If you live in Tennessee, then choosing the right perennial plants is the first step to a breathtaking garden that returns year after year. Here in the country music capital, with our unique climate ranging from the more incredible mountains to the warmer plains, selecting perennials that can handle our hot summers and variable winters is key. At TN Nursery, we've choosen a list of our favorite, most reliable perennials that don't just survive but thrive in Tennessee soil.
1. Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta)
A true Tennessee icon, the Black-Eyed Susan brings a wave of cheerful, golden-yellow blooms from summer through fall. These hardy native perennials are incredibly low-maintenance, thriving in full sun and tolerating our state's notorious clay soil. They are perfect for adding a splash of vibrant color to borders and wildflower gardens, and are a favorite of local pollinators like bees and butterflies.
2. Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea)
Available in shades of purple, pink, white, and even orange, Coneflowers are a staple for any sunny Tennessee garden. Not only are they beautiful and drought-tolerant once established, but they also have a long bloom time, providing color all summer long. Their sturdy stems hold up well against summer storms, and the seed heads provide food for birds in the fall and winter.
3. Daylillies (Hemerocallis fulva)
Daylily perennials thrive in full sun and can withstand even drought conditions. They multiply easily without being invasive. They are a very hardy perennial that does exceptionally well in Tennessee soil. There are many different colors of daylily plants, but the orange is a variety we love at TN Nursery because they are super low-maintenance.
4. Peony (Paeonia lactiflora)
Few plants can match the spectacular, fragrant blooms of a Peony in late spring. These timeless perennials are incredibly long-lived—often lasting for generations—and perform wonderfully in Tennessee's Zone 7 climate. Plant in the sun with well-drained soil, and you'll be rewarded with enormous, beautiful flowers perfect for bouquets. They don't need a lot of care once established, making them an advantageous investment for any garden.
Ready to bring long-lasting beauty to your Tennessee garden? Visit TN Nursery in Altamont or browse our online selection to find these and many more perennials ideally suited for our region. Happy planting!