Nine Hardy Perennials Shine in Colorado's Harsh Climate Trials
Nine perennials have been recognised as ‘Top Performers’ in this year’s trials at Colorado State University. The plants were tested for their ability to thrive in Northern Colorado’s tough climate. Each selection offers unique colours, textures, and resilience for gardens in challenging conditions. The trials took place at CSU’s Flower Trial Garden, where plants face extreme heat, drought, and poor soil. Among the winners, ‘Honeycomb’ blue grama grass stood out for its drought tolerance and golden movement in the wind. ‘Midnight Velvet’ stonecrop impressed with deep burgundy leaves and late blooms that draw pollinators.
‘Perma Frost’ Siberian bugloss proved hardier in heat, making it ideal for shady spots. ‘Salute Neon Pink’ meadow sage delivered bright, repeat flowers when well-maintained. For early colour, ‘Blue Ribbons’ woodland phlox—a native groundcover—provided spring blooms and year-round greenery.
Low-water gardens will benefit from ‘Dazzle Rocks’ sea lavender, while ‘Prismatic Pink’ garden phlox resisted powdery mildew entirely. Rounding out the list, ‘Blue Bayou’ aster added late-season colour to borders and beds. These nine perennials were chosen for their strength and beauty in difficult growing conditions. Gardeners in Northern Colorado can now rely on these tested varieties for lasting performance. The full results are available from CSU’s Flower Trial Garden.
