Most people think of flowers as symbols of spring, and indeed many plants do produce their flowers in the spring. Though summer blooming plants are a touch more rare, they are equally valuable, providing an additional burst of color during the hot summer season. There are a number of plants that bloom in summer that can be cultivated with a little care.
A member of the daisy family, black-eyed susan (Rudbeckia hirta) is a flowering plant native to North America. Grown as an annual or perennial depending on location, black-eyed Susan is a hardy plant that boasts bright yellow petals which frame a black "eye" in the center of the flower. The summer blooming plant can be grown in USDA zones 3 to 10 in well-drained soil. Black-eyed Susan requires full sunlight to thrive, and though the plant is moderately drought tolerant, regular watering will produce the best blooms.
Foxglove Bearded Tongue
Foxglove bearded tongue (Penstemon digitalis 'Husker Red') is a erect perennial native to North America. The plant has a tall, stiff stalk topped with bell-shaped, white flowers which bloom in early to mid summer. Foxglove bearded tongue grows best in USDA zones 3A to 9A in full sunlight. The plant tolerates a range of soils, from acidic to neutral so long as they are well draining. Water frequently to keep the plant looking healthy and fresh. Foxglove is excellent for attracting wildlife to the yard: the flowers will bring forth both butterflies and birds.
Balloon flower (Platycodon grandiflorus) is a perennial notable for its star-shaped lavender flowers and its thin, grass-like foliage, which is a rich shade of green. The plant will grow in a range of light conditions in USDA zones 4A to 9B, in partial shade or full sunlight. Balloon flower is a summer blooming flower that produces its distinct purple flowers in mid or late summer. The plant should be cultivated in acidic or neutral soil that is well draining and moist.