17 Early Spring Flower Perennials to Grow

Are you ready to welcome the beauty of spring with some vibrant and long-lasting flower perennials? Look no further! In this blog post, we’ll explore some early spring flower perennials that will add a splash of color and joy to your garden.

Best Early Spring Flowers

Spring is a season of rebirth and renewal, and what better way to celebrate that than with blooming flower perennials? These hardy plants come back year after year, making them a beautiful and cost-effective addition to your garden. Plus, they require minimal maintenance, leaving you more time to soak in their beauty.

Types of Early Spring Flowers Perennials

Below is a list of perennial flowers that would make a great addition to your spring garden. There are many different varieties to choose from. Be the envy of all your neighbors with these beautiful spring-blooming perennials!

Lenten Rose

Our first contender for the best early spring flower perennial is the Lenten Rose, also known as Hellebore. This stunning flower boasts a wide range of colors, from pure white to deep burgundy, and even pink and green hues. Its long bloom time, from late winter to early spring, makes it a must-have in any garden.

Pasque Flower

Another early spring flower perennial that will steal your heart is the Pasque Flower. Its unique, bell-shaped flowers come in various shades of blue, purple, and pink, giving a magical touch to your garden.

Grape Hyacinths

If you’re looking for a burst of color in your garden, Grape Hyacinths are the way to go. These small, fragrant flowers come in vibrant shades of blue and purple, creating a sea of color when planted en masse. These are early spring perennials and can even be forced indoors for an early pop of color.

Virginia Bluebells

For a touch of nostalgia, add Virginia Bluebells to your garden. These delicate, bell-shaped flowers bloom in shades of pink, purple, and white and have a sweet fragrance that will transport you back to childhood days spent playing among the flowers. They are also an important source of nectar for pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Bearded Iris

The Bearded Iris, a classic early spring flower perennial with stunning blooms in shades of purple, white, blue, and yellow. Its unique fanning petals and distinctive beard make it a standout in any garden. Plus, its rhizomatous root system allows it to spread and create a beautiful display year after year.

Cushion Spurge

If you’re looking to add some height and texture to your garden, look no further than Cushion Spurge. Its bright chartreuse flowers are a sight to behold against the backdrop of early spring greens. Plus, this plant is deer-resistant and drought-tolerant, making it a low-maintenance yet eye-catching addition to any garden.

Grecian Windflower

This charming flower, also known as Anemone Blanda, is a great choice for early spring bloomers. Its dainty flowers come in various shades of pink and blue, creating a soft and dreamy atmosphere in your garden. It also has a long blooming period, from early to late spring, making it a reliable source of color.

Bleeding Heart

No list of early spring flower perennials would be complete without the Bleeding Heart (dicentra spectabilis). Its heart-shaped blooms in shades of pink and white will steal your heart, while its unique foliage adds interest to your garden even after the flowers have faded. This plant is also deer-resistant and easy to grow, making it a popular choice among gardeners.

Primula Vulgaris

For a touch of whimsy, add Primula Vulgaris to your garden. Commonly known as the English Primrose, this flower features clusters of brightly colored blooms in shades of pink, purple, yellow, and white. It is also one of the first flowers to bloom in early spring, making it a welcome sight after a long winter.

Pig Squeak

We have a plant with an unforgettable name and equally unforgettable blooms – Pig Squeak. This low-growing perennial boasts clusters of pink or white flowers that resemble little piglets squeaking in the garden. Its unique name comes from the sound it makes when its leaves are rubbed together. How’s that for a conversation starter in your garden? 

Moss Phlox

Another plant that will add a pop of color to your garden is Moss Phlox. This low-growing, evergreen perennial features dense clusters of vibrant flowers in shades of pink, purple, and white. Its creeping habit also makes it an excellent groundcover, perfect for filling in small spaces or adding interest to rock gardens.

Daffodils

One popular early spring perennial is the daffodil, also known as the “jolly yellow giant.” These sunny flowers are a cheerful sight after a long and dreary winter. Did you know that daffodils have been cultivated for centuries and hold historical significance in many cultures? In fact, in ancient Greek mythology, they were associated with the god Narcissus. With their bright yellow petals and delicate fragrance, it’s no wonder they’re a crowd favorite.

Tulips

Another beloved spring flower perennial is the tulip. These elegant flowers come in a variety of colors, from classic red to vibrant purple. They were first cultivated in Persia and Turkey, where they symbolized love and affection. Today, tulips are still a popular choice for weddings and other romantic occasions. With their graceful shape and stunning hues, tulips are sure to make a statement in your garden.

Hyacinths

Looking for a burst of color? Look no further than hyacinths. These showy flowers come in shades of pink, purple, blue, and white and have a strong, sweet fragrance that can fill an entire garden. They were first grown in ancient Rome and Greece, where they were associated with rebirth and new beginnings. Hyacinths make a beautiful addition to any garden, and their lovely scent will surely put a smile on your face.

Crocuses

Crocuses are another early spring flower perennial that can brighten up any garden. These delicate flowers come in a variety of colors, from soft pinks to vibrant purples and yellows. They were first cultivated in the Mediterranean region and have since become a popular symbol of hope, growth, and new beginnings. With their slender stems and cup-shaped petals, crocuses are a charming addition to any garden.

Snowdrops

Snowdrops may be small, but they pack a punch when it comes to early spring blooms. These dainty flowers have white drooping petals with green markings and bloom even before the snow has melted. They were first introduced in Europe and have become associated with purity and hope. Snowdrops are an excellent choice for adding a touch of elegance to your garden, and their ability to withstand cold weather makes them a tough yet delicate plant.

Heartleaf Brunnera

Last but certainly not least, we have the charming Heartleaf Brunnera. This plant’s heart-shaped leaves and delicate blue flowers add a touch of elegance to any garden. It also thrives in shady areas, making it an excellent option for those hard-to-fill spots in your yard.

Tips for Growing Early Spring Flower Perennials

Now that you know some of the best early spring flower perennials, let’s discuss some tips for growing them successfully.

• Make sure to choose a location that receives plenty of sunlight. Most early spring flowers thrive in full sun or partial shade.
• Prepare the soil before planting by adding compost or organic matter to provide nutrients and improve drainage.
• Water on a regular basis, but too much watering can lead to root rot. Aim for moist soil but not waterlogged soil.
• Deadhead your flowers regularly to promote continuous blooming and prevent them from going to seed.
• Fertilize once a year in the fall or early spring with a balanced fertilizer. This will give your plants important nutrients to grow into healthy blooms.
• Protect your plants from deer and other pests by using repellents or placing physical barriers around them.

Designing a Garden with Spring-Flowering Bulbs

Want to create a stunning garden filled with early spring flowers? Here are some ideas for incorporating these perennials into your garden design:

• Mix and match different types of perennials for a variety of colors, heights, and textures for a vibrant flower bed.
• Plant in clusters or drifts rather than single rows to create a more natural and visually appealing look, and to use as ground cover.
• Consider planting bulbs in containers and placing them strategically throughout your garden for added interest. Add spring color to window boxes as well.
• Pair early spring perennials with late-blooming bulbs to extend the flowering season in your garden in various flower borders around the house.
• Incorporate other types of plants, such as shrubs and annuals, to create a diverse and dynamic garden landscape in front of stone walls. 

Early Spring Flowers Perennials FAQs

Which perennials bloom in early spring?

Some perennials that bloom in early spring include Moss Phlox, Daffodils, Tulips, Hyacinths, Crocuses, Snowdrops, and Heartleaf Brunnera.

What are the first flowers to bloom in spring?

The first flowers to bloom in spring vary depending on location and climate, but some common early bloomers include crocuses, snowdrops, and daffodils.  Other popular choices include tulips, hyacinths, and heartleaf brunnera.  Consult with a local gardening expert or do some research specific to your area for the best options. 

What is the white flower that blooms in early spring?

The white flower that blooms in early spring could be snowdrops, crocuses, or daffodils. These are all popular and common choices for early spring flowers.  However, there are many other types of white flowers that may also bloom in early spring depending on location and climate. It is always best to consult with a local gardening expert for the most accurate information.  Happy gardening! 

What is the easiest flower to grow in spring?

Some of the easiest flowers to grow in spring include daffodils, tulips, and crocuses. These plants are low maintenance and can thrive in a variety of soil types and light conditions. Other popular choices for easy-to-grow spring flowers include pansies, snapdragons, and petunias. Ultimately, the best flower to grow will depend on your specific gardening location and preferences.  Experiment with different types of flowers to see what works best for you. 

Early Spring Flowers Perennials

Early spring flower perennials are a wonderful addition to any garden. Not only do they add a pop of color and fragrance, but many of these plants also hold historical significance and cultural symbolism. From the cheerful daffodil to the delicate snowdrop, there is a wide variety of flowers to choose from. With proper care and maintenance, you can enjoy these beautiful blooms year after year.