Here are some robust, low-maintenance perennials perfect for Perth gardens:
Kangaroo Paw (Anigozanthos spp.)
Kangaroo Paw is an iconic Australian native plant that thrives in Perth's climate. Known for its unique, fuzzy flowers, this plant adds a splash of colour to any garden. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun, making it perfect for Perth’s hot summers. Watering needs are moderate, and once established, it is quite drought tolerant. Pruning after flowering encourages new growth and keeps the plant healthy.
Lavender (Lavandula spp.)
Lavender is a hardy, fragrant perennial that thrives in well-drained soil and requires full sun. It's low maintenance, needing only occasional watering once established. Pruning after flowering helps maintain its shape and encourages more blooms. Its lovely purple flowers attract bees and other pollinators.
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
Rosemary is another robust perennial and is both ornamental and practical (bonus) because its leaves can be used in cooking. Rosemary prefers full sun and well-drained soil and is highly drought-tolerant once established. It doesn't need much maintenance, just occasional pruning to keep it bushy. Just like lavender, its small blue flowers attract pollinators.
Daylilies (Hemerocallis spp.)
Daylilies are versatile, easy-to-grow perennials that can adapt to a range of conditions. They prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade and grow well in well-drained soil. Daylilies are drought-tolerant once established and are low maintenance. Their bright, trumpet-shaped flowers come in various colours, adding a vibrant touch to the garden. Deadheading spent blooms can encourage more flowers throughout the season.
Geranium (Pelargonium spp.)
Geraniums, particularly the hardy varieties, are ideal for Perth gardens. They thrive in full sun and well-drained soil and are drought-tolerant once established. Geraniums require little maintenance beyond the occasional deadheading and light pruning to keep them tidy. Their colourful blooms attract pollinators, adding ecological value to your garden.
Salvia (Salvia spp.)
Salvias are versatile perennials that add colour and fragrance to any garden. They thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, making them perfect for Perth’s climate. Salvias are drought-tolerant once established and attract bees and butterflies. Regular deadheading of spent flowers encourages continuous blooming, and light pruning keeps the plants tidy.
Purple Coneflower
Purplish-pink petals dangle around an orange-brown central spiky cone. Bees and butterflies love these flowers.
Agapanthus (Agapanthus spp.)
Agapanthus is a robust perennial that produces striking blue or white flower clusters on tall stalks. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Agapanthus is drought-tolerant once established and requires little maintenance. Removing spent flower heads and dividing clumps every few years keeps the plant healthy and vigorous.
Coreopsis (Coreopsis spp.)
Coreopsis, also known as Tickseed, is a cheerful perennial that produces masses of yellow, daisy-like flowers. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it perfect for Perth’s climate. Coreopsis is drought-tolerant once established and requires minimal care. Deadheading spent flowers encourages continuous blooming, and light pruning helps maintain its shape
Tips for success
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Soil preparation: Make sure your soil is well-draining by adding organic matter such as compost. Perth's sandy soils benefit from the added nutrients and improved water retention.
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Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around your plants to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
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Watering: Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth. Early morning is the best time to water to minimise evaporation.
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Fertilising: Use a slow-release fertiliser suitable for native plants to provide essential nutrients without promoting excessive growth.
This obviously isn’t an exhaustive list and there are plenty more hardy plants for those of us who are less than great gardeners! Visit your local garden centre and they should be able to point you in the right direction.
