- 1). Note the climate in which your plant is located. Some plants are native to warmer climates, whereas others prefer to stay cool.
- 2). Look at the where the perennial is planted; note if the location is sunny, partially sunny or shady. Some perennials need many hours of sun during the day, whereas others only require a few hours.
- 3). Examine the size and shape of the leaves on your perennial. Some perennial leaves are long and skinny while others are short and stubby. Also pay attention to any coloring or veining that occurs on the leaves.
- 4). Note the size of the flowers. You already know the color and shape of the flowers, but knowing how big they are can help to determine the plant's identity. Also take note of when the flowers bloom and how long they last.
- 5). Compile your information and search books that contain plant pictures. One book that might be useful is "Armitage's Garden Perennials: A Color Encyclopedia." You also can take your information, along with a picture of your perennial, to a garden center. Search through their perennials to find one that looks like yours or ask an associate for help. Alternately, visit a website that allows you to search for a plant based on its characteristics (see Resources).
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