15 Big, Bigger, Biggest Blooms

Velvety petals spread to a stunning 8 inches across on this dark burgundy Chinese hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis) variety. The flower centers are nearly black, adding to the rich feel of this bloomer. Plants grow upward to 18 inches and then branch to create a spreading plant that looks good in a hanging basket or on an elevated stand so it can drape down.

The flower spikes on ‘Cobalt Dreams’ stretch an impressive two feet, adding 2-foot towers of blue to plantings. This delphinium is part of the New Millennium Series, which tolerates heat and humidity, along with cold (hardy to Zone 3). Keep delphiniums looking their best by staking the hollow stems.

Also known as Egyptian lotus (Nelumbo nucifera), this beautiful pond plant actually hails from Asia and northern Australia. The striking flowers open in vivid rose shades, fading to pink. Blooms spread 8 to 12 inches across and release a distinct perfume. It’s hardy in Zones 4 to 10, as long as tubers don’t freeze solid in winter. In shallow ponds, relocate lotus pots to a non-freezing location for winter.

Inject cooling white into your summer garden with the 10-inch-wide blossoms of ‘Casablanca’ Oriental lily. This perennial bulb produces stems 4 to 6 feet tall and offers a strong floral fragrance that fills the entire garden. Plant them near outdoor seating areas to savor the luxurious scent. Bulbs are hardy in Zones 4 to 9 and multiply freely from year to year.