So you have clay soil. What can you plant?

Discovering clay in your garden is not the end of the world! Many plants cannot grow because of the missing space needed for water flow, but there are some which work, and even grow better in these conditions. Here are three flowers to beautify your garden, despite the clay.

Arkansas Blue Star

The “blue star” has small buds with a bright blue color.

They are best planted in the southern United States, where temperatures do not drop below freezing during the winter. Their strong roots are perfectly suited for clay soil and they do best in full or partial shade. Just be cautious not to over-water!

Photo by Eric Hunt

Blazing Star

The liatris, often known as the “blazing star”, has bright buds whose pedals shoot out in long rays. Blazing stars are found in many colors, but are most recognizable in pink.

These flowers attract insects, including monarch butterflies. They do best in full sunlight and thrive in moist soil. Blazing stars are adaptive to harsh climates and can be planted across the United States!

Photo by Liatria Kłosowa

Daylily

Despite their name, daylilies are not lilies at all, although they do look similar. They are recognizable for their large yellow flowers, although they have been bred in endless colorful varieties.

The buds emerge from long, green stems. Daylilies are planted from bulbs and can last many years. They enjoy full sunlight and moist soil.

If you have clay in your soil and do not know what to plant, try these flowers to add some elegance to your garden.

Happy Gardening!