Plant Types

There are many plant types options available to home gardeners. Whether you prefer flowers, foliage, or functionality, there are countless options to choose from that can thrive in a variety of growing conditions.

Perennials: These are plants that live for more than two years and come back year after year. They can range from small groundcovers to large shrubs and trees. Examples include lavender, daylilies, and hostas.

Annuals: These are plants that complete their life cycle in one growing season. They grow from seed, bloom, produce seeds, and die within a year. Examples include marigolds, petunias, and impatiens.

Herbs: These are plants that are used for medicinal, culinary, or aromatic purposes. They are typically easy to grow and maintain, and many of them have beautiful foliage or flowers. Examples include basil, oregano, and thyme.

Succulents: These are plants that store water in their leaves, stems, or roots. They are known for their unique shapes, textures, and colors and can thrive in dry or arid climates. Examples include cacti, jade plants, and aloe vera.

Shrubs: These are woody plants that have multiple stems and are typically smaller than trees. They can be evergreen or deciduous and provide structure and texture to a garden. Examples include hydrangeas, azaleas, and boxwoods.

Trees: These are woody plants that have a single main stem or trunk and can grow to great heights. They provide shade, privacy, and beauty to a garden and can range from small ornamental trees to large shade trees. Examples include maple trees, dogwoods, and magnolias.

Groundcovers: These are low-growing plants that spread and cover the ground, typically used to prevent soil erosion and weed growth. They are often used as a substitute for grass in shady areas or where grass is difficult to grow. Examples include vinca, pachysandra, and creeping thyme.

Vines: These are plants that grow by climbing or twining around other plants, structures, or supports. They can add vertical interest to a garden and are often used to cover walls, fences, and trellises. Examples include wisteria, ivy, and climbing roses.

Bulbs: These are underground storage organs that contain a complete plant embryo and are often used for ornamental purposes. They are typically planted in the fall and bloom in the spring or summer. Examples include tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths.

Ferns: These are non-flowering plants that have delicate fronds and are often used for their lush foliage and texture. They prefer shady or moist environments and can range from small groundcovers to large tree ferns. Examples include maidenhair ferns, ostrich ferns, and Boston ferns.