The Top 40 Autumnal Flowers to Plant for Vibrant Color

When the weather cools off and your summer blossoms die, add some vibrant fall flowers to your yard. While vibrant fall foliage on trees is one of the most cherished aspects of the autumn scene, hardy annual and perennial flowers as well as flowering shrubs provide additional appeal. There are many different colors, styles, and sizes of fall flowers that match any type of garden. Additionally, there are plenty of autumn flowering plants that you can put in pots on your front porch if you enjoy container gardening. Choose flowers wisely so that they will bloom in your region from the start of fall until the first frost of the winter.

Mums (Chrysanthemum spp.)

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Mums are iconic flowers of autumn, bringing vibrant colors and long-lasting blooms. Starting their display in September, they continue to flower until the first frost. With a range of bloom shapes and colors available, it’s ideal to choose mums that aren’t fully bloomed yet when planting in fall. This will help them adjust better to transplanting. Ensure consistent moisture in the soil without making it soggy to achieve the best flowering results.

Pot Marigold (Calendula officinalis)

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Pot marigolds kick off their blooming season from late spring to early summer, and with regular deadheading, they can continue to flower through the fall. These daisy-like blooms usually come in shades of yellow and orange. While they are often grown as annuals, they have the potential to self-seed and persist in your garden. Regular maintenance will keep them blooming longer.

Red Salvia (Salvia splendens)

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Commonly known as scarlet sage, red salvia is a tender perennial frequently cultivated as an annual outside its hardiness zones. Its striking red flowers, which grow in clusters and reach about 2 inches long, appear above the foliage on upright stems. Blooming from June to the first frost, salvia can be brought indoors for winter by potting in the fall.

Sweet Alyssum (Lobularia maritima)

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Sweet alyssum is known for its spreading mounds of gray-green foliage and clusters of tiny, fragrant flowers that bloom in spring. In summer’s heat, the plant may wane, so it’s beneficial to cut it back by half during this time. As temperatures cool in fall, expect a revival in blooming. Alternatively, sow seeds in August for autumn flowers.

Nasturtium (Tropaeolum spp.)

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Nasturtiums offer versatility in growth habits, including bushy, climbing, and trailing forms. They are renowned for their vivid flowers, which typically bloom from May to September, depending on the species and climate. Low-maintenance and drought-tolerant, nasturtiums add bright colors to gardens with minimal upkeep.

Violet (Viola spp.)

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Violets are a diverse genus with numerous species, generally characterized by their low-growing, spreading habit. Many violets will go dormant in summer but can revive in the fall, showcasing their eye-catching five-petal flowers. A late summer application of slow-release fertilizer will boost their fall bloom.

Snapdragon (Antirrhinum majus)

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Snapdragons are versatile plants that can be grown as perennials or annuals. They bloom from spring through to fall in cooler climates, though their flowering may slow in the heat of summer. Snapdragons are named for their tubular flowers, which resemble a dragon’s mouth when squeezed.

Cockscomb (Celosia argentea)

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Cockscomb, with its feathery flower heads, offers a vibrant range of colors including yellow, orange, red, and purple. This annual plant can reach up to 10 inches tall with dense blooms on upright stems. For an earlier display, start seeds indoors about six to eight weeks before the last frost in spring.

New England Asters (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae)

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New England asters are celebrated for their bold fall colors. Their daisy-like flowers, with pink to purple petals and golden centers, can be planted throughout the growing season. They often self-seed if spent flowers are left on the plant, but cutting them back can provide a neater garden appearance.

Nippon Daisy (Nipponanthemum nipponicum)

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Also known as the Montauk daisy, Nippon daisy features white petals with green centers and stands out with its long-lasting blooms. To keep it flowering, regularly remove spent blooms. Planting in early spring or fall will provide a strong start for these resilient blooms.

Goldenrod (Solidago spp.)

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Goldenrod is a perennial wildflower distinguished by its small, clustered yellow blooms on upright stems. It attracts butterflies and bees and benefits from deadheading to extend its flowering period. Typically planted in spring or fall, it adds a splash of color to the late-season garden.

Joe Pye Weed (Eutrochium purpureum)

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Joe Pye weed is a robust perennial that forms upright clumps with clusters of delicate pink flowers. Known for its pleasant vanilla scent, it blooms from mid-summer to early fall. Pruning the plants back in winter supports healthy growth in the coming season.

Bluebeard (Caryopteris × clandonensis)

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Bluebeard, or blue mist, blooms from July to September with its aromatic, mounded foliage and small clusters of blue flowers. It thrives in sunny spots and well-drained soil. Ensure proper drainage to prevent soggy conditions, which can affect flowering.

Autumn Joy Stonecrop (Hylotelephium telephium ‘Herbstfreude’)

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The ‘Autumn Joy’ stonecrop is a resilient plant suited for various conditions, favoring sharp drainage. Its star-shaped flowers transition from pink to red as fall progresses. Pinching back the plant in spring encourages a bushier form, enhancing its fall display.

Autumn Crocus (Colchicum autumnale)

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Autumn crocus, grown from bulbs, requires well-drained soil. Plant the bulbs in late summer for a fall bloom. The foliage appears only in spring, with fall flowers emerging on bare stems, making it a unique addition to autumn gardens.

Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia)

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Russian sage is a woody perennial with aromatic, gray-green foliage and small, tubular flowers that add beauty to sunny gardens. It can tolerate some shade but thrives best in full sun. Regular pruning in early spring promotes vigorous growth and flowering.

Sunflower (Helianthus annuus)

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Sunflowers are striking annuals that add a bold statement to any garden and are perfect for fall arrangements. Their large blooms, with yellow petals and brown centers, can grow up to 6 inches wide. Different varieties have varying bloom times, with many extending into fall. Harvest seeds from the flower heads for future planting.

Sneezeweed (Helenium autumnale)

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Sneezeweed, or Helenium, forms clumps with its bright, daisy-like flowers in shades of red, yellow, orange, and copper. To encourage prolific blooming, cut back the plants several weeks before the flowering period begins. This perennial thrives in full sun and well-drained soil.

Petunia (Petunia spp.)

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Petunias, typically grown as annuals in cooler climates, produce large, funnel-shaped flowers in a range of colors. They bloom from late spring to fall, though heat may slow flowering. If petunias decline in summer, cutting them back will rejuvenate them for a fall resurgence.

Blanket Flower (Gaillardia x Grandiflora)

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Blanket flowers are fast-growing perennials with large, daisy-like blooms that can reach up to 4 inches across. They bloom from early spring through fall and may require cutting back in summer to boost fall flowering. Their vibrant colors add continuous interest to your garden.

Floss Flower (Ageratum houstonianum)

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If you’re seeking a vibrant, long-lasting addition to your garden, consider the floss flower. This popular annual thrives in North American gardens, where it rewards you with clusters of soft purplish-blue blooms from late spring until the first frost. It flourishes in bright, moist spots, providing continuous color and cheer throughout the year. For optimal results, plant in well-drained soil and ensure it receives full or partial sun exposure.

Hydrangeas (Hydrangea spp.)

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Hydrangeas are cherished for their large, showy flower heads that make a dramatic impact in any garden. These versatile shrubs come in a range of colors, from white and blue to pink and red, and they often continue to bloom well into fall. Hydrangeas adapt to different light conditions, though many varieties perform best in full sun and rich soil. Regular watering and a well-drained soil will keep these beauties vibrant from early summer through late fall.

Calibrachoa

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Calibrachoa, often referred to as million bells, is an excellent choice for adding a splash of color to containers and garden beds. These prolific bloomers offer a rich palette of colors and keep flowering well into the fall, provided they are given regular feedings and occasional pruning. They thrive in both the ground and pots, and their self-cleaning nature means you won’t need to spend time deadheading spent blooms.

Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta)

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Black-eyed Susans are the epitome of hardy, low-maintenance charm. These cheerful native wildflowers brighten up garden spaces with their sunny yellow and orange blooms, attracting pollinators throughout the growing season. They are perfect for sunny locations and will continue to add color from early summer until the frosts of fall. With minimal care, they will reward you with their vibrant presence.

Strawflower (Xerochrysum bracteatum)

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Strawflowers are ideal for those who love adding cut flowers to their arrangements. These resilient perennials produce vivid blooms that hold their shape well in a vase and bring continuous color to your garden from late spring until the first frost. Regular deadheading will encourage ongoing blooms, making them a great choice for long-lasting garden beauty.

Cosmos (Cosmos sulphureus, Cosmos bipinnatus)

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Cosmos flowers are perfect for gardeners who prefer a low-maintenance approach. Simply sow the seeds in spring after the last frost, and these vibrant annuals will flourish with minimal fuss. Known for their charming blooms and ability to attract pollinators, cosmos thrive in sunny spots and will keep producing colorful flowers well into the fall.

Fuchsias

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Fuchsias are an excellent choice for adding a touch of elegance to your container gardens. With their droplet-shaped blooms in shades of pink, red, and purple, they attract hummingbirds and add a splash of color to shaded areas. Although they require specific care, including consistent moisture and humidity, their stunning appearance makes them a worthwhile addition to fall gardens.

Dahlia (Dahlia spp.)

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Dahlias are a top choice for gardeners seeking bold, vibrant blooms as the season progresses. With a wide variety of types and colors, these large-flowered plants are perfect for adding drama to mixed containers and flower borders. To enjoy their spectacular blooms, plant dahlias in full sun and provide regular watering, but keep them out of reach of pets, as they can be toxic.

Canna Lily (Canna spp.)

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Canna lilies bring a tropical flair to fall gardens with their striking blooms in shades of red, orange, and yellow. These easy-to-grow plants thrive in full sun and moist soil, making them an excellent choice for brightening up your garden even as the temperatures cool. They are pet-friendly and offer an exotic touch without the fuss.

Sedum (Sedum spp.)

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Sedum, with its hardy and drought-tolerant nature, is perfect for low-maintenance gardens. These plants are excellent ground cover options, with their tiny, colorful flowers attracting pollinators throughout the growing season. Sedums thrive in well-drained soil and are a great choice for xeriscape gardens, where they provide a burst of color without requiring much water.

Roses (Rosa spp.)

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Roses are a timeless choice for any garden, offering an array of colors and fragrances that can extend into the fall. While they require attentive care, including proper watering, fertilizing, and pruning, the effort is well worth the stunning blooms and rich scents. Prepare your roses for winter to ensure they continue to thrive and bloom beautifully in the following year.

African Daisies (Osteospermum spp.)

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African daisies stand out for their vibrant colors and long blooming period, extending into fall when temperatures are moderate. While they take a short break during the peak of summer heat, these tender perennials flourish in full sun and rich soil, offering a bright display of purples, pinks, and oranges throughout much of the growing season.

Begonia (Begonia spp.)

Begonias are an excellent choice for adding color to shady areas in your garden. With a variety of species available, begonias provide beautiful blooms and textured foliage that continue to flourish into the fall. They thrive in shady, consistently moist conditions and are relatively low-maintenance, making them a perfect addition to any garden with limited sunlight.

Pansies (Pansies spp.)

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Pansies are a popular choice for adding vibrant color to fall flower beds and containers. Their distinctive, heart-shaped petals bring a touch of charm to gardens, and they can continue blooming through mild temperatures. Pansies prefer part shade to maintain their bloom vigor and are known for being heavy feeders, so regular attention to their needs will reward you with extended floral displays.

Zinnias (Zinnia spp.)

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Zinnias are a fantastic option for gardeners looking for easy-care, vibrant fall flowers. With their bright blooms and adaptability to various conditions, these annuals are perfect for low-maintenance gardens. They are easy to start from seeds and thrive in sunny spots with well-drained soil, providing a burst of color from late spring through fall.

Marguerite or Oxeye Daisy (Leucanthemum vulgare)

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Marguerite daisies are cheerful perennials that add a touch of charm to informal gardens. These drought-tolerant wildflowers attract butterflies and other pollinators, offering a bright display of white blooms with golden centers. They thrive in sunny spots but can be invasive in some regions, so check local guidelines before planting.

Bidens (Bidens spp.)

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Bidens are vibrant perennials that provide lasting color from late spring through fall. They are well-suited to full sun and fertile soil, and their low-maintenance nature makes them a favorite among gardeners. While they are often grown as annuals in colder regions, they are easy to start from seeds and offer bright blooms throughout the growing season.

Amaranth (Amaranthus spp.)

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Amaranths are striking, edible plants that add a unique touch to fall gardens. With their large reddish flowers and ornamental foliage, they bring both visual and practical benefits. The seeds are particularly prized for their use in fall porridge. Ensure they have good air circulation and well-drained soil to thrive and make the most of their ornamental and culinary appeal.

Sumac (Rhus spp.)

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Sumac shrubs or small trees are known for their vibrant fall foliage in shades of red, yellow, or orange. While their flowers may not be the most eye-catching, their dramatic autumn leaves and bright drupes provide seasonal interest and food for wild birds. Be cautious to avoid poison sumac varieties, which are toxic, and opt for non-invasive types suited to your region.

Dusty Miller (Jacobaea maritima)

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Dusty Miller is celebrated for its striking silvery foliage, which adds a touch of elegance to any garden. The small daisy-like flowers, in shades of cream or yellow, bloom from spring through fall, offering a complementary contrast to the foliage. This drought-tolerant, pest-free plant is ideal for adding color, but be aware it is toxic to both people and pets.