May is one of the most perfect months in Omaha, weather-wise. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association, which monitors weather, reports that Omaha’s average high in May is 74 degrees, with an average low of 52 degrees, and about nine days of precipitation. It’s no wonder so many flowers appear during this month. Here are five of the easiest May flowers to grow.
No. 1 — Creeping phlox
In Omaha, which falls within hardness zone 4, Phlox subulata, also known as creeping phlox, is a low-growing, evergreen perennial that forms dense, mat-like ground cover with needle-like leaves. In spring, it bursts into a profusion of star-shaped flowers in shades of pink, purple, white, or blue, thriving in full sun and well-drained soil.
No. 2 — Tulip
Tulips are perennial, bulbous plants that bloom in early to mid-spring. They can be planted in sun or part shade. Tulips come in many colors, including yellow, orange, purple, red, and white.
No. 3 — Crocus
The crocus is a small, perennial flowering plant in the iris family, known for its cup-shaped blooms that emerge in early spring or fall, depending on the species. It grows from corms and thrives in well-drained soil, producing vibrant flowers in shades of purple, yellow, white, and blue.
No. 4 — Dianthus
Dianthus is a genus of flowering plants, including carnations and pinks, known for their fragrant, fringed-petal blooms in shades of pink, red, white, and purple. These hardy perennials or biennials thrive in well-drained soil and full sun, attracting pollinators and adding vibrant color to gardens.
No. 5 — Hellebores
Hellebores, also known as Lenten roses, are hardy, shade-loving perennials that bloom in late winter to early spring, producing nodding, cup-shaped flowers in shades of white, pink, purple, green, and deep burgundy. They have leathery, evergreen foliage and thrive in well-drained, humus-rich soil, making them excellent for woodland gardens.
Barry Donscheski is the former owner of Elements Landscape Construction and a project manager at Lanoha Nurseries.
This article originally appeared in the May 2025 issue of Omaha Home Magazine. To receive the magazine, click here to subscribe.
