Wilhelm Vangguth is the cranesbill for gardeners who want color without the fuss—deep magenta petals with dark veining, reliable and long-running from late spring straight into fall. Plant it in a spot with decent sun and average soil, and it settles in without complaint.

Hardy here and unfussy about heat, this one earns its place by simply showing up year after year. Pick one up in March to get it going before the real heat arrives, or grab one in December if you're planning ahead for next season.