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Address: 284 Meeanee Road, Meeanee, Napier, 4112, New Zealand
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perennials to plant in spring

Spring in New Zealand is the perfect time to breathe new life into your garden with a colourful array of perennials. Whether you’re looking to fill in borders, create vibrant displays, or attract pollinators, there are plenty of hardy, easy-care perennials to plant in spring that will reward you with fabulous blooms year after year. Early planting gives your perennials time to establish strong roots before the summer heat, ensuring robust growth and greater resilience. If you’re ready to invest in a low-maintenance, long-lasting garden, discover our top recommendations for perennials to plant in spring, along with expert tips for planting success.

Viola odorata plants with lush green foliage and purple flowers.

Viola odorata (Sweet Violet)

Viola odorata, commonly called Sweet Violet, is a charming perennial known for its fragrant blooms and lush green foliage. Native to Europe but widely grown in NZ gardens, it brings a touch of cottage garden charm and delightful scent in early spring. This hardy groundcover is perfect for adding beauty to shaded areas, borders, or under trees.

Buy Viola odorata (Sweet Violet)

From $23.39

Suited to regions: All regions

Plant type: Perennials

Height: 20 cm

Spread: 30 cm

Flowering time: Spring, Winter

Garden uses: Borders, Containers, Living areas, Paths & Steps

Garden styles: Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern

Gaura 'Steffi Blush Pink'

Gaura 'Steffi Blush Pink' is a compact perennial that produces masses of delicate blush pink flowers on slender stems from spring through autumn. Its graceful appearance, long flowering season, and easy care nature make it an excellent choice for borders, containers, and cottage gardens throughout New Zealand.

Buy Gaura 'Steffi Blush Pink'

From $24.77

Suited to regions: All regions

Plant type: Perennials

Height: 40 cm

Spread: 50 cm

Flowering time: Spring, Summer

Garden uses: Borders, Containers, Living areas, Paths & Steps, Patios, Pool areas

Garden styles: Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Tropical

Best Perennials to Plant in Spring

Aristea major

For gardeners seeking unique blue blooms and architectural foliage, Aristea major is a standout choice. This hardy perennial forms striking evergreen clumps with tall flower spikes adorned in deep blue to violet flowers from late spring into summer. Plant Aristea major in a well-drained position with plenty of sun to enjoy its low-maintenance beauty and bold garden presence.

Geranium Stephanie (Perennial Geranium Plants)

Geranium Stephanie (Perennial Geranium Plants) is renowned for its reliable performance and masses of magenta flowers. If you crave continuous colour through spring, this perennial geranium is unbeatable. It’s incredibly versatile, thriving in beds, borders, or containers, and perfect for suppressing weeds with its spreading habit. Geranium Stephanie (Perennial Geranium Plants) will brighten your garden with minimal care required.

Bergenia cordifolia (Pig Squeak Plant)

For evergreen structure and pretty spring colour, Bergenia cordifolia (Pig Squeak Plant) is a trusted favourite. This perennial features glossy, robust leaves and clusters of pink flowers in early spring. Its toughness makes it ideal for tricky spots such as dry shade or poorly drained soils, and its leaves provide year-round interest. Bergenia cordifolia (Pig Squeak Plant) is also rabbit and deer resistant, making it a reliable garden staple.

Portulaca Pazzaz Sunset (Moss Rose Plant)

Bring an instant burst of sunset-inspired colours to your beds and baskets with Portulaca Pazzaz Sunset (Moss Rose Plant). This sun-loving perennial thrives in hot, dry spots where other plants may struggle. Its semi-succulent stems flower prolifically, providing cheerful, drought-tolerant displays all season long. Portulaca Pazzaz Sunset (Moss Rose Plant) is perfect for adding resilience and vibrant colour to any garden.

Scutellaria Snowflakes (Scutellaria Skullcap)

If you’re looking to fill those tricky part-shade spots, Scutellaria Snowflakes (Scutellaria Skullcap) is an elegant option. This perennial produces dainty white blooms above attractive foliage, creating a soft, cooling effect under trees or in shaded beds. Scutellaria Snowflakes (Scutellaria Skullcap) is a wonderful choice for wildlife-friendly and low-care gardens.

How to Plant Perennials in Spring

When planting perennials in spring, prepare the soil by digging in compost to boost fertility and drainage. Set your plants at the same depth they were growing in their pots, water well, and mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Consistent spring watering and a light feed will help them establish faster, resulting in fuller growth and more prolific flowering.

By selecting perennials to plant in spring, you’re setting up your garden for seasons of colour and interest. Explore our full range of vibrant spring perennials to create a garden that effortlessly returns, year after year.

Contact us

Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.

perennials to plant in spring

Viola odorata (Sweet Violet)

Gaura 'Steffi Blush Pink'

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