Black-eyed Susan. This drought-tolerant perennial produces a mass of late-summer and early-fall color in sites where many plants don't thrive, like dry hillsides and rocky terrain. Black-eyed Susans do best in average, well-drained soil. Divide every three to four years to keep the plants vigorous; expect reseeding. Attracts butterflies.
Purple coneflower. A dependable, drought-tolerant perennial, purple coneflower blooms atop 2- to 3-foot stems in mid to late summer. The protruding flower centers (cones) are butterfly magnets. Cultivars come in a striking array of colors, including orange, yellow, raspberry and white.
Dianthus: Known for their long flowering season these gorgeous fringed flowers can last from spring to fall. Dianthus is a very fragrant plant working well in a scented, butterfly, cut flower or heirloom garden. The plants bloom not only solid colors, like white, red, rose, lavender and yellow, but also bicolor with interesting edging, darker centers and streaks. Stem rot is a concern so plant in a well-drained clay or sandy soil and do not mulch all the way around the plant.
Shasta daisy. Its large, cheery flowers and troublefree foliage make Shasta daisy a natural addition to a sunny garden (also great for a moon garden). This clump-forming, perennial blooms from early summer to fall on 2-1/2-foot-tall stems. Provide support to keep the taller types from falling over. Tolerates a wide range of soils; provide consistent moisture.
Blanket flower. An excellent choice for the novice gardener, blanket flower is easy to grow and drought tolerant. Vibrant blooms come in red, yellow, orange or a combination of the three. Plant the flowers in masses for brilliant color from late spring to fall; deadhead to prolong bloom. These daisy-like flowers attract butterflies, bees and birds and are deer-resistant. Reseeds freely.
