10 Short Perennials for Smaller Gardens

9 / 10

Clematis ‘Boulevard Bernadine’

A big clematis vine towering up a trellis in a large garden can be an amazing feature. To get that same look in a smaller garden, try a Clematis like ‘Boulevard Bernadine,‘ which only grows to four feet tall.

Featuring light lilac-colored flowers, its short vines will need support to cling to. Like most clematis, it likes full sun for the vines and part-shade for the roots. Because it blooms on new growth, prune it back in early spring. It’s hardy in Zones 4 through 10.

10 / 10

‘After Eight’ Oriental Lily

Many types of lilies are “back of the border” plants that can be five or six feet tall, which could overwhelm a smaller garden. Fortunately, many types of Oriental lilies, including ‘After Eight,’ grow to only 18 inches or so, making them a great choice.

Hardy in Zones 4 through 8, these prefer full sun and well-drained soil. The pink flowers tipped with white are also fragrant.

ncG1vNJzZmivp6x7p63MoqOyoJGjsbq5wKdlnKedZLmqv9NoqqGnoql6sbHRnqWnoZGheqe4zrCcq6tf