Top Designers Reveal Their Favorite Spring/Summer Flowers

“I love when the alliums bloom in my sunken garden. They come early in the season and are architectural.” —Bunny Williams, interior designer

“My favorite summer planting flowers are called ‘dinner plate’ dahlias. They start flowering mid to late July and are in bloom until the first frost. Their blooms are so bright and happy, and their heads can get as large as 12 inches! I love them because they stand up straight, are very full, and last for a very long time. They make flower arranging quick—and painless!” —Ellie Cullman, interior designer

“Agapanthus is my favorite summer flowering plant because of its beautiful blue color and elegant form, and it needs minimal watering! Great for a dry summer.” —Matthew Patrick Smyth, interior designer

“Hands-down, my favorite summer plants are peonies—how could they not be? They put on a beautiful show and are so fragrant.” —Philip Gorrivan, interior designer

“I love roses, lilies and cosmos! They all seem to do so well in the height of summer’s heat. Roses and lilies for their scent, and there’s nothing like the delicacy of a field of cosmos swaying in a late summer breeze.” —Young Huh, interior designer

“Hydrangeas are a tried and true classic—they add soft color and gorgeous texture to any garden!” —Jennifer Jones, interior designer