There’s something comforting about planting flowers that have stood the test of time. These are the kinds of blooms you’d find in your grandparents’ garden—beautiful, dependable, and steeped in history. They weren’t chosen for flashy trends or complicated care routines; they earned their place because they just worked.
What’s great is that many of these flowers are just as perfect for today’s gardens. Whether you’re working with a small backyard, a full flower bed, or even a few pots on your patio, these classic plants bring the same charm and practicality they always have. Plus, they come with a sense of connection—like carrying a piece of gardening tradition right into your own space.
Sweet Pea
Sweet peas bring a little nostalgia to any garden with their soft, fragrant blooms that feel like they belong in an old family photo. They’re climbers, so they’ll need a trellis or some netting to grow tall and show off. Cooler weather is their sweet spot, so early spring or fall is the time to plant them.
For something classic, go with Cupani’s Original, which has deep purples and pinks. If you want a softer look, try April in Paris, with its creamy petals and subtle purple edges. Keep picking the flowers to encourage new ones to bloom—it’s worth the effort.
Morning Glory
Morning glories are the garden equivalent of a cheery good morning. Their blooms open first thing, climbing up mailboxes, fences, or trellises with minimal effort. But not all varieties are garden-friendly. Stick to Ipomea tricolor, which won’t take over like some of the invasive types.
If you’re after bold colors, plant Royal Blue Ensign, with its deep blue petals and yellow center. For a more old-fashioned feel, Clark’s Heavenly Blue is a pale blue heirloom that’s been a favorite for decades.
Heliotrope
Heliotropes are like a little piece of history in your garden. Their vanilla-scented blooms were a Victorian favorite, and they’re just as delightful now. These compact plants work great in borders or containers, adding a deep pop of purple.
For a rich color, try Deep Marine, or go for Fragrant Delight, which you can bring indoors when the weather cools. Heliotropes love sunshine, well-drained soil, and regular watering. Keep them happy, and they’ll fill your garden—or your patio—with that sweet, old-world scent.
Four O’Clocks
Four o’clocks are the night owls of the garden world. They bloom in the late afternoon, releasing a soft, jasmine-like scent that’s perfect for summer evenings outside. They’re super easy to grow from seed and will self-sow if you let them, but you can also collect the seed pods if you want to keep them in check.
For an explosion of colors, plant Broken Colors, which has a mix of pink, orange, yellow, and white blooms. Or, if you’re looking for something softer, Scented Peach Sunset is a beautiful heirloom variety with warm peach tones.
Larkspur
Larkspurs are a reliable choice for adding height and soft color to your garden. These tall, slender plants grow up to five feet and come in shades of pink, purple, or white. They’re often referred to as annual delphiniums and bloom in the spring, making them a great addition to borders or along fences where they can stand out. Larkspurs are also ideal for cutting, working well in both fresh and dried arrangements.
For a softer tone, plant Earl Grey, with its pastel silvery-purple flowers. For a bold and vibrant option, Parisian Pink offers sturdy stems and deep salmon-pink blooms.
Poppies
Poppies are easy to grow and add a burst of color to any garden. They grow quickly from seed and can be planted directly into the ground in the fall or early spring. These flowers are available in a range of colors, from the classic orange-red to softer hues like pink and white. Many varieties self-sow, so you’ll often get blooms the following year without having to replant. They’re especially effective when planted in borders or mixed beds.
Try Watermelon Heaven, which features bright pink petals with white centers, or Lauren’s Dark Grape, an heirloom variety with dark purple flowers and blue-grey leaves.
Button Bush
Button bushes are a great option for gardeners looking to support pollinators. This native shrub produces small, ball-shaped flowers that are highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. Button bushes thrive in wet areas, making them a practical choice for rain gardens or spaces near water sources. They require little maintenance and are highly adaptable once established.
For larger spaces, try the Native Button Bush, which can grow up to 20 feet tall. If you’re working with a smaller area, Sugar Shack is a dwarf variety that stays compact while still producing white flowers and bright red fruit in the fall.
Carolina Allspice
Carolina allspice is a low-maintenance shrub that offers year-round interest. Its glossy leaves add a lush look to the garden, while its reddish-brown flowers are unique and long-lasting. In the fall, these flowers develop into seed capsules, adding an extra layer of texture to your landscape. This native plant, also known as Sweet Bubby or Strawberry Bush, is well-suited to the Southeastern climate and thrives with minimal care.
For a traditional look, plant the Native Carolina Allspice, which features brownish-red flowers. If you prefer a more modern variety, Aphrodite delivers burgundy blooms with a sweet apple scent.
Love in a Mist
Love in a Mist is one of those flowers that just quietly adds something special to your garden. The soft, star-shaped blooms come in shades like rose, white, and sky blue, and they’re framed by lacy foliage that almost feels delicate. Once the flowers fade, they leave behind papery seed pods that are great for drying—perfect if you like adding a handmade touch to your decor.
If you want something soft and pretty, try Mulberry Rose, with pale pink blooms that deepen over time. For something with a bit of contrast, Persian Violet starts white with blue edges before shifting to a lovely violet tone.
Hollyhock
Hollyhocks remind me of classic backyard gardens—tall, sturdy, and full of life. Their five- to seven-foot stems are perfect for planting along fences or at the back of your flower beds, where they can add some height and color. Depending on the variety, they might come back every year or every other year, so make sure to check the seed packet.
For soft, romantic tones, plant Apricot-Peach Parfait, with its peachy-pink double blooms. If you’re after something striking, Blacknight has deep, purplish-black flowers that come back year after year, no guesswork needed.
*This content was created with the help of AI.