The best perennial plants depend on your site and patience: my best overall pick is the pink coneflower live plant, a direct route to an established flowering perennial, while Black Scallop ajuga stands out for ground cover and the Burpee wildflower mix for planting a broader patch. Live plants cost more than seed in effort and usually give a quicker start, while seeds offer more coverage but need suitable conditions and time to establish. Shade, drainage, mature spread, and whether a listing is a seed or a rooted plant all shape the choice. Read on for the full breakdown of these 14 options and which tradeoffs matter for your garden.
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Key Takeaways
- Rooted plants are the clearest shortcut to an established garden: the coneflower, lavender, chrysanthemum, and ajuga arrive as live plants, while most other picks require germination and seedling care.
- Broad seed mixes trade predictability for variety: the 24-variety Home Grown mix and 18-variety Burpee mix suit larger planting areas, but offer less control over the exact plants and layout than single-species packets.
- Hosta seeds target shade, not instant foliage: both Hosta listings are seed options, so they take more patience than buying an established shade perennial.
- Lavender has two very different routes in this lineup: the two-pack of live plants offers a faster start, while the ‘Vera’ and other English lavender seed listings require more growing time and care.
- Seed counts alone do not establish garden value: a large packet of creeping thyme, hollyhock, or Sweet William seeds can still be a poor fit if the site, spacing, or desired planting scale is wrong.
| Pink Coneflower (Echinacea) Live Perennial Plant, 2 Qt Pot |  | Best for a Wildlife-Friendly Border | Plant type: Live perennial | Flower color: Pink | Pot size: 2 qt | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Home Grown 24-Variety Wildflower Seed Mix, 90,000+ Seeds, 3 oz |  | Best for Broad-Coverage Wildflower Planting | Seed varieties: 24 | Seed quantity: 90,000+ | Package weight: 3 oz | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 308 Hosta Seeds for Planting, Perennial Shade Plants |  | Best for Starting a Shade Garden from Seed | Seed count: 308 | Plant type: Perennial | Sunlight exposure: Partial shade | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Lavender Live Plants, 2-Pack, Purple Blooms |  | Best Low-Water Live Pair | Plant type: Live perennial | Quantity: 2 plants | Bloom color: Purple | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 600 New England Aster Heirloom Flower Seeds |  | Best for a Tall Fall Pollinator Display | Seed count: 600 | Plant type: Flower seeds | Bloom period: Fall to winter | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Red Chrysanthemum Live Perennial, 3 Qt Pot |  | Best for Ready-Made Fall Color | Plant type: Flowering perennial | Pot size: 3 Qt | Blooming period: Summer and fall | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Hollyhock Seeds, 3,000+ Mixed-Color Perennial Seeds |  | Best for Colorful, Pollinator-Friendly Beds | Seed count: 3,000+ | Bloom colors: Red, yellow, pink, and white | Bloom period: Summer to early fall | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 330+ Mixed-Color Hosta Seeds for Shade Gardens |  | Best for Shaded Planting Areas | Seed count: 330+ | Plant type: Hosta | Color: Mixed | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Mixrug Sweet William Flower Seeds, 5,000+ Count, Non-GMO Heirloom |  | Best for Fragrant Flowers | Seed count: 5,000+ | Plant type: Biennial or perennial | Expected height: 12–24 inches | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Burpee Perennial Wildflower Seed Mix, 25,000 Seeds, 18 Varieties |  | Best for Large Sunny Areas | Seed count: At least 25,000 | Flower varieties: 18 | Coverage: Up to 1,000 square feet | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Home Grown English Lavender Seeds, 1,500+ Seeds (Lavandula angustifolia ‘Vera’) |  | Best for Fragrant, Versatile Lavender | Seed quantity: 1,500+ | Variety: English lavender ‘Vera’ (Lavandula angustifolia) | Growing location: Indoor or outdoor | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 2000 English Lavender Heirloom Seeds (Lavandula angustifolia) |  | Best Lavender Seed Value | Seed count: 2,000 | Scientific name: Lavandula angustifolia | Plant type: Perennial | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Black Scallop Ajuga Live Ground Cover Plants, 2-Pack |  | Best Live Ground Cover for Shady Beds | Plant type: Live perennial ground cover | Quantity: 2 plants | Foliage: Glossy dark purple | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 20,000 Creeping Thyme Seeds for Planting |  | Best for Sunny, Low-Growing Ground Cover | Seed quantity: 20,000 | Plant: Creeping thyme (Thymus serpyllum) | Plant type: Perennial | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| perennial plant | Plant type | USDA hardiness zones | Seed count |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pink Coneflower | Live perennial | 3–9 | — |
| Home Grown 24-Variety Wildflow | — | 3–10 | — |
| 308 Hosta Seeds for Planting | Perennial | — | 308 |
| Lavender Live Plants | Live perennial | 5–9 | — |
| 600 New England Aster Heirloom | Flower seeds | 2–8 | 600 |
| Red Chrysanthemum Live Perenni | Flowering perennial | — | — |
| Hollyhock Seeds | — | — | 3,000+ |
| 330+ Mixed-Color Hosta Seeds f | Hosta | — | 330+ |
| Mixrug Sweet William Flower Se | Biennial or perennial | — | 5,000+ |
| Burpee Perennial Wildflower Se | — | — | At least 25,000 |
| Home Grown English Lavender Se | — | 4–9 | — |
| 2000 English Lavender Heirloom | Perennial | 3–9 | 2,000 |
| Black Scallop Ajuga Live Groun | Live perennial ground cover | 4–9 | — |
| 20,000 Creeping Thyme Seeds fo | Perennial | — | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Pink Coneflower (Echinacea) Live Perennial Plant, 2 Qt Pot
I’d choose this live coneflower for a sunny border where returning blooms and pollinator activity matter more than instant variety. Its pink flowers last from summer into fall, while the seed heads offer birds food after flowering. Compared with the Lavender Live Plants, this plant suits a broader hardiness range and grows taller, but lavender brings fragrance and needs less water once established. The coneflower still calls for moderate watering as it settles in, and it depends on full sun and well-draining soil. At about 24 inches tall, it can anchor a small planting without the scale of the taller New England aster. I’d skip it for shady beds or sites that stay wet.
Pros:- Live 2-quart plant gives buyers a more established starting point than seed packets.
- Pink flowers bloom from summer into fall.
- Attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
- Drought tolerant once established, with seed heads that feed birds.
Cons:- Needs full sun to perform well.
- Requires well-draining soil and moderate watering while establishing.
Best for: Gardeners with a sunny, well-drained border who want a flowering perennial that supports pollinators and birds across multiple seasons.
Not ideal for: Gardeners with shaded or consistently damp beds, since this coneflower needs full sun and well-draining soil.
- Plant type:Live perennial
- Flower color:Pink
- Pot size:2 qt
- Mature size:About 24 in tall × 18 in wide
- Sunlight:Full sun
- USDA hardiness zones:3–9
- Blooming season:Summer and fall
- Watering:Moderate; drought tolerant once established
Our verdict“Choose this live coneflower for a sunny garden where a dependable summer-to-fall pollinator plant is more useful than fragrance or shade tolerance.”
Home Grown 24-Variety Wildflower Seed Mix, 90,000+ Seeds, 3 oz
This mix makes the most sense for gardeners who want many flower types across a broad area, rather than a carefully controlled bed of one perennial. Its 24 varieties include purple coneflower, California poppy, and black-eyed Susan, with a stated spring-to-fall bloom window and a growing guide for newer gardeners. Compared with the Pink Coneflower, it offers more variety and a longer seasonal spread, but it gives less control over the look and placement of individual plants. The listing also describes a mix of wildflowers, so buyers should not treat every seed as a guaranteed perennial. Full sun and moderate watering are still required, and the outdoor-only format is not suited to indoor growing. I’d favor it for a naturalized patch, not a precise color scheme.
Pros:- Includes 24 wildflower varieties for a more varied planting than a single-species seed packet.
- More than 90,000 seeds can cover a broad outdoor area.
- Listed bloom period spans spring through fall.
- Includes a growing guide and is described as non-GMO.
Cons:- A mixed packet offers less control over the final colors and species distribution.
- Requires full sun and moderate watering.
- Outdoor use only, with no guarantee that every included flower is perennial.
Best for: Newer gardeners or property owners planting a sunny outdoor patch who want multiple flower varieties and are comfortable with a less uniform result.
Not ideal for: Gardeners planning a tightly designed perennial border or indoor sowing, since the mix is intended for outdoor planting and offers limited control over the final composition.
- Seed varieties:24
- Seed quantity:90,000+
- Package weight:3 oz
- Seed type:Non-GMO
- Sunlight exposure:Full sun
- Expected bloom period:Spring to fall
- Expected plant height:About 2 ft
- USDA hardiness zones:3–10
- Included:Growing guide
Our verdict“Pick this mix for a sunny, informal planting with varied blooms, but choose the Pink Coneflower if you want a more predictable perennial centerpiece.”
308 Hosta Seeds for Planting, Perennial Shade Plants
Unlike the flowering, sun-loving choices elsewhere in this roundup, these hosta seeds target shaded spaces where foliage has more value than a long display of blooms. Mature hostas can add broad, textured leaves along paths, in borders, or as ground cover, giving a garden structure through much of the growing season. The seeds can be started indoors or outdoors in spring or fall, and germination is listed at one to three weeks under warm conditions. That flexibility is useful, but seed growing takes patience: this is not the quick visual impact of the Pink Coneflower live plant or the two ready-to-plant lavender specimens. Hostas also need moderate watering and well-drained soil, despite their shade preference. I’d choose this packet for a gardener willing to grow foliage plants from seed.
Pros:- Broad, textured foliage can add structure to shaded beds.
- Can be started indoors or outdoors in spring or fall.
- Suitable for borders, paths, containers, and ground cover.
- Packet contains 308 seeds.
Cons:- Seed-grown plants take time to create substantial foliage or ground cover.
- Needs partial to bright shade, limiting suitable planting locations.
- Requires well-drained soil and moderate watering.
Best for: Patient gardeners building a shaded border or ground-cover planting from seed, especially those who value textured foliage over prominent flowers.
Not ideal for: Buyers seeking immediate garden coverage, sunny-site flowers, or a predictable flower color; seeds need growing time and hostas prefer shade.
- Seed count:308
- Plant type:Perennial
- Sunlight exposure:Partial shade
- Soil:Well-drained
- Moisture needs:Moderate watering
- Germination time:Typically 1–3 weeks under warm conditions
- Sowing seasons:Spring and fall
- Growing locations:Indoor or outdoor
Our verdict“Choose these hosta seeds for a patient, shade-focused foliage garden, not for quick blooms or an instant established perennial.”
Lavender Live Plants, 2-Pack, Purple Blooms
This two-plant set stands out for buyers who want fragrance and a compact, mounded form without raising a perennial from seed. Each plant is listed in a 1-pint pot, and the pair can edge a border, fill containers, or suit an herb garden. Once established, lavender needs little water, a clear advantage over the New England Aster, which calls for regular watering. The tradeoff is a narrower hardiness range and stricter site preference: lavender needs full sun and well-draining soil, and its listed bloom period is late spring to summer rather than fall. The listing also notes that mature and shipped plant sizes can vary, so buyers should expect some uncertainty in initial scale. I’d pick it for a dry, sunny spot, not a damp or shaded garden.
Pros:- Two live plants provide a paired planting rather than a seed-starting project.
- Fragrant purple blooms suit borders, containers, and herb gardens.
- Low water needs once established.
- Attracts pollinators and is described as deer-deterring.
Cons:- Requires full sun and well-draining soil.
- Listed hardiness range is narrower than the Pink Coneflower’s zones 3–9.
- Shipped plant size and mature size can vary.
Best for: Gardeners with a sunny, well-drained border or container space who want two fragrant perennials and can provide suitable conditions.
Not ideal for: Gardeners in zones outside 5–9 or those with shaded, waterlogged sites; the listed growing needs and hardiness range are restrictive.
- Plant type:Live perennial
- Quantity:2 plants
- Bloom color:Purple
- Blooming period:Late spring to summer
- Mature size:18–24 in tall × 18–24 in wide
- Sunlight:Full sun
- Soil:Well-draining
- Water needs:Low once established
- USDA hardiness zones:5–9
Our verdict“Choose this pair for fragrant, low-water planting in a sunny, well-drained garden within its stated hardiness range.”
600 New England Aster Heirloom Flower Seeds
For gardeners prioritizing a strong late-season show, these New England aster seeds offer a taller fall option than the 24-inch Pink Coneflower. Plants are listed at about 48 inches, with purple flowers and a stated fall-to-winter bloom period that can extend color later in the year. They suit full or partial sun and cover USDA zones 2–8, a wider and colder range than the Lavender Live Plants. The main catch is preparation: seeds need eight weeks of cold stratification before sowing, so this is less straightforward than planting a live perennial. Regular watering and 18–24-inch spacing also call for planning room in the bed. I’d recommend this packet to gardeners who can manage the sowing process and want height plus pollinator flowers late in the season.
Pros:- Tall plants can add height behind shorter perennials such as the Pink Coneflower.
- Purple flowers are listed to bloom from fall into winter.
- Hardiness range spans USDA zones 2–8.
- Heirloom, GMO-free seeds include a growing guide.
Cons:- Requires eight weeks of cold stratification before sowing.
- Needs regular watering rather than the low established water needs of lavender.
- Tall growth and 18–24-inch spacing require a planned planting area.
Best for: Gardeners seeking a tall, late-season perennial display for zones 2–8 who are prepared to cold-stratify seeds and water regularly.
Not ideal for: Beginners who want an easy, immediate planting or gardeners with limited space, since the plants can reach 48 inches and need 18–24-inch spacing.
- Seed count:600
- Plant type:Flower seeds
- Bloom period:Fall to winter
- Flower color:Purple
- Sun exposure:Full sun
- USDA hardiness zones:2–8
- Expected plant height:About 48 in
- Spacing:18–24 in
- Special planting requirement:8 weeks of cold stratification
Our verdict“Choose these asters for a spacious garden and a later, taller pollinator display if cold stratification and regular watering fit your routine.”
Red Chrysanthemum Live Perennial, 3 Qt Pot
For a buyer who wants an established plant rather than a packet of seeds, this red chrysanthemum in a 3 Qt pot offers a more immediate route to seasonal color than the Burpee Perennial Wildflower Seed Mix. Its summer-to-fall bloom period and compact growth—up to 24 inches tall and wide—make it a practical choice for a sunny border or outdoor container. It tolerates partial shade, though full sun is the better bet for strong flowering. The tradeoff is ongoing care: it needs regular watering and well-draining soil, so it is less hands-off than established, low-maintenance options such as hostas. Choose it for a defined splash of red, not for broad ground coverage or a no-watering planting scheme.
Pros:- Live 3 Qt plant gives a more established starting point than seed mixes.
- Red flowers add a strong color accent during summer and fall.
- Can grow in full sun or partial shade.
- Listed for USDA hardiness zones 5–9.
Cons:- Regular watering is needed to support growth.
- Full sun is preferred for the best bloom performance.
- Its 24-inch maximum spread offers less coverage than a broad wildflower mix.
Best for: Gardeners who want a potted, established perennial for a sunny border or container and value red late-season flowers.
Not ideal for: Buyers seeking a large-scale, low-care ground cover or a plant for dry soil, since this chrysanthemum needs regular watering and good drainage.
- Plant type:Flowering perennial
- Pot size:3 Qt
- Blooming period:Summer and fall
- Expected height:Up to 24 inches
- Expected spread:Up to 24 inches
- Sunlight:Full sun to partial shade
- Hardiness zones:USDA 5–9
- Soil and watering:Well-draining soil; regular watering
Our verdict“Choose this potted chrysanthemum for a defined burst of red fall color, but pick a seed mix for wider coverage or a hosta for a shadier, lower-maintenance spot.”
Hollyhock Seeds, 3,000+ Mixed-Color Perennial Seeds
This packet makes the most sense for gardeners who want many mixed-color flowers across a bed or border and are comfortable starting from seed. The listed count of 3,000+ is suited to broader sowing than the single potted Red Chrysanthemum Live Perennial, while the red, yellow, pink, and white blooms offer more color variety. Its summer-to-early-fall flowering window and appeal to bees and butterflies add a wildlife benefit. Planting directions are straightforward—sow ¼ inch deep in a sunny to partly shaded spot and keep the soil moist. One major caution is the conflicting height information: the specs say 12 inches, while the description says plants can reach 8 feet. I would not choose it where a dependable mature height is essential.
Pros:- More than 3,000 seeds suit larger beds and border sowing.
- Mixed red, yellow, pink, and white flowers bring color variety.
- Summer-to-early-fall blooms can attract bees and butterflies.
- Planting depth and moisture directions are provided.
Cons:- Seedlings need consistently moist soil.
- Mature height is unclear: product data lists 12 inches, while the description says up to 8 feet.
- Unlike the Red Chrysanthemum Live Perennial, it requires seed starting and time to establish.
Best for: Gardeners planting a generous flower bed or border who want mixed colors, pollinator activity, and are willing to keep seedlings moist.
Not ideal for: Small-space growers or anyone who needs predictable plant height, because the supplied height information conflicts sharply between 12 inches and up to 8 feet.
- Seed count:3,000+
- Bloom colors:Red, yellow, pink, and white
- Bloom period:Summer to early fall
- Expected blooming period:60–90 days
- Sunlight:Full sun to partial shade
- Hardiness zones:USDA 3–9
- Planting depth:¼ inch
- Watering:Keep soil consistently moist
Our verdict“Pick these hollyhock seeds for a broad, mixed-color planting if you can manage moisture and accept uncertainty about mature height.”
330+ Mixed-Color Hosta Seeds for Shade Gardens
Among these seed options, hosta is the clearest fit for a garden where direct sun is limited: the description points to partial to full shade, unlike the full-sun Burpee Perennial Wildflower Seed Mix. The seeds are presented as suitable for ground cover or containers, and established plants are described as cold- and drought-tolerant with low maintenance. That makes this a useful choice for patient gardeners planning foliage coverage in a shaded space rather than a quick burst of flowers. The main drawback is a meaningful contradiction in the listing: its details also say full sun. I would treat the shade guidance as the intended use but verify growing directions before planting. Seed-grown hostas also ask more patience than buying an established plant.
Pros:- Shade-focused description suits areas where full-sun mixes are a poor fit.
- Can be used for ground cover or container planting.
- Established plants are described as low-maintenance and cold- and drought-tolerant.
- Listed for USDA hardiness zones 3–9.
Cons:- Sunlight guidance conflicts: the description says partial to full shade, while product details list full sun.
- Seed growing takes longer to produce ground coverage than starting with live plants.
- The listing does not provide a clear mature height or spread.
Best for: Gardeners with partly or fully shaded beds or containers who want hosta foliage and can wait for seed-grown plants to establish.
Not ideal for: Buyers who need clear, consistent growing instructions or immediate coverage, since the sunlight details conflict and these are seeds rather than established plants.
- Seed count:330+
- Plant type:Hosta
- Color:Mixed
- Hardiness zones:USDA 3–9
- Sunlight in description:Partial to full shade
- Sunlight in product details:Full sun
- Growing use:Outdoor ground cover or containers
- Maintenance:Low once established
Our verdict“Choose these hosta seeds for a shaded garden if you can tolerate the sunlight-spec conflict and the slower path from seed to coverage.”
Mixrug Sweet William Flower Seeds, 5,000+ Count, Non-GMO Heirloom
Sweet William earns its place for gardeners who value fragrance and varied flower colors more than an immediate first-season display. These seeds produce white, pink, purple, red, and violet flowers, and the plants can attract a range of pollinators. Unlike the Burpee Perennial Wildflower Seed Mix, which is described as blooming from spring to fall, Sweet William typically flowers the year after planting. That delay is the central tradeoff: it suits a planned border, not someone expecting quick color. Starting indoors or sowing outdoors gives growers some flexibility, but the plants need full sun and sandy, well-drained soil. Hardiness information also differs between the title and description, so buyers near a zone boundary should check the supplied growing guidance.
Pros:- Flowers come in white, pink, purple, red, and violet.
- Fragrant blooms can attract butterflies, bumblebees, ladybugs, and hummingbirds.
- Can be started indoors or sown directly outdoors.
- More than 5,000 seeds allow a substantial sowing.
Cons:- Typically blooms the year after planting, unlike the Burpee mix’s stated spring-to-fall bloom period.
- Needs full sun and well-drained, sandy soil.
- Hardiness zones conflict between the title (3–9) and description (4–10).
Best for: Gardeners planning a sunny, well-drained border who are willing to wait a season for fragrant, multicolored flowers.
Not ideal for: Anyone seeking first-season flowers or planting in shade or heavy, poorly drained soil; the bloom is usually delayed until the following year.
- Seed count:5,000+
- Plant type:Biennial or perennial
- Expected height:12–24 inches
- Expected width:6–12 inches
- Flower colors:White, pink, purple, red, and violet
- Sun exposure:Full sun
- Soil:Sandy, well-drained
- Germination:About 10 days at 60–70°F (15–21°C)
- Hardiness zones:Conflicting listing: 3–9 in title; 4–10 in description
Our verdict“Choose Sweet William for a sunny border where fragrance matters and delayed flowering is acceptable, not for fast color or shaded soil.”
Burpee Perennial Wildflower Seed Mix, 25,000 Seeds, 18 Varieties
For gardeners filling a broad, sunny space, this mix has the strongest coverage claim in this group: at least 25,000 seeds across 18 varieties, with stated coverage up to 1,000 square feet. That gives it a different purpose from the Red Chrysanthemum Live Perennial, which offers a defined red accent in a smaller area. The mix is aimed at a less formal planting, with flowers described as blooming from spring to fall and attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Its main limits are site and establishment care: it needs full sun, and seedlings require moist soil during their first weeks. Because it combines many varieties, it is a weaker choice for buyers who want a specific flower, color, or controlled layout.
Pros:- At least 25,000 seeds across 18 flower varieties.
- Stated coverage reaches up to 1,000 square feet.
- Spring-to-fall bloom period offers a long seasonal display.
- Designed to attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Cons:- Needs full sun, making it unsuitable for shaded planting areas.
- Soil must stay moist while seedlings establish.
- A mixed-variety planting offers less control over flower selection than a single-species seed packet.
Best for: Gardeners with a large, sunny outdoor area who want a varied pollinator planting and can keep new seedlings moist.
Not ideal for: Growers with shaded beds, limited planting space, or a precise color scheme, since this is a broad mix intended for full sun and wide coverage.
- Seed count:At least 25,000
- Flower varieties:18
- Coverage:Up to 1,000 square feet
- Seed type:Non-GMO
- Bloom period:Spring to fall
- Sunlight:Full sun
- Hardiness zones:USDA 4–10
- Soil and moisture:Loam; moderate watering, with moist soil during establishment
Our verdict“Choose this mix for broad, sunny pollinator coverage; opt for Sweet William or the Red Chrysanthemum if you want a more specific flower or color.”
Home Grown English Lavender Seeds, 1,500+ Seeds (Lavandula angustifolia ‘Vera’)
This pack suits gardeners who want classic English lavender for fragrance as well as purple blooms. The ‘Vera’ variety is listed for zones 4–9 and can be grown indoors or outdoors, giving it more placement flexibility than the 2,000 English Lavender Heirloom Seeds, which specify full sun. Established plants are drought-tolerant, a useful trait for sunny beds where frequent watering is inconvenient, and the flowers are described as suitable for culinary and wellness uses. The tradeoff is that the large seed count does not remove the need for patience: cold stratification for 2–4 weeks is recommended to improve germination. Choose this over the live lavender option in the wider roundup only if you prefer raising plants from seed and can provide suitable germination conditions.
Pros:- Large pack of more than 1,500 seeds for multiple sowings
- Listed for indoor and outdoor growing
- Fragrant purple heirloom flowers with culinary and wellness uses
- Established plants are drought-tolerant
Cons:- Cold stratification for 2–4 weeks is recommended to improve germination
- Growing from seed takes longer than starting with a live lavender plant
Best for: Gardeners who want to grow fragrant English lavender from seed, value indoor or outdoor flexibility, and are willing to cold-stratify seeds.
Not ideal for: Buyers seeking instant planting impact or an uncomplicated sowing process; these seeds need cold stratification for better germination.
- Seed quantity:1,500+
- Variety:English lavender ‘Vera’ (Lavandula angustifolia)
- Growing location:Indoor or outdoor
- Expected height:2 feet
- Expected bloom period:Spring to fall
- USDA hardiness zones:4–9
- Soil type:Loam
- Stratification:Cold stratify for 2–4 weeks before planting
Our verdict“Choose this pack for fragrant, multipurpose ‘Vera’ lavender if you are prepared to cold-stratify seeds rather than buy a live plant.”
2000 English Lavender Heirloom Seeds (Lavandula angustifolia)
For gardeners prioritizing seed quantity, this pack offers 2,000 English lavender seeds and a detailed growing guide, making it a practical choice for repeated sowing or filling several sunny spots. Like the Home Grown ‘Vera’ seeds, it produces fragrant purple lavender, but its instructions are more specific: plants need full sun and sandy, well-drained soil, and the listed growing zones extend from 3–9. That broader zone range may suit some colder-climate gardeners, though it does not change lavender’s dislike of waterlogged ground. The listed germination window of 14–30 days at 65°F or warmer helps set expectations, while cold stratification is still recommended for better results. Choose this over the ‘Vera’ pack for the larger seed count and guide, not for easier growing.
Pros:- Pack contains 2,000 seeds
- Includes a detailed growing guide
- Listed for USDA hardiness zones 3–9
- Fragrant purple perennial flowers suit sachets, potpourri, and essential oils
Cons:- Cold stratification is recommended for best results
- Needs full sun and well-drained sandy soil
- Plants should not be waterlogged
Best for: Gardeners sowing multiple sunny, well-drained beds who want a large seed supply and a growing guide.
Not ideal for: Gardeners with wet or poorly drained soil, or anyone who wants lavender without seed-starting steps such as cold stratification.
- Seed count:2,000
- Scientific name:Lavandula angustifolia
- Plant type:Perennial
- Expected height:20–24 inches
- Blooming period:Spring to summer
- Sunlight:Full sun
- Soil type:Sandy, well-drained
- USDA hardiness zones:3–9
- Germination time:14–30 days at 65°F or warmer
Our verdict“Pick this over the ‘Vera’ seed pack when a larger sowing supply and a growing guide matter more than indoor-growing flexibility.”
Black Scallop Ajuga Live Ground Cover Plants, 2-Pack
Unlike the lavender and creeping thyme seed packs in this roundup, this option arrives as two live perennial plants, so it is better suited to gardeners who want to establish ground cover without starting from seed. Black Scallop Ajuga brings glossy dark-purple foliage through the year, with blue spring flower spikes for seasonal contrast. At about 6 inches tall, it fits borders, slopes, and woodland-style plantings where a low carpet is more useful than the taller lavender options. It can grow from partial shade to full sun, though shaded or partly shaded sites are the stated best fit. The main compromise is moisture: ajuga prefers moist, well-drained soil and moderate watering, while the lavender picks are drought-tolerant once established. Its spreading habit also calls for space and placement planning.
Pros:- Supplied as two live perennial plants rather than seeds
- Evergreen dark-purple foliage adds year-round interest
- Blue spring flower spikes provide seasonal color
- Dense spreading growth can cover bare soil and help suppress weeds
Cons:- Prefers moist soil and may need regular watering
- Its spreading growth needs space and careful placement
- Less suited to dry conditions than established lavender
Best for: Gardeners who want ready-to-plant, low-growing cover for a partly shaded border, slope, or woodland garden.
Not ideal for: Gardeners seeking a drought-tolerant ground cover for a hot, dry site, or those who cannot provide moderate moisture.
- Plant type:Live perennial ground cover
- Quantity:2 plants
- Foliage:Glossy dark purple
- Flower color:Blue
- Blooming period:Spring
- Sun exposure:Partial shade to full sun
- USDA hardiness zones:4–9
- Expected plant height:6 inches
- Moisture needs:Moderate watering
Our verdict“Choose Black Scallop Ajuga for quick-starting a moist, partly shaded ground-cover patch with striking foliage.”
20,000 Creeping Thyme Seeds for Planting
This is the strongest fit here for gardeners planning a low, fragrant cover across sunny paths, rock gardens, or borders. Creeping thyme grows just 2–4 inches tall, far shorter than either English lavender seed option, and its mat-like spread can help cover open soil and suppress weeds. The 20,000-seed pack gives gardeners plenty to sow across a larger area, though seed quantity does not mean instant coverage: it still requires establishing plants from seed. Compared with the live Black Scallop Ajuga, thyme asks for more patience but offers fragrant foliage and a lower profile for pathway edges. Its full-sun-to-partial-shade range is flexible, but gardeners should account for spread of up to 18 inches per plant and avoid treating it as a compact, non-spreading accent.
Pros:- Pack contains 20,000 heirloom, non-GMO seeds
- Low 2–4-inch growth suits paths and ground-cover plantings
- Fragrant foliage and purple blooms add sensory and seasonal interest
- Spreading growth may help cover bare ground and suppress weeds
Cons:- Seed-grown coverage takes time to establish compared with live ajuga
- Needs full sun to partial shade
- May spread up to 18 inches per plant, requiring room
Best for: Gardeners sowing a sunny rock garden, pathway edge, or border who want a low, fragrant perennial ground cover.
Not ideal for: Buyers who need immediate ground coverage, have mostly deep shade, or want a plant that stays within a small footprint.
- Seed quantity:20,000
- Plant:Creeping thyme (Thymus serpyllum)
- Plant type:Perennial
- Sun exposure:Full sun to partial shade
- Height:2–4 inches
- Spread:Up to 18 inches per plant
- Flower color:Purple
- Seed type:Heirloom, non-GMO
Our verdict“Choose creeping thyme for a large, sunny area where you can wait for a low fragrant mat to fill in.”
How We Picked
I ranked these options by how clearly they serve a perennial-garden need, how much establishment work they ask of the buyer, and how readily their stated plant type and intended use can guide a choice. Live plants received an advantage for buyers seeking a more direct start; seed mixes and single-species seeds remain useful for larger areas, targeted planting, and gardeners willing to wait. I also weighed the usefulness of the stated growing role—such as shade foliage, ground cover, or flowering color—against how much planning the listing leaves to the gardener.
The ranking favors versatile, legible choices first, not simply the largest seed count or the broadest mix. A product’s place reflects its likely fit for a distinct buyer, along with tradeoffs such as slower establishment, less control over a mixed planting, or a narrower site requirement. Since perennial success depends on climate, soil, drainage, and local growing conditions, I treat product names and counts as selection clues, not guarantees of performance in every garden.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Perennial Plants
Before choosing from these 14 options, decide what you want the planting to do and how much time you can give it before it looks established. These broader checks can prevent a seed packet or live plant from being mismatched to your site.
Match the plant to the garden site
Start with the conditions where the plant will actually grow: hours of sun, soil moisture, drainage, and exposure to wind or heat. A shade-oriented plant such as hosta belongs in a different plan from sun-loving choices such as lavender, but the label alone cannot account for every regional climate. Check the plant’s mature needs against your specific bed rather than choosing by flower color or seed count. A common mistake is to buy first and then try to force a plant into unsuitable light or soil. If conditions vary across the yard, choose for the intended planting spot, not the garden as a whole.
Choose between seeds and live plants
Seeds generally suit gardeners who want broad coverage, multiple plants, or the satisfaction of raising a planting from scratch. Live plants make more sense when you want a head start or are adding a few focal plants to an established bed. Seed germination and early growth can demand attention, and a packet’s listed count does not mean every seed will become a mature plant. Live plants also need settling-in care and may still take time to reach their full size. Pay more for a rooted plant when speed and reduced early-stage uncertainty matter; choose seed when scale and patience matter more.
Plan for mature size and spacing
Estimate the mature footprint before buying, especially for ground covers and plants that spread or grow tall. A small container or seedling can look easy to fit, then crowd neighboring plants once established. Overplanting is a frequent source of poor airflow, competition, and extra pruning or thinning. For seed mixes, leave room for variation rather than expecting a precise row or uniform pattern. Use the product’s growing information to set spacing and avoid treating a large seed count as a reason to sow everything in one area.
Set expectations for flowering and establishment
Perennials are long-term garden choices, not a promise of immediate, season-long color. Seed-grown plants need time to germinate and develop, and flowering schedules can shift with planting date, weather, and local conditions. A live plant can provide a quicker visual presence, but that does not mean it will reach mature size or bloom continuously right away. If you want color this season, combine established plants with seed projects rather than relying on a new perennial sowing alone. Read the growing instructions and plan for the establishment period before judging a planting’s success.
Decide how much variety and control you want
A multi-variety wildflower mix can create a less formal, more varied planting, but it gives you less control over which flowers dominate and where each one appears. Single-species seeds make it easier to plan a repeated color or a more deliberate arrangement, though they narrow the planting’s visual range. Variety counts do not by themselves tell you how a mix will perform in a particular region or soil. Check the listed species and regional suitability where available, especially if you have a specific look or growing condition in mind. Choose a mix for visual diversity; choose a single variety when placement and consistency matter more.
Check the practical details before ordering
Confirm whether the listing is for seeds or live plants, how many plants or packets are included, and whether the stated size describes a pot, seed count, or variety count. These are not interchangeable measures of garden coverage. Review planting instructions, expected conditions, and any regional cautions, then compare them with your calendar and available space. A low-effort choice on paper can still require careful watering or seedling care after arrival. Buying for a clear plan—one bed, border, container, or open patch—makes it easier to judge whether the format fits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I buy perennial seeds or live plants if I want flowers soon?
Live plants are usually the more direct option when you want a visible start, since they skip germination and early seedling care. They still need time to settle into the garden, and flowering depends on plant maturity and local conditions. Seeds are better suited to gardeners who can wait and want to establish more plants or cover a larger area. For the quickest visual result, use live plants as the framework and add seed-grown perennials for later seasons. Check expected bloom timing before buying if a particular event or season is your target.
Are the two hosta seed listings a good choice for a beginner shade garden?
They can suit a patient gardener, but seeds involve more early care than starting with established hostas. Confirm that the planting area has appropriate shade and moisture conditions, and follow the packet’s germination guidance closely. The listed seed counts do not indicate how many mature plants you will end up with. If you want a quicker, more predictable foliage effect, compare seed packets with locally available rooted plants. Choose seeds when the growing process is part of the goal, not when immediate coverage is the priority.
Which option makes more sense for covering a large area: a wildflower mix or creeping thyme seeds?
The answer depends on the look and site you want: a wildflower mix aims for a varied flowering patch, while creeping thyme is a more specific ground-cover direction. Neither seed count alone tells you the area a packet will cover, because spacing, germination, and growing conditions affect the result. Check the product instructions for sowing rates and confirm the site suits the intended plants. A mix is less predictable in species placement, while a single-type planting gives a more deliberate visual effect. For a large project, consider dividing the area into sections so you can adjust the plan if establishment varies.
Is live lavender a better buy than English lavender seeds?
Live lavender is the more convenient route if you want a faster start and a small number of plants. The English lavender seed listings suit gardeners willing to manage germination and wait for plants to develop. The ‘Vera’ name identifies a specific listing, but buyers should still check the supplied growing information and confirm it matches their climate and site. Lavender needs appropriate light and drainage, so neither format is a good fix for a poorly suited spot. Choose based on your patience, desired plant count, and ability to provide the right conditions.
Can I plant several of these perennials together in one bed?
Yes, but group plants by compatible light, moisture, and spacing needs rather than combining every selection in one bed. Hosta is presented for shade, while lavender and many flowering options are more likely to need a sunnier location; confirm each listing’s care guidance before planting. Mixes can also spread unevenly, so leave room for growth and avoid sowing dense patches beside small live plants. A simple layout with one dominant planting and a few compatible accents is easier to maintain than a crowded assortment. If your yard has both sun and shade, separate the choices into matching planting zones.
Conclusion
For the best overall balance of a clear perennial-garden role and a direct start, I recommend the pink coneflower live plant. The best value in planting scale is a seed mix such as the Home Grown or Burpee wildflower option, provided you want variety and can accept less control over the final layout. For a best premium-style shortcut, choose the two-pack of live lavender when your site suits lavender and you want established plants rather than a seed project. The best choice for patient beginners is a single-species seed packet matched to a suitable site, while gardeners wanting faster feedback should start with a live plant. For specific needs, look to hosta seeds for a shade-focused project and Black Scallop ajuga for a live ground-cover option; choose creeping thyme or a wildflower mix only after checking site fit and coverage instructions.
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