Perennials

A perennial plant is a plant which lives for longer than two years.  The classification is split between those that do not form woody tissue (Herbaceous perennials) and those that do form a woody base and/or rootstock from which the plant grows stems, foliage and flowers (Woody perennials).  Generally speaking, the term perennials does not describe the latter as trees and shrubs are always going to be perennial by nature.

In the seasonal British climate, perennials grow only in the Spring/Summer growing season whereas in other climates with less differences in seasons it is possible for them to grow all year round.  There are also evergreen perennials which are species which keep their foliage all year round and deciduous perenials where the foliage may die back after a season of growth of foliage and flowers.

Perennials develop larger root systems than annual plants therefore they tends to thrive better in periods of drought or when the soil is lacking in nutrients.  Their roots develop to seek water in the ground  therefore it is often good to not over water these plants as they will develop better when they are seeking what they are deficient in.

Most perennials are termed polycarpic.  That is that they flower and fruit many times in their natural lifetime. Others are termed monocarpic or semelparous.  That is when when they flower and fruit only once and then die.

Half hardy or tender perennials can live for many years but can be killed by frost if left outside, but can be over wintered in a greenhouse.

As with other classifications of plants, perennials are not just garden flowers.  They can be weeds or vegetables for instance too. Perennial plants like rhubarb or artichokes can live many years and are long term investments for a vegetable garden.

 

Annuals 
Biennials
Perennials
Shrubs 
Trees

Alpines  
Aquatics
Bamboos
Bulbs 
Climbers 
Conifers 
Ferns  
Fruit 
Grasses  
Indoor plants  
Lawns  
Marginals 
Roses 
Vegetables