Perennials

Perennials, unlike their short-lived counterparts, are typically cold-hardy plants that live for more than two years. The term means ‘through the years’ and is often used to differentiate the plant from shorter-lived annuals and biennials. They are also described as herbaceous, meaning that their stems are not woody like those of shrubs and trees. Their foliage dies back in the autumn while their roots survive underground so that the plant will emerge again every spring. Discover our high-quality perennials!

Acanthus
bergenia

What is a perennial?

Perennials are plants which are expected to live longer than two years, because they can stay dormant for long periods of time before re-blooming. A lot of herbs, vegetables and fruits are perennial plants. Perennials grow and bloom over the spring and summer, die back in the autumn and winter and then return in the spring. When grown in good conditions, perennials often live a long time, but their life span is variable. The amount of maintenance also differs per perennial plant.

The leaves of some perennials remain green all winter long. These are called ‘the evergreen’ types. Most of them, however, are not evergreen but deciduous. This means that their stems and leaves die back in the autumn while their roots remain dormant during the winter. In the spring, they often will develop into plants again.

What is the difference between perennials and annuals and biennials?

The big difference between perennials and annual plants is that annual plants live for only one growing season, during which they produce seeds and then die. Biennial plants live for two growing seasons before they die. Both annual plants and biennial plants therefore last less long than perennials.

hosta
aster

Perennial flowers

Perennials are both flowering and non-flowering plants. Perennial flowers offer tremendous diversity in color, form, size, texture and fragrance. They are loved because they generally require less maintenance than other plants. Though the plant ‘dies’ back to seemingly nothing in the winter, the rootstock is merely taking a nap before springing up even stronger the next year. At Hoogenraad you can find a wide range of perennial flower varieties. Some popular perennial flowers are geranium ‘Rozanne’, Pachysandra terminalis, Pennisetum al. ‘Hameln’, Nepeta ‘Walker’s Low’, Salvia off. ‘Purpurascens’, Vinca and Waldsteinia.

Why perennials?

Perennials are a good long-term investment, because they come back many years. Most perennials require less water once established, which can be especially advantageous for those who want to reduce their water consumption. After all, they are not called the backbone of the garden for nothing!

rudbeckia
Verbena

Discover our perennials for wholesale

We have different types of perennials. Consider, for example, the perennial plant Pachysandra terminalis that can be used as an evergreen ground cover in the shade. Pachysandra terminalis or shade herb blooms in the period March-April with white upright flowers. Or the Pennisetum al. ‘Hameln’, low-growing ornamental grass with upright growth and narrow leaves. The Vinca minor blooms with light blue flowers from February to May. The height of this evergreen ground cover is approximately 15-20 cm.

Take a look at our product range and find out what Hoogenraad can do for you. Order our perennials in a tailor-made offer. Do you have questions about our products or are you looking for advice? Please do not hesitate to contact our Dutch nursery. We are happy to help you!

Discover our perennials assortment

Check out our current stock