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
