Our perennial beds and borders offer many kinds of stems that we can use as cut flowers. These are most plentiful during the summer months. But, some start to open during the spring. Here are some perennials that make great cut flowers.


Avens

Maybe what this plant needs is a catchy name. It also goes by its Latin name, Geum. A member of the rose family, this group of perennials has vivid blossoms that open during the spring. These are usually white, yellow, or red. These contain five wide petals. The flowers open either singly or in small clusters. Some species are rather dwarf. For cut flowers, the taller ones are preferred.

Depending on the species, these are recommended for zones three or four through eight or nine. They don’t do well in areas with hot summers. These need a moist, well-drained spot in partial shade. The plants can be grown from seed.

These stems should be cut as soon as the blossoms begin to open.


Bleeding heart

These have tiny, heart-shaped flowers on stems that can reach several feet in height. Though there is a native species called the fringed bleeding heart, I prefer the common bleeding heart seen in gardens, which was introduced from Japan. Give it a moist spot in partial shade, and it will continue to spread.

This typically starts blooming during the spring. If it is kept moist, the plant can continue blooming into summer. The flowers of the common one are rose-pink with white and yellow throats. But, there are varieties with white blossoms as well.

One of the hardiest perennials, this is recommended for zones two through nine. Sometimes, the seeds can be slow to germinate. Typically, they can take up to a month to sprout.

The vase life of these stems can vary from a few days to maybe a week. These are recommended for small posies. If enough are available, they make a great bouquet.


Bugbane

Despite its unfortunate name, bugbane is a lovely perennial. Beginning in late spring and continuing into summer, this will produce feathery flower stalks that can reach two feet or so in height. The small white blossoms open in clusters at the top of the stem. In some varieties, these will be pleasantly scented.

Bugbane prefers a moist spot with partial shade. These are usually hardy in zones four or five through zones nine. The seeds germinate better if they are given a cold treatment over the winter. Just plant them in the fall where they are to grow. They will germinate when the weather warms during the spring.