Five flowers to plant in August for colourful blooms that last through autumn

August is in full swing, meaning it will be autumn before we know it - and with the change in seasons comes cooler temperatures. Towards the end of the year, many garden plants lie dormant or die off, and there's not a lot of colour outdoors because of this.

However, there are some varities of flowers that can withstand the cold and last well during the colder months. Gardening experts at The Spruce have shared five types that you can plant this month for a beautiful garden in autumn and even into winter. From stunning purple violas to rich pink Abelias, there's a plant suited for every garden.

1. Winter-flowering violas

These tough and hardy flowers can last throughout autumn and winter, continuing to flower even when it's cold out. Don't be fooled by their delicate appearance - they're very strong too.

They require minimal care in order to thrive, and their striking purple and orange hues make them a fabulous addition to your autumn garden.

If you plant in August, you can expect blooms to appear within two to three weeks.

2. Asters

These stunning daisy-like flowers come in so many colours, and they can also thrive in colder temperatures. In the UK, they can last throughout the colder months if planted in a well-draining soil.

Their vibrant purple and pink colours are great for adding a touch of vibrancy to your garden in the autumn, and they will also help to attract pollinators and provide a food source for birds and insects when food is a bit more scarce.

3. Fuschia

These deep reddish-pink blooms with pendant petals can last well into autumn if they're cared for properly. The experts at The Spruce recommend planting them when they are already in flower, especially if you're doing it so late in the year.

This is because they sometimes don't bloom during the first year if you plant them from seed. They also require a bit more extra watering at this time of the year to help them grow.

4. Penstemons

If you're looking for a plant with a long flowering season, then penstemons are an excellent option. They boast beautiful foxglove-like flowers and even evergreen foliage during the winter time.

If you plant penstemons when they are already in blloom, they will add so much colour to your garden, and tend to last until the first frost. However, it's important to prune them hard during autumn too, in order to protect them over winter.

5. Abelia x Grandiflora

Finally, this semi-evergreen shrub has striking glossy leaves and pale pink flowers that last well into the autumn months. The Royal Horticultural Society described this plant as 'very easy to grow', requiring a sheltered yet sunny position, so there's still time to get them planted before the cold sets in.