Versatility

• The word "perennial" encompasses all sorts of flowering plants, from tulips to sedums to ornamental grasses to flowering shrubs. With all the choices out there, you can find something for most soil types, light conditions and moisture availability. Some of the more common perennials for Minnesota are daylilies, irises, peonies and phlox. The University of Minnesota has developed many chrysanthemum varieties for the climate, including "Lemonsota."
  
  

Seasonal Interest

• The University of Minnesota Extension recommends choosing perennials whose looks change throughout the seasons. Those that provide winter interest are particularly desirable in Minnesota. The sedum "Herbstfreude" or "Autumn's Joy" will provide interest for four seasons. Ornamental grasses take on a different appearance as the seasons change and provide winter interest. Try switchgrass, moorgrass or fescue. There are at least four varieties of each that will do well in Minnesota, at least in zone 4.
  
  

Native Perennials

• According to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, less required maintenance, lower water needs and greater biological diversity are only some of the perks of incorporating native perennials into your garden scheme. Purple coneflower and black-eyed Susans, both of which resemble daisies, are drought- and sun-tolerant. They make excellent mass plantings. Or try jack-in-the-pulpit, which does well in shady, moist areas.