{"id":11606,"date":"2022-08-21T23:31:41","date_gmt":"2022-08-21T23:31:41","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/?p=11606"},"modified":"2026-10-29T11:58:40","modified_gmt":"2026-10-29T11:58:40","slug":"plants-that-grow-in-clay-soil","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/plants-that-grow-in-clay-soil\/","title":{"rendered":"16 Plants That Grow in Clay Soil"},"content":{"rendered":"<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes has-medium-font-size\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>Key Takeaways<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>\u2022 <strong>Pick clay-tolerant perennials:<\/strong> Plants such as coneflower, black-eyed Susan, and daylily share deep, aggressive roots that punch through dense soil and handle slow drainage without a major soil overhaul.<br>\u2022 <strong>Clay has upsides:<\/strong> It holds moisture and nutrients well, so clay-loving plants often need less watering and feeding than you\u2019d expect.<br>\u2022 <strong>Improve as you go:<\/strong> Adding compost and organic matter over time loosens clay and widens the range of plants you can grow.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">By nature, clay soil can be difficult to work with if you don\u2019t know the right plants to grow in your garden. The best plants for clay soil are tough, deep-rooted perennials like aster, black-eyed Susan, coneflower, and daylily that shrug off dense, slow-draining ground.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This guide covers 16 clay-friendly plants, what clay soil is, how to spot it, and how to improve it. Amending and planting in dense clay is hard work, so you may prefer to leave it to a <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/gardener\">local gardening provider<\/a>.<\/p>   <div class=\"wp-block-ub-table-of-contents-block ub_table-of-contents\" id=\"ub_table-of-contents-c5616e2e-b710-4c18-8062-aa7dc2bbc87f\" data-linktodivider=\"false\" data-showtext=\"show\" data-hidetext=\"hide\" data-scrolltype=\"auto\" data-enablesmoothscroll=\"false\" data-initiallyhideonmobile=\"false\" data-initiallyshow=\"true\"><div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-header-container\" style=\"\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-header\" style=\"text-align: left; \"> \t\t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-title\" style=\"\">In this article:<\/div> \t\t\t\t \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t<\/div><div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-extra-container\" style=\"\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-container ub_table-of-contents-1-column\"> \t\t\t\t<ul style=\"\"><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/plants-that-grow-in-clay-soil\/#0-16-plants-that-grow-well-in-clay-soil\" style=\"\">16 plants that grow well in clay soil<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/plants-that-grow-in-clay-soil\/#17-what-is-clay-soil\" style=\"\">What is clay soil?<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/plants-that-grow-in-clay-soil\/#23-faqs\" style=\"\">FAQs<\/a><\/li><\/ul> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t<\/div><\/div>   <h2 id=\"0-16-plants-that-grow-well-in-clay-soil\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"16-plants-that-grow-well-in-clay-soil\"><\/span>16 plants that grow well in clay soil<\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Clay-tolerant plants share one trait: deep, aggressive roots that punch through dense soil and tolerate slow drainage. Most are hardy perennials, native grasses, and flowering shrubs that actually benefit from clay&#8217;s moisture- and nutrient-holding ability.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here are the 16 plants covered in this guide, along with their type and bloom time:<\/p>    <figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Plant<\/th><th>Type<\/th><th>Blooming time<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Aster<\/td><td>Flowering perennial<\/td><td>Late summer to fall<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Bee balm<\/td><td>Perennial<\/td><td>Summer<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Big bluestem<\/td><td>Perennial grass<\/td><td>Summer<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Black-eyed Susan<\/td><td>Perennial<\/td><td>Early summer<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Blazing star<\/td><td>Perennial<\/td><td>Summer<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Butterfly weed<\/td><td>Perennial<\/td><td>Summer<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Coneflower<\/td><td>Perennial<\/td><td>Summer<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Coral bells<\/td><td>Perennial<\/td><td>Late spring to early summer<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Daylily<\/td><td>Perennial<\/td><td>Early summer to late fall<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Eulalia grass<\/td><td>Perennial grass<\/td><td>Late summer to fall<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Goat&#8217;s beard<\/td><td>Perennial forb<\/td><td>Spring and summer<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Goldenrod<\/td><td>Herbaceous perennial<\/td><td>Mid-summer to fall<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Hosta<\/td><td>Perennial<\/td><td>Summer<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Hydrangea<\/td><td>Flowering shrub<\/td><td>Summer to fall<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Stonecrop or sedum<\/td><td>Perennial<\/td><td>Fall<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Tickseed<\/td><td>Perennial<\/td><td>Summer<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <h3 id=\"1-1-aster\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"1-aster\"><\/span>1. Aster<\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/rsz_asters-g008623b9b_1280.jpg\" alt=\"Purple aster flowers in bloom\" class=\"wp-image-11280\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/rsz_asters-g008623b9b_1280.jpg 800w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/rsz_asters-g008623b9b_1280-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/rsz_asters-g008623b9b_1280-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/rsz_asters-g008623b9b_1280-610x406.jpg 610w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Purple aster flowers in bloom. Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/de\/users\/manfredrichter-4055600\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">manfredrichter<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/de\/photos\/astern-violette-blumen-blumen-4282887\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pixabay<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Asters are self-sufficient and easy to grow. They take care of themselves through summer and bloom vigorously later in the season, bearing beautiful daisy-shaped flowers atop long stems that add color to a garden.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These nectar-rich flowers are a dependable food source for bees, monarch butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Botanical name:<\/strong> <em>Aster<\/em><\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Plant type:<\/strong> Flowering perennial<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Flower color:<\/strong> Purple, pink, blue, white, red<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Mature plant height:<\/strong> 3-6 feet<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Maintenance needs:<\/strong> Low<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Blooming time:<\/strong> Late summer to fall<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Ideal growing conditions:<\/strong> Full sun with well-draining soil<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) hardiness zones:<\/strong> 3-9<\/p>    <h3 id=\"2-2-bee-balm\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"2-bee-balm\"><\/span>2. Bee balm<\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"550\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/beebalm_800w.jpg\" alt=\"Bee balm flowers close-up\" class=\"wp-image-9118\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/beebalm_800w.jpg 800w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/beebalm_800w-300x206.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/beebalm_800w-768x528.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/beebalm_800w-610x419.jpg 610w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/beebalm_800w-390x268.jpg 390w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Bee balm blooms that attract pollinators. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/watts_photos\/27155469324\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">C Watts<\/a>. Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/watts_photos\/27155469324\/in\/photolist-HnCSWY-9YscK5-2mjkYez-2mheapr-2jtYhaE-a8QD5w-2mifPc1-K4vksy-2mjNM7z-6CnngT-brTLqr-9YAQef-9X5xzN-9N7Q8C-9N55b8-KahyGQ-2mjsf5z-ceRpFE-K6eFYZ-dUDPLA-dtjpon-NLYwm4-6HaVpC-6HaVVY-6wVczL-6DTLn3-6wQZ4r-Lxfp3b-7pgW6E-4YMMj4-2e3TNF8-asoZem-ChvauD-wn11To-6wQYJF-2gtEXes-acKghc-9YscgN-W6NKp3-WmKgox-V8fdGn-4YMMy4-6wVgyL-KmyusK-5hfEua-6wVccW-gMCnk-2mCi9vA-gJMv3-2iZ9JCL\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">C Watts<\/a> | Flickr | <a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/2.0\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Bee balm is treasured for its medicinal qualities, beautiful blooms, and ability to attract pollinators. Its crown-shaped flowers are a favorite among butterflies and hummingbirds, spreading out like sparklers that you can pinch back early season for bushier plants.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Wild bee balms grow in many soils and are highly fragrant, especially in mass plantings. It spreads rapidly through underground rhizomes and tends to overcrowd.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Botanical name:<\/strong> <em>Monarda<\/em><\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Plant type:<\/strong> Perennial<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Flower color:<\/strong> Purple, pink, red, lavender<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Mature plant height:<\/strong> 2-4 feet<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Maintenance needs:<\/strong> Very low<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Blooming time:<\/strong> Summer<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Ideal growing conditions:<\/strong> Full sun to partial shade with well-draining soil<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>USDA hardiness zones:<\/strong> 4-9<\/p>    <h3 id=\"3-3-big-bluestem\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"3-big-bluestem\"><\/span>3. Big bluestem<\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/rsz_pixnio-53593-800x533-2.jpg\" alt=\"Big bluestem\" class=\"wp-image-11616\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/rsz_pixnio-53593-800x533-2.jpg 800w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/rsz_pixnio-53593-800x533-2-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/rsz_pixnio-53593-800x533-2-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/rsz_pixnio-53593-800x533-2-610x406.jpg 610w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Big bluestem is known for its erosion control. Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/pixnio.com\/nature-landscapes\/grass\/perennial-warm-season-bunchgrass-seeds\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Ryan<\/a> | Pixnio<\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Big bluestem is a tough, drought-tolerant <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fs.usda.gov\/wildflowers\/plant-of-the-week\/andropogon_gerardii.shtml\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">warm-season grass<\/a>. Known for erosion control and used as an ornamental, it loves arid conditions and thrives in most soil types. It can grow up to 8 feet tall and works well as a central accent or focal point in any flower bed.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Botanical name:<\/strong> <em>Andropogon gerardii<\/em><\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Plant type:<\/strong> Perennial grass<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Flower color:<\/strong> Purple, red, yellow<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Mature plant height:<\/strong> 6-8 feet<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Maintenance needs:<\/strong> Low<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Blooming time:<\/strong> Summer<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Ideal growing conditions:<\/strong> Full sun with well-drained soil<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>USDA hardiness zones:<\/strong> 4-9<\/p>    <h3 id=\"4-4-black-eyed-susan\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"4-black-eyed-susan\"><\/span>4. Black-eyed Susan<\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"799\" height=\"533\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/rsz_2704732633_7200e5a974_c.jpg\" alt=\"Bright yellow black-eyed susans\" class=\"wp-image-4577\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/rsz_2704732633_7200e5a974_c.jpg 799w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/rsz_2704732633_7200e5a974_c-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/rsz_2704732633_7200e5a974_c-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/rsz_2704732633_7200e5a974_c-610x407.jpg 610w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/rsz_2704732633_7200e5a974_c-390x260.jpg 390w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 799px) 100vw, 799px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Black-eyed Susan is a clay-tolerant perennial. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/jcapaldi\/2704732633\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Jim, the Photographer<\/a>. Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/jcapaldi\/2704732633\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Jim, the Photographer<\/a> | Flickr | <a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/2.0\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Black-eyed Susans do great in clay soil gardens. They make daisy-like, yellow flowers with black centers atop tall stems. This clay-busting perennial is a garden staple because it\u2019s low maintenance and very adaptable.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Black-eyed Susans bloom for months and return year after year, suiting cottage gardens, perennial borders, prairies, and naturalized areas. They spread quickly without being invasive.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>A few reasons they thrive in clay:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><strong>Heat and cold tolerant:<\/strong> They grow easily across many planting zones.<\/li>    <li><strong>Low effort:<\/strong> Little care is needed once established.<\/li>    <li><strong>Long color:<\/strong> Blooms last from early summer onward.<\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Botanical name:<\/strong> <em>Rudbeckia<\/em><\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Plant type:<\/strong> Perennial<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Flower color:<\/strong> Yellow, orange<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Mature plant height:<\/strong> 2-3 feet<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Maintenance needs:<\/strong> Very low<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Blooming time:<\/strong> Early summer<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Ideal growing conditions:<\/strong> Full sun with well-drained, moist soil<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>USDA hardiness zones:<\/strong> 3-9<\/p>    <h3 id=\"5-5-blazing-star\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"5-blazing-star\"><\/span>5. Blazing star<\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"583\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/rsz_1024px-dense_blazing_star_-_liatris_spicata_4347689892.jpg\" alt=\"Blazing star\" class=\"wp-image-11286\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/rsz_1024px-dense_blazing_star_-_liatris_spicata_4347689892.jpg 800w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/rsz_1024px-dense_blazing_star_-_liatris_spicata_4347689892-300x219.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/rsz_1024px-dense_blazing_star_-_liatris_spicata_4347689892-768x560.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/rsz_1024px-dense_blazing_star_-_liatris_spicata_4347689892-610x445.jpg 610w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Blazing star features striking spiky bottle-brush flowers. Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Dense_Blazing_Star_-_liatris_spicata_%284347689892%29.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Drew Avery<\/a> | Wikimedia Commons | <a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/2.0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Blazing star, also known as gayfeather, features spiky bottle-brush flowers that bloom for a long period and grass-like foliage. These nectar-rich flowers are popular among butterfly species, including monarchs.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This prairie plant has also gained popularity as a cut flower, with spikes made of multiple florets blooming from top to bottom.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Botanical name:<\/strong> <em>Liatris spicata<\/em><\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Plant type:<\/strong> Perennial<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Flower color:<\/strong> White, purple, deep blue-purple<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Mature plant height:<\/strong> 2-4 feet<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Maintenance needs:<\/strong> Low<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Blooming time:<\/strong> Summer<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Ideal growing conditions:<\/strong> Full sun and moist, well-drained soil<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>USDA hardiness zones:<\/strong> 3-8<\/p>    <h3 id=\"6-6-butterfly-weed\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"6-butterfly-weed\"><\/span>6. Butterfly weed<\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"521\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/rsz_1024px-butterfly_weed_entire_flower_head_2608px.jpg\" alt=\"Butterfly weed\" class=\"wp-image-11264\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/rsz_1024px-butterfly_weed_entire_flower_head_2608px.jpg 800w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/rsz_1024px-butterfly_weed_entire_flower_head_2608px-300x195.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/rsz_1024px-butterfly_weed_entire_flower_head_2608px-768x500.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/rsz_1024px-butterfly_weed_entire_flower_head_2608px-610x397.jpg 610w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Butterfly weed attracts pollinators like butterflies, hummingbirds, and bees. Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Butterfly_Weed_Entire_Flower_Head_2608px.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Derek Ramsey<\/a> | Wikimedia Commons | <a href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/Category:CC-BY-SA-2.5\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC-BY-SA-2.5<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Butterfly weed is a North American native perennial that produces clusters of eye-catching flowers, a major attraction for butterflies, hummingbirds, and bees.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Butterfly weed&#8217;s long taproots help it survive drought and thrive in poor soil. As one of the shortest milkweeds, it fits neatly into manicured beds and wild areas alike.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Botanical name:<\/strong> <em>Asclepias tuberosa<\/em><\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Plant type:<\/strong> Perennial<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Flower color:<\/strong> Yellow, red, orange<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Mature plant height:<\/strong> 1-2 feet<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Maintenance needs:<\/strong> Moderate<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Blooming time:<\/strong> Summer<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Ideal growing conditions:<\/strong> Full sun and well-draining soil<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>USDA hardiness zones:<\/strong> 3-9<\/p>    <h3 id=\"7-7-coneflower\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"7-coneflower\"><\/span>7. Coneflower<\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"799\" height=\"533\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/rsz_28197801226_176c020ab0_c.jpg\" alt=\"Close-up of purple coneflower\" class=\"wp-image-4399\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/rsz_28197801226_176c020ab0_c.jpg 799w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/rsz_28197801226_176c020ab0_c-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/rsz_28197801226_176c020ab0_c-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/rsz_28197801226_176c020ab0_c-610x407.jpg 610w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/rsz_28197801226_176c020ab0_c-390x260.jpg 390w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 799px) 100vw, 799px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Purple coneflower tolerate both rocky and clay soil. Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/alvaroreguly\/28197801226\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">alvaroreguly<\/a> | Flickr | <a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/2.0\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Another popular perennial that thrives in clay soil is coneflower. The pink-purple flowers attract pollinators and birds, making them great for butterfly gardens. It bears showy, daisy-like flowers that rest on strong, stiff stems and dark green foliage.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hybrid varieties come in a wide color range, from pink and orange to white, red, and burgundy. These tough prairie plants tolerate rocky and clay soil as well as heat, drought, and humidity.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Botanical name:<\/strong> <em>Echinacea<\/em><\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Plant type:<\/strong> Perennial<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Flower color:<\/strong> Pink, purple, gold, red, orange<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Mature plant height:<\/strong> 3-5 feet<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Maintenance needs:<\/strong> Low<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Blooming time:<\/strong> Summer<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Ideal growing conditions:<\/strong> Full sun and well-draining soil<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>USDA hardiness zones:<\/strong> 3-9<\/p>    <h3 id=\"8-8-coral-bells\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"8-coral-bells\"><\/span>8. Coral bells<\/h3>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Coral bells or alum roots are an excellent choice for adding color to your clay soil garden. They offer an impressive flower color range, from pink and purple to white, deep red, and light coral. This perennial gets its name from tall spikes of bell-shaped blooms.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It thrives in clay soil and offers the greatest diversity of foliage shades, from peach and deep purple to bronze and silver.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Botanical name:<\/strong> <em>Heuchera<\/em><\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Plant type:<\/strong> Perennial<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Flower color:<\/strong> White, pink, deep red, light coral<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Mature plant height:<\/strong> 1-3 feet<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Maintenance needs:<\/strong> Low<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Blooming time:<\/strong> Late spring to early summer<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Ideal growing conditions:<\/strong> Full sun and part shade with well-drained soil<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>USDA hardiness zones:<\/strong> 4-9<\/p>    <h3 id=\"9-9-daylily\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"9-daylily\"><\/span>9. Daylily<\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"550\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Daylily_800w.jpg\" alt=\"Orange daylily flower in bloom\" class=\"wp-image-9120\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Daylily_800w.jpg 800w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Daylily_800w-300x206.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Daylily_800w-768x528.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Daylily_800w-610x419.jpg 610w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Daylily_800w-390x268.jpg 390w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Daylilies thrive in moist soil. Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/132295270@N07\/42501762641\/in\/photolist-27KJDi4-JvvTRT-JDkrRW-xgRJgZ-2jictfX-2ewjeHn-dLwsfT-Hzm1NG-4RxbXd-pedhA1-894hhX-cmdLGA-a2y2RU-a2y2F1-894cAt-6AXpbh-J1ASDo-9T7UFd-6HMnL1-9T8kA5-2gzeQ1J-hV2Go-55vq2m-6ATaQD-6AXpL5-Aka9GH-9YyjPp-cCWbj7-csBfeo-9N7XT7-8bf8bw-9N7WsN-gk523-8mJhAy-6AAYwH-cmeaoo-cmeaHN-a1js2q-6AXnUu-2eUcMT-6BYJeG-xa4QPe-h4Cjr-27hD6Ho-26nGe8i-2mjYaV3-24EEPgb-2m6C4Lc-UiwVGn-2jpKi7E\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Renee Grayson<\/a> | Flickr | <a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/2.0\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Coming in nearly every color, daylilies are a perfect way to add color and texture to a clay soil garden. They are highly dependable, low-maintenance plants tolerant of a variety of growing conditions.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The flowers produce a sweet fragrance and fluffy, clustery foliage that stays attractive through all seasons. Daylilies grow well in water-logged and moist soil, making them a suitable perennial for clay.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Botanical name:<\/strong> <em>Hemerocallis<\/em><\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Plant type:<\/strong> Perennial<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Flower color:<\/strong> Yellow, orange, shades of red and pink<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Mature plant height:<\/strong> 3-5 feet<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Maintenance needs:<\/strong> Low<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Blooming time:<\/strong> Early summer to late fall<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Ideal growing conditions:<\/strong> Full sun with moist, well-drained soil<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>USDA hardiness zones:<\/strong> 4-9<\/p>    <h3 id=\"10-10-eulalia-grass\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"10-eulalia-grass\"><\/span>10. Eulalia grass<\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Eulalia-grass.jpg\" alt=\"Whitish green eulalia grass\" class=\"wp-image-19260\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Eulalia-grass.jpg 800w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Eulalia-grass-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Eulalia-grass-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Eulalia-grass-610x406.jpg 610w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Eulalia grass looks majestic in a landscape. Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.canva.com\/photos\/MAEsQGE8Zl4-miscanthus-sinensis-the-eulalia-or-chinese-silver-grass-is-a-species-of-flowering-plant-in-the-grass-family-poaceae-\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">patrovaliliya<\/a> | Canva Pro | <a href=\"https:\/\/www.canva.com\/policies\/content-license-agreement\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">License<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Eulalia grass is one of the most popular ornamental grasses. It is self-seeding and clump-forming and can become a nuisance if not managed properly. It tolerates clay soil well and adds height, movement, and texture to a garden bed.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Botanical name:<\/strong> <em>Miscanthus sinensis<\/em><\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Plant type:<\/strong> Perennial grass<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Flower color:<\/strong> Pink, red, silver<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Mature plant height:<\/strong> 3-8 feet<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Maintenance needs:<\/strong> Low<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Blooming time:<\/strong> Late summer to fall<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Ideal growing conditions:<\/strong> Full sun with well-drained soil<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>USDA hardiness zones:<\/strong> 5-9<\/p>    <h3 id=\"11-11-goat%E2%80%99s-beard\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"11-goats-beard\"><\/span>11. Goat\u2019s beard<\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/rsz_1024px-goats_beard_flower.jpg\" alt=\"Goat's beard flower\" class=\"wp-image-11642\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/rsz_1024px-goats_beard_flower.jpg 800w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/rsz_1024px-goats_beard_flower-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/rsz_1024px-goats_beard_flower-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/rsz_1024px-goats_beard_flower-510x382.jpg 510w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/rsz_1024px-goats_beard_flower-610x458.jpg 610w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Goat&#8217;s beard has feathery white flowers. <a href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Goat%27s_Beard_flower.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Liam Kalpan<\/a>. Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Goat%27s_Beard_flower.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Liam Kalpan<\/a> | Wikimedia Commons | <a href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/Category:CC-BY-SA-3.0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC-BY-SA-3.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is a shade-loving perennial wildflower (a forb) that features creamy-white, feathery flowers. Its eye-catching flowers are rabbit- and deer-resistant, making it a great choice for your clay garden.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Goat\u2019s beard can grow in any soil, from sand to clay, but slight amendments to the clay will enhance drainage and promote better growth.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Botanical name:<\/strong> <em>Aruncus dioicus<\/em><\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Plant type:<\/strong> Perennial forb<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Flower color:<\/strong> Creamy white<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Mature plant height:<\/strong> 4-6 feet<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Maintenance needs:<\/strong> Moderate<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Blooming time:<\/strong> Spring and summer<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Ideal growing conditions:<\/strong> Partial shade with moist, rich soil<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>USDA hardiness zones:<\/strong> 3-8<\/p>    <h3 id=\"12-12-goldenrod\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"12-goldenrod\"><\/span>12. Goldenrod<\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"674\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/rsz_goldenrod_1r-1024x674.jpg\" alt=\"Bright yellow goldenrod flowers\" class=\"wp-image-7825\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/rsz_goldenrod_1r-1024x674.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/rsz_goldenrod_1r-300x198.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/rsz_goldenrod_1r-768x506.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/rsz_goldenrod_1r-1080x711.jpg 1080w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/rsz_goldenrod_1r-610x402.jpg 610w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/rsz_goldenrod_1r-390x257.jpg 390w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/rsz_goldenrod_1r-820x540.jpg 820w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/rsz_goldenrod_1r-1180x777.jpg 1180w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/rsz_goldenrod_1r.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Bright yellow goldenrod flowers brighten any yard. Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Goldenrod_1r.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">liz west<\/a> | Wikimedia Commons | <a href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/Category:CC-BY-2.0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC-BY-2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Popular for its bewitching yellow flower spikes, goldenrod will cheer up any garden when it blooms. It\u2019s favored by butterflies, bees, and other pollinators and makes a great cut flower. Goldenrod is decently tolerant of clay and easy to grow.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Botanical name:<\/strong> <em>Solidago canadensis<\/em><\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Plant type:<\/strong> Herbaceous perennial<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Flower color:<\/strong> Yellow<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Mature plant height:<\/strong> 2-4 feet<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Maintenance needs:<\/strong> Moderate<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Blooming time:<\/strong> Mid-summer to fall<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Ideal growing conditions:<\/strong> Full sun and well-drained soil<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>USDA hardiness zones:<\/strong> 3-9<\/p>    <h3 id=\"13-13-hosta\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"13-hosta\"><\/span>13. Hosta<\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"507\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/hosta-2.jpg\" alt=\"Green hosta plant leaves\" class=\"wp-image-8789\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/hosta-2.jpg 800w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/hosta-2-300x190.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/hosta-2-768x487.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/hosta-2-610x387.jpg 610w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/hosta-2-390x247.jpg 390w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Hosta plants stand out with their variegated leaves. Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/photos\/plantain-lily-hosta-tardinia--june-1579042\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Gaz_D<\/a> | Pixaby<\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hosta plants come in a wide variety of colors and sizes. Hosta produces pretty spikes of lavender or white blooms and is grown either as a ground cover or mixed with other perennials.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These plants offer golden, green, blue-green, chartreuse, and variegated leaf patterns, from as small as dandelions to as large as an elephant\u2019s ears. The texture, color, and durability of the foliage remain steady in any soil, including clay. It\u2019s an ideal low-maintenance perennial for a clay-heavy garden.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Botanical name:<\/strong> <em>Hosta<\/em><\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Plant type:<\/strong> Perennial<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Flower color:<\/strong> Purple, white, lavender-blue<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Mature plant height:<\/strong> 1-4 feet<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Maintenance needs:<\/strong> Low<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Blooming time:<\/strong> Summer<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Ideal growing conditions:<\/strong> Full shade or part shade with well-drained soil<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>USDA hardiness zones:<\/strong> 3-8<\/p>    <h3 id=\"14-14-hydrangea\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"14-hydrangea\"><\/span>14. Hydrangea<\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/rsz_hydrangea_macrophylla.jpg\" alt=\"Hydrangea\" class=\"wp-image-11627\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/rsz_hydrangea_macrophylla.jpg 800w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/rsz_hydrangea_macrophylla-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/rsz_hydrangea_macrophylla-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/rsz_hydrangea_macrophylla-610x406.jpg 610w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Hydrangea&#8217;s colorful blooms come in blue, white, purple, and pink. Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Hydrangea_Macrophylla_Miss_Hepburn_%E3%82%A2%E3%82%B8%E3%82%B5%E3%82%A4_%E3%83%9F%E3%82%B9%E3%83%98%E3%83%83%E3%83%90%E3%83%BC%E3%83%B3_%28216441783%29.jpeg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Greg Peterson<\/a> | Wikimedia Commons | <a href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/Category:CC-BY-SA-3.0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC-BY-SA-3.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hydrangeas are well known for performing in clay soil. They feature bright pink, blue, purple, and creamy white flowers to light up any garden. These flowering shrubs grow well with partial shade and poor soil conditions as long as the soil is kept moist.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Botanical name:<\/strong> <em>Hydrangea macrophylla<\/em><\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Plant type:<\/strong> Flowering shrub<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Flower color:<\/strong> Blue, purple, pink, white<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Mature plant height:<\/strong> 3-6 feet<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Maintenance needs:<\/strong> Low<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Blooming time:<\/strong> Summer to fall<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Ideal growing conditions:<\/strong> Partial shade and well-drained soil<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>USDA hardiness zones:<\/strong> 3-9<\/p>    <h3 id=\"15-15-stonecrop-or-sedum\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"15-stonecrop-or-sedum\"><\/span>15. Stonecrop or sedum<\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"799\" height=\"533\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/rsz_34414718031_7b47c45b94_c.jpg\" alt=\"Close-up of carpet sedum groundcover\" class=\"wp-image-5914\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/rsz_34414718031_7b47c45b94_c.jpg 799w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/rsz_34414718031_7b47c45b94_c-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/rsz_34414718031_7b47c45b94_c-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/rsz_34414718031_7b47c45b94_c-610x407.jpg 610w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/rsz_34414718031_7b47c45b94_c-390x260.jpg 390w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 799px) 100vw, 799px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Carpet sedum is great for border fronts or rock gardens. Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/dorseymw\/34414718031\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Michele Dorsey Walfred<\/a> | Flickr | <a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/2.0\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This carefree perennial requires little to no attention. It features clusters of small, star-like flowers that gradually turn from pink to a deep, rose-red color before transitioning into coppery-red flowers in the fall. It has succulent-like, grayish-green leaves and long stems where the flattened flower heads sit to attract pollinators.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Also called Autumn Joy, sedum thrives in poor, gravelly, or sandy soil and tolerates clay and loam fine, as long as the soil doesn\u2019t stay constantly damp. It\u2019s an excellent choice for border fronts and rock gardens.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Botanical name:<\/strong> <em>Sedum<\/em><\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Plant type:<\/strong> Perennial<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Flower color:<\/strong> Pink, lavender, rust-red<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Mature plant height:<\/strong> 1-2 feet<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Maintenance needs:<\/strong> Low<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Blooming time:<\/strong> Fall<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Ideal growing conditions:<\/strong> Full sun and well-drained soil<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>USDA hardiness zones:<\/strong> 3-9<\/p>    <h3 id=\"16-16-tickseed\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"16-tickseed\"><\/span>16. Tickseed<\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/rsz_geumgye-guk-g63d47e41d_1280.jpg\" alt=\"Tickseed\" class=\"wp-image-11332\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/rsz_geumgye-guk-g63d47e41d_1280.jpg 800w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/rsz_geumgye-guk-g63d47e41d_1280-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/rsz_geumgye-guk-g63d47e41d_1280-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/rsz_geumgye-guk-g63d47e41d_1280-610x406.jpg 610w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Tickseed&#8217;s daisy-like flowers make a great cut arrangement. Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/de\/users\/manseok_kim-1005494\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">manseok_Kim<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/de\/photos\/geumgye-guk-goldene-welle-tickseed-6590337\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pixabay<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tickseed is a hardy North American native that blooms throughout the season. It is very low maintenance, drought-resistant, and can grow in practically any soil, as long as it has good drainage.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These long-blooming perennials make great cut flowers or border plants with their cheery, bright little blossoms. It produces dense, bushy clumps of daisy-like flowers and has fine feathery foliage.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Botanical name:<\/strong> <em>Coreopsis<\/em><\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Plant type:<\/strong> Perennial<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Flower color:<\/strong> Yellow, pink, red, orange<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Mature plant height:<\/strong> 2-4 feet<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Maintenance needs:<\/strong> Low<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Blooming time:<\/strong> Summer<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Ideal growing conditions:<\/strong> Full sun or part shade with well-draining soil<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>USDA hardiness zones:<\/strong> 4-9<\/p>    <h2 id=\"17-what-is-clay-soil\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"what-is-clay-soil\">What is clay soil?<\/span><\/h2>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/clay-soil-1.jpg\" alt=\"Red clay soil in hands\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Clay soil is easy to identify with its reddish-brown to dark brown color. <a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/images\/red-dry-soil-on-hands-in-the-drought-land\/129883329\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Sahapon<\/a>. Photo Credit: Adobe Stock | License<\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Determining your garden\u2019s soil type is the most crucial step in knowing what kind of plants will thrive. Soil is composed of different ratios of sand, clay, and silt particles. Most soil types contain all three of these components in different percentages.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Sand is the largest soil particle, clay is the smallest, while silt stays in the middle. Clay soil consists of very fine, small particles that adhere closely, allowing a limited amount of water and air to pass through. This quality makes clay soil heavy and leads to poor drainage.&nbsp;<\/p>    <h3 id=\"18-how-to-identify-clay-soil-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"how-to-identify-clay-soil\"><\/span><strong>How to identify clay soil<\/strong><\/h3>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Identifying clay soil is easy. First, it\u2019s generally reddish-brown or dark brown in color. If you\u2019ve observed water puddling up on the ground instead of seeping in, chances are you\u2019ve got clay soil. Clay soil also tends to be sticky in texture, so it clings to your shoes or crusts and cracks when the weather is dry.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you are unsure whether your soil is clay or not purchase a soil testing kit. You can find them at most garden centers or contact your local <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nifa.usda.gov\/land-grant-colleges-and-universities-partner-website-directory\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">cooperative extension<\/a>. A soil test from a garden center will give you immediate results. However, sending your soil to your local cooperative extension lab will provide the most accurate and comprehensive results.<\/p>    <h3 id=\"19-benefits-of-clay-soil-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"benefits-of-clay-soil\"><\/span><strong>Benefits of clay soil<\/strong><\/h3>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>Clay retains water really well, which makes it drought-resistant and also allows plants to extend deeper, thicker, and stronger roots.&nbsp;<\/li>    <li>Clay soil is rich in nutrients. Just like water, nutrients get plenty of closely packed soil particles to bond onto and stay available for plants for a longer period. This quality comes in handy during dry spells.&nbsp;<\/li>    <li>Sticky clay soil can attract minerals such as ammonium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium.&nbsp;<\/li>    <li>Clay is heavy and immovable, which means it\u2019s great at resisting wind and water erosion which saves the soil from low nutrient density and mass depletion.<\/li> <\/ul>    <h3 id=\"20-disadvantages-of-clay-soil-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"disadvantages-of-clay-soil\"><\/span><strong>Disadvantages of clay soil<\/strong><\/h3>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>Clay tends to get extremely hard and crack when it gets dry.&nbsp;<\/li>    <li>One of the tricky things about clay soil is that it has a limited air-holding capacity. This makes it difficult for some plants to grow as the roots cannot absorb sufficient water and nutrients due to restricted airflow.&nbsp;<\/li>    <li>Clay is dense and makes it harder for plant roots to thread through the soil for proper growth.<\/li>    <li>Clay soil tends to be alkaline and susceptible to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.extension.iastate.edu\/news\/2006\/mar\/070202.htm#:~:text=What%20is%20frost,or%20destroy%20perennials.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">frost heave<\/a> in winter.<\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&#8220;Clay particles are so fine and tightly packed that there&#8217;s very little pore space for air,&#8221; says Nick Alan, horticulturist and founder of <a href=\"https:\/\/palmaplants.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Palma Botanical Co<\/a> in Los Angeles, California. &#8220;In unamended clay, roots sit in water after every rain or irrigation, run out of oxygen, and the fine feeder roots die. The plant wilts as if it&#8217;s thirsty, people water more, and it drowns faster. That cycle kills more plants in clay than anything else.&#8221;<\/p>    <h3 id=\"21-why-is-it-hard-to-work-with-clay-soil\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"why-is-it-hard-to-work-with-clay-soil\"><\/span>Why is it hard to work with clay soil?<\/h3>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Clay is great at holding in moisture due to its closely packed, tiny particles, but it\u2019s difficult to grow plants because it gets dense and sticky. Some other reasons why it\u2019s tough to grow plants in clay soil include:<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>Clay soil gets waterlogged easily and stays wet in rainy weather. The moisture-retaining quality of clay soil also leads to poor drainage and impermeability.&nbsp;<\/li>    <li>The moisture trapped by clay drowns roots and leads to poor plant growth during the rainy season.<\/li>    <li>Clay tends to get compacted and hard when it isn\u2019t waterlogged or heavy. You\u2019ll see a crust atop clay in the spring, which can make it hard for new seeds to sprout. Dry and tightly packed clay can even bend or break tools.<\/li>    <li>It is hard to till or break apart clay because of its high density. Maneuvering and setting up a garden with pots of clay soil plants can be challenging.&nbsp;<\/li> <\/ul>    <h3 id=\"22-how-to-improve-clay-soil-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"how-to-improve-clay-soil\"><\/span><strong>How to improve clay soil<\/strong><\/h3>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The most critical issue with clay soil is poor drainage. This can lead to a variety of problems, but it\u2019s still solvable. When you \u201cimprove\u201d clay soil, you\u2019re simply making it easier to work with. This includes gradually introducing substances that enhance the fertility, texture, and drainage of the soil.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here are a few ways to improve your clay soil:<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><strong>Add organic matter<\/strong> to your clay. Leaf mold, compost, rotted bark chips, and coarse grit are some great options for it. Alan says these materials can permanently improve the structure of the soil and drainage. &#8220;Well-finished compost, added year after year. Shredded leaves and fine aged bark help too. Structure improves gradually as soil life works organic matter in, so top-dressing 1 to 2 inches every year does more than one big dig.&#8221; Lawn Love has an excellent guide on <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/types-of-soil-amendments\/#2-best-soil-amendments-for-clay-soil\">amendments for clay soil<\/a> that can help.\u00a0<\/li>    <li><strong>Add thick layers of mulch<\/strong> if your garden is already established and it\u2019s not possible to dig over it. A layer of mulch like leaf mold and compost in the summer helps to retain moisture and prevents the usual cracking and drying of clay. It will reduce compaction, increase aeration, and also improve overall soil structure and quality.<\/li>    <li><strong>Add gypsum<\/strong> to clump the soil together and increase drainage. It also will make clay soil easier to work with.&nbsp;<\/li>    <li><strong>Plant cover crops<\/strong> that will naturally add organic matter to the soil when they drop their leaves. This automatically loosens the soil with the gradual release of microorganisms and plant nutrients.&nbsp;<\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Read more:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-identify-soil-type\/\">How to Identify Your Soil Type With 4 Simple DIY Tests<\/a><\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-use-compost\/\">How to Use Compost in Your Lawn and Garden<\/a><\/li> <\/ul>    <h2 id=\"23-faqs\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"faqs\">FAQs<\/span><\/h2>    <div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-0\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Can I plant straight into clay soil?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Yes, you can plant directly into clay soil if you choose tough, clay-tolerant perennials like coneflower, daylily, or black-eyed Susan. For fussier plants, loosen the hole and mix in compost first, and never dig clay when it is soggy.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What plants will break up clay soil?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Deep-rooted plants loosen clay over time by driving channels through dense soil and adding organic matter as they die back. Good choices include cover crops like clover and daikon radish, plus deep-rooted natives such as big bluestem and coneflower.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-2\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Which plants do not like clay soil?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Plants that need fast-draining soil struggle in clay because their roots sit in trapped moisture and rot. Common ones to avoid unless you amend heavily or use raised beds:<br>\u2022 Mediterranean herbs like lavender and rosemary<br>\u2022 Most bulbs, such as tulips<br>\u2022 Drought-loving succulents<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>    <h2 id=\"24-ready-to-work-with-your-clay-soil-rather-than-against-it\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"ready-to-work-with-your-clay-soil-rather-than-against-it\">Ready to work with your clay soil rather than against it?<\/span><\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Clay soil doesn\u2019t have to be a deal-breaker for a beautiful garden, but digging, amending, and planting in it is a lot of work. When you\u2019d rather skip the backache, Lawn Love makes yard care easy.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Our local landscaping and lawn care providers can plant, mulch, weed your <a href=\"https:\/\/signup-web.lawnlove.com\/cart\/contact-info?intent=flowerBedWeeding\">flower beds<\/a>, and keep your whole property looking its best. Get a free landscaping estimate from Lawn Love&#8217;s local landscaping pros today.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Read more:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/plants-that-do-well-in-sandy-soil\/\">15 Plants that Do Well in Sandy Soil<\/a><\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/best-annual-plants-for-moist-soil\/\">9 Best Annual Plants for Moist Soil<\/a><\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Main photo credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.canva.com\/photos\/MADCQ3EA8zI-goldenrod\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">fotomem<\/a> | Canva Pro<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Discover 16 best plants for clay soil, from coneflower to daylily, plus tips on how to spot and improve dense, slow-draining clay in your garden.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":63,"featured_media":19264,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_et_pb_use_builder":"","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","fifu_image_url":"","fifu_image_alt":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[298],"tags":[132,222],"class_list":["post-11606","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-landscaping","tag-gardening","tag-landscaping"],"acf":[],"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/golden-rod.jpg","author_info":{"display_name":"Amy Adams","author_link":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/author\/amy-adams\/"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/11606","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/63"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=11606"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/11606\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":50084,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/11606\/revisions\/50084"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/19264"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=11606"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=11606"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=11606"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}