Perennials are a smart investment for any garden. Not only do they return year after year, but they also add reliable beauty, support pollinators, and require less maintenance over time. While the choices can feel endless, we’ve highlighted three top-performing perennials for sun and three shade-loving favorites that thrive on Long Island. These selections combine color, structure, and seasonal interest—making them a great starting point for gardeners of all levels.
Daylily
Salvia
Black Eyed Susans
Perennials for Sunny Gardens
Daylily (Hemerocallis)
Daylilies are garden workhorses that bloom for weeks—and in some cases, even longer. Their trumpet-shaped flowers attract both hummingbirds and butterflies, while the grass-like foliage remains attractive all season. Moreover, many modern varieties rebloom, extending the color show well into late summer.
Salvia
This pollinator magnet offers long, upright spires of purple, blue, or white flowers. Not only do they mix beautifully with bold yellows and oranges, but they also bloom for weeks and attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. In addition, salvias are drought-tolerant and easy to grow in full sun.
Rudbeckia (Black-Eyed Susan)
With its iconic golden petals and dark centers, rudbeckia brings warmth and cheer to sunny borders. Furthermore, it’s a favorite in cottage gardens and is especially loved by butterflies. Because it’s so hardy, rudbeckia thrives with minimal care and blooms late into the season.
Hosta
Astilbe
Coral Bells
Perennials for Shady Gardens
Hosta
Hostas provide bold foliage in a wide range of sizes, shapes, and colors. Whether you’re filling a large drift, creating a border, or highlighting a shady corner, hostas offer structure and interest. Even better, some varieties produce fragrant flowers that attract hummingbirds.
Astilbe
Astilbes brighten shade gardens with large, feathery plumes ranging from pure white to deep red. In addition to their striking blooms, their fern-like foliage adds soft texture. Best of all, they thrive in part sun to part shade and attract butterflies.
Coral Bells (Heuchera)
Coral bells add vibrant color to the shade garden with their stained-glass-like leaves in shades of burgundy, chartreuse, and copper. While they’re mostly grown for foliage, many varieties also produce airy flowers that pollinators enjoy. As a result, they’re perfect for adding year-round interest in dappled light.
No matter your garden conditions—sunny or shady—you’ll find the right perennials at Hicks Nurseries.
By choosing long-lasting, reliable plants, you’ll enjoy color, texture, and pollinator activity from spring through fall. Stop by today and let our experts help you find the perfect perennials for your space. With the right selection, your Long Island garden will thrive for years to come.
Additional Information:
Top 10 Perennials for Sun