Flowers come in thousands of shapes, colors, and sizes, from tiny forget-me-nots to towering sunflowers and dramatic tropical blooms. Knowing their names makes it easier to identify plants, plan a garden, choose a bouquet, or simply discover a new favorite.

This guide brings together 300+ flower names, including familiar garden flowers, wildflowers, flowering shrubs, vines, bulbs, and tropical plants. You’ll find common names alongside botanical names, plus lists organized by color, season, and growing type.

Quick Checklist

✅ Most famous flower: Rose
✅ Popular spring flower: Tulip
✅ Classic yellow flower: Sunflower
✅ Fragrant purple flower: Lavender
✅ Popular wedding flower: Peony
✅ Famous tropical flower: Hibiscus
✅ Popular blue flower: Delphinium
✅ Classic white flower: Gardenia
✅ Easy summer flower: Zinnia
✅ Popular climbing flower: Clematis
✅ Well-known wildflower: Poppy
✅ Popular flower name for girls: Lily

30 Most Popular Flower Names

If you’re trying to identify a familiar bloom, there’s a good chance it appears in this list.

Flower	Botanical Name	Common Colors	Typical Bloom Period
Rose	Rosa	Red, pink, white, yellow, orange	Spring–fall
Tulip	Tulipa	Almost every color	Spring
Sunflower	Helianthus annuus	Yellow, gold, burgundy	Summer–fall
Daisy	Bellis perennis	White, pink	Spring–fall
Lily	Lilium	White, pink, orange, yellow, red	Summer
Orchid	Orchidaceae	White, pink, purple, yellow	Varies
Lavender	Lavandula	Purple, blue-violet, pink, white	Summer
Peony	Paeonia	Pink, white, red, coral, yellow	Late spring
Daffodil	Narcissus	Yellow, white, orange	Spring
Marigold	Tagetes	Yellow, orange, red	Summer–fall
Jasmine	Jasminum	White, yellow	Spring–summer
Iris	Iris	Purple, blue, yellow, white	Spring–summer
Hydrangea	Hydrangea	Blue, pink, white, purple	Summer–fall
Chrysanthemum	Chrysanthemum	Yellow, white, pink, red, purple	Late summer–fall
Carnation	Dianthus caryophyllus	Pink, red, white, yellow	Spring–summer
Dahlia	Dahlia	Nearly every color	Summer–fall
Poppy	Papaver	Red, orange, yellow, pink, white	Spring–summer
Hibiscus	Hibiscus	Red, pink, orange, yellow, white	Summer–fall
Magnolia	Magnolia	White, pink, purple, yellow	Spring
Gardenia	Gardenia jasminoides	White, cream	Late spring–summer
Camellia	Camellia	Pink, red, white	Fall–spring
Zinnia	Zinnia	Red, orange, yellow, pink, purple	Summer–fall
Petunia	Petunia	Pink, purple, white, red, yellow	Spring–fall
Begonia	Begonia	Pink, red, orange, white, yellow	Summer–fall
Bluebell	Hyacinthoides	Blue-violet, white, pink	Spring
Anemone	Anemone	White, pink, red, purple, blue	Spring–fall
Azalea	Rhododendron	Pink, red, white, purple	Spring
Ranunculus	Ranunculus asiaticus	Pink, orange, red, yellow, white	Spring
Snapdragon	Antirrhinum majus	Many colors	Spring–fall
Lotus	Nelumbo nucifera	Pink, white	Summer

Note: Blooming times vary by species, cultivar, climate, and USDA growing zone.

Flower Names A–Z

The following alphabetical flower list includes familiar garden plants along with wildflowers, flowering trees, shrubs, vines, bulbs, and tropical species.

Flower Names That Start With A

Abelia (Abelia) — A flowering shrub with clusters of small, trumpet-shaped blooms.

Abutilon (Abutilon) — Often called flowering maple; known for hanging bell-shaped flowers.

Acacia (Acacia) — Trees and shrubs that often produce fluffy yellow flower clusters.

Acanthus (Acanthus) — Architectural perennial with tall spikes of hooded flowers.

Achillea (Achillea millefolium) — Better known as yarrow, with flat clusters of tiny flowers.

African Daisy (Osteospermum) — Colorful daisy-like flower suited to sunny gardens.

Agapanthus (Agapanthus) — Also called African lily; produces round clusters of blue or white flowers.

Ageratum (Ageratum houstonianum) — Compact annual with fluffy blue, lavender, pink, or white flowers.

Allium (Allium) — Ornamental onion known for globe-shaped purple, pink, or white flower heads.

Alstroemeria (Alstroemeria) — Long-lasting cut flower often called Peruvian lily.

Alyssum (Lobularia maritima) — Low-growing plant covered in tiny, sweetly scented flowers.

Amaranth (Amaranthus) — Dramatic plant with tassels or upright clusters of small flowers.

Amaryllis (Hippeastrum) — Popular bulb producing large trumpet-shaped blooms.

Anemone (Anemone) — Delicate flowers sometimes called windflowers.

Angelonia (Angelonia angustifolia) — Heat-tolerant plant with upright spikes of small flowers.

Anthurium (Anthurium) — Tropical plant famous for glossy, heart-shaped floral spathes.

Apple Blossom (Malus domestica) — Pinkish-white flowers that appear on apple trees in spring.

Armeria (Armeria maritima) — Also called sea thrift, producing round pink flower heads.

Aster (Symphyotrichum and related genera) — Daisy-like flowers valued for late-season color.

Astilbe (Astilbe) — Shade-loving perennial with feathery flower plumes.

Azalea (Rhododendron) — Flowering shrub that produces spectacular spring displays.

Flower Names That Start With B

Baby’s Breath (Gypsophila) — Airy sprays of tiny white or pink flowers often used in bouquets.

Bachelor’s Button (Centaurea cyanus) — Also called cornflower; famous for vivid blue blooms.

Balloon Flower (Platycodon grandiflorus) — Named for flower buds that resemble inflated balloons.

Bee Balm (Monarda) — Fragrant North American plant popular with bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

Begonia (Begonia) — Huge plant group grown for colorful flowers and decorative foliage.

Bellflower (Campanula) — Produces charming bell-shaped blue, purple, pink, or white flowers.

Bells of Ireland (Moluccella laevis) — Tall stems surrounded by distinctive green bell-like calyces.

Bergenia (Bergenia) — Hardy perennial with clusters of pink flowers above thick leaves.

Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae) — Tropical flower shaped somewhat like a brightly colored bird.

Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta) — Golden daisy-like flower with a dark central cone.

Blanket Flower (Gaillardia) — Heat-loving flower with red, orange, and yellow petals.

Bleeding Heart (Lamprocapnos spectabilis) — Known for rows of hanging heart-shaped pink flowers.

Bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis) — Woodland wildflower with white spring blossoms.

Bluebell (Hyacinthoides) — Woodland bulb producing nodding blue-violet flowers.

Blue-Eyed Grass (Sisyrinchium) — Small iris relative with blue or violet star-shaped flowers.

Borage (Borago officinalis) — Herb producing striking blue star-shaped flowers.

Bougainvillea (Bougainvillea) — Tropical vine famous for vivid papery bracts surrounding tiny flowers.

Bouvardia (Bouvardia) — Shrub with clusters of tubular flowers used in floral arrangements.

Bromeliad (Bromeliaceae) — Tropical plant family containing many brightly colored flowering species.

Buttercup (Ranunculus) — Familiar yellow wildflower with shiny-looking petals.

Butterfly Bush (Buddleja) — Flowering shrub with fragrant spikes that attract butterflies.

Flower Names That Start With C

Calendula (Calendula officinalis) — Bright orange or yellow flower commonly called pot marigold.

California Poppy (Eschscholzia californica) — Silky orange wildflower and state flower of California.

Calla Lily (Zantedeschia) — Elegant plant with smooth trumpet-shaped floral spathes.

Camellia (Camellia) — Evergreen shrub with rose-like blooms.

Campion (Silene) — Group of wildflowers with pink, red, or white blossoms.

Canna Lily (Canna) — Tropical-looking perennial with bold foliage and colorful flowers.

Canterbury Bells (Campanula medium) — Biennial producing large bell-shaped flowers.

Cape Primrose (Streptocarpus) — Houseplant with colorful trumpet-shaped blooms.

Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis) — North American wildflower with brilliant scarlet flower spikes.

Carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus) — Popular cut flower known for ruffled petals.

Catmint (Nepeta) — Aromatic perennial producing clouds of blue-purple flowers.

Celosia (Celosia) — Colorful annual with feathery or crested flower heads.

Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) — Small daisy-like flower widely associated with herbal tea.

Cherry Blossom (Prunus) — Delicate pink or white spring flowers produced by ornamental cherry trees.

Chicory (Cichorium intybus) — Wildflower recognizable by its clear blue blooms.

Chinese Lantern (Alkekengi officinarum) — Known for orange papery husks surrounding its fruit.

Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum) — Classic fall flower available in many forms and colors.

Clematis (Clematis) — Flowering vine popular for covering trellises, fences, and arbors.

Clivia (Clivia miniata) — Shade-tolerant plant with clusters of orange or yellow trumpet flowers.

Cockscomb (Celosia argentea var. cristata) — Celosia form with unusual crested flower heads.

Columbine (Aquilegia) — Graceful perennial with distinctive spurred flowers.

Coneflower (Echinacea) — Daisy-like perennial with a prominent central cone.

Coreopsis (Coreopsis) — Cheerful daisy-like flowers often seen in yellow and gold.

Cosmos (Cosmos) — Easy-growing annual with airy foliage and daisy-like flowers.

Crocus (Crocus) — Small bulb flower often among the earliest signs of spring.

Crown Imperial (Fritillaria imperialis) — Tall bulb with a crown of hanging bell-shaped flowers.

Cyclamen (Cyclamen) — Plant with upswept petals and attractive patterned foliage.

Flower Names That Start With D

Daffodil (Narcissus) — Iconic spring bulb with trumpet-shaped flowers.

Dahlia (Dahlia) — Diverse garden flower ranging from small pompons to huge decorative blooms.

Daisy (Bellis perennis) — Familiar flower with white rays surrounding a yellow center.

Dame’s Rocket (Hesperis matronalis) — Fragrant plant with clusters of purple or white flowers.

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) — Familiar yellow flowering plant that later develops fluffy seed heads.

Daylily (Hemerocallis) — Tough perennial whose individual flowers generally last about a day.

Delphinium (Delphinium) — Tall flower spikes often grown in shades of blue and purple.

Dianthus (Dianthus) — Genus containing pinks, carnations, and sweet William.

Diascia (Diascia) — Small, delicate flowers commonly grown in containers.

Dogwood Flower (Cornus) — Flowering trees and shrubs known for showy spring bracts.

Dutch Iris (Iris × hollandica) — Elegant iris frequently grown for cut flowers.

Dusty Miller (Jacobaea maritima) — Primarily valued for silver foliage but also produces small yellow flowers.

Flower Names That Start With E

Echinacea (Echinacea) — Coneflower genus known for prominent centers and colorful petals.

Edelweiss (Leontopodium nivale) — Famous alpine flower with woolly white star-shaped bracts.

Egyptian Starcluster (Pentas lanceolata) — Warm-climate plant with clusters of tiny star-shaped flowers.

English Daisy (Bellis perennis) — Compact daisy frequently seen in lawns and cottage gardens.

English Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) — Fragrant perennial with purple flower spikes.

English Rose (Rosa) — Informal term often used for richly petaled garden roses.

Epimedium (Epimedium) — Woodland perennial with delicate, sometimes spurred flowers.

Eryngium (Eryngium) — Commonly called sea holly; produces architectural blue or silvery flower heads.

Evening Primrose (Oenothera) — Often yellow-flowered plant whose blooms commonly open toward evening.

Everlasting Flower (Xerochrysum bracteatum) — Strawflower with papery blooms that retain their form when dried.

Flower Names That Start With F

Fairy Duster (Calliandra eriophylla) — Desert shrub with fluffy pink flower clusters.

False Indigo (Baptisia) — Hardy perennial with lupine-like flower spikes.

Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium) — Herb with clusters of small daisy-like flowers.

Firecracker Flower (Crossandra infundibuliformis) — Tropical plant with bright orange or salmon flowers.

Flamingo Flower (Anthurium andraeanum) — Popular anthurium with glossy colorful spathes.

Flax Flower (Linum) — Delicate flowers, often blue, produced on slender stems.

Floss Flower (Ageratum houstonianum) — Fluffy clustered blooms usually seen in blue or lavender.

Forget-Me-Not (Myosotis) — Tiny blue flowers with yellow centers associated with remembrance.

Forsythia (Forsythia) — Shrub covered with bright yellow flowers in early spring.

Four O’Clock (Mirabilis jalapa) — Fragrant trumpet-shaped flowers that often open late in the day.

Foxglove (Digitalis) — Tall spikes covered with tubular bell-shaped flowers.

Frangipani (Plumeria) — Fragrant tropical flower common in warm climates.

Freesia (Freesia) — Sweetly scented, funnel-shaped flowers popular with florists.

Fuchsia (Fuchsia) — Pendulous flowers often combining pink, purple, red, and white.

Flower Names That Start With G

Gaillardia (Gaillardia) — Also called blanket flower, with warm red-and-yellow blooms.

Gardenia (Gardenia jasminoides) — Highly fragrant shrub with waxy white flowers.

Gazania (Gazania) — Sun-loving daisy with brightly striped or vividly colored petals.

Gentian (Gentiana) — Mountain and meadow flowers famous for intense blue shades.

Geranium (Geranium) — True geraniums are hardy plants with five-petaled flowers.

Gerbera Daisy (Gerbera jamesonii) — Large, colorful daisy widely used as a cut flower.

Gladiolus (Gladiolus) — Tall flower spikes carrying numerous trumpet-shaped blooms.

Globe Amaranth (Gomphrena globosa) — Clover-like papery flowers that dry well.

Globe Thistle (Echinops) — Produces round blue or purple flower heads.

Glory Lily (Gloriosa superba) — Climbing tropical plant with dramatic reflexed petals.

Goat’s Beard (Aruncus dioicus) — Perennial producing large feathery cream-colored plumes.

Goldenrod (Solidago) — North American plant with masses of tiny golden-yellow flowers.

Grape Hyacinth (Muscari) — Spring bulb with dense clusters of small blue urn-shaped flowers.

Flower Names That Start With H

Harebell (Campanula rotundifolia) — Delicate blue bellflower growing in grasslands and rocky areas.

Heather (Calluna vulgaris) — Low evergreen shrub with masses of tiny flowers.

Helenium (Helenium) — Daisy-like perennial offering warm late-season colors.

Heliotrope (Heliotropium) — Fragrant plant with clusters of purple, blue, or white flowers.

Hellebore (Helleborus) — Cold-season perennial often blooming in winter or early spring.

Hibiscus (Hibiscus) — Large trumpet-shaped flowers associated with tropical landscapes.

Hollyhock (Alcea rosea) — Cottage-garden favorite with tall stems lined with flowers.

Honeysuckle (Lonicera) — Climbing or shrubby plant with fragrant tubular blooms.

Hosta Flower (Hosta) — Shade perennial better known for foliage but also producing lily-like flowers.

Hyacinth (Hyacinthus orientalis) — Fragrant spring bulb with dense flower spikes.

Hydrangea (Hydrangea) — Shrub producing large rounded or lace-like flower clusters.

Flower Names That Start With I

Ice Plant (Delosperma) — Succulent groundcover with bright daisy-like flowers.

Impatiens (Impatiens) — Popular shade flower available in many vivid colors.

Indian Blanket (Gaillardia pulchella) — Wildflower with red and yellow daisy-like blooms.

Indian Paintbrush (Castilleja) — Wildflower known for bright brush-like bracts.

Ipheion (Ipheion uniflorum) — Small spring bulb commonly called spring starflower.

Iris (Iris) — Elegant flower named after the Greek word associated with the rainbow.

Ixora (Ixora) — Tropical shrub producing dense clusters of tiny tubular flowers.

Ixia (Ixia) — South African bulb with colorful star-shaped blooms.

Flower Names That Start With J

Jacob’s Ladder (Polemonium) — Perennial with clusters of blue or violet flowers.

Jacob’s Coat Rose (Rosa) — Climbing rose cultivar known for multicolored blooms.

Japanese Anemone (Eriocapitella japonica and hybrids) — Elegant late-season flowers on tall stems.

Japanese Camellia (Camellia japonica) — Evergreen shrub with large rose-like flowers.

Japanese Iris (Iris ensata) — Moisture-loving iris with broad, showy flowers.

Japanese Primrose (Primula japonica) — Produces tiers of pink, red, or white flowers.

Jasmine (Jasminum) — Fragrant flowering vines and shrubs, commonly with white or yellow flowers.

Jerusalem Sage (Phlomis fruticosa) — Mediterranean shrub with yellow flowers arranged around upright stems.

Joe-Pye Weed (Eutrochium) — Tall native perennial with dusty pink-purple flower clusters.

Johnny-Jump-Up (Viola tricolor) — Small, colorful relative of the pansy.

Flower Names That Start With K

Kaffir Lily (Clivia miniata) — Traditional common name for clivia, with orange trumpet-shaped flowers.

Kalanchoe (Kalanchoe blossfeldiana) — Succulent houseplant with clusters of colorful flowers.

Kangaroo Paw (Anigozanthos) — Australian plant with unusual fuzzy tubular flowers.

Kerria (Kerria japonica) — Shrub with bright yellow spring flowers.

King Protea (Protea cynaroides) — Large South African flower with a dramatic crown-like appearance.

Knautia (Knautia macedonica) — Airy perennial with pincushion-like flower heads.

Kniphofia (Kniphofia) — Better known as red hot poker, with fiery upright flower spikes.

Flower Names That Start With L

Lady’s Mantle (Alchemilla mollis) — Soft-leaved perennial with clouds of tiny yellow-green flowers.

Lady’s Slipper Orchid (Cypripedioideae) — Orchids with distinctive pouch-shaped flowers.

Lantana (Lantana) — Sun-loving plant with multicolored clusters of small flowers.

Larkspur (Consolida) — Cottage-garden annual with tall spikes of blue, pink, purple, or white blooms.

Lavatera (Malva and related classifications) — Mallow relative with hibiscus-like flowers.

Lavender (Lavandula) — Aromatic herb with fragrant purple flower spikes.

Leopard’s Bane (Doronicum) — Spring perennial with cheerful yellow daisy-like blooms.

Liatris (Liatris spicata) — Also called blazing star; produces upright purple flower spikes.

Lilac (Syringa) — Spring-flowering shrub famous for fragrant purple, pink, or white clusters.

Lily (Lilium) — Bulbous perennial producing large, often fragrant flowers.

Lily of the Valley (Convallaria majalis) — Small woodland plant with fragrant white bells.

Lisianthus (Eustoma grandiflorum) — Elegant cut flower with rose-like blooms.

Lobelia (Lobelia) — Large genus including compact blue bedding plants and tall native species.

Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) — Aquatic plant with large flowers held above the water.

Love-in-a-Mist (Nigella damascena) — Delicate annual surrounded by finely divided foliage.

Lupine (Lupinus) — Produces colorful upright spikes packed with pea-like flowers.

Flower Names That Start With M

Magnolia (Magnolia) — Flowering tree or shrub with large, showy blossoms.

Mallow (Malvaceae) — Group of plants often producing open, five-petaled flowers.

Mandevilla (Mandevilla) — Tropical vine with large trumpet-shaped blooms.

Marigold (Tagetes) — Easy annual famous for yellow, orange, and reddish flowers.

Marsh Marigold (Caltha palustris) — Moisture-loving spring plant with bright yellow flowers.

Mexican Sunflower (Tithonia rotundifolia) — Tall annual with vivid orange daisy-like blooms.

Michaelmas Daisy (Symphyotrichum) — Fall-blooming asters with masses of daisy-like flowers.

Milkweed (Asclepias) — Native flowering plants important to monarch butterflies.

Million Bells (Calibrachoa) — Trailing plant covered in small petunia-like flowers.

Mimosa Flower (Albizia julibrissin) — Silky pink flower clusters produced by the mimosa tree.

Monkey Flower (Erythranthe and Mimulus) — Colorful flowers with a distinctive two-lipped form.

Moonflower (Ipomoea alba) — Night-blooming vine with large fragrant white flowers.

Morning Glory (Ipomoea) — Fast-growing vine with funnel-shaped flowers.

Moss Rose (Portulaca grandiflora) — Heat-loving succulent annual with bright, rose-like flowers.

Flower Names That Start With N

Narcissus (Narcissus) — Genus containing daffodils and related spring bulbs.

Nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus) — Colorful trailing or climbing plant with edible flowers.

Nemesia (Nemesia) — Compact annual or tender perennial with colorful two-lipped blooms.

Nemophila (Nemophila menziesii) — Also called baby blue eyes, known for sky-blue flowers.

Nerine (Nerine) — South African bulb producing clusters of slender, wavy-petaled flowers.

New Guinea Impatiens (Impatiens hawkeri) — Colorful bedding plant with large flowers.

Nicotiana (Nicotiana) — Flowering tobacco with starry, often fragrant tubular blooms.

Nigella (Nigella damascena) — Love-in-a-mist, with blue or white flowers among feathery foliage.

Nodding Onion (Allium cernuum) — Native allium with hanging pink flower clusters.

Flower Names That Start With O

Obedient Plant (Physostegia virginiana) — Perennial with rows of tubular pink or white flowers.

Oleander (Nerium oleander) — Evergreen shrub with showy flower clusters; all parts are highly toxic if ingested.

Orange Blossom (Citrus sinensis) — Fragrant white flower of the sweet orange tree.

Orchid (Orchidaceae) — One of the world’s largest and most diverse flowering-plant families.

Oriental Lily (Lilium hybrids) — Large, often intensely fragrant lilies.

Ornamental Onion (Allium) — Decorative alliums grown for spherical flower heads.

Osteospermum (Osteospermum) — African daisy with colorful blooms that thrive in sun.

Oxeye Daisy (Leucanthemum vulgare) — White-petaled wildflower with a yellow center.

Flower Names That Start With P

Painted Daisy (Tanacetum coccineum) — Colorful daisy relative with pink, red, or white flowers.

Pansy (Viola × wittrockiana) — Cool-season favorite with colorful face-like markings.

Passionflower (Passiflora) — Climbing plant with extraordinarily intricate flowers.

Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum) — Houseplant with white hood-like spathes around small flowers.

Penstemon (Penstemon) — North American genus with spikes of tubular flowers.

Peony (Paeonia) — Long-lived perennial known for lush, often fragrant blooms.

Periwinkle (Vinca) — Groundcover with simple blue-violet, purple, or white flowers.

Petunia (Petunia) — Popular bedding plant with trumpet-shaped flowers.

Phlox (Phlox) — Garden and wildflower genus with colorful clustered blooms.

Pincushion Flower (Scabiosa) — Airy flower with a rounded, pin-filled appearance.

Plumeria (Plumeria) — Tropical tree producing waxy, fragrant flowers.

Poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima) — Holiday plant whose colorful display comes mainly from modified leaves called bracts.

Poppy (Papaver) — Delicate cup-shaped flowers with tissue-thin petals.

Portulaca (Portulaca grandiflora) — Drought-tolerant plant also called moss rose.

Primrose (Primula) — Early-season flower available in many bright colors.

Protea (Protea) — Distinctive South African flowering shrubs with dramatic flower heads.

Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) — Native perennial with purple-pink petals and raised central cones.

Flower Names That Start With Q

Queen Anne’s Lace (Daucus carota) — Lacy white flower clusters found in meadows and roadsides.

Queen of the Meadow (Filipendula ulmaria) — Also called meadowsweet; produces creamy-white flower clusters.

Queen’s Cup (Clintonia uniflora) — Woodland plant with a small white star-shaped flower.

Queen’s Wreath (Petrea volubilis) — Tropical vine with cascading purple flower clusters.

Flower Names That Start With R

Ranunculus (Ranunculus asiaticus) — Popular cut flower with densely layered petals.

Red Hot Poker (Kniphofia) — Upright flower spikes blending red, orange, and yellow.

Red Valerian (Centranthus ruber) — Long-flowering perennial with clusters of red, pink, or white blooms.

Rhododendron (Rhododendron) — Large group of flowering shrubs with spectacular clusters.

Rock Rose (Cistus) — Mediterranean shrub with crinkled, tissue-like petals.

Rose (Rosa) — One of the world’s best-known ornamental flowers.

Rose Campion (Silene coronaria) — Silver-leaved perennial with vivid magenta flowers.

Rose of Sharon (Hibiscus syriacus) — Woody hibiscus producing flowers from summer into fall.

Rudbeckia (Rudbeckia) — Genus containing several golden daisy-like garden flowers.

Russian Sage (Salvia yangii) — Airy perennial with silvery foliage and blue-purple flowers.

Flower Names That Start With S

Saffron Crocus (Crocus sativus) — Purple autumn crocus from which saffron spice is harvested.

Salvia (Salvia) — Diverse genus with colorful flower spikes popular with pollinators.

Scabiosa (Scabiosa) — Pincushion flower with delicate rounded blooms.

Sea Holly (Eryngium) — Spiky ornamental flower often colored metallic blue or silver.

Sea Thrift (Armeria maritima) — Compact coastal plant with pink pompom-like flowers.

Shasta Daisy (Leucanthemum × superbum) — Large white garden daisy with yellow centers.

Shooting Star (Primula meadia) — Woodland wildflower with swept-back petals.

Snapdragon (Antirrhinum majus) — Flower spikes whose individual blooms resemble little dragon mouths.

Snowdrop (Galanthus) — Small white bulb flower appearing in late winter or early spring.

Soapwort (Saponaria officinalis) — Perennial with clusters of pink or white flowers.

Spider Flower (Cleome hassleriana) — Tall annual with airy flowers and long protruding stamens.

Spider Lily (Lycoris and related genera) — Bulbous flowers with long, spider-like stamens.

Star Jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides) — Fragrant evergreen vine with white pinwheel flowers.

Statice (Limonium) — Papery flower popular for both fresh and dried arrangements.

Stock (Matthiola incana) — Fragrant flower spikes popular in cottage gardens and bouquets.

Strawflower (Xerochrysum bracteatum) — Papery everlasting flower excellent for drying.

Sunflower (Helianthus annuus) — Tall annual famous for large yellow flower heads.

Sweet Alyssum (Lobularia maritima) — Low-growing plant with masses of tiny fragrant flowers.

Sweet Pea (Lathyrus odoratus) — Climbing annual valued for colorful, fragrant blooms.

Sweet William (Dianthus barbatus) — Dianthus with dense clusters of small patterned flowers.

Flower Names That Start With T

Tansy (Tanacetum vulgare) — Herbaceous perennial with button-like yellow flower clusters.

Thrift (Armeria maritima) — Small perennial with rounded pink blooms.

Tiger Lily (Lilium lancifolium) — Orange lily with dark spots and recurved petals.

Tithonia (Tithonia rotundifolia) — Mexican sunflower with brilliant orange flowers.

Toad Lily (Tricyrtis) — Shade perennial with spotted orchid-like flowers.

Torch Lily (Kniphofia) — Another name for red hot poker.

Trillium (Trillium) — Woodland wildflower recognized by its three petals and three leaves.

Trumpet Creeper (Campsis radicans) — Vigorous vine with orange-red trumpet flowers.

Trumpet Vine (Campsis) — Flowering climber especially attractive to hummingbirds.

Tuberose (Agave amica) — Intensely fragrant white flower widely used in perfumery.

Tulip (Tulipa) — Classic spring bulb available in an enormous range of colors and forms.

Turtlehead (Chelone) — Moisture-loving perennial with flowers resembling a turtle’s head.

Flower Names That Start With U

Ulex (Ulex europaeus) — Gorse shrub covered in bright yellow pea-like flowers.

Ursinia (Ursinia) — South African annual with colorful daisy-like blooms.

Urn Orchid (Bletilla striata) — Hardy terrestrial orchid producing purple-pink flowers.

Uva-Ursi Flower (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi) — Low evergreen plant with small urn-shaped pink-white flowers.

Flower Names That Start With V

Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) — Tall herbaceous plant with clusters of tiny pale flowers.

Verbascum (Verbascum) — Mullein genus, often producing tall spires of yellow flowers.

Verbena (Verbena) — Long-blooming plant with clusters of small colorful flowers.

Veronica (Veronica) — Also called speedwell; many varieties produce slender blue or purple flower spikes.

Vinca (Vinca) — Low-growing evergreen with simple violet-blue flowers.

Viola (Viola) — Large genus containing violets, pansies, and related flowers.

Violet (Viola) — Small, often purple flowers with a long history in gardens and woodland settings.

Virginia Bluebells (Mertensia virginica) — Woodland perennial with clusters of blue bell-shaped spring flowers.

Flower Names That Start With W

Wallflower (Erysimum) — Fragrant flowers that bloom in colorful clusters.

Water Lily (Nymphaeaceae) — Aquatic plants with floating leaves and showy flowers.

Watsonia (Watsonia) — South African perennial with tall spikes of trumpet-shaped flowers.

Waxflower (Chamelaucium uncinatum) — Australian shrub with small waxy flowers used by florists.

Weigela (Weigela) — Flowering shrub covered with trumpet-shaped pink, red, or white blooms.

Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa) — North American wildflower with lavender flower heads.

Wild Geranium (Geranium maculatum) — Woodland perennial with pink-purple flowers.

Wild Rose (Rosa) — Naturally occurring rose species with generally simpler flowers than many garden hybrids.

Windflower (Anemone) — Common name used for several anemone species.

Wisteria (Wisteria) — Woody vine famous for hanging clusters of fragrant purple, pink, or white flowers.

Woolly Sunflower (Eriophyllum) — Western North American plants with yellow daisy-like flowers.

Flower Names That Start With X

Flowers beginning with X are uncommon in everyday English, but several botanical genera fit the list.

Xanthoceras (Xanthoceras sorbifolium) — Flowering shrub or small tree with white flowers marked near the center.

Xeranthemum (Xeranthemum annuum) — Papery everlasting flower suitable for dried arrangements.

Xerochrysum (Xerochrysum bracteatum) — Botanical genus containing the familiar strawflower.

Xylobium (Xylobium) — Genus of orchids native to tropical regions of the Americas.

Xylosma (Xylosma) — Shrubs and trees producing small flowers; grown mainly for foliage and landscape use.

Flower Names That Start With Y

Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) — Hardy perennial with flat clusters of tiny flowers.

Yellow Archangel (Lamiastrum galeobdolon) — Groundcover with yellow hooded flowers.

Yellow Bells (Tecoma stans) — Warm-climate shrub with bright yellow trumpet-shaped blooms.

Yellow Flag Iris (Iris pseudacorus) — Yellow-flowering iris associated with wet habitats.

Yellow Loosestrife (Lysimachia vulgaris) — Perennial with clusters of bright yellow flowers.

Yellow Trillium (Trillium luteum) — Woodland perennial with upright yellow-green flowers.

Yucca Flower (Yucca) — Tall stems bearing clusters of creamy white bell-shaped flowers.

Flower Names That Start With Z

Zantedeschia (Zantedeschia) — Botanical genus containing calla lilies.

Zephyr Lily (Zephyranthes) — Small bulb flower that often appears after rain.

Zigzag Goldenrod (Solidago flexicaulis) — Woodland goldenrod with yellow flowers along arching stems.

Zinnia (Zinnia) — Colorful warm-season annual loved by gardeners and pollinators.

Flower Names by Color

Color is often the quickest way to narrow down a flower you are trying to identify. Keep in mind that many species and cultivars occur in more than one color.

Red Flower Names

Red Rose
Red Tulip
Poppy
Anthurium
Cardinal Flower
Red Camellia
Red Dahlia
Red Gerbera Daisy
Red Hibiscus
Red Hot Poker
Red Salvia
Red Valerian
Scarlet Sage
Canna
Celosia
Zinnia

Pink Flower Names

Peony
Pink Rose
Carnation
Cherry Blossom
Cosmos
Dahlia
Camellia
Azalea
Begonia
Gerbera Daisy
Hydrangea
Petunia
Ranunculus
Sweet Pea
Zinnia
Bleeding Heart
Sea Thrift
Phlox

Purple Flower Names

Lavender
Violet
Iris
Allium
Verbena
Clematis
Aster
Catmint
Delphinium
Foxglove
Heliotrope
Liatris
Lilac
Lupine
Petunia
Salvia
Wisteria

Blue Flower Names

True blue is less common in flowers than pink, yellow, or white.

Delphinium
Cornflower
Forget-Me-Not
Chicory
Gentian
Himalayan Blue Poppy
Hydrangea
Lobelia
Nemophila
Virginia Bluebells
Blue-Eyed Grass
Grape Hyacinth
Some Iris varieties

Yellow Flower Names

Sunflower
Daffodil
Marigold
Buttercup
Coreopsis
Forsythia
Goldenrod
Black-Eyed Susan
Yellow Tulip
Yarrow
Calendula
Evening Primrose
Gazania
Helenium
Yellow Bells

Orange Flower Names

California Poppy
Mexican Sunflower
Marigold
Canna
Orange Zinnia
Butterfly Weed
Tiger Lily
Nasturtium
Calendula
Clivia
Firecracker Flower
Bird of Paradise

White Flower Names

Gardenia
Jasmine
Lily
Magnolia
Baby’s Breath
White Rose
Snowdrop
Lily of the Valley
Moonflower
Orange Blossom
Shasta Daisy
Star Jasmine
Tuberose
White Tulip
Queen Anne’s Lace

Flower Names by Season

The exact flowering period depends heavily on climate, weather, cultivar, and growing zone, but these groups provide a useful general guide for temperate U.S. gardens.

Spring Flower Names

Tulip
Daffodil
Crocus
Hyacinth
Primrose
Peony
Iris
Azalea
Cherry Blossom
Forsythia
Bluebell
Snowdrop
Grape Hyacinth
Magnolia
Ranunculus
Bleeding Heart
Columbine
Lilac

Summer Flower Names

Sunflower
Zinnia
Dahlia
Cosmos
Marigold
Lavender
Hibiscus
Coneflower
Black-Eyed Susan
Liatris
Gladiolus
Hydrangea
Petunia
Salvia
Coreopsis
Phlox
Daylily
Bee Balm

Fall Flower Names

Chrysanthemum
Aster
Goldenrod
Dahlia
Helenium
Japanese Anemone
Sedum flowers
Saffron Crocus
Sunflower
Zinnia

Winter and Very Early Spring Flowers

Depending on the climate, these plants can provide flowers when relatively few others are blooming:

Hellebore
Snowdrop
Winter-blooming Camellia varieties
Crocus
Cyclamen
Witch Hazel
Winter Jasmine
Early Narcissus varieties

Types of Flowers by Growing Habit

Not all flowers grow in the same way. Some last only one season, while others return for years.

Flower Type	Examples
Annual flowers	Zinnia, Cosmos, Marigold, Petunia
Perennial flowers	Peony, Coneflower, Daylily, Iris
Bulb and bulb-like flowers	Tulip, Daffodil, Hyacinth, Gladiolus
Flowering shrubs	Hydrangea, Azalea, Gardenia, Camellia
Flowering vines	Clematis, Wisteria, Morning Glory, Mandevilla
Flowering trees	Magnolia, Cherry, Dogwood
Tropical flowers	Hibiscus, Bird of Paradise, Anthurium, Plumeria
Wildflowers	Poppy, Lupine, Cornflower, Black-Eyed Susan
Aquatic flowers	Lotus, Water Lily
Cut flowers	Rose, Carnation, Lily, Alstroemeria, Lisianthus
Dried flowers	Statice, Strawflower, Globe Amaranth, Baby’s Breath

Flower Names and Their Symbolic Meanings

Flowers have carried symbolic meanings in art, literature, religion, ceremonies, and traditional flower language for centuries.

These associations are cultural rather than botanical definitions, and the symbolism of a flower can change according to its color, place, and historical tradition.

Flower	Common Symbolic Association
Red Rose	Romantic love and passion
White Rose	Purity and remembrance
Yellow Rose	Friendship and warmth
Daisy	Innocence and simplicity
Forget-Me-Not	Remembrance
Lavender	Calm, devotion, serenity
Sunflower	Admiration, warmth, positivity
Peony	Prosperity, romance, honor
Lily	Purity and renewal
Iris	Hope, wisdom, faith
Poppy	Remembrance and sleep
Marigold	Warmth, creativity, remembrance
Jasmine	Love, beauty, grace
Lotus	Purity and spiritual growth in several Asian traditions
Chrysanthemum	Meanings vary widely by culture and color
Daffodil	Renewal and new beginnings
Violet	Modesty and faithfulness
Camellia	Admiration and affection
Sweet Pea	Gratitude and farewell
Zinnia	Remembrance and lasting affection

Beautiful Flower Names for Girls

“Flower names” can also mean personal names inspired by flowers. Some are established given names, while others are uncommon botanical choices.

Classic Flower Girl Names

Rose (Flower name – classic floral given name)

Lily (Flower name – one of the most familiar botanical girl names)

Daisy (Flower name – cheerful English floral choice)

Violet (Flower and color name – long-established given name)

Iris (Flower name – also connected with the Greek word for rainbow)

Jasmine (Flower name – inspired by the fragrant jasmine plant)

Poppy (Flower name – bright, lively botanical choice)

Heather (Flowering plant name – established nature name)

More Flower-Inspired Girl Names

Azalea (Flowering shrub – colorful and distinctive)

Calla (Calla lily association – sleek floral choice)

Camellia (Flower name – romantic botanical option)

Dahlia (Flower name – bold garden-inspired choice)

Flora (Latin-rooted name associated with flowers; also the Roman goddess of flowering plants)

Gardenia (Fragrant flower – rare botanical name)

Hyacinth (Flower name with Greek mythological history)

Lavender (Flower and color name – unusual nature choice)

Lilac (Flowering shrub and color name)

Magnolia (Flowering tree – Southern botanical feel in the U.S.)

Marigold (Golden flower name with a vintage style)

Primrose (Spring flower – traditional English botanical name)

Zinnia (Colorful flower named botanically for Johann Gottfried Zinn)

Flower and Plant Names for Boys

Direct flower names are less common for boys in modern English, but botanical naming extends well beyond Rose and Lily.

Florian (Latin-derived personal name associated with flowering/blooming)

Florin (Traditional personal name from the same broader Latin floral root)

Heath (Nature name associated with heathland)

Briar (Plant-inspired nature name)

Rowan (Tree name widely used as a personal name)

Sage (Herb and nature name)

Aster (Flower name that can work beyond a single gender)

Indigo (Plant-derived color name)

Gender-Neutral Flower and Plant Names

Some botanical names work naturally as modern unisex choices:

Aster
Briar
Clover
Fern
Indigo
Lotus
Rowan
Sage
Sorrel
Yarrow

Not all of these are flowers themselves. Some are trees, herbs, ferns, or other plants, so they are better described as botanical names rather than strictly flower names.

Rare and Unusual Flower Names

If you’re looking beyond roses, lilies, and tulips, these flowers have especially distinctive names:

Astrantia
Calanthe
Celosia
Eryngium
Fritillaria
Gloriosa
Gomphrena
Hellebore
Ixia
Knautia
Liatris
Lisianthus
Nemesia
Nerine
Nigella
Penstemon
Protea
Scabiosa
Tricyrtis
Watsonia
Xeranthemum
Zephyranthes

Cute Flower Names

These names have a particularly soft, cheerful, or whimsical sound:

Daisy
Bluebell
Buttercup
Poppy
Primrose
Sweet Pea
Baby’s Breath
Forget-Me-Not
Snowdrop
Clover
Posy
Violet
Lily
Blossom
Daffodil

How to Identify a Flower You Don’t Know

Knowing a flower’s color helps, but color alone is rarely enough for reliable identification.

Look at several features together:

Flower shape: Is it trumpet-shaped, bell-shaped, daisy-like, star-shaped, or made from many layered petals?

Petal number: Count the visible petals or petal-like structures when possible.

Flower arrangement: Does the plant produce one large bloom, a spike, a rounded cluster, or many tiny flowers?

Leaves: Check their shape, arrangement, texture, edges, and color.

Plant size: A six-inch groundcover and a ten-foot shrub can produce superficially similar flowers.

Growth habit: Determine whether the plant is a tree, shrub, vine, bulb, succulent, annual, or perennial.

Blooming season: The month in which you see the flower can narrow the possibilities.

Location: Native range, climate, habitat, and whether the plant is cultivated or growing wild can all provide clues.

For potentially toxic or edible plants, never rely on a flower photo or common name alone before touching, eating, or using the plant medicinally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most popular flower names?

Some of the world’s most familiar flower names include Rose, Tulip, Lily, Daisy, Sunflower, Orchid, Lavender, Peony, Daffodil, Iris, Jasmine, Marigold, Dahlia, Chrysanthemum, Carnation, Hydrangea, Poppy, Hibiscus, Magnolia, and Gardenia.

What are 20 common flowers?

Twenty common flowers are Rose, Tulip, Daisy, Lily, Sunflower, Daffodil, Marigold, Carnation, Chrysanthemum, Iris, Lavender, Peony, Petunia, Dahlia, Poppy, Zinnia, Begonia, Hydrangea, Jasmine, and Orchid.

What flowers start with A?

Flowers beginning with A include African Daisy, Agapanthus, Ageratum, Allium, Alstroemeria, Alyssum, Amaranth, Amaryllis, Anemone, Angelonia, Anthurium, Armeria, Aster, Astilbe, and Azalea.

What are some beautiful flower names?

Rose, Peony, Dahlia, Magnolia, Iris, Ranunculus, Lisianthus, Camellia, Gardenia, Lavender, Wisteria, Lotus, Orchid, and Cherry Blossom are among the flower names often admired for both their sound and appearance.

What are some rare flower names?

Less familiar choices include Astrantia, Calanthe, Eryngium, Gloriosa, Gomphrena, Ixia, Knautia, Nerine, Scabiosa, Tricyrtis, Watsonia, Xeranthemum, and Zephyranthes.

What are popular pink flower names?

Popular pink flowers include Peony, Rose, Carnation, Dahlia, Camellia, Azalea, Cosmos, Begonia, Hydrangea, Petunia, Ranunculus, Sweet Pea, Zinnia, and Bleeding Heart.

What are popular purple flower names?

Lavender, Violet, Iris, Allium, Verbena, Clematis, Delphinium, Lilac, Liatris, Lupine, Salvia, Wisteria, and Aster are well-known purple-flowering choices.

What flowers bloom in spring?

Tulips, daffodils, crocuses, hyacinths, primroses, irises, azaleas, bluebells, cherry blossoms, magnolias, lilacs, and many peonies are associated with spring flowering in temperate climates.

What flowers bloom throughout summer?

Long-blooming summer choices can include zinnias, marigolds, petunias, salvias, coreopsis, coneflowers, lantanas, and some varieties of roses. Performance and flowering periods vary with local climate and care.

What is the difference between a common flower name and a botanical name?

A common name is the everyday name people use, such as sunflower. A botanical name follows scientific naming conventions and helps identify a plant more precisely. The common sunflower, for example, is Helianthus annuus.

One common name can sometimes refer to multiple plants, which is why botanical names are particularly useful for gardening and identification.

Is Rose a flower name and a person’s name?

Yes. Rose is both the common name for flowers in the genus Rosa and a long-established personal name.

What are the best-known flower names for girls?

Rose, Lily, Daisy, Violet, Iris, Jasmine, Poppy, Heather, Dahlia, Flora, Magnolia, Marigold, and Primrose are recognizable floral or flower-related girl names.

Are all flowers safe to touch or eat?

No. Some flowering plants contain substances that can irritate skin or be toxic when ingested. Oleander, foxglove, lily of the valley, and several other familiar ornamentals can be dangerous. A plant should be positively identified and its safety verified before it is eaten or used medicinally.

Conclusion

From familiar roses and daisies to unusual blooms such as nerine, knautia, and xeranthemum, the world of flowers offers far more variety than most of us encounter in an everyday bouquet.

This A–Z list of 300+ flower names can help you identify plants, discover flowers for your garden, find inspiration for arrangements, browse blooms by color and season, or explore botanical names for a child or character.

When identifying an unfamiliar plant, remember that the common name is only a starting point. Looking at its botanical name, flower shape, foliage, growing habit, season, and location gives you a much better idea of what you’re actually seeing.