There are some limitations, however. Not all perennials come true from seed - particularly if they are a cultivar rather than a species. (A cultivar is a version of a plant selected by man, which can usually only be propagated vegetatively - ie from cuttings or division). For example, if you have a favourite dark blue delphinium and you collect seed from it, it is unlikely that all (or even any) of the offspring will have the same dark colour. These named varieties have to be propagated by cuttings to stay true. Some perennials are difficult or time-consuming to grow from seed. Peonies, for example, grow a root the first year, then a shoot the second year!
However, there are many perennials that will flower the year after sowing, are easy to germinate and produce good plants from seed. These are some of my favourites:
Lychnis coronarius (rose campion) - this is a lovely silver-leaved plant with magenta or white flowers in summer. It is described as a short-lived perennial or biennial, and once established will seed itself around. Excess seedlings are easy to remove. Height is about 80cm and it is fully hardy. Prefers dry soil in full sun, but will tolerate moister soils and a little bit of shade (I have it sprouting from the bottom of a hawthorn hedge!).
Catanache caerulea (Cupid's dart)
- this is another short-lived perennial. Height is about 80cm and the attractive cornflower-like blue flowers rise on wiry stems above neat little clumps of leaves from midsummer to autumn. The buds are very attractive too, with silvery scales. Best in full sun - good for dry soil.
Centranthus ruber (red valerian) -
this plant is often seen sprouting from old walls, but it makes a great border plant too, especially where the soil is dry. It is about 1m tall with crimson, rose pink or white fragrant flowers in dense cymes from late spring to late summer. The leaves are glaucous, ovate and slightly fleshy. It selfs seeds freely and will grow in most soils in full sun.
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