Grayson West
Some bulbs burst into bloom like they’ve got something to prove, while others take their sweet time showing off. Both types have their charm, and a smart garden makes room for each. First up? The speedy show-offs who waste no time stealing the spotlight.
Gladiolus
Give these bold spikes around 70 to 90 days, and they’ll reward you with height and radiant colors. Native to South Africa, gladiolus corms love well-drained soil. In floral language, they once meant “you pierce my heart,”—so yep, they’re romantically charged.
Dahlia
Eight weeks after planting, dahlias kick off a stunning color parade. They thrive in rich soil and full sun, and in warmer zones, the tubers can come back year after year. With hundreds of varieties, they also deliver everything from dinner plate size to petite pompom blooms.
Calla Lily
With elegant fluted blooms that appear around 60 days in, calla lilies bring class to any garden. Though not true lilies, their sculptural shape and tropical tones turn heads fast. They’re ideal for pots or even living room centerpieces in a sunny window.
Crocosmia
Plant them in May, and by midsummer, crocosmia’s fiery sprays erupt. These bright, hummingbird-attracting flowers come with bold, sword-like foliage. Flair meets function in such South African species capable of thriving in climates as cold as Zone 5.
Canna
Cannas wait until summer heat sets in, then explode with lush, tropical blooms. They’re perfect for containers or the back of a sunny border. The leaves alone can turn heads with a banana-like flourish, while the flowers bring out every bit of boldness.
Now, here are the ones that take their sweet time but totally earn their spot in the garden. These bloomers might not be instant, but their payoff? So worth the wait.
Tulip
You’ll need patience for tulips. Plant them in spring, and they’ll quietly settle in until next year. They bloom just once annually but steal the spotlight when they do. These iconic bulbs need cold to perform, making them a spring staple in cooler climates.
Hyacinth
Though planted in May, hyacinths won’t grace you with blooms until after a 12–14 week chill. But when they do? The fragrance is unforgettable. Beloved for centuries and used in ancient perfumes, their scent fills a room, just don’t let pets snack on them.
Daffodil
These cheery blooms wait until after winter to put on their golden show. Hardy, pet-resistant, and ideal for naturalizing in lawns or under trees, daffodils bring a burst of optimism wherever they land. Many gardeners call them the official messengers of spring.
Allium
With globe-shaped flowers that tower like exclamation marks, alliums take their time but deliver show-stopping drama. Plant them in May, and expect next spring’s payoff. They also keep bugs at bay and stand tall as natural garden ornaments.
Fritillaria
These lesser-known bulbs need a gritty, well-drained spot and a cold season to thrive. But once spring arrives, they bloom with elegance, and a slightly funky scent that keeps rodents out. The unique “crown” varieties bring height and a little wow factor.