Wildflowers add vibrant colour, diversity, and ecological benefits to any garden or landscape. They are known for their resilience and ability to thrive in various conditions. However, when selecting wildflower seeds for planting, the most common question is, ‘Are wildflower seeds annual or perennial?’ The answer is that wildflowers can be annual or perennial, with each type having unique characteristics and growth patterns.
Annual Wildflowers
Annual wildflowers complete their life cycle within a single growing season. Essentially, this means they grow from seed, bloom, produce more seeds, and die, all within one year. Annual wildflowers are ideal for gardeners who want quick bursts of colour, as they typically germinate rapidly and flower within months. Annual wildflowers need to be reseeded every year, but can be sown is spring or autumn.
Popular Varieties of Annual Wildflower Seeds
• Corncockle (Agrostemma githago) – with purple-veined magenta petals, this tall wildflower enjoys full sun and well-drained sandy soil.
• Cornflower (Centaurea cyanus) – also known as bachelor’s button, this flower is famous for its unique, vibrant blue flowers.
• Common Poppy (Papaver rhoeas) – the iconic red poppy of Remembrance Day, also known as the Flanders Poppy.
To establish annual wildflowers, choose our BS Cornfield Annuals Wildflower Seeds Mix.
Perennial Wildflowers
Perennial wildflowers live for multiple years, returning season after season. They may not bloom in their first year, as they typically establish strong root systems before focusing on flowering. However, once established, perennials provide long-lasting beauty with minimal maintenance.
Popular Varieties of Perennial Wildflower Seeds
• Harebell (Campanula rotundifolia) – a violet-coloured, bell-shaped wildflower found naturally in grassland, moors, and meadows.
• Ragged Robin (Lychnis flos-cuculi) – a dainty pink wildflower popular with pollinators.
• Bird’s Foot Trefoil (Lotus corniculatus) – also know as the ‘eggs and bacon flower for its clusters of orange, yolk-like flowers.
• Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) – a striking flower with white flowers and leaves that have a feather-like appearance.
Because perennials require time to establish, they may not provide the instant gratification that annuals do. However, they offer long-term benefits, including sustainability and lower maintenance in subsequent years.
To establish perennial wildflowers, choose from our range of wildflower seeds including our famous Butterfly and Bee Mixture.
Choosing the Right Wildflowers for your Garden
Wildflower seeds can be annual or perennial, each offering distinct advantages. Annuals provide quick, vibrant blooms whereas perennials offer long-term beauty. Understanding these differences helps gardeners create stunning and sustainable wildflower gardens that return year after year, and the choice between annual and perennial wildflowers will depend on your gardening goals. If you want instant colour, annuals are a great option. If you prefer low-maintenance, long-lasting beauty, perennials are ideal.
For a balanced garden, many gardeners mix both types, ensuring a continuous display of flowers from season to season. Additionally, selecting native wildflowers suited to your local climate and soil conditions will increase success and benefit local pollinators and wildlife. Our Dual Purpose Wildflower Seed Mix contains a careful balance of both annual and perennial species for a quick, yet long-lasting wildflower display!
Wildflower Seeds from Boston Seeds
As a family-run business with over 20 years’ experience, Boston Seeds are trusted suppliers to the National Trust, and the Environment Agency. We offer a wide range of UK Native Wildflower Seed Mixes, including both annual and perennial varieties for continuous colour across the seasons.
To view our full range, please request a catalogue. Alternatively, our friendly and experienced sales team can be contacted by email or telephone on 01205 280069.
