Sweet William flowers

Biennial

A biennial is a plant which completes its life cycle in two years. This typically means germination and growth will occur in the first year, while flowering and setting seed will take place in the second year before the plant dies.

There are many different species of biennial plants varying in all aspects.

True biennial plants will only flower once. However, many people will treat some short-lived perennial as biennials. This is usually the case when they flower best in the second year, producing fewer blooms in subsequent years.

Below is a list of biennial or short-lived perennials perfect for growing around the garden.