What are some perennials with foliage that isn't green?

Hey there! Great question. When it comes to perennial plants, we often think about their beautiful flowers, but let's not forget about the stunning foliage that can add a pop of color and interest to your garden. If you're looking for perennials with foliage that isn't green, you're in luck! There are plenty of options to choose from.

One popular choice is perennials with purple leaves. These plants can bring a touch of royalty and elegance to your garden. One standout option is the Purple Palace Coral Bells (Heuchera micrantha 'Palace Purple'). Its deep purple leaves create a striking contrast against green foliage and make a statement in any garden bed. Another great choice is the Purple Smoke Bush (Cotinus coggygria 'Royal Purple'), which has deep purple foliage that turns a vibrant red in the fall.

If you're looking for perennials with red leaves, you're in for a treat. The Japanese Blood Grass (Imperata cylindrica 'Red Baron') is a stunning choice with its vibrant red blades that resemble flames. It's a real showstopper! Another option is the Red-Leafed Mukdenia (Mukdenia rossii), which has beautiful red leaves that turn bronze in the fall.

For those who love a bit of variety, perennials with variegated leaves are a fantastic choice. These plants have leaves with different colors or patterns, adding a touch of whimsy to your garden. One popular variegated perennial is the Variegated Solomon's Seal (Polygonatum odoratum 'Variegatum'). Its green and white striped leaves create a unique and eye-catching display. Another great option is the Variegated Japanese Sedge (Carex morrowii 'Variegata'), which has green and white striped foliage that adds texture and interest to any garden.

If you're looking for perennials with unique foliage, there are plenty of options to explore. The Blue Fescue Grass (Festuca glauca) is a standout choice with its silvery-blue foliage that adds a cool and calming effect to your garden. The Chocolate Chip Ajuga (Ajuga reptans 'Chocolate Chip') is another unique option with its small, chocolate-colored leaves that create a carpet-like effect.

So, whether you're looking for perennials with purple, red, variegated, or unique foliage, there are plenty of options to choose from. These plants will not only add color and interest to your garden but also provide year-round beauty. So go ahead and get creative with your perennial garden, and let the foliage steal the show!

Vaughn Corkery

horticulture, botany, birdwatching, photography

Vaughn is a seasoned horticulturist boasting a comprehensive education in botany. His career spans a myriad of roles in renowned botanical gardens and nurseries, earning him extensive expertise in perennial plants. When not immersed in his plant-filled world, Vaughn indulges in birdwatching and nurturing his photography skills.