Perennial Flowers that Bloom in the Fall in the Northeast

Canada Goldenrod

• Ragweed is a much more likely culprit when it comes to causing hay fever than Canada goldenrod (Solidago canadensis) is, according to the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Canada goldenrod blooms from September through November in the Northeast. The yellow flowers develop on drooping branches atop a straight, hairy, leafy stem. Canada goldenrod grows in full sun or shade. The perennial in the wild occurs in pastures, fields and meadows, but works best cultivated in wildflower meadows.

Eastern Showy Aster

• Native to Northeastern states, including Connecticut, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New York and Pennsylvania, the Eastern showy aster (Eurybia spectabilis) grows to 3 feet. An easy wildflower to grow, this aster blooms during August and continues to flower through October. Eastern showy aster features pale purple rays centered about a yellowish disc. This perennial develops along woodland borders in sandy soil, making it a good fit for such areas on your property.

Joe-Pye-Weed

• Joe-pye-weed (Eupatorium purpureum) is still in bloom by early fall, with the flowers in flat clusters at the top of the leafy, rigid stems. Joe-pye-weed grows to 6 feet in full sun, with this Northeast native doing well in soil that remains damp. Cultivars such as "Gateway" are somewhat shorter and more compact; they attract butterflies to your wildflower gardens and perennial borders. Use Joe-pye-weed in the low-lying wet areas of your property. Joe-pye-weed belongs to the same family as asters.

Purple Coneflowers

• Purple coneflowers (Echinacea purpurea) sometimes continue blooming into the fall, notes the Missouri Botanical Garden. This perennial grows in such Northeast locales as Connecticut and New York, developing in full sun to 5 feet. Purple coneflowers feature a flower similar to a daisy, but with lavender rays and a raised center. This species is suitable for wildflower gardens and perennial borders, often grouped together with another fall flower, the black-eyed Susan. It adapts to survive droughts, poor soils and hot conditions.