7 Best Perennial Vegetables, According To An Expert

Closeup of hands pulling artichoke from plant in ground — Photo:
Kathrin Ziegler/Getty Images

Growing perennial vegetables can mean longer harvest periods, less maintenance once established, and even improved soil structure. But selecting the best ones for your grow zone and conditions is key.

“When selecting perennial vegetables for your garden, consider factors such as climate compatibility, space availability, and personal taste preferences,” suggests Brad Addy, greenhouse and QC manager, Park Seed. He says you’ll want to choose varieties that will thrive in your growing conditions—specifically keeping in mind the amount of space you’re working with as some perennial veggies are vigorous spreaders.

From artichokes to chives, and rhubarb to leeks, these are the perennial vegetables you should consider adding to your home garden.

Brad Addy is the greenhouse and QC manager at Park Seed.

Benefits Of Planting Perennial Vegetables

Instead of opting for a one-and-done harvest, perennials come back year after year—no replanting required. This comes with some benefits, Addy says. “Perennial vegetables often have deep root systems that help prevent soil erosion and improve soil structure, making them environmentally sustainable garden choices,” he explains. “Also, they typically require less water and fertilizer than annual vegetables because of their established root systems and longevity.” You’ll also benefit from less maintenance than annual vegetables once established and longer harvest seasons, which means more time to enjoy your garden’s bounty.

01 of 07

Asparagus

Botanical Name: Asparagus officinalis
Sun Exposure: Full sun
Soil Type: Moist, sandy, well-drained
Soil pH: Neutral

If you’re looking for a variety that can stick around your garden for decades, asparagus is one to consider. Addy also says they’ll be one of the first vegetables in your garden ready for harvesting come spring. “Its spear-like shoots are enjoyed for their delicate flavor and versatility in cooking,” he adds.

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Artichoke

Botanical Name: Cynara cardunculus
Sun Exposure: Full sun
Soil Type: Moist, fertile, well-drained
Soil pH: Tolerate acid, alkaline, or neutral soil

“This crop is part of the thistle family and produces large, attractive perennial vegetable plants,” says Addy. The unopened flower bud is the edible portion. They can be used in a variety of dishes but look just as beautiful when piled high in a centerpiece bowl awaiting their big culinary moment.

03 of 07

Green Onions

Botanical Name: Allium fistulosum
Sun Exposure: Full sun
Soil Type: Well drained
Soil pH: Slightly acid to neutral

Not all green onions are perennials. Addy says to look for varieties such as Egyptian onions and fall-planted bunching types as they will continue producing new stems after some are harvested. Their green tops that are prized for their mild, oniony flavor.

04 of 07

Chives

Chive plants growing in garden with purple blooms — Jasenka Arbanas/Getty Images

Botanical Name: Allium schoenoprasum
Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
Soil Type: Rich, well-drained
Soil pH: Slightly acidic

“Chives are known for their beautiful purple flower clusters that appear in the summer, adding a pop of color to your garden,” says Addy. This perennial herb which belongs to the onion family produces thin, hallow blades that look similar to grass blades. Their delicate onion flavor with a hint of garlic is a staple for kitchen gardens.

05 of 07

Rhubarb

Botanical Name: Rheum x cultorum
Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
Soil Type: Well-drained
Soil pH: Slightly acidic

“Ideally grown as a perennial in zones 6 and cooler, it can also be grown as an annual in the cool season of warmer climates,” says Addy. “The plant dies back after the first frost but reemerges in early spring.” Rhubarb thrives in cool climates where it can produce harvests for up to 20 years but, be warned: The leaves are toxic, so only use the stalks for cooking.

06 of 07

Leeks

Botanical Name: Allium ampeloprasum
Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
Soil Type: Rich, well-drained
Soil pH: Slightly acidic

According to Addy, while typically grown as annuals, leeks can be left in the ground in mild climates which should result in new shoots. “The plant can tolerate light frost and, in suitable conditions, regrow year after year,” he says. With the proper care and conditions leeks should provide a continuous harvest.

07 of 07

Watercress

Botanical Name: Nasturtium officinale
Sun Exposure: Full sun
Soil Type: Rich, wet
Soil pH: Neutral

“Watercress thrives in cool, flowing water and can grow year-round in suitable conditions,” says Addy. They can tolerate a moderate level of frost and still produce fresh leaves from season to season. If you’re growing in soil, rather than water, look for a heavily shaded location with very moist soil.

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