Perennials for Zone 9

Toadflax

• Toadflax (Linaria purpurea) blooms from June into August and it produces a number of violet blossoms on an upright stem. Toadflax, a native of southeastern parts of Europe, grows to 3 feet. Wet soil is a poor setting for toadflax, as this condition precipitates root rot in the plant. Instead, plant toadflax where soil drains well, and in full sunshine. Toadflax features narrow, bluish-green leaves. Toadflax is a possibility for cottage gardens and perennial borders in zone 9.

Barbara's Buttons

• Although native to locations in the eastern United States further north than zone 9, Barbara's buttons (Marshallia grandiflora) withstand the heat and humidity zone 9 can dole out. The perennial will do well in light shade in zone 9 in a damp, somewhat acidic soil. Barbara's buttons blooms in early summer. Growing to 12 inches, the species has pink and blue flowers that emerge on a stalk as high as 24 inches. Barbara's buttons is small enough for rock gardens and showy enough for perennial borders.

Sweet Alyssum

• Perennial borders and rock gardens are appropriate scenarios for sweet alyssum (Lobularia maritima), a southern European perennial suitable for zone 9 plantings. Sweet alyssum only grows to 9 inches, blooming in April, May and June. In some cases, sweet alyssum continues to bloom until a frost. Summer heat can wilt the leaves, but as cooler temperatures return in autumn, the plant rebounds. Sweet alyssum will thrive in full sunshine or in a partly shaded site.

Blue Cardinal Flower

• Zone 9 is the southern border of the blue cardinal flower's range. Blue cardinal flower is found in the wild on stream banks and in wet meadows, low woodlands and swamps. Wet areas of your property are perfect for this striking species, which blooms during the summer, turning out a deep blue, tubular flower. Blue cardinal flower requires the ground to be damp. The perennial grows to 3 feet and is a fine addition to any native plant garden in zone 9.