Perennial Plants in Zone 10

Daylilies

• Daylilies are versatile and hardy perennials. The thousands of cultivars feature varieties suitable for hardiness zones one through 11; species such as Persian market, buttered popcorn, chorus line, Aztec gold and frankly Scarlet thrive in the heat of zone 10 climates. Daylilies are ideal for beginner gardeners because they are low maintenance: Plant daylilies in full sun to partial shade areas with adequate drainage. Not only are daylily blossoms available in a wide range of colors, but they also boast one of the longest blooming seasons due to their quick replacement of wilted blossoms. Daylily blooming seasons vary from several weeks to three months; flowers may bloom and wilt in the same day only to be replaced by a new blossom by the next morning.

Bear's Breeches

• Bear's breeches is the more common name for a class of perennials called acanthus mollis. The hardy herbaceous plant is best suited for the high temperatures of zone 10 locations. Use bear's breeches as borders or along walkways because the large, waxy leaves sprawl out low to the ground. In the summer, large spikes of tubular purple and white flowers spring up from the foliage as high as 8 feet above the ground. The deep green leaves contrast the bright white and purple flowers. Bear's breeches grow in full to partial sun and rich, well-drained soil. If your climate is also a high-humidity area, Bear's breeches are particularly susceptible to mildew.

Bird of Paradise

• Few flowers add as much drama and color to a zone 10 garden as birds of paradise. Birds of paradise feature five perennial cultivars in the genus strelitzia that are suitable for a zone 10 climate. Birds of paradise are so-named for their bright purple, orange and yellow blossoms; the flowers resemble the beak and feathers of a colorful tropical bird. The flowers sit atop large stalks that can grow as tall as 30 feet, though most perennial varieties grow to between 6 to 9 feet. Despite their elegant appearance, established birds of paradise are low maintenance and relatively pest-free. Plant birds of paradise in full sun, and provide adequate spacing from other plants.

Black-Eyed Susan

• If you are looking for an American classic for your garden, consider the ubiquitous black-eyed Susan. Black-eyed Susans are hardy and versatile wild flowers that are tolerant to a variety of soil and humidity conditions; the availability of full-sun exposure makes zone 10 an ideal location for this plant. Black-eyed Susans are named for the distinctive brown or black dome in the center of the plant; the dome is surrounded by a spray of delicate yellow petals. Choose a perennial variety of the flower; some black-eyed Susans are biennial or annual varieties that only bloom for one or two years.