Types of Flowers to Grow

Bulb Flowers

• Common bulb flowers include several types of growth systems including true bulbs, rhizomes, corms, tubers and tuberous roots. The bulb flowers growth system is underground and provides nutrients and energy during the growing season. Depending on the cultivar, these types of flowers can return each year for up to six years. Begin your springtime color with tulips, crocus, daffodils, anemone and allium. Layer the bulbs in the same garden space to grow summer to fall blooming flowers such as dahlias, lilies and gladiolus and peonies.

Perennial Flowers and Shrubs

• Perennial flowers grow in your garden year after year, but the blooms typically last only a few weeks. Different types of perennial flowers include roses, hydrangea, camellia, sweet pea, primrose, gardenia, columbine, clematis, wisteria, carnations and rhododendron. Hydrangea, gardenia, rhododendron, azalea and camellia are shrub-type plants with colorful flower blossoms. Of these, gardenia, rhododendron and camellia are all evergreen plants, so the shrubs will have foliage year round. Perennials can prefer full sun to shady conditions. Grow the type of perennial flowers in your garden appropriate for your hardiness zone and the available sunlight.

Annuals

• Grow annual flowers in your garden or in containers if you prefer continuous color throughout a single season. Petunias, pansies, begonias, geraniums, impatiens, salvia, dianthus, marigold, verbena, zinnia, alyssum and bachelor buttons are all types of annual flowers. Like perennials, some annuals prefer full sun while others thrive in shady conditions.

Indoor Flowers

• Flowers that thrive in containers and low light conditions are the best choices to grow indoors. African violets, orchids, bromeliad, peace lilies and zebra plants are all types of flowering plants that grow well indoors. African violets are available in a variety of colors and require a minimum of attention. Bromeliads and orchids are available in a variety of types so your indoor garden can be as varied and interesting as your outdoor display.