August is such a magical month in the garden! While summer starts to wind down, there’s still a vibrant burst of color waiting to light up our outdoor spaces.
I’ve put together a fun list of 27 plants that flower in August, perfect for adding a pop of joy to any garden. From bold blooms to delicate flowers, these picks will keep your garden lively and bright all month long!
1. Sunflower
Sunflowers are the cheerful giants of the garden, often towering over other plants with their bright yellow heads. These beauties not only add a pop of color but also attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, making them a great addition for those who want a lively garden.
Sunflowers typically start blooming in mid to late summer and can easily be found flaunting their sunny faces throughout August.
They thrive in full sun and well-draining soil, making them pretty easy to care for. Just give them a little space to grow, and they will reward you with stunning blooms. Whether you go for the classic yellow or explore different hues, sunflowers are a must-have for anyone looking to brighten their garden.
Popular Varieties
- Titan: A giant variety that can grow up to 15 feet tall with enormous yellow blooms.
- Autumn Beauty: A stunning mix of reds, oranges, and yellows that brings fall vibes to your summer garden.
- Little Becka: Perfect for smaller spaces, this dwarf variety only reaches about 2 feet tall but packs a colorful punch.
2. Zinnia
Zinnias are like the party animals of any garden! These vibrant flowers come in all sorts of colors and shapes, creating a fun and lively display. They bloom continuously throughout the summer and really hit their stride in August, providing an explosion of color in your garden. Zinnias are also fantastic for cutting gardens, as they make beautiful bouquets that can brighten up any room.
They love full sun and can tolerate drought, which makes them super low-maintenance. Plus, they’re great for attracting butterflies, making your garden a lively spot filled with fluttering friends.
Popular Varieties
- Zahara: A heat-tolerant variety that resists disease and comes in a range of bright shades.
- Cut and Come Again: This variety encourages multiple blooms throughout the season, perfect for those cutting bouquets!
- Queen Red Lime: A unique zinnia that features a lime-green hue with striking red tips.
3. Aster
Asters are a late-summer favorite, bringing a lovely blue-purple hue to the garden just as many summer flowers start to fade. These perennial flowers are known for their star-shaped blooms (hence the name) and are fantastic at attracting pollinators. They’re also pretty resilient, making them a great choice for a wide range of climates.
Asters prefer well-drained soil and full to partial sun, making them easy to fit into various garden designs. They can add a burst of color right when you need it, making August a bit brighter.
Popular Varieties
- New England Aster: Known for its large, vibrant purple flowers, this variety can grow up to 4 feet tall!
- Alma Potschke: A stunning pink variety that adds a cheerful splash of color to your late-summer garden.
- Wood Aster: A native option that grows well in partial shade and is perfect for woodland gardens.
4. Gladiolus
Gladiolus, or “glads” as some call them, are tall, elegant flowers that add a touch of drama to any garden. These plants bloom sequentially, meaning the flowers open one by one from the bottom up, which creates a stunning visual effect. Gladiolus come in an array of colors and can really stand out in any garden setting.
They prefer full sun and well-drained soil, and while they can be a bit more demanding in terms of care, the show they put on is absolutely worth it. Plus, they make gorgeous cut flowers!
Popular Varieties
- ‘Priscilla’: A lovely soft pink variety that adds a romantic touch to gardens and arrangements.
- ‘Black Star’: A striking dark purple variety that creates a bold statement in flower beds.
- ‘Grape Ice’: A unique blend of lavender and white that adds a soft, dreamy vibe to arrangements.
5. Dahlia
Dahlias are the divas of the flower world, boasting stunning blooms in countless shapes and colors. They’re known for their lush, full flowers that can last well into the autumn. August is prime time for dahlias, as they hit their peak bloom and provide that wow factor in any garden.
These beauties prefer full sun and rich, well-drained soil. While they do require a bit of attention, especially when it comes to watering and feeding, the payoff is beyond worth it. They’re also fantastic for cutting, making them a popular choice for floral arrangements.
Popular Varieties
- Dinnerplate Dahlias: These giants can reach up to 12 inches across and make a bold statement.
- Café au Lait: A stunning blush-colored variety that has become a wedding favorite.
- Pompon Dahlias: Small and perfectly round, these charming blooms are great for adding a playful touch to arrangements.
6. Marigold
Marigolds are the garden’s best friends! Not only do they brighten up any space with their sunny orange and yellow hues, but they’re also known for their pest-repelling properties. They bloom profusely throughout the summer and keep going strong in August, making them a fantastic choice for gardeners looking for reliable color.
They thrive in full sun and can tolerate poor soil, which makes them super easy to grow. Plus, they’re great for companion planting, helping to keep your vegetable garden healthy.
Popular Varieties
- French Marigold: Known for their compact size and vibrant colors, they’re perfect for borders and containers.
- African Marigold: A taller variety that produces large, striking flowers ideal for garden backdrops.
- Signet Marigold: A smaller, more delicate option with a slightly citrusy scent that’s perfect for edible gardens.
7. Coneflower
Coneflowers, or echinacea, are not just beautiful; they’re also incredibly resilient. With their daisy-like blooms and prominent central cones, they add a wildflower feel to any garden. These perennials bloom from mid-summer through August and are a favorite among bees and butterflies.
They thrive in full sun and are drought-tolerant, making them a fantastic choice for low-maintenance gardens. Once established, cone flowers will come back year after year, providing reliable color and easy care.
Popular Varieties
- Echinacea purpurea: The classic purple coneflower that’s loved by pollinators.
- White Swan: A striking white variety that adds a fresh, clean look to any garden.
- Hot Papaya: A vibrant orange coneflower that brings a warm pop of color to garden beds.
8. Black-eyed Susan
Black-eyed Susans are a staple in many gardens, known for their bright yellow petals and dark centers. These cheerful flowers bloom heavily from summer into fall, making them perfect for August. They attract various pollinators, including bees and butterflies, enhancing the biodiversity of your garden.
They thrive in full sun and are quite drought-tolerant once established. Plus, they’re pretty easy to care for, making them a popular choice for both beginner and experienced gardeners.
Popular Varieties
- Goldsturm: A classic variety with bright yellow flowers and a sturdy growth habit.
- Cherokee Sunset: A unique mix of colors ranging from yellow to red, adding variety to your garden.
- Indian Summer: Known for its large blooms, this variety has a bold presence in any landscape.
9. Bee Balm
Bee balm is a fantastic choice for not only its beauty but also its ability to attract pollinators. With its vibrant red, pink, and purple flowers, it adds a splash of color to your garden in August. This perennial is also known for its fragrant leaves, which can be used in teas!
Bee balm thrives in full sun to partial shade and loves moist, well-draining soil. It can spread quite a bit, so give it some room to grow! The best part? It’s excellent for attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Popular Varieties
- Monarda didyma: The classic red variety that is a magnet for hummingbirds.
- Pink Supreme: A lovely pink version that adds a softer touch to your garden.
- Spotted Bee Balm: This unique variety has spotted leaves and blooms in a more subdued lavender color.
10. Hydrangea
Hydrangeas are the show-stoppers of the garden, with their big, fluffy blooms that come in various colors. Depending on the variety, they can bloom from early summer through to fall, but many are at their best in August. These plants can provide a stunning backdrop and are perfect for shaded garden areas.
They thrive in well-drained soil and prefer some protection from the hot afternoon sun. With the right care, hydrangeas can provide beautiful blooms year after year.
Popular Varieties
- Bigleaf Hydrangea: Known for its large, colorful blooms that can range from pink to blue, depending on the soil pH.
- Panicle Hydrangea: A versatile variety that can be trained into tree forms and produces large, conical flower heads.
- Smooth Hydrangea: Often favored for its hardiness and lovely white blooms that turn pink as they age.
11. Phlox
Phlox is a perennial favorite, known for its vibrant clusters of flowers that bloom in a variety of colors. They typically bloom from summer through early fall, with August being a peak time for their gorgeous displays. Phlox is fantastic for attracting butterflies and adds a delightful scent to any garden.
They thrive in full sun and prefer well-drained soil. With a little care, they can spread and create lovely mounds of color in your garden.
Popular Varieties
- Phlox paniculata: Known for its tall growth and large clusters of flowers, it’s a garden favorite.
- Creeping Phlox: A low-growing variety that’s perfect for ground cover and rock gardens.
- David: A white-flowering variety that is mildew resistant and adds elegance to garden beds.
12. Heliopsis
Heliopsis, often called false sunflower, is a reliable perennial that blooms continuously from mid-summer into fall. With bright yellow flowers that resemble traditional sunflowers, they add a splash of sunshine to your garden in August. These plants are not just pretty; they are also drought-tolerant and easy to care for.
They thrive in full sun and can handle poor soil conditions quite well. Heliopsis is great for attracting pollinators and can be used in borders or as a backdrop in flower beds.
Popular Varieties
- Summer Sun: A popular variety known for its large, bright yellow blooms and sturdy stems.
- Loraine Sunshine: A unique cultivar with variegated leaves that adds interest even when not in bloom.
- Radiant: Features slightly smaller flowers but blooms heavily, making it a desirable choice for color.
13. Coreopsis
Coreopsis, or tickseed, is a cheerful flower that brings a sunny disposition to any garden. These easy-to-grow perennials bloom profusely from summer through fall, with August being prime time for their bright yellow and orange blooms. They’re great for attracting butterflies and hummingbirds, making your garden a lively spot.
They prefer full sun and are quite drought-tolerant once established. Plus, they don’t require a lot of care, making them perfect for busy gardeners.
Popular Varieties
- Moonbeam: A soft yellow variety that stays compact and fits well in smaller gardens.
- Jethro Tull: Known for its vibrant golden flowers and strong stems, perfect for cutting.
- Zagreb: A delightful dwarf variety that produces an abundance of golden flowers, ideal for borders.
14. Salvia
Salvia is a versatile perennial that blooms vibrantly in August with spikes of colorful flowers. From blues to purples, salvias are not only beautiful but also attract hummingbirds and bees, making them a great addition to pollinator gardens. They are also known for their aromatic foliage, which can be a lovely bonus!
These plants thrive in full sun and prefer well-drained soil. They are drought-tolerant once established, making them low-maintenance options for busy gardeners.
Popular Varieties
- Salvia nemorosa: Known for its tall spikes of blue flowers, it’s a classic garden favorite.
- May Night: A gorgeous deep blue variety that blooms heavily in summer and attracts pollinators.
- Hot Lips: A unique variety with red and white flowers that adds a fun twist to your garden.
15. Verbena
Verbena is a charming flowering plant that brings a cascade of colors to hanging baskets and borders in August. These low-growing plants produce clusters of small flowers that come in various shades, attracting butterflies and bees. They are known for their long blooming period and are perfect for adding color to containers.
They thrive in full sun and are quite drought-tolerant, making them easy to care for. Plus, they can trail beautifully, making them ideal for window boxes and hanging baskets.
Popular Varieties
- Homestead Purple: A strong-growing variety with deep purple flowers that can withstand tough conditions.
- Obsession Mix: A mix of colors that creates a vibrant display in containers or garden beds.
- Lollipop: A dwarf variety that’s perfect for small spaces and containers, featuring a mix of bright colors.
16. Morning Glory
Morning Glories are the perfect way to add vertical interest to your garden. These climbing plants bloom with stunning, trumpet-shaped flowers that open in the morning and close by afternoon. They create a beautiful display throughout the summer and into August, adding a pop of color to fences and trellises.
They thrive in full sun and prefer well-drained soil. With their rapid growth, morning glories can quickly cover structures and provide some beautiful greenery.
Popular Varieties
- Heavenly Blue: A classic variety with large, sky-blue flowers that are simply breathtaking.
- Scarlet O’Hara: A striking red variety that adds a bold touch to any garden.
- Purple Heart: Features vibrant purple flowers with a heart shape, perfect for adding charm to fences.
17. Lantana
Lantanas are beloved for their bright, multi-colored flower clusters that bloom from summer through fall. These hardy plants are renowned for attracting butterflies and other pollinators, making them a great addition to any garden. They thrive in the heat and bloom most profusely in August.
They love full sun and can tolerate drought, making them excellent for low-maintenance gardens. Plus, they can be used as ground cover or in containers for vibrant, cheerful displays.
Popular Varieties
- Miss Huff: A tough variety that’s known for its resilience and beautiful clusters of orange and yellow flowers.
- New Gold: A trailing variety perfect for hanging baskets, with bright gold flowers that bloom heavily.
- Dallas Red: A striking red variety that stands out and attracts eye-catching attention.
18. Sedum
Sedum, or stonecrop, is a succulent that brings a unique look to gardens. With their fleshy leaves and star-shaped flowers, they add texture and color throughout the summer, especially in August. Many sedum varieties are drought-tolerant, making them perfect for low-water gardens or rock gardens.
They thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, and once established, they require very little care. Plus, they’re great for attracting pollinators!
Popular Varieties
- Autumn Joy: A favorite variety that produces large clusters of pink flowers that turn to a deep rust in fall.
- Dragon’s Blood: A ground cover type with red-tinted foliage and bright flowers, perfect for rocky areas.
- Blue Spruce: Known for its unique foliage resembling a spruce tree, adding a different texture to garden beds.
19. Russian Sage
Russian Sage is a stunning perennial that brings a soft, silvery color to gardens. With its tall, airy spikes of lavender-blue flowers, it creates a beautiful contrast against darker foliage. It blooms from mid-summer into fall, making August a key time for this beauty to shine.
They thrive in full sun and are drought-tolerant, making them easy to care for. Plus, they are great for attracting butterflies and other pollinators.
Popular Varieties
- Blue Spire: Known for its tall spikes and dense flower clusters, it’s perfect for adding height to garden beds.
- Little Spire: A compact version that works well in smaller spaces without sacrificing beauty.
- Longin: Features longer flower spikes and a more upright growth habit, ideal for borders.
20. Tithonia
Tithonia, or Mexican sunflowers, are known for their vibrant orange blooms that attract both butterflies and hummingbirds. These annuals bloom heavily in August, delivering bright bursts of color to your garden. They can grow quite tall and make beautiful backdrops in flower beds.
They thrive in full sun and prefer well-drained soil. Plus, they add a tropical feel to any garden, making them a fun addition to the summer landscape.
Popular Varieties
- Torch: A standout variety with bright orange flowers that are perfect for cutting.
- Goldfinger: This variety features golden-yellow blooms that add a warm touch to any garden.
- Mexican Sunflower: A classic variety that attracts pollinators and provides long-lasting color.
21. Cosmos
Cosmos are beloved for their charming, daisy-like flowers that come in various colors, including pink, white, and orange. They typically bloom from summer to fall, with August being a prime time for their bright displays. These carefree flowers are great for attracting bees and butterflies.
They thrive in full sun and can tolerate poor soil, making them easy to grow in various conditions. Plus, they have a lovely airy quality that adds a relaxed vibe to any garden.
Popular Varieties
- Sensation Mix: A popular variety that features a mix of colors and will bloom abundantly throughout the summer.
- Double Click: Known for its fully double flowers, adding a unique charm to your garden beds.
- Picotee: Features color-edged petals that create a stunning visual contrast, perfect for cutting gardens.
22. Cleome
Cleome, also known as spider flower, adds a unique texture to any garden with its tall, spiky flowers and unusual shape. These plants bloom from summer through fall, with August being a peak time for their striking displays. They are known for attracting butterflies and other pollinators.
Cleome prefers full sun and well-drained soil, and they can tolerate some drought once established. They add height and a soft, whimsical touch to flower beds.
Popular Varieties
- Queen Lime: A unique variety with lime-green blooms that have a striking appearance.
- Pink Queen: A lovely pink variety that adds a romantic touch to any garden.
- White Queen: Features delicate white flowers that stand out beautifully against darker foliage.
23. Balloon Flower
Balloon flowers are known for their unique balloon-shaped buds that open into lovely star-shaped flowers. They bloom in late summer, making August a key time for these charming perennials. Their blue and purple hues add a gentle touch to garden beds.
They thrive in full sun to partial shade and prefer well-drained soil. Once established, they are quite low-maintenance, making them a lovely addition to any garden.
Popular Varieties
- Mariesii: A taller variety with large, vibrant blue blooms that create a stunning display.
- Amanogawa: A unique cultivar with pale blue flowers that have a delicate, airy quality.
- Hakone Blue: Features a more compact growth habit, perfect for borders or smaller gardens.
24. Canna Lily
Canna lilies bring a touch of the tropics to any garden with their bold foliage and stunning flowers. These vibrant plants bloom from summer through fall, with August being a key time for their showy display. Their large leaves and bright blooms make them a focal point in any garden.
They thrive in full sun and prefer moist, well-drained soil. Cannas can also be grown in containers, making them versatile for any garden setting.
Popular Varieties
- Tropicana: Known for its stunning variegated leaves and bright orange-red flowers.
- Australia: A compact variety with beautiful red blooms that provide a tropical vibe.
- Cannova Bronze: Features a unique bronze foliage that adds depth and contrast to flower beds.
25. Lobelia
Lobelia is a charming annual that adds a cascade of blue and purple flowers to your garden in August. These lovely plants are often used in hanging baskets or as border plants, providing a charming display that attracts pollinators.
They prefer full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. While they may require some extra care in terms of watering, the beauty they bring to your garden is well worth it!
Popular Varieties
- Trailing Lobelia: A perfect choice for containers and hanging baskets, it produces lovely cascading blooms.
- Regatta: A compact variety that creates a dense display of rich blue flowers, perfect for borders.
- Crystal Palace: Known for its deep blue hues and sturdy growth, it adds a lovely pop of color.
26. Petunia
Petunias are classic annuals that come in a rainbow of colors and patterns. They bloom from spring through fall, with August being a fantastic time for their vibrant displays. These flowers are great for attracting butterflies and adding cheerful colors to your garden.
They thrive in full sun and prefer well-drained soil. Petunias can be used in beds, borders, or containers, making them a versatile choice for any garden.
Popular Varieties
- Surfinia: A trailing variety perfect for hanging baskets, known for its abundant blooms.
- Wave: A spreading variety that creates a beautiful carpet of color in garden beds.
- Double Petunias: Known for their lush, full blooms that add elegance to any arrangement.
27. Ornamental Pepper
Ornamental peppers are a fun way to add color and interest to your garden! With vivid fruits that change color as they mature, these plants are not only beautiful but also unique. They typically bloom in late summer and into fall, with August being a prime time for their striking displays.
They thrive in full sun and well-drained soil. Plus, they make excellent container plants and can add a fun twist to your flower arrangements.
Popular Varieties
- Black Pearl: Features glossy black leaves and small red fruits, creating a dramatic effect.
- Medusa: Known for its twisting branches and vibrant fruits that create a whimsical look.
- Fiesta: A colorful variety with multiple colors of peppers that change from green to yellow, orange, and red.