Perennials are the cornerstone of any long-lasting, vibrant garden, offering a yearly display of colors and textures without the need to replant each season. Fall is an especially good time to plant perennials as the cooler temperatures help root systems grow strong, leading to years of beautiful blooms. Here are eight outstanding perennials that you can plant this fall:

1. Asters (Aster spp.) – Asters bloom in late summer and fall, offering a final flourish of color with their star-shaped flowers in shades of blue, pink, purple, or white. They’re easy to care for and attract pollinators like bees and butterflies into the garden.

2. Sedum (Sedum spp.)- Also known as “stonecrop,” sedum plants have fleshy leaves and clusters of starry flowers that appear in late summer and autumn. These tough plants can tolerate dry conditions and are perfect for adding texture to your garden.

3. Japanese Anemone (Anemone hupehensis) – With elegant flowers on tall stems that sway in the breeze, Japanese anemones add a touch of grace to any fall garden. Blooming from late summer into fall, they prefer moist soil and partial shade.

4. Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia fulgida) – These sunny yellow flowers with their characteristic dark centers are a staple for a reason. They’re incredibly hardy and can thrive in most soils and situations – plus they bloom into the fall.

5. Peonies (Paeonia spp.) – Although peonies bloom in spring, planting them in fall allows the roots to establish before winter sets in. These lush flowers come in many colors and forms, providing spectacular blooms year after year.

6. Coneflowers (Echinacea spp.) – Coneflowers boast vibrant daisy-like blooms with raised centers from late summer to fall. They come in various shades such as pink, purple, white or yellow and are drought resistant once established.

7. Chrysanthemums (Chrysanthemum spp.) – Often simply called “mums,” these quintessential fall flowers bring a burst of color late into the season. Plant them in the ground rather than leaving them potted for better winter hardiness.

8. Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia) – With its airy spires of blue-purple flowers and silvery foliage, Russian sage offers both color and fragrance from late summer through frost, thriving even in poor soils.

Consider these perennial selections when planning your autumnal planting schedule for a resilient and radiant display that will come back stronger every year.