Perennials

All Perennials Content

Left: Fireweed growing in a clearing. Right: Purple loosestrife growing in a meadow.

Plant Look-Alikes: What’s the Difference Between Fireweed and Purple Loosestrife?

Fireweed and purple loosestrife are often confused with one another due to their similar appearances, but the two plants have dramatically different impacts on the environment. Learn some key characteristics to help tell them apart.

Rose leaves with dark black to purplish spots throughout.

Black Spot Disease in Roses

Black spot is a recurring fungal disease in roses that will decrease the vigor and blooms of rose plants if it is not managed. Learn some expert tips for identifying and managing it in your gardens.

White, oblong flowers on tall stems and green grass surrounded by brown prairie soil

Native Plants to Know: Thimbleweed (Anemone cylindrica)

Anemone cylindrica (Ranunculaceae), also known as thimbleweed or candle anemone, is a perennial, herbaceous plant native to prairies and woodlands of central and northern North America.

Small-flowered columbine in bloom in a wooded area.

Native Plants to Know: Small-Flowered Columbine (Aquilegia brevistyla)

Aquilegia brevistyla, or small-flowered columbine, is a native, perennial, herbaceous plant in the Ranunculaceae (buttercup family) that grows in cool, shaded, canyons in the Black Hills of South Dakota.

Multiple red flowers bloom in an open meadow. Green foliage rises from the base of flowers. Spruce trees are seen in the background.

Native Plants to Know: Prairie Smoke (Geum triflorum)

Geum triflorum or Prairie Smoke (Rosaceae) is a flowering, herbaceous (non-woody stem) perennial, native to North American prairies known for its distinctive nodding and wispy flowers that resemble plumes of smoke

Rose Resources for South Dakota

Are you interested in adding roses to your garden? View a collection of video resources highlighting how to care for roses in South Dakota, including tips on managing common diseases and insect pests.

Winter Sowing in the Northern Great Plains

Winter sowing is a technique used to start seeds that have a requirement for cold stratification, including many native perennials. View some expert tips and a step-by-step guide for getting started.

SDSU Extension, McCrory Gardens host free series on caring for roses

February 20, 2024

The Caring for Roses in South Dakota webinar series is from 12:30 to 1:30 CST/11:30 to 12:30 p.m. MT on March 19, 20 and 21, 2024, via Zoom. Experts will share the art and science of caring for roses, highlighting their own experiences with the popular plant.

a picture large purple flowers with yellow centers surrounded by dead leaves and grey landscaping rocks.

Landscaping Best Practices for Pollinators and Beyond

Our yards are all part of a greater ecosystem. By incorporating some best practices into your landscaping routine, your yard can develop healthier soil, support more pollinators, and reduce the need for pest control.

A large orange butterfly with white spots feeding on a pale pink flower in a green grassy area.

Planting for Specialist Butterflies

Monarchs are not the only specialist pollinators in South Dakota. Many other butterflies also require a specific plant or family of plants to lay eggs on. Learn about some important host plants to help specialist butterflies in your yard!