They grow together in clusters and propagate through either rhizomes or seeds. I find them particularly lovely when paired with epimediums, Anemone nemorosa, and eythroniums. These plants can reach heights of 30 to 60 centimeters and are native to the eastern United States. They require soil that is rich in humus and moisture, which should be in partial shade. They are highly resilient, earning an RHS H5 and USDA hardiness rating of 4a-9b. You can expect these merrybells to bloom from April to May and they look stunning next to the Prunus ‘Shirofugen’.
During my time at Great Dixter in East Sussex, Christopher Lloyd introduced me to the beauty and grace of the Prunus shirofugen, a flowering cherry tree. With its copper-hued foliage and long, drooping stems that hold delicate double flowers which gradually darken and fall like confetti, this tree is a sight to behold. Its leaves also turn a vibrant color in the autumn before dropping. For the best results, it’s recommended to grow this tree with multiple stems, which will enhance its attractive spread. The Prunus shirofugen is originally from Japan and grows well in good, moist garden soil. It is hardy up to USDA 5a-7b and RHS H6. This tree blooms in May and showcases colorful foliage in the autumn season.
Bunium bulbocastanum is a botanical term that refers to a plant species commonly known as black cumin or black caraway.
The Bunium bulbocastanum, commonly known as earth chestnut, is a plant with small and crunchy tubers, called pignuts, that can be eaten either raw or cooked. Its flavor is similar to sweet chestnuts. Additionally, its seeds are edible too. However, I personally cultivate it for its elegant and delicate foliage, which is also edible, and its picturesque white umbels. Although I was advised that it thrives in dry soil, I decided to plant it in gravel. Surprisingly, it not only grew into a lovely 40cm-high plant but also seeded itself into sticky clay at the pond’s border where it flourished into a magnificent 90cm of airy leaves and tall-stemmed flowers. This plant can grow up to 50-90cm and is native to Europe and Asia. It requires either damp or dry soil conditions and has an RHS H5 and USDA 5a-8b hardiness rating. Its season lasts from May to June. Another plant with great foliage is the Euphorbia palustris.
The Euphorbia palustris is a unique and stunning plant with fresh green stems that carry long, linear leaves. These dark-green leaves are highlighted by white midribs, leading to a bun of acid-lime green at the centre. As the central floret flattens out, the stems elongate, and flowering side branches enhance the impression of electric acid green, bleeding down the uppermost canopy. This plant takes on a green willowy habit in midsummer and switches to crimson, yellow, and orange in autumn. Native to Europe, this plant thrives in swampy conditions in wet moist soil under sun or part shade. With a height of 1.2m, the Euphorbia palustris flowers from May to June and exhibits autumn colours from October to November. It has an RHS H4 hardiness rating and USDA rating of 5a-9b. Add some flair to your garden with this stunning plant!
Graham Stuart Thomas, an expert in the field, once praised Rosa ‘Penelope’ as one of the most outstanding roses for creating a white visual without actually being white. This particular rose is especially stunning when paired with pale blues and grey tones. It boasts continuous blossoming throughout its season and is perfect for cutting, with buds that continue opening even after being placed in a vase. The semi-double blooms are held in airy sprays and start off as peachy-pink before turning white with age, presenting a beautiful arrangement of old and new buds. The flowers shatter easily when finished, preventing any unsightly appearance. To maintain its display, deadhead and feed regularly. With an AGM award, it stands at a height of 1m and can grow in any good garden soil in the sun. Its hardiness ranges from RHS H5 to USDA 5a-10b, and it flowers from June to July. For more rose inspiration, look no further.
Nectaroscordum siculum is a beautiful plant that can add a touch of elegance and charm to any garden. Its tall stems are adorned with clusters of pinkish-purple flowers that are shaped like bells, making them a favorite among gardeners who want to create a quaint and charming atmosphere.
This plant is easy to grow and requires minimal maintenance, making it a great choice for beginners or experienced gardeners who don’t have a lot of time to tend to their plants. It thrives in well-drained soil and prefers full sun or partial shade.
The Nectaroscordum siculum is also known as the Mediterranean Bells or Sicilian Honey Garlic. Apart from its beauty, it is also useful for culinary purposes. Its bulbs are edible and can be used to add flavor to a variety of dishes.
In summary, if you’re looking for a plant that is both beautiful and practical, the Nectaroscordum siculum is an excellent choice. With proper care, it will reward you with stunning flowers and delicious bulbs year after year.
