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Annuals and Perennials

Annuals complete their life cycle quickly. Perennials return from roots, crowns, bulbs, rhizomes, or woody bases.

KindExamplesUses
Bedding annualsPetunia, impatiens, marigold, pansySeasonal color, containers
Cutting annualsZinnia, cosmos, sunflower, celosiaBouquets and pollinators
Cool-season annualsSweet pea, calendula, stockMild winter or spring display
Warm-season annualsBasil, amaranth, nasturtium, tithoniaSummer growth and color
KindExamplesUses
Herbaceous perennialsSalvia, peony, hosta, daylilyBorders and recurring plantings
Bulbs and geophytesTulip, daffodil, dahlia, cannaSeasonal flushes
Evergreen perennialsHeuchera, hellebore, agapanthusYear-round foliage in suitable climates
Native perennialsMilkweed, coneflower, kangaroo pawHabitat and climate fit

Annuals need regular feeding and watering because they grow fast. Perennials need placement for mature size and occasional division, pruning, or seasonal cleanup.