Few things are anticipated more in spring than the arrival of new leaves on the trees and budding flowers in the garden. A landscape awash with fresh colors can brighten the spirit and make anyone want to head outdoors.
There are many different plants that begin to show their colors in the spring. A number of perennials, annuals and trees begin to flower or show new sprouts come the springtime. Here are some plants that can be planted for springtime enjoyment.

Annuals
Looking for first signs of color? Look no further than these wonderful annuals.
• Alyssum: Starting in April, this cascading bounty of tiny flowers offers a sweet aroma that attracts butterflies.
• Dianthus: These vivid flowers also attract butterflies and are often a cottage garden staple.
• Gypsophila: Also known as baby’s breath, these delicate flowers can serve as filler in any landscape. Pink and white varieties are available.
• Impatiens: One of the best-known plants for the garden, these annuals come in scores of colors and can generally tolerate full sun to full shade.
• Larkspur: Belonging to the buttercup family, these flowers bloom in shades of white to violet.
• Pansy: These flowers are some of the earliest spring bloomers, arriving alongside spring bulbs like tulips.
• Petunias: Petunias put on a show of color through the entire season, making them a popular bedding flower.

Perennials
These plants will come back year after year and offer spring shows.
• Cherry blossom: The flowers that sprout on cherry trees are some of the first signs of spring. Their pink or white buds are often a spectacle, so much so that towns and cities hold cherry blossom festivals.
• Columbine: These beautiful blooms attract butterflies and can be a nice part of a garden bed.
• Jacob’s ladder: Variegated foliage that is dappled with violet-colored flowers can add a sweet smell and visual interest to the garden.
• Primrose: These flowers come in a variety of shades, making them versatile in any garden. They also tend to attract butterflies and hummingbirds.
• Sweet violet: These fragrant flowers are edible as well as attractive. These plants can self-plant, so unless a gardener wants them to spread, they should be kept contained.