Pet-Safe Flowers Based on Sunlight

Annuals grow from seed and last one growing season. They are good choices for fast, instant color impact. Garden and discount centers will offer a wide variety of annual plants at economical prices. Perennials return year after year from growth at the roots; they are a little more expensive, but do not need to be planted every growing season. Most gardeners have their favorites and mix both types for the longest possible color show.

Sunny Location Options

If your garden's location gives you four or more hours of direct sunlight a day, you have a long list of annuals and perennials from which to choose. Safe choices for sunny locations include:

AnnualsZinnia Garden

  • Zinnia (Zinnia sp.)
  • Snapdragons (Antirrhinum sp.)
  • Cosmos (Cosmos sp.)
  • Calendula (Callendula sp.)
  • Petunia (Petunia sp.)

Perennial

  • Bee Balm (Monarda sp.)
  • Phlox (Phlox sp.)
  • Roses (Rose sp.)
  • Catmint/catnip (Nepeta sp.)
  • Coneflowers (Echinacea purpura)

Partial Sun Plants

If your garden receives less than four hours of direct sunlight a day, the following non-toxic annuals and perennials require less sunlight.

Annuals

Catnip

  • Primrose (Primula sp.)
  • Butterfly flower (Schianthus sp.)
  • Spider flower (Cleome sp.)
  • Nasturtium (Tropaeolum sp.)

Perennials

  • Columbine (Aquilegia sp.)
  • Coral Bells (Heuchera sp.)
  • Turf Lilly (Liriope sp.)
  • Goat's Beard (Aruncus dioicus)

Shade Gardens

A shade garden receives little to no direct sunlight, although the sun may filter through the trees for dappled light. Plant selection for these areas may include the following:

Annuals

  • Begonia (Begonia sp.)
  • Impatiens (Impatiens sp.)
  • New Guinea Impatiens
  • Violet (Viola sp.)
  • Coleus (Coleus sp.)

Perennials

  • Bugbane (Cimifuga racemosa)
  • Yellow Corydalis (Corydalis lutea)
  • Astilbe (Astilbe sp.)
  • Queen of the Meadow (Filipendula ulmaria)