20+ September-Blooming Plants to Brighten Your Fall Garden
As summer starts to fade, September brings a fresh wave of beauty to our gardens with a stunning array of flowers. There’s nothing quite like those late bloomers to add a splash of color and keep the garden lively as fall approaches.
I’ve gathered a fabulous list of 23 plants that flower in September, each one a little gem that can liven up those cooler days. From vibrant asters to cheerful chrysanthemums, these blooms are ready to put on a show just when we need it most! Let’s dive into this colorful lineup that will surely brighten up any fall garden.
1. Aster
Asters are the perfect way to bring a splash of color to your garden as summer fades into fall. These charming perennials bloom in shades of purple, blue, pink, and white, making them a favorite among gardeners. They’re particularly loved for their star-shaped flowers that attract bees and butterflies, providing a late-season buffet for our pollinator pals.
Asters thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, which makes them a breeze to care for. They can grow anywhere from 1 to 4 feet tall, depending on the variety, and they’re quite hardy, so they’ll put on a show even as the temperatures drop.
Popular Varieties
- New England Aster: These beauties can reach up to 6 feet tall and have vibrant purple blooms that really stand out.
- Roofing Aster: A compact variety that’s perfect for smaller gardens, with lovely lavender flowers that bloom from late summer into fall.
2. Chrysanthemum
Chrysanthemums, or “mums,” are the quintessential autumn flower! These blooms come in an array of colors, including yellow, orange, red, and white, making them perfect for fall arrangements. They start to show off their beautiful blossoms in September and continue through the cooler months, bringing cheer to any garden.
They love the sun and will thrive with a little TLC in terms of watering and good soil. Plus, they’re often used in fall festivals and events, symbolizing joy and optimism. Who wouldn’t want a bit of that in their garden?
Popular Varieties
- Garden Mum: The classic variety that many gardeners adore, with full blooms that can last well into November.
- Spider Mum: Known for its unique, spiky petals, this variety adds an interesting texture to your fall garden.
3. Sedum
Sedum, or stonecrop, is a succulent that’s perfect for those who might forget to water now and then. These hardy plants bloom with small, star-shaped flowers that can be pink, yellow, or red. They’re great for adding interest to your garden as they transition into fall, and they can bring a lovely contrast to the more traditional .
Sedum is super low maintenance and thrives in poor soil, making it a go-to for busy gardeners. Plus, the tough leaves and stems can stand up to some chilly weather, often remaining vibrant even after frost hits.
Popular Varieties
- Autumn Joy: This variety starts out pink and transforms into a rich rust color, creating a beautiful autumn display.
- Sedum ‘Dragon’s Blood’: A ground cover that has vibrant red hues and stunning clusters of pink flowers, perfect for adding texture to your garden.
4. Goldenrod
Goldenrod is often mistaken for a weed, but it’s a superstar in the garden! This plant is known for its bright that emerge in late summer and continue to shine throughout September. It’s a magnet for pollinators, making it a fantastic addition to any wildlife-friendly garden.
Goldenrod thrives in a variety of soil types and can grow in both full sun and partial shade, making it adaptable to many gardening styles. Plus, its tall, graceful stalks add height and structure to your flower beds.
Popular Varieties
- Solidago canadensis: A native species that grows tall and is excellent for attracting bees and butterflies.
- Goldenrod ‘Fireworks’: A stunning variety with arching stems that create a fireworks-like display of blooms.
5. Japanese Anemone
Japanese Anemones are the ultimate late-summer bloomers, bringing elegance to your garden with their delicate, dainty flowers. They typically bloom in shades of white and pink, standing tall above the foliage. These flowers are a great way to bridge the gap between summer and fall.
These perennials prefer partial shade and moist, well-drained soil, making them a great choice for . They’re also known for their resilience and ability to thrive in cooler climates, so you can count on them to brighten your garden in September.
Popular Varieties
- Honorine Jobert: A classic variety with pure white blooms that look stunning against green foliage.
- September Charm: This variety produces lovely soft pink flowers and has a longer blooming period than many others.
6. Salvia
Salvia is a wonderful addition to any garden, especially in September, when its vibrant spikes bloom with color. These plants come in various shades, from deep blues to bright purples and reds, attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies and adding a touch of elegance to your outdoor space.
Salvia loves full sun and well-drained soil, and it’s drought-tolerant once established, making it a fabulous choice for low-maintenance gardens. Plus, some varieties can withstand cooler temperatures, ensuring a late-summer display.
Popular Varieties
- Salvia nemorosa: A popular choice with rich purple spikes that bloom continuously throughout summer and fall.
- Salvia ‘Hot Lips’: This variety offers striking red and white bi-color flowers that are sure to make a statement in your garden.
7. Helenium
Helenium, or sneezeweed, is all about those warm, vibrant hues. This plant showcases lovely daisy-like flowers in shades of gold, orange, and red, lighting up your garden as the summer sun begins to wane. They’re a great choice for inviting butterflies into your space!
Helenium thrives in full sun and prefers moist, well-drained soil, often doing well near ponds or in rain gardens. They also make fantastic cut flowers, adding warmth and cheer to autumn bouquets.
Popular Varieties
- Helenium ‘Mardi Gras’: A stunning variety with a mix of colors that change from yellow to deep red as they mature.
- Helenium ‘Autumnale’: Known for its tall stature and vibrant, multi-colored blooms that will brighten any garden.
8. Verbena
Verbena is a fantastic choice for late-summer blooms, offering vibrant clusters of tiny flowers that attract butterflies and hummingbirds. They bloom in an array of colors, including purple, pink, red, and white, creating a lively display.
These plants prefer full sun and well-drained soil, and they can be slightly drought-tolerant, making them easy to care for. Verbena is often used in hanging baskets or as ground cover, providing a cheerful touch to any garden.
Popular Varieties
- Verbena bonariensis: This tall variety adds vertical interest and is known for attracting pollinators like crazy!
- Trailing Verbena: Perfect for hanging pots or cascading over edges, this variety blooms profusely and offers vibrant colors.
9. Dahlia
Dahlias are the drama queens of the garden with their large, stunning blooms in diverse shapes and colors. These beauties start blooming in late summer and can continue to produce flowers well into September. Their bright and bold presence adds a festive touch to your fall garden.
Dahlias love full sun and rich, well-drained soil. They require some care, but the payoff is absolutely worth it, as you’ll be rewarded with a gorgeous display of flowers that you can also cut for stunning arrangements.
Popular Varieties
- Café au Lait: A fan favorite with large, creamy blooms that look stunning in bouquets.
- Bishop of Llandaff: This variety features deep with dark foliage that makes a striking contrast.
10. Sunflower
are not just for summer; some varieties bloom through September, adding cheerful faces to your garden. Their bright yellow petals and large heads are iconic and sure to bring a smile to anyone who sees them. Plus, they’re a fantastic food source for birds and pollinators!
These giants love the sun and can grow quite tall, so make sure to give them enough space. Sunflowers thrive in well-drained soil and are relatively easy to grow, making them a favorite for both beginner and seasoned gardeners.
Popular Varieties
- Mammoth Grey Stripe: Known for its enormous flowers and seeds that are perfect for snacking.
- Teddy Bear: A cute, compact variety with fluffy, pom-pom-like blooms that are perfect for smaller gardens.
Popular Reads
11. Zinnia
Zinnias bring a burst of vibrant color to your garden and are perfect for September blooms. They come in a wide range of colors and sizes, making them an easy choice for any garden style. Plus, they’re super easy to grow and care for, making them perfect for those who are just starting out.
These flowers thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, and they’re incredibly drought-tolerant once established. Zinnias can be cut for beautiful arrangements, so you can enjoy their beauty both in the garden and indoors!
Popular Varieties
- Zinnia ‘State Fair’: This variety produces large, vibrant blooms that are perfect for cutting.
- Zinnia ‘Profusion’: A compact, disease-resistant variety that blooms continuously and requires less maintenance.
12. Coreopsis
Coreopsis, or tickseed, is a wonderful perennial that blooms with cheerful yellow and gold flowers. These beauties typically start blooming in early summer and continue to thrive into September, bringing brightness and joy to your garden.
They prefer full sun and well-drained soil, and once established, they’re quite drought-tolerant. Coreopsis is also known for its ability to attract butterflies, making it a fantastic choice for pollinator gardens.
Popular Varieties
- Coreopsis verticillata ‘Moonbeam’: This variety features delicate, pale yellow flowers that bloom profusely throughout the season.
- Coreopsis ‘Jethro Tull’: Known for its tall stature and bright, golden blooms that are great for both cutting and border planting.
13. Phlox
Phlox is a classic garden favorite that blooms in a range of colors, from bright pink to deep purple. These plants are known for their , which attract butterflies, making them a lovely addition to any garden in September.
Phlox thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, and they can tolerate a bit of drought once established. They can grow quite tall, making them a great choice for adding height to your beds or borders.
Popular Varieties
- Phlox paniculata ‘David’: A tall variety known for its white blooms and resistance to powdery mildew.
- Phlox ‘Starfire’: A vibrant red variety that makes a great statement in any garden.
14. Marigold
Marigolds are not only cheerful and vibrant, but they also have garden benefits! Known for their bright yellow, orange, and red blooms, these flowers can deter pests, making them a gardener’s best friend. They bloom from spring through fall, and many varieties will still be flowering in September.
These sunny flowers love full sun and can thrive in various soil types, making them easy to grow. Plus, they’re great for kids to plant, as they sprout quickly and provide instant gratification!
Popular Varieties
- French Marigold: A compact variety with vibrant colors and a lovely scent.
- African Marigold: Taller and larger blooms, perfect for creating stunning focal points in your garden.
15. Toad Lily
Toad lilies are unique, exotic-looking flowers that bloom in late summer and early fall. With their spotted petals and interesting shapes, they bring a touch of whimsy to the garden. Toad lilies prefer partial shade and moist soil, making them perfect for woodland gardens or shaded spots.
These perennials are not only beautiful but also relatively low-maintenance, creating stunning displays with very little effort. They’re perfect for filling in those tricky spots in your garden!
Popular Varieties
- Tricyrtis formosana: The most commonly grown variety, featuring lovely with striking spots.
- Tricyrtis ‘Lightning Strike’: A standout with striking yellow foliage and lovely lavender spots.
16. Balloon Flower
Balloon flowers are so named for their unique flower buds that look like little balloons before they pop open into beautiful star-shaped blooms. These charming flowers come in shades of blue, purple, and white and start to bloom in mid-summer, continuing their display into September.
They prefer full sun or partial shade and thrive in well-drained soil. Balloon flowers are also great for , adding even more life to your garden!
Popular Varieties
- Platycodon grandiflorus ‘Sentimental Blue’: A lovely blue variety that blooms profusely throughout the summer.
- Platycodon ‘Astra White’: A compact variety with white blooms that look stunning against green foliage.
17. Begonia
Begonias are known for their incredible variety and beautiful foliage. They bloom in a range of colors, including red, pink, and white, and some varieties continue to flower even into September. These plants thrive in partial shade, making them perfect for brightening up those shadier spots in your garden.
Begonias are quite forgiving and can tolerate different soil types, but they do prefer well-drained soil. Their lush foliage and vibrant blooms make them a favorite for container gardening and hanging baskets.
Popular Varieties
- Wax Begonia: A classic choice with glossy leaves and vibrant flowers, perfect for borders or containers.
- Tuberous Begonia: Known for their large, dramatic blooms, these are stunning in any garden setting.
18. Impatiens
Impatiens are a go-to for adding color to shady spots in your garden, and they bloom all summer long into September. These plants come in a variety of colors, from bright pinks and reds to soft whites and purples. Their cheerful blooms are perfect for brightening up dreary spots!
They love moist, well-drained soil and thrive in partial to full shade. Impatiens are also relatively low maintenance, making them ideal for those who might not have a lot of time to dedicate to their garden.
Popular Varieties
- Busy Lizzie: A classic variety with vibrant blooms that are perfect for containers and hanging baskets.
- New Guinea Impatiens: Known for their larger blooms and ability to tolerate sunny spots better than regular impatiens.
19. Fuchsia
Fuchsia plants are known for their stunning, dangling blooms that come in vibrant pinks, purples, and whites. They bloom throughout summer and into September, adding a pop of color to your garden. Their unique shape makes them stand out, and they’re a favorite among hummingbirds!
Fuchsias prefer partial shade and well-drained soil. They thrive in cooler climates, making them an excellent choice for gardens that experience a mild autumn.
Popular Varieties
- Fuchsia ‘Angel’s Earrings’: A beautiful variety with cascading blooms that make it great for hanging baskets.
- Fuchsia ‘Gartenmeister Bonstedt’: Known for its bright red and purple flowers, this variety is a true show-stopper!
20. Autumn Crocus
Autumn Crocus, also known as Colchicum, is a lovely bulb that surprises gardeners with its fall blooms. These flowers pop up just when you think the garden is winding down, typically in late September. They have large, goblet-shaped flowers that can be a lovely lilac or white, offering a refreshing burst of color.
These bulbs prefer well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade, making them easy to include in various garden styles. Plus, they’re deer-resistant, which is an added bonus for many gardeners!
Popular Varieties
- Colchicum autumnale: The classic variety with stunning pink flowers that are sure to delight.
- Colchicum ‘Waterlily’: A unique variety with more rounded blooms that look like water lilies!
21. Hydrangea
Hydrangeas are well-loved for their lush blooms, and several varieties continue to flower into September. They come in colors ranging from blue and pink to white and purple, depending on the soil pH, which adds a fun twist to your garden design!
These shrubs prefer partial to full shade and moist, well-drained soil. They can be a bit more demanding when it comes to care, but the immense payoff in the form of stunning blooms makes it all worthwhile.
Popular Varieties
- Hydrangea macrophylla: Known for its large, round flower heads that offer a colorful display.
- Hydrangea paniculata ‘Limelight’: A favorite for its stunning lime-green flowers that turn pink in the fall.
22. Lobelia
Lobelia is a charming plant that blooms with vibrant blue or purple flowers, making it a lovely addition to any garden. These plants can flower well into September, providing a cooling burst of color as summer fades. They’re great for borders, containers, or hanging baskets.
Lobelia prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade, which makes it versatile for different garden locations. They also thrive in moist, well-drained soil, requiring regular watering to keep them looking their best.
Popular Varieties
- Lobelia erinus: The trailing variety that’s perfect for hanging baskets or containers.
- Lobelia ‘Sparkle Red’: A unique variety with rich, red blooms that stand out beautifully.
23. Gaillardia
Gaillardia, or blanket flower, is known for its stunning red, orange, and yellow blooms that resemble a warm sunset. These bloom from early summer into fall, making them a favorite for adding vibrant color to the garden.
They thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, and they’re quite drought-tolerant once established. Gaillardia is also great for attracting butterflies, making it a wonderful choice for a pollinator-friendly garden.
Popular Varieties
- Gaillardia ‘Goblin’: A compact variety that boasts bright, warm colors and is perfect for smaller spaces.
- Gaillardia ‘Arizona Sun’: Known for its beautiful red and yellow blooms that can last all season long.