Perennials you can sow straight into the ground—the delightful Oregon sunshine and 5 other picks from an expert
Direct-sowing perennials in spring is easy, provided you pick the right species. Perennial grower Eija Tommola recommends plants that will quickly develop into sturdy seedlings. Here are her favorites!
1. Golden marguerite
A butterfly-friendly plant for sunny and partly shaded meadows, golden marguerite (Cota tinctoria) blooms from June through September. Height 20–80 cm. Like other species suited to direct sowing as perennials, golden marguerite germinates quickly and grows into a sturdy seedling—this means it won’t be overtaken by more vigorous plants.
When you sow perennials from seed in spring, you can expect them to start blooming the following year.
2. Columbine
The nostalgic columbine (Aquilegia) blooms in early summer and thrives in well-draining soil. Many species easily cross-pollinate, so over time your yard may display flowers in many different colors. Depending on the species, their height will range from 15–100 cm.
3. Oregon sunshine
A rarely seen, charming, shrub-like “ball”. This species is suited to sunny, nutrient-poor soil. Oregon sunshine (Eriophyllum lanatum) blooms from August through September. Height 30 cm.
4. Field scabious
The field scabious (Knautia arvensis) attracts butterflies, bumblebees, and other pollinators with its July–August blooms. It grows well in both dry and moist soil, in sun or partial shade. Height is 30–80 cm.
5. Ox-eye daisy
The familiar wild plant ox-eye daisy (Leucanthemum vulgare) blooms from June to August in sunny or partially shaded, well-draining soil. It draws in many daytime butterflies. Height is 20–70 cm.
6. Peach-leaved bellflower
A meadow plant, peach-leaved bellflower (Campanula persicifolia) delights in July with its large blue or white bell-shaped flowers. It flourishes in fresh, well-draining soil, in sun or partial shade. Height 80 cm.
