Flowering Plant Types

Annuals

• An annual is a plant that lives for just one year. This means that its life cycle -- from seed to death -- occurs within one year. Since the life cycle is short, these are good selections for frequently changing the look of a yard. These flowering plants will require deadheading -- removing dead flowers -- a few times during the growing season. This will help produce more flowers and creates more potential for seeding. The selection of annual flowering plants varies depending on the region. Some popular options for moderate climates include geraniums (Geranium manculatum), zinnias (Zinnia elegans) and the African daisy (Dimorphotheca sinuata).

Biennials

• A biennial plant is one that will live through two growing seasons, but blooming will only occur during the second. These are an option when gardeners want to change the look of a yard frequently. Biennials are among the easiest plants to reseed, since new plants continue the cycle of growing and producing seeds. There are two main types of biennials, spring- and fall-blooming, which grow best in cool weather, and those that prefer mild to warmer temperatures. Cool-weather favorites include foxglove (Digitalis purpurea), and pansies (Violax wittrockiana). Warm-weather varieties include Sweet Williams (Dianthus barbatus), and Queen Anne's lace (Daucus carota).

Perennials

• Perennial plants have a lifespan of at least three years, and most begin blooming the second year after sowing. A perennial plant will die off in winter and the roots will sprout again each spring. They are common choices for landscapes and gardens since they normally require only occasional replacement. Many will also reseed or can be propagated by division. Most perennial plants feature long roots that will keep the plants healthy in cool weather. Peonies (Paeonia) are an extremely long-lived perennial with old-fashioned charm and coneflowers (Echinacea purpurea) are daisy-like plants that spread by reseeding.

Woody Plants

• Like perennials, woody plants generally have a long life span and may last several decades. The stem of a woody plant will remain above the ground during cold winter months even when flowers and foliage die back. Most woody plants will produce blooms, and do so in a variety of colors and sizes. Woody plants are commonly shaped into hedges and serve as borders for yards and gardens. Common choices include the rhododendron and lilac, while popular vine options include clematis and wisteria.