Penstemon jamesii

This prairie native bears nodding, pinkish-maroon flowers in spring, followed by seed heads that resemble wisps of cotton candy and connote the plant's common name. The upright, ferny foliage is beautiful, and can be evergreen in mild climates. 

Penstemon cobaea has shiny dark green leaves and purple, pink, or white flowers on spike-like panicles in mid-spring. It grows to 2.5 feet tall. The flowers are larger than most other penstemons. Dew flower is native to the Lower Plains and the southwestern U.S.

A hardworking, compact perennial, ‘Etain’ violet blooms intermittently throughout spring, summer, and fall. It forms wellbehaved clumps, unlike other violets that are usually spreading ground covers. Like all violets, ‘Etain’ enjoys regular fertilizing, steady watering, and frequent deadheading. The attractive, fleshy, bright green foliage needs protection from slugs and can be cut back if it gets too leggy.

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'Indian Summer' is a standout among a sea of Black-eyed Susans because of its extra-large, golden yellow flowerheads. It will bloom from early summer until first frost. Use it in borders, cottage gardens, meadows, or for naturalizing. Butterflies are drawn to it. The species is native to the central U.S.