Chrysanthemums of all sorts prefer full sunlight and average garden conditions, including well-drained but not dry soil and moderate to low levels of nutrients. Height and spread differ between varieties. Moderate pinching will keep your mums in shape, but remember not to pinch them after the middle of July, or their blooms will be damaged by heavy frosts. 

Kirengeshoma

The genus Kirengeshoma contains two species, K. koreanum and K. palmatum. They’re quite similar and have sometimes been combined under one name. Labeling is often confused, but don’t let the confusion keep you from growing these gorgeous plants. Bold leaves, heavily notched at the edges, grow in lush clumps, topped with clouds of waxy yellow blossom-bells in autumn. You won’t see anything else with this bloom color and texture in autumn gardens. This is another plant that prefers a shady spot with moist, rich soil, although less appealing conditions will be tolerated.

Tricyrtis

Tricyrtis, better known as toad lilies, bear curious speckled flowers throughout the autumn months. They are almost orchid-like in character. Small blooms, usually in shades of purple, pink or yellow, are borne in generous quantities on plants that can range from under a foot to more than four feet in height. The leaves, which are often variegated, are appealing in their own right, being thick and somewhat shiny.

Toad lilies need partial sun, preferably somewhere between four and six hours per day. The dappled light beneath deciduous trees also suits them well. If planted in an area that is too shaded, they’ll grow lanky and fall over. A bit of sensitive staking will bring them upright again, but you won’t have the quantity of bloom you’ll get if they’re planted in a sunnier spot.

Availability

All of these plants are widely available. For specific varieties, however, you may have to order online or by mail. Find a spot in your garden for these five plants, and you’ll be looking forward to autumn’s gorgeous blossoms.