Here in the northern hemisphere, May is a month of rebirth and renewal. The days are getting longer, the weather is getting warmer, and the flowers are starting to bloom. If you’re looking to add a little color to your life this month, why not plant some flowers that bloom in May? Here are a few of our favorites:

Allium (Allium Species and Hybrids)

A member of the onion family, Allium is a genus of flowering plants that includes hundreds of species, including onions, garlic, leeks, and chives. Most Allium plants are native to the Northern Hemisphere and thrive in full sun. When planting Allium bulbs, be sure to plant them at least 6 inches deep and 8 inches apart. Once they’ve bloomed, you can cut the flowers and use them fresh in arrangements or dry them for later use.

Bleeding Heart (Dicentra Species and Hybrids)

Also known as Lady’s Lace or Lyre Flower, Bleeding Heart is a perennial flower that blooms in spring. The heart-shaped flowers are typically pink or white and hang down from arching stems. These delicate-looking plants do best in partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. Deadhead the flowers regularly to encourage continued blooming.

Brunnera (Brunnera Macrophylla)

Brunnera is a herbaceous perennial that is usually grown for its decorative foliage. The leaves are heart-shaped and silver-veined, with blue flowers that appear in spring. This low-maintenance plant does best in partial shade and moist, rich soil. Cut back the foliage after it has died back in late summer or early fall.

Columbine (Aquilegia x Hybrida)

A favorite among hummingbirds, Columbine is a perennial flower that blooms in early to mid-spring. The showy flowers come in a variety of colors, including pink, blue, purple, red, and yellow. Columbine prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. After the flowers have wilted, cut back the stems to encourage reblooming later in the season.

Geranium (Geranium Species and Hybrids)

Also known as Cranesbill Geraniums, these flowering plants are very easy to grow and make excellent ground cover. The 5-petaled flowers come in a range of colors, including pink, blue, purple, white, and red. Geraniums prefer full sun but will tolerate some light shade. Plant them 12 inches apart in well-drained soil; water regularly during dry periods. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage reblooming.

Hellebores (Helleborus Species and Hybrids)

Also known as Lenten roses or Christmas roses, hellebores are one of the first flowers to bloom in early spring. They come in a wide range of colors, from white and pale pink to deep purple and almost black. Hellebores are great for shady gardens and make excellent cut flowers.

Jacob’s Ladder (Polemonium Caeruleum and Cultivars)

With its delicate clusters of blue or violet flowers, Jacob’s ladder is a favorite of gardeners all over the world. This easy-to-grow plant blooms in late spring or early summer and can reach up to 3 feet tall. Jacob’s ladder looks great when planted in mass or used as a border plant.

Lilac (Syringa Species)

Is there anything more intoxicating than the fragrance of lilacs in full bloom? Lilacs come in many different colors, including purple, pink, white, and even yellow. They grow best in full sun and well-drained soil and can reach up to 20 feet tall. Plant them near a window or patio so you can enjoy their fragrance all season long.

Lily of the Valley (Convallaria Majalis)

Lily of the valley is one of the most fragrant flowers you’ll ever smell. It blooms in early to mid-spring with delicate bell-shaped white flowers. Lily of the valley does best in partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. Be careful when handling this plant, as all parts of it are poisonous if ingested.

Pansy (Viola × Wittrockiana)

Pansies are one of the most popular spring flowers thanks to their cheerful faces and wide range of colors. They’re perfect for adding a splash of color to any garden, container, or window box. Pansies bloom best in cool weather and can tolerate light frost. Plant them in full sun or partial shade for best results.

Primrose (Primula Species)

Primroses are low-growing perennials that produce drifts of colorful cup-shaped flowers inApriland May. There are many different varieties available, including those with blooms that range in color from white and yellowto pinkand purple. Primroses prefer cool weather and should be grown in moist but well-drained soilin partial shade. These plants make excellent choices for rockeries or woodland gardens.