Ice Plant (Delosperma cooperi)

For a low-lying, long-blooming perennial, the ice plant is an excellent choice due to its vivid flowers and unique leaves. This plant grows only 3 to 6 inches high and blooms from June through September. Although it is borderline hardy north of Zone 6, it may survive in Zone 5 if covered with mulch through the winter. It requires minimal maintenance.

  • Name: Ice plant (Delosperma cooperi)
  • USDA Hardiness Zones: 5 to 10
  • Color Varieties: Red-purple
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun
  • Soil Needs: Dry, well-drained soil; good drought tolerance

Garden Phlox (Phlox paniculata)

Garden phlox is a long-blooming perennial that flowers from midsummer well into the fall. It is susceptible to powdery mildew, a fungal disease that can be disfiguring but rarely causes serious damage. However, newer cultivars like the white ‘David’ are mildew-resistant and maintain healthy-looking foliage all summer. Garden phlox thrives in mild summer temperatures and locations with good air circulation. Deadhead spent flowers to prevent self-seeding.

  • Name: Garden phlox (Phlox paniculata)
  • USDA Hardiness Zones: 4 to 8
  • Color Varieties: Pink-purple, white
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
  • Soil Needs: Medium moisture, well-drained soil