Sweet alyssum (Lobularia maritima) is an annual flower beloved by hoverflies and other beneficial insects. Its low-growing habit makes it perfect for softening the edges of garden beds, containers, or pathways.
Sweet Alyssum
Calendula, also known as pot marigold, has a rich history as an herb known for its skin-healing properties. Beyond its medicinal uses, dried calendula petals serve as a viable saffron substitute in cooking.
Calendula
Known by various names like violas, mini-pansies, or field pansies, Johnny jump-ups are resilient flowers that bloom early, often enduring frosty conditions. They complement spring-flowering bulbs beautifully and readily self-seed, making them a reliable choice for seasonal color.
Johnny Jump-ups
Cornflowers, also called bachelor s buttons, thrive despite unpredictable spring weather and are particularly favored by bees. These quick-growing flowers produce edible petals and are gaining popularity in skincare for their soothing properties.
Cornflowers
Nigella damascene, or love-in-a-mist, boasts delicate pastel flowers framed by intricate, lacy foliage that matures into decorative seed pods for dried arrangements. These determined plants flourish in cool spring climates, starting their bloom cycle in early summer.
Nigella
Nasturtiums are celebrated not only for their attractiveness to pollinators like bees but also for their culinary value. Their leaves and vibrant flowers are edible, rich in vitamin C and other nutrients. Gardeners often interplant nasturtiums with cucumbers or tomatoes to deter pests naturally.
Nasturtiums
Native to Texas, annual phlox (Phlox drummondii) is a resilient hardy annual prized for its vibrant blooms, which make excellent cut flowers. These nectar-rich blossoms attract butterflies and continue blooming despite early season heatwaves
Annual Phlox
Among the quickest spring bloomers are California poppies (Eschscholzia californica), which can go from seed to bloom in just 60 days. Breadseed poppies (Papaver somniferum), also known as opium poppies, are another popular choice that re-seeds easily once established.
Poppies