Nothing says “goodbye winter” like a splash of sunny yellow in the garden! These cheerful blooms are some of the most beloved signs that warmer days are finally on the way. Here’s a look at what makes each of these plants special and how to pick the perfect ones for your own backyard.
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++Winter Aconite (Eranthis)
If you’re looking for an early bird, the Winter Aconite is your best friend. These little guys pop up right alongside snowdrops at the very start of the year and keep blooming through March. They have delicate, understated flowers that aren’t too “loud,” making them perfect for a natural look. They’re super low-maintenance, handle poor soil like champs, and love a spot protected from the wind. Plus, they’re incredibly hardy, so you don’t need to worry about protecting them from a late frost.
++Crown Imperial “Lutea Maxima” (Fritillaria imperialis “Lutea Maxima”)
For a bit of drama, you can’t beat the Crown Imperial. These majestic plants feature tall stems topped with a “crown” of bell-shaped flowers. While they come in orange and red, the yellow “Lutea Maxima” is a real showstopper in April and May. They can reach nearly three feet in height, so they definitely make a statement! Give them plenty of sunlight and well-draining soil. Just a heads-up: the plant is toxic, but that’s actually a plus for some—the scent of the bulbs is known to keep moles away.
++Yellow Flag Iris (Iris pseudacorus)
Got a soggy spot in your yard or a garden pond? The Yellow Flag Iris is the perfect choice for wet feet. These elegant irises bring a touch of class to any water feature or marshy area. You can usually expect them to bloom between May and June. The stems grow to about 25 to 30 inches tall, and they are happiest in a spot with partial shade.
++”Monsella” Tulip (Tulipa “Monsella”)
You can’t talk about spring without mentioning tulips! While they come in every color of the rainbow, yellow tulips are a classic for a reason. If you want something a little more exciting than a standard yellow, check out the “Monsella” variety. It’s a double tulip (meaning it has extra petals) and features striking red streaks that look like little flickering flames.
++Persian Buttercup (Ranunculus asiaticus)
Ranunculus are famous for their incredibly dense, rose-like petals and perfectly round shapes. While they are popular as cut flowers, they actually last much longer if you grow them in your garden or in containers on your balcony. Yellow is one of the most common and vibrant colors for these beauties. They also make a fantastic gift in a cute little pot!
++Daffodil (Narcissus pseudonarcissus)
Is it even spring if there aren’t daffodils everywhere? These are the ultimate symbols of the season. Because they contain certain alkaloids, they are naturally resistant to most pests (deer usually leave them alone!). Once you plant the bulbs, they’ll come back year after year. They typically bloom from February through May, usually hitting their peak right around Easter.
++Golden Crocus (Crocus flavus)
Crocuses are like little gems popping out of the ground in early spring. The Golden Crocus is a specific variety that provides a punch of bright yellow from March to April. They are great for “naturalizing”—try planting them under deciduous trees (where they’ll get sun before the leaves grow in) or right in the middle of your lawn for a meadow-like feel.
%%Cowslip (Primula veris)
A bit of an insider tip for your flower beds is the Cowslip. While it grows wild in many parts of Europe, it’s a charming addition to any home garden. These bloom from March to May and are incredibly easy to care for, thriving in both sunny and shady spots. If you’re interested in starting from scratch, sowing cowslip seeds is actually quite simple!