Perennial Gardens

Photo by Kate Cullen on Unsplash 

The Fuji apple is a cultivated variety originally developed in Japan from two American apple varieties, Red Delicious and Ralls Janet. It produces large, crisp, and sweet fruit and grows best in full sun with well-drained soil. Apples are widely enjoyed as an edible fruit and contain beneficial compounds such as antioxidants and fiber that support heart health. While not native to Ohio, Fuji apple trees can thrive in temperate climates with proper care and pruning. Apples have also held symbolic meaning across cultures, appearing in myths from Norse and Greek traditions as symbols of immortality, and in Christian tradition as the “forbidden fruit” associated with knowledge. 

The Gala apple is a cultivated variety that originated in New Zealand and is not native to North America. It produces small to medium-sized fruit, typically about 2–3 inches in diameter, with a crisp texture and sweet flavor. Gala apple trees grow best in full sun and thrive in temperate climates within USDA hardiness zones 4–10. The fruit is widely enjoyed fresh and provides nutritional benefits, including fiber and antioxidants that support overall health. Although not poisonous, apples should be eaten without seeds, as they contain compounds that can be harmful in large quantities. A fun historical note is that the Gala apple was named in honor of Queen Elizabeth II after she reportedly declared it one of her favorite apples. 

The Rainier cherry is a cultivated variety of sweet cherry developed in 1952 by horticulturist Harold Fogle. It produces large, yellow cherries with a red blush, typically about 2–3 centimeters in diameter, known for their sweet and delicate flavor. Rainier cherry trees grow best in full sun with well-drained soil and thrive in temperate regions such as Washington, Oregon, and New York. The fruit is safe to eat and is rich in vitamins A and C, which support immune function and overall health. Although it does not have a strong tradition of folklore, it is highly valued for its quality and is considered a premium cherry variety. 

The Van cherry is a variety of sweet cherry tree that produces dark red, edible fruit. It is not native to the United States, but originates from Europe and western Asia and is now widely cultivated in temperate regions. The fruit is safe to eat and is commonly used in fresh eating, desserts, and jams. Van cherry trees grow best in full sun and prefer well-drained soil with consistent moisture. In addition to their fruit, cherry trees are admired for their spring blossoms, which are often associated with beauty and the changing of the seasons. 

The raspberry is a perennial plant native to parts of Europe and Asia that produces small, edible red fruits. It grows best in full sun and prefers slightly acidic, well-drained soil in temperate climates. Raspberry plants are widely cultivated and can be used fresh or in jams, desserts, and other foods. The fruit is rich in vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants that support overall health. In Greek mythology, raspberries were once believed to be white until the goddess Ida pricked her finger on a thorn, turning the berries red with her blood. 

Aronia berry, also known as black chokeberry, is a perennial shrub native to North America and well adapted to regions like Ohio. It typically grows 3–8 feet tall and wide and thrives in full sun to partial shade, tolerating a range of soil conditions as long as they are well-drained. The berries are edible, though quite tart, and are often used in juices, jams, and baked goods. Aronia is especially valued for its exceptionally high antioxidant content—among the highest of any berry native to North America—which contributes to its reputation for supporting heart health and reducing inflammation. The plant is not poisonous and is also an important food source for wildlife. 

Ground cherry is a small fruiting plant in the nightshade family native to much of North America, including the Midwest. It produces small yellow to orange berries enclosed in a papery husk, giving the fruit a lantern-like appearance. The ripe fruit is edible and has a sweet, slightly tropical flavor, while unripe berries and other parts of the plant can be mildly toxic. Ground cherries grow best in full sun with well-drained soil and are often found in gardens, fields, and disturbed areas. Most varieties grow about 1–3 feet tall and spread outward as they mature. In some cultures, the plant’s lantern-like husk has been associated with protection and good luck, symbolizing a guiding light. 

Rhubarb is a perennial plant that grows best in full sun and thrives in cool climates with fertile, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. It performs especially well in regions with cold winters and mild summers, typically growing 2–4 feet tall and wide. The plant produces thick, colorful stalks up to 18 inches long and large, heart-shaped leaves that can exceed a foot in width. The stalks are edible and commonly used in pies, jams, and desserts for their tart flavor, while the leaves are toxic due to high levels of oxalic acid and should not be consumed. Rhubarb has a long history of medicinal use, particularly in ancient Chinese medicine, where it was used to treat digestive issues and fevers. Although originally native to northern Asia, most rhubarb grown today is a cultivated hybrid rather than a wild species. 

Elderberry is a perennial plant that grows as a large shrub or small tree and produces clusters of small, dark purple berries. It is native to many regions, including parts of North America, and thrives in full sun to partial shade with moist, well-drained soil. Raw elderberries can be toxic and should not be eaten, but when properly cooked they are commonly used in syrups, jams, and traditional remedies for cold and flu symptoms. The deep purple juice has also been used as a natural dye. Elderberry plants have a long history in folklore, where they were believed to ward off evil spirits, and they are referenced in popular culture, including the elder wand in the Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. 

Horseradish is a hardy perennial plant grown for its large, spicy white root, which is fully edible and commonly used as a condiment. It is native to Eastern Europe but grows very well in much of the United States, including the Midwest, because it tolerates cold winters and a variety of soils. The plant is not poisonous; in fact, it has been used in traditional medicine to help with sinus congestion and as a natural antibacterial. Horseradish prefers full sun and moist, well-drained soil, and it can grow about 2 to 3 feet tall with long, broad green leaves. It spreads easily from small pieces of root, which makes it easy to grow but sometimes difficult to control in a garden. In folklore, horseradish was believed to ward off evil spirits and was often eaten during Passover as a symbol of bitterness and hardship. 

The highbush blueberry is a native to eastern North America, including parts of the Midwestern United States. It typically grows between 6 and 12 feet tall and produces clusters of small white or pinkish bell-shaped flowers in spring that develop into sweet blue berries in summer. Blueberries are edible and highly nutritious, rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, and they are widely used in foods such as pies, muffins, and jams. The plant thrives in acidic, well-drained soils and prefers full sun to partial shade, often growing naturally in forests, wetlands, and sandy soils. While the berries are safe and beneficial for humans and wildlife, the plant is also valued medicinally for compounds that may support heart and brain health. In Native American traditions, blueberries were an important food source and were sometimes called “star berries” because the blossom end of the fruit forms a star shape. 

Asparagus is a long-lived, herbaceous perennial vegetable known for its tender green shoots, which are harvested in the spring. It grows best in full sun and thrives in loose, well-drained, fertile sandy soil, where it can establish deep roots and return year after year. Mature plants can reach 4–5 feet tall when allowed to fern out after harvest. Asparagus is widely used in cooking and is valued for its fresh, slightly grassy and bittersweet flavor, as well as its nutritional benefits, including vitamins A, C, and K and dietary fiber. Once established, asparagus plants can remain productive for many years, making them a valuable addition to a perennial garden. Historically, asparagus has been cultivated since ancient times and was prized by the Romans for both its culinary and medicinal uses. 

Thyme is a small, fragrant perennial herb native to the Mediterranean region, though it is widely grown in gardens throughout places like Ohio. It typically grows 6–12 inches tall and spreads outward, often forming a low ground cover. Thyme thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained, dry, even rocky soil. The leaves are edible and commonly used in cooking for their strong, earthy flavor. Thyme has also been valued for its medicinal properties, including antimicrobial and antioxidant effects, and has been used in traditional remedies for respiratory and digestive health. In folklore, thyme was associated with courage and strength; in medieval Europe, it was often given to knights or worn as a symbol of bravery. 

Sage is a group of aromatic herbs that includes species native to Ohio, such as lyre-leaved sage and blue sage, as well as commonly cultivated varieties like garden sage. These plants typically grow 1–3 feet tall and thrive in full sun with well-drained soil. Sage is widely used as a culinary herb and has also been valued in traditional medicine for supporting memory and overall health. While generally safe in typical culinary amounts, sage contains a compound called thujone, which can be harmful in large, concentrated doses. In addition to its practical uses, sage has long been associated with purification; many cultures have used it in rituals to cleanse spaces and promote a sense of well-being. 

Oregano is a perennial herb native to the Mediterranean region and is not native to Ohio. It typically grows up to about 1–2 feet tall and spreads 18–24 inches wide, thriving in full sun and well-drained soil. The leaves are edible and widely used as a culinary herb, especially in Mediterranean cooking. Oregano has also been valued for its medicinal properties, including antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, and is sometimes used in natural remedies to support digestion and immune health. In agriculture, it has even been incorporated into animal feed to help promote overall health. In Greek mythology, oregano was believed to be created by the goddess Aphrodite as a symbol of joy and happiness, and it was often used in wedding ceremonies to bless couples with good fortune. 

Lemon balm is a perennial herb in the mint family known for its bright green leaves and gentle lemon scent. It grows best in full sun to partial shade and thrives in well-drained soil in USDA hardiness zones 4–9. The leaves are commonly used to flavor foods and teas and have long been valued for their calming properties. Lemon balm has been used in traditional medicine to help relieve stress, anxiety, insomnia, and digestive discomfort, and it is also associated with treatments for cold sores. While generally safe in typical culinary amounts, it should be used in moderation, as excessive consumption may cause unwanted side effects. 

English lavender is native to the Mediterranean region, although it is widely cultivated across Europe, including southern England. It is a fragrant perennial plant that can grow up to 2–3 feet tall and wide, producing purple flower spikes that attract pollinators. Lavender thrives in full sun and prefers warm, well-drained, often sandy soil. It has long been used in traditional medicine for its calming, anti-inflammatory, and mood-supporting properties. In folklore, lavender was believed to offer protection and purification; some legends suggest it was taken from the Garden of Eden, while others associate it with attracting fairies and other helpful spirits when paired with certain herbs. 

German chamomile is an annual flowering plant native to Europe and western Asia and is not native to Ohio. It grows 12–24 inches tall and can spread about 12–18 inches wide, producing small, daisy-like flowers with white petals and yellow centers. The plant thrives in full sun and tolerates a range of soil types, from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline, as long as the soil is well-drained. German chamomile is not poisonous and is widely used in teas and herbal remedies, particularly for its calming effects and support for digestion and sleep. In European folklore, chamomile has been associated with patience, healing, and protection, and it was sometimes planted or carried to ward off evil. 

Feverfew is a perennial plant with small, daisy-like flowers that is widely cultivated in gardens across Europe and the United States. It grows best in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soil with moderate watering, making it a low-maintenance addition to many gardens. Feverfew typically blooms from early summer through late summer and can reach about 1–2 feet in height. The plant is also known for its ability to repel insects such as mosquitoes, flies, and ants. Historically, feverfew has been used in herbal medicine to help reduce fever, relieve headaches (especially migraines), and ease symptoms of arthritis due to its anti-inflammatory properties. 

Yarrow is a perennial plant native to Europe and Asia that is now widely naturalized across North America, including Ohio. It typically grows 1–3 feet tall and spreads gradually, producing clusters of small white or pale pink flowers above finely divided, feathery leaves. Yarrow thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained, dry to average soil, and it is highly adaptable to a range of growing conditions. The plant has a long history of medicinal use, traditionally applied to help stop bleeding and support wound healing. While generally safe, yarrow can cause skin irritation in some individuals. In Greek mythology, the genus name Achillea comes from the hero Achilles, who was said to use the plant to treat wounds on the battlefield, giving yarrow its long-standing association with healing. 

Rue is a small perennial herb that typically grows 2–3 feet tall and is known for its blue-green leaves and clusters of yellow flowers. Native to southern Europe, it thrives in full sun and well-drained soil and is well adapted to warm, dry conditions. Historically, rue has been used in traditional medicine, though it must be handled with care, as it can irritate the skin and is toxic if consumed in large amounts. The plant has a long association with folklore, where it was believed to ward off evil spirits, curses, and disease. In medieval Europe, it was often carried or planted near homes for protection, and it became a symbol of repentance and purification in religious traditions. 

St. John’s Wort is a flowering perennial plant native to Europe that is now widely naturalized in North America. It typically grows 1–3 feet tall (and occasionally taller) and produces bright yellow flowers that bloom in early to mid-summer. The plant thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained soil, often growing in open fields, roadsides, and disturbed areas. St. John’s Wort has a long history of medicinal use, particularly for supporting mood and treating mild depression, as well as easing symptoms associated with menopause. While generally safe when used appropriately, it can interact with certain medications and should be used with caution. In European folklore, the plant was believed to ward off evil spirits and was often gathered on the Feast of Saint John, around which time it typically blooms—giving the plant its name. 

Calendula, also known as pot marigold, is a bright orange or yellow flowering plant native to southern Europe. It can grow successfully in regions like Ohio and thrives in full sun with well-drained soil and regular watering. The plant typically reaches 1–2 feet in height and blooms from spring through fall. Calendula is not poisonous and has long been used in herbal medicine to help soothe skin irritations and minor cuts. Its petals are also edible and are sometimes added to salads or used as a natural food coloring. In folklore, calendula was believed to offer protection and was often used in celebrations and decorative garlands. 

Wormwood is a perennial herb introduced to North America from Europe. It thrives in full sun and in well-drained loamy or sandy soils, with low to average water needs, and can reach 2-4 feet tall with a 1-2 foot spread. This plant prefers dry, disturbed habitats and acts as an allelopathic companion that inhibits nearby plants. While Wormwood is used medicinally as a bitter tonic for digestion and liver support, it also contains thujone, making it poisonous in large amounts or with prolonged use. Leaves can also flavor foods sparingly, but are not always safely edible. In the past, wormwood was burned in ancient Egyptian rituals and, in European folklore, believed to ward off evil spirits and witches. 

Coneflower is a flowering perennial native to Northeast Ohio and much of eastern North America. It typically grows 2–4 feet tall and spreads about 1.5–2 feet wide, producing distinctive purple or pink flowers with raised central cones. The plant thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained, average to loamy soil, making it well suited for gardens in USDA hardiness zones 3–9. Coneflower is not poisonous and has long been valued for its medicinal properties, particularly for supporting the immune system. In Native American traditions, various species of coneflower were used to treat infections, wounds, and respiratory illnesses. It also holds cultural significance as a symbol of strength and healing, reflecting its long-standing role in herbal medicine and traditional knowledge. 

Black-eyed Susan is a resilient wildflower native to the central and eastern United States, commonly found in open fields, prairies, and along roadsides. It typically grows 1–3 feet tall and is easily identified by its rough, hairy stems and bright yellow petals surrounding a dark brown central cone. The plant thrives in full sun with well-drained soil and is highly tolerant of heat and drought once established. While not considered highly toxic to humans, ingestion may cause mild discomfort, and it can be irritating to pets if consumed in large amounts. Several Native American tribes traditionally used the roots in medicinal preparations to treat colds and snakebites. The plant’s name is often linked to an 18th-century English ballad by John Gay, in which “Black-eyed Susan” searches for her sailor “Sweet William,” another flower that often blooms at the same time. Today, it serves as the official state flower of Maryland. 

Bee balm is a perennial plant native to Ohio that grows throughout the state and produces clusters of bright, showy flowers that attract pollinators. It typically grows 2–4 feet tall in clumps and thrives in full sun to partial shade with moist, well-drained soil. All above-ground parts of the plant are edible and have a minty, aromatic flavor, often used in teas and culinary dishes. Bee balm is rich in natural antibacterial and antifungal compounds and has long been valued in traditional medicine. Indigenous peoples used it as a versatile remedy for a variety of ailments, earning it a reputation as a “cure-all” herb. It is especially prized in pollinator gardens for attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. 

Milkweed is a group of perennial plants native to Ohio, with thirteen species found in the state, including common milkweed (Asclepias syriaca), which occurs in every county. It thrives in full sun and is commonly found in open habitats such as meadows, fields, and roadsides, typically growing 3–6 feet tall. Milkweed is especially important ecologically as the essential host plant for monarch butterfly larvae. While beneficial to wildlife, the plant contains cardiac glycosides and can be toxic to humans, pets, and livestock if consumed raw. Historically, milkweed has been used in traditional medicine for treating respiratory issues and for topical applications using its milky sap. The genus name honors Asclepius, and during World War II, its silky seed fibers were used to fill life vests as a lightweight, water-resistant material. 

Golden Alexander is a flowering perennial native to Ohio, commonly found in open woods, moist prairies, and along stream edges. It typically grows 1–3 feet tall and thrives in full sun to partial shade with moist, well-drained soil. This plant is a member of the carrot family and produces clusters of bright yellow flowers in late spring. Golden Alexander plays an important ecological role, serving as a host plant for swallowtail butterfly larvae and providing nectar for other pollinators, while its seeds are a food source for birds. Although parts of the plant have been used in traditional medicine for digestive issues, it must be used with caution, as improper use can cause stomach upset. 

Cardinal flower is a striking perennial native to much of the Americas, including Ohio, where it is commonly found in moist woodlands, streambanks, and wetlands. It produces vibrant red flower spikes that bloom from mid-summer to early fall and can grow 2–4 feet tall. The plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers consistently moist to wet soil. While it has been used in traditional Native American medicine for various purposes, all parts of the plant can be toxic if consumed in large quantities. Cardinal flower is especially valued for its ecological role, as it attracts hummingbirds and other pollinators with its bright, nectar-rich blooms.

Tickseed is a flowering perennial native to Ohio that produces bright yellow, daisy-like blooms throughout the summer. It typically grows 2–3 feet tall with a similar spread and thrives in full sun with well-drained soil, tolerating poor to average soil conditions. The plant is not poisonous and has been used in traditional herbal practices, and some species have edible parts, though they are not commonly used as a food source. Tickseed is valued for its long blooming season and its ability to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. While not strongly tied to a single well-known legend, it has been appreciated in North American traditions for its resilience and bright, cheerful appearance, often symbolizing positivity and endurance. 

Goldenrod is a late blooming perennial wildflower, native to Illinois and most of North America. It is a vital source of nectar for pollinators during the late season. Goldenrod thrives in well drained soils and full sunlight. The plant often grows in prairies, open fields, and roadsides. Goldenrods grow to 2-4 feet tall, with a cluster of small yellow flowers during late summer into fall. The perennial is generally considered poisonous but is often in some herbal medicines for a variety of issues. Many individuals place blame on Goldenrod for affecting allergies and ragweed. Historically it has been said that Goldenrod is a sign of good fortune or wealth because of its vibrant golden color. 

Prairie dock is a tall perennial plant native to Northeast Ohio, commonly found in open prairies and sunny habitats. It can grow up to 8–10 feet tall and thrives in full sun with deep, well-drained soil that ranges from moist to moderately dry. The plant produces large, rough leaves at its base and bright yellow flowers on tall stalks. Prairie dock has been used in traditional medicine, though it should be used with caution, as excessive consumption may cause adverse effects. One of its most distinctive features is its strong scent; the species name terebinthinaceum means “like turpentine,” referring to the resinous odor released when the leaves are crushed. 

Ohio spiderwort is a perennial plant native to much of eastern and central North America, including Ohio, where it commonly grows in prairies, meadows, and woodland edges. It typically grows 2–3 feet tall and 1.5–2.5 feet wide, forming clumps of arching, blue-green leaves and producing three-petaled blue flowers that open in the morning and close by midday. The plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers average to moist, well-drained soil, though it can tolerate a range of conditions once established. Ohio spiderwort is not poisonous, and its young leaves, stems, and flowers are edible, sometimes used in salads or cooked greens. Some species of spiderwort were used in traditional Native American medicine, though specific uses for this species are less well documented. While it is not strongly associated with folklore, the genus name Tradescantia honors the Tradescant family, early English naturalists and plant collectors. 

Caryopteris, commonly called Bluebeard, is a smaller sub-shrub perennial. It is often grown in gardens for its blue flowers. The perennial is tolerant to heat and drought once it has established itself. It is a perfect perennial option for a low maintenance plant. Many of the caryopteris varieties have gray and green foliage and grow to be 2-3 feet tall. The plant is only specific for ornamental reasons and is not recommended for consumption or medicinal uses. The perennial flowers are captivating to pollinators that spread its vital source of nectar during late summer into early fall. Caryopteris are valued by gardeners for its vibrant color late in the season and resilient nature. 

Butterfly weed is a bright orange wildflower that is native to much of North America, including the Midwest region. It commonly grows in sunny prairies, open fields, roadsides, and dry rocky soils where the ground drains well. This plant usually grows about 1–3 feet tall and blooms with clusters of orange flowers during the summer. Butterfly weed is famous for attracting butterflies and other pollinators, especially monarch butterflies whose caterpillars feed on milkweed plants. The plant has been used in traditional herbal medicine and was historically called “pleurisy root,” but it can be toxic if eaten in large amounts. Because it tolerates drought and poor soil, butterfly weed is often planted in native gardens to support pollinators and restore prairie habitats. 

Mountain mint is a perennial plant native to Ohio that is commonly found in meadows, prairies, and open woodlands. It typically grows 1–3 feet tall and thrives in full sun to partial shade, preferring well-drained soil with moderate moisture. The leaves are aromatic and have been used in teas and traditional herbal remedies, and the plant is generally safe when used in typical culinary or herbal amounts. Mountain mint is especially valued for its ability to attract pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects. In addition to its ecological benefits, it has been associated with clarity and communication in herbal traditions. 

Purple asters are flowering perennials native to Ohio that produce clusters of purple blooms, often with yellow centers, in late summer and fall. They typically grow 1–6 feet tall and 1–3 feet wide and are commonly found in open woods, meadows, and along stream edges. These plants thrive in full sun and prefer well-drained, average to loamy soil. Purple asters are not poisonous and have a history of traditional medicinal use among Native American communities, as well as in Chinese medicine, particularly for supporting respiratory health. They are also an important late-season food source for pollinators. In Greek mythology, asters were said to have sprung from the tears of the goddess Astraea, giving the flower its name and symbolic association with hope and renewal. 

Smooth Penstemon is a native North American wildflower commonly found in prairies, open woods, and fields, including parts of the Midwest such as Illinois. It is not considered poisonous and is valued more as an ornamental and pollinator-friendly plant than as a medicinal herb. This plant produces tall stems of small, white, tubular flowers that attract bees and butterflies in late spring and early summer. Smooth penstemon prefers full sun to partial shade and grows best in well-drained soil, though it can tolerate drought once established. It typically grows about 2 to 4 feet tall. While it does not have strong legends attached to it, it is often associated with prairie restoration efforts and symbolizes resilience because of its ability to thrive in tough conditions. 

Creeping thyme is a low-growing perennial herb native to Europe that forms a dense, spreading ground cover. It typically grows 3–6 inches tall and thrives in full sun with well-drained soil, tolerating poor soil conditions and drought once established, though it does not perform well in overly wet areas. The plant is primarily grown for ornamental purposes, often used between stepping stones or in garden borders, and is only occasionally used in cooking. Creeping thyme produces small, fragrant leaves and clusters of tiny flowers that attract pollinators. The name “thyme” comes from the Greek word thymus, meaning courage, and in medieval times the plant was associated with bravery and was often carried as a symbol of strength. 

Comfrey is a perennial plant native to Europe, including the United Kingdom and Ireland, that grows naturally in damp areas such as riverbanks and moist meadows. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers rich, moist soil, often growing 2–3 feet tall with large, broad leaves. While comfrey has a long history of medicinal use—it should not be ingested, as it contains compounds that can be harmful to the liver. In folklore, comfrey was often associated with healing and was even believed to help mend broken bones, earning it the nickname “knitbone.” Comfrey is highly valued in sustainable gardening: its deep roots draw up nutrients from the soil, and its leaves are commonly added to compost or used as mulch to enrich soil fertility. Although it can spread aggressively in some areas, it is manageable in garden settings with proper care. 

Lenten rose is a flowering perennial that is not native to Ohio but is widely grown in ornamental gardens. It typically grows 1–1.5 feet tall and spreads 1.5–2.5 feet wide, producing early-blooming flowers in late winter to early spring. The plant thrives in partial shade and prefers moist, well-drained soil, making it well suited for woodland garden settings. Although attractive, all parts of the plant are toxic to humans and pets if ingested. Lenten rose is valued for its ability to bloom during the cooler months, often around the season of Lent, which is how it gets its common name, and it is sometimes also referred to as the Christmas rose.