15 Stunning white perennial flowers that bloom all summer

Planting white perennial flowers in your garden adds a touch of timeless elegance and versatility that can transform any outdoor space. In this blog post, I share 15 stunning white perennial flowers that bloom in the summer. From early to late blooming perennials that will brighten up your garden.

As the days grow longer and warmer, our gardens come alive with the vibrant colors of summer blooms. Amidst this kaleidoscope of hues, there’s a serene beauty in the simplicity of white flowering perennials.

Why Consider Planting White Perennial Flowers?

White blooms have a magical quality, especially when they catch the moonlight or early morning sun, creating a dreamy and enchanting atmosphere. Whether used as accents, borders, or main features, white perennial flowers bring a sense of beauty and harmony to your garden that is both calming and captivating.

These ivory-white gems not only add a touch of sophistication to any garden but also thrive in various conditions, making them a versatile and delightful addition for any gardener.

As early summer approaches, it’s time to welcome the first blooms of the season and introducing white perennial summer flowers is always a good idea.

The Top White Perennial Flowers For Your Garden

1. Sweet Alyssum- Delicate White Perennial Flowers

Sweet alyssum, an annual that thrives in cooler seasons, boasts delicate blooms atop neat clusters of leaves. It’s a white perennial summer flower is a classic. Sweet alyssum is a cool-season annual with dainty blossoms on tidy mounds of foliage.

The flowers are most often found in a crisp, clean white, but there are also deep purple, light pink, and soft peachy-hued varieties.

The abundant white blooms complement any setting and are valued for their early spring appearance.

• Sun Exposure: Full Sun- Partial Sun
• Blooms: Spring-Fall
• Soil: Average Moisture
• Hardiness Zones: 5-9

While its signature color is a pristine white, variations in hues like deep purple, light pink, and soft peach can also be spotted. Its copious white flowers complement any setting, making sweet alyssum a sought-after choice for its early spring blossoms.

2. Shasta Daisies

Shasta Daisies burst onto the scene, filling the air with their sweet scents. Planted in well-drained soil and basking in full sun, these flowers create a stunning display of white perennial summer flowers especially in rock gardens or as ground cover.

• Sun Exposure: Full Sun, Half Sun / Half Shade
• Growing Zones: Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9
• Soil Moisture: Dry, Average
• Mature Height: 15-18″ tall
• Mature Spread: 10-12″ wide
• Bloom Time: Early summer to fall

Late White Perennial Summer Bloomers

Transitioning into late summer, the garden transforms once more with the arrival of Japanese Anemone and Gooseneck Loosestrife. These bushy plants, thriving in partial shade and moist soil, offer a perfect choice for shady spots or as front-of-the-border highlights. Their delicate white petals complemented by dark green foliage create a mesmerizing contrast.

3. Japanese Anemone

It is a stunning flowering plant with delicate white flowers, known as the Japanese Anemone. Despite their intricate structure, Japanese Anemone flowers are described as graceful and elegant. There are typically several petals arranged around a center of golden stamens, creating a striking contrast between the white petals and yellowish centers.

The Japanese Anemone, known as “Nikkōkisuge” in Japanese, is a beautiful flowering plant with delicate white flowers. There is a beauty and elegance to the Japanese Anemone flower that belies its intricate structure. Each flower typically has several petals arranged around a center of golden stamens, creating a striking contrast between the white petals and the yellowish center.

• Sun Exposure: Full Sun, Half Sun/Half Shade
• Soil Moisture: Average, Moist / Wet
• Mature Height: 36-48″ tall
• Growing Zones: Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8
• Mature Spread: 12-24″ wide

4. Gooseneck Loosestrife

The unique flower structure of this loosestrife makes it a standout performer. The abundant white flower spikes boast a graceful gooseneck shape, which will impress you. Adorned with countless tiny, star-like white blooms, these 12–18″ flower heads create a lush spectacle that beckons pollinators irresistibly. As autumn arrives, the green foliage transforms into a stunning orange-red hue, extending its beauty into yet another season in your landscape.

• Sun Exposure: Full Sun- Partial Sun
• Zone: 4-9
• Bloom Time Mid to late summer.
• Height 24 – 30 inches
• Soil Requirement Well drained

5. White Dahlia Flowers- white perennial summer blooms

White Dahlia flowers are a striking sight, exuding elegance and purity. Their pristine white petals contrast beautifully with the dark green foliage, making them stand out in any garden. The white perennial summer flowers is always a show-stopper.

There are several varieties of white Dahlias, each with its unique characteristics. For example, the “White Star” Dahlia features delicate white petals with a hint of creamy yellow at the center, resembling a starburst of petals.

The “Tahiti Sunrise” variety showcases white petals with blush-pink tips, creating a captivating ombre effect. Whether used in bouquets, garden borders, or as focal points in floral displays, white Dahlias never fail to captivate with their timeless beauty and versatility.

• Sun Exposure: Full Sun
• Bloom Time: Summer, Fall
• Flower Color: Multicolor (Orange, Pink, Purple, Red, White, Yellow)
• Hardiness Zone: 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11
• Height: 1-6 feet tall depending on variety

6. Early Crystal’ Hybrid Phlox: A Stunning Early-Blooming Gem

This new series of Phlox features thick leaves, a spreading habit, and blooms from early to late summer. These low maintenance white perennial summer flowers are a gem.

Meet ‘Fashionably Early Crystal’ Hybrid Phlox, a game-changer for gardeners seeking early blooms and exceptional mildew resistance.ith good rebloom in fall. Ideal for zones 4-8 and full sun, this Phlox adds vibrant color and resilience to any garden, making it a must-have for borders.

• Sun Exposure: sun/part sun,
• Height: 32″ tall x 30″ wide at maturity.
• Bloom Time: Late Spring early summer, long-blooming, and reblooming. 
• Care: Low maintenance and resistant to powdery mildew. 
• Hardiness Zones: Zones 4-8

7. White Calla Lily– The elegant white perennial summer flower

White Florist’ Calla Lily: Elegance in Every Petal

Ok… this is one of my favorite white perennial summer flowers, besides the hydrangea. With its pristine white blossoms and graceful stature, the ‘White Florist’ Calla Lily (Zantedeschia aethiopica) has captured hearts worldwide. Standing at heights of up to 3 feet, ‘White Florist’ callas make a bold statement in gardens and bouquets, unlike other varieties.

A Symbol of Elegance

The perfectly-fluted flowers of ‘White Florist’ Calla Lily exude elegance and sophistication. Their pristine white petals and contrasting dark centers create a stunning visual impact, making them an essential choice for bridal bouquets, floral arrangements, or as standalone beauties in the garden.

Easy Care, Striking Results

Taking care of a ‘White Florist’ Calla Lily is pretty simple. Ensure it has well-draining soil, sufficient sunlight, and regular watering, especially when it’s hot outside. With these simple requirements met, you can sit back and watch as this stunning plant transforms your outdoor space into a haven of elegance and charm.

• Sun
• Soil Moisture: Average, Moist / WetSoil Moisture
• Hardiness Zone: Zone 8, Zone 9, Zone 10 (Annual in colder zones)
• Sun Requirements: Full Sun, Half Sun / Half Shade
• Mature Height: 24-36″ tall
• Bulb Spacing: 3 per sq ft
• Bloom Time: Mid-summer until frost

8. Shasta Daisy (Leucanthemum x superbum):

With its classic daisy-like appearance and cheerful white petals surrounding a yellow center, Shasta Daisy is a staple for summer gardens.

A Shasta Daisy (there are many varieties) is a flower that looks like a big white daisy with a yellow center. It’s a plant that comes back every year and has been specially bred to have really big flowers. People like it because it’s easy to take care of and it brings bees and butterflies to the garden. Shasta Daisies bloom in late spring and early summer, and they’re often used in gardens or as flowers in vases.

• Sun Exposure: Full Sun, Half Sun/Half Shade
• Botanical Name: Leucanthemum superbum Snowcap
• Advantages: Attracts Butterflies, Deer Resistant, Rabbit Resistant, Easy To Grow, Low Maintenance, Long Bloom Time, Cut Flowers, Mass Plantings, Container Planting
• Growing Zones: Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9
• Soil Moisture: Dry, Average
• Mature Height: 15-18″ tall
• Mature Spread: 10-12″ wide
• Bloom Time: Early summer to fall

9. Lily of the valley – Fragrant white perennial summer flower

(Convallaria majalis) is a charming perennial herbaceous plant with fragrant white flowers, part of the asparagus family.

It thrives in partial shade and well-drained soil, growing 6 to 12 inches tall. While its blooms are lovely, it’s important to note that lily of the valley is invasive in certain areas and toxic to humans, dogs, cats, and horses due to glycosides and saponins. Exercise caution when handling and planting it.

• Sunlight: Half Sun / Half Shade, Full Shade
• Advantages: Deer Resistant, Rabbit Resistant, Groundcover, Easy To Grow, Naturalizes, Cut Flowers, Fragrant, Erosion Control
• Growing Zones: Zone 2, Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8
• Soil Moisture: Average, Moist / Wet
• Mature Height: 6-8″ tall
• Mature Spread: 12-18″ wide
• Bloom Time: Early to late spring

10. Cape Jasmine Gardenia: Southern Charm in Bloom

Gardenia jasminoides, also called Cape Jasmine Gardenia, stands out as a beloved symbol of the South with its stunning petals and captivating scent. Explore the captivating realm of this stunning white perennial summer cut flower and uncover why it’s cherished by gardeners and flower enthusiasts everywhere.

• Sun Requirements: Full Sun, Part Shade
• Zones: Zone: 7 – 11
• Bloom Time: Bloom Start to End: Early Summer
• Height: 5 ft
• Width: 4 ft
• Additional Benefits: Repeat Bloomer, Butterfly Lovers, Double Blooms, Evergreen, Fall Color, Fragrance
• Moisture Requirements: Moist, well-drained
• Resistance: Deer Resistance
• Soil Tolerance: Clay, Normal, loamy

One cannot help but be mesmerized by the beauty of Cape Jasmine Gardenia. The rose-like double flowers can reach an impressive 4 inches in diameter, with pristine white petals against glossy green leaves. This contrast adds depth and elegance to any garden or floral arrangement, earning it a well-deserved reputation as a showstopper.

11. Climbing Hydrangea: A Vertical Masterpiece in the Garden

The Climbing Hydrangea, Hydrangea anomala petiolaris, stands out among the diverse family of hydrangeas. Its ability to climb and its exquisite flowers make it a favorite among gardeners seeking to add vertical interest and beauty to their outdoor spaces. Let’s unravel the charm and characteristics of this captivating perennial.

White perennial Summer Flowers With Vertical Elegance

Climbing Hydrangeas are characterized by their remarkable climbing abilities. Unlike other hydrangea varieties that remain shrubby, this species develops woody vines equipped with holdfasts, eliminating the need for a trellis or support structure. These vines can reach impressive heights of 30 to 40 feet, creating a breathtaking vertical display against walls, fences, or even as house climbers.

• Sun Requirements: Full Sun, Part Shade
• Mature Height: 50 ft.
• Mature Width: 2-4 ft.
• Sunlight:
  • Part Shade/Part Sun (Zones 6-9)
  • Full Sun (Zones 4-6)
• Growth Rate: Fast

12. Cora Louise Itoh Peony:

In the realm of botanical wonders, the Cora Louise Itoh Peony, scientifically known as Paeonia, stands out as a breathtaking masterpiece that captivates the senses. With its huge white flowers adorned with intensely yellow stamens and striking stripes of Fuchsia emanating from the center, this peony variety is a true marvel of nature. Let’s delve into the allure and characteristics of this striking perennial.

A Visual Feast

One cannot help but be enchanted by the beauty of Cora Louise Itoh Peony. Its large, flat petals create a stunning display of color, with the contrast between the white petals, vibrant yellow stamens, and striking Fuchsia stripes forming a mesmerizing spectacle. It’s perfect for cut flowers!

Whether in the garden or as a cut flower, this peony variety adds a touch of elegance and drama that is hard to match.

Abundant Blooms

There are around 50 flowers per plant on a mature Cora Louise Itoh Peony bush. This abundance of blooms ensures a continuous display of floral splendor throughout late spring to early summer, adding vitality and joy to the garden landscape.

Optimal Growing Conditions

To ensure the best performance from your peonies, it’s essential to plant them in well-drained soil and provide them with adequate sunlight. They thrive when rooted away from other plants, allowing them space to grow and bloom to their full potential.

• Sunlight: Full Sun, Half Sun / Half Shade
• Hardiness Zones: 3-8
• Mature Height: 23-27 inches
• Bloom Time: Mid-season (Mid to late spring)
• Soil: Well-drained soil

13. Anemone sylvestris– Sister to Honorine Jobert

Like their sister subspecies, the Honorine Jobert Japanese Anemone, Snowdrop Anemone feature slightly cupped alabaster petals with a canary yellow center. They are unique in that the undersides of the main body radiate a gorgeous blush from ombre’d purplish-green stem.

Indigenous to sylvan settings, Snowdrop Anemone love growing under shade trees, where they will eagerly self-spread in loose, sandy soil. They are extremely hardy in the cold, surviving easily through the winter until opening their wooly heads in the late spring or early summer across zones 3-8.

• Sunlight: Part shade
• Zone: 4 to 8
• Height: 1.00 to 1.50 feet
• Spread: 0.75 to 1.00 feet
• Water: Medium
• Maintenance: Low

14. Snowflake Creeping Phlox: A Summer Wonderland in Your Garden

Phlox subulata, also known as Snowflake Creeping Phlox, is a sought-after treasure in evergreen gardens for its winter texture. With its starry flowers and vibrant foliage, this perennial offers a tapestry of beauty and resilience that transforms the garden landscape, especially in the colder months.

One of the highlights of Snowflake Creeping Phlox is its mid-to-late spring bloom, where mats of starry flowers blanket the ground, creating a carpet of delicate beauty. These loose clusters of blossoms not only add charm and color to the garden but also serve as excellent ground cover, filling in spaces with a burst of floral delight.

Versatile Cascades of Beauty

Beyond ground cover, Snowflake Creeping Phlox showcases its versatility by cascading over trellises or garden walls, creating cascades of floral splendor that captivate the eye and add vertical interest to the landscape.

In conclusion, Snowflake Creeping Phlox is a winter wonderland in bloom, offering evergreen beauty, vibrant flowers, and versatile cascades of color to enhance any garden or landscape. Whether used as ground cover, cascading over structures, or adding texture to borders, this phlox variety brings a touch of magic and charm to outdoor spaces year-round. Embrace the enchantment of Snowflake Creeping Phlox and watch your garden transform into a living tapestry of natural splendor.

• Growing Zones: Zone 2, Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9
• Light Requirements: Full Sun
• Soil Moisture: Dry
• Mature Height: 2-4″ tall
• Mature Spread: 12-18″ wide
• Bloom Time: Mid to late spring

15. Blushing Bride’ Bigleaf Hydrangea – White Perennial Summer Flowers

There are several types of white hydrangeas (Hydrangea spp.), each needing specific locations and care to perform best. One of my favorites is the Endless Summer Hydrangea.

Endless Summer has successfully developed a truly white mop head hydrangea that matches the performance of its blue and pink counterparts in the original Endless Summer series.

Both varieties bloom on old and new wood, allowing them to be pruned in winter without the concern of cutting off next season’s flowers. The Double Delights Wedding Gown features a lovely white lace cap, while Blushing Bride stands out as our top choice for a white mop head hydrangea.

• Sunlight: Part shade
• Hydrangea Type: Bigleaf
• Soil: evenly moist, well-drained soil.
• Size: 3 to 6 feet tall and wide
• Zones: 4-9

White Perennials From Spring-Summer

White perennials enchant throughout the seasons from the freshness of early spring to the ethereal beauty of late spring. Their double flowers and pure white blooms stand out against deciduous trees, adding a touch of magic to every landscape.

White perennials look stunning planted in front of evergreen shrubs. The dark leafy green foliage makes for the ideal backdrop.

Designing Your White Garden

Creating a white perennial garden is not just about the plants; it’s about creating a unique experience. Imagine a moonlit garden filled with Ivory White Flowers, where every petal seems to glow in the dark. Incorporating plants like Honorine Jobert and White Geraniums, along with colorful accents like yellow flowers, elevates the beauty of this space.

Tips for A Successful White Flower Garden

Ensure good drainage, especially for sandy soils, and consider raised beds or containers if drainage is an issue. Incorporate a mix of full sun, partial shade, and even full shade for a dynamic garden design. Keep an eye out for powdery mildew, especially in humid climates, and opt for varieties known for their resistance.