Flower Species - FlowerExpert

Rose (Rosa)

One of the most cultivated flower genera, with hundreds of species and thousands of cultivars. Roses are beloved worldwide for their beauty, fragrance, and cultural significance.

Family: Rosaceae
Native: Asia, Europe, North America, Africa
Blooming: Spring through fall
Care: Full sun, well-drained soil, regular watering
Varieties: Over 300 species and thousands of cultivars
Uses: Ornamental, perfumery, culinary, medicinal

Tulip (Tulipa)

Spring-blooming bulbs native originally to Central Asia and Turkey, now popular worldwide. Tulips are known for their vibrant colors and elegant cup-shaped blooms.

Family: Liliaceae
Native: Central Asia, Turkey
Blooming: Early to late spring
Care: Full sun, well-drained soil, plant bulbs in fall
Varieties: Over 75 wild species, thousands of cultivars
History: Tulip mania in 17th century Netherlands

Sunflower (Helianthus annuus)

Native to North America, sunflowers are known for their large flower heads that turn toward the sun (heliotropism). The "Russian Giant" cultivar can reach heights of 2.5–4 meters with blooms over 30 cm in diameter.

Family: Asteraceae
Native: North America
Blooming: Summer to early fall
Care: Full sun, fertile soil, regular watering
Height: 1-4 meters depending on variety
Uses: Ornamental, edible seeds, oil production

Orchid (Orchidaceae)

Extremely diverse family with over 25,000 species. Many are tropical with spectacular flowers. Orchids have intricate pollination strategies and often require specific growing conditions.

Family: Orchidaceae
Native: Worldwide, especially tropical regions
Blooming: Varies by species
Care: Bright indirect light, high humidity, well-draining medium
Species: Over 25,000 species worldwide
Notable: Vanilla comes from orchid plants

Cornflower (Centaurea cyanus)

Also known as Bachelor's Button, this annual plant in the Asteraceae family is native to temperate Europe. It features bright blue flowers and was historically considered a weed in grain fields.

Family: Asteraceae
Native: Europe
Blooming: Late spring to summer
Care: Full sun, average soil, drought tolerant
Height: 30-90 cm
Symbolism: Remembrance, hope, delicacy

Lavender (Lavandula)

Fragrant flowering plants in the mint family, known for their calming properties and beautiful purple spikes. Used in aromatherapy, cooking, and as ornamental plants.

Family: Lamiaceae
Native: Mediterranean region
Blooming: Summer
Care: Full sun, well-drained soil, drought tolerant
Varieties: Over 47 species
Uses: Aromatherapy, culinary, ornamental, medicinal

Cherry Blossom (Prunus serrulata)

Also known as sakura, these delicate pink and white flowers are celebrated in Japanese culture. They symbolize the ephemeral nature of life and beauty.

Family: Rosaceae
Native: Japan, China, Korea
Blooming: Early spring (March-April)
Care: Full sun to partial shade, well-drained soil
Cultural: National flower of Japan
Festival: Hanami (flower viewing) tradition

Hibiscus (Hibiscus)

Tropical and subtropical flowering plants known for their large, colorful, trumpet-shaped flowers. The national flower of several countries including Malaysia and South Korea.

Family: Malvaceae
Native: Tropical and subtropical regions
Blooming: Summer to fall
Care: Full sun, well-drained soil, regular watering
Species: Over 200 species
Uses: Ornamental, tea (hibiscus tea), medicinal

Peony (Paeonia)

Large, fragrant flowers with lush, full blooms. Peonies are perennials known for their spectacular spring and early summer displays. They come in various colors from white to deep red.

Family: Paeoniaceae
Native: Asia, Europe, Western North America
Blooming: Late spring to early summer
Care: Full sun to partial shade, well-drained soil
Varieties: Over 30 species, hundreds of cultivars
Symbolism: Romance, prosperity, honor

Lily (Lilium)

Elegant, trumpet-shaped flowers with prominent stamens. Lilies are popular in gardens and as cut flowers, known for their strong fragrance and striking appearance.

Family: Liliaceae
Native: Northern Hemisphere, temperate regions
Blooming: Summer
Care: Full sun, well-drained soil, regular watering
Varieties: Over 100 species
Note: Highly toxic to cats

Iris (Iris)

Distinctive flowers with three upright petals and three drooping sepals. Named after the Greek goddess of the rainbow, irises come in almost every color.

Family: Iridaceae
Native: Northern temperate regions
Blooming: Spring to early summer
Care: Full sun, well-drained soil
Varieties: Over 300 species
Symbolism: Wisdom, valor, faith

Daffodil (Narcissus)

Cheerful yellow or white spring flowers with a trumpet-shaped corona. Daffodils are among the first flowers to bloom, signaling the arrival of spring.

Family: Amaryllidaceae
Native: Europe, North Africa, Western Asia
Blooming: Early to mid-spring
Care: Full sun, well-drained soil, plant bulbs in fall
Varieties: Over 50 species
Symbolism: Rebirth, new beginnings

Marigold (Tagetes)

Bright orange and yellow flowers with a distinctive, pungent scent. Marigolds are easy to grow and are often used as companion plants in vegetable gardens.

Family: Asteraceae
Native: Mexico, Central America
Blooming: Summer through fall
Care: Full sun, average soil, drought tolerant
Varieties: Over 50 species
Uses: Ornamental, pest deterrent, culinary

Zinnia (Zinnia)

Colorful, daisy-like flowers in vibrant hues. Zinnias are popular annuals that bloom profusely throughout summer and attract butterflies to the garden.

Family: Asteraceae
Native: Mexico, Central America
Blooming: Summer to fall
Care: Full sun, well-drained soil, regular deadheading
Varieties: Over 20 species
Colors: Wide range including pink, red, orange, yellow, white

Petunia (Petunia)

Trumpet-shaped flowers in a wide array of colors. Petunias are popular annuals for containers, hanging baskets, and garden beds, blooming from spring to frost.

Family: Solanaceae
Native: South America
Blooming: Spring through fall
Care: Full sun to partial shade, well-drained soil
Varieties: Over 35 species, many hybrids
Types: Grandiflora, multiflora, milliflora, spreading

Pansy (Viola × wittrockiana)

Cheerful flowers with distinctive "faces" in a rainbow of colors. Pansies are cool-weather annuals that can bloom in both spring and fall.

Family: Violaceae
Native: Hybrid origin (Europe)
Blooming: Spring and fall
Care: Full sun to partial shade, rich, well-drained soil
Height: 15-25 cm
Symbolism: Remembrance, loving thoughts

Geranium (Pelargonium)

Popular container and bedding plants with rounded flower clusters. Geraniums are known for their long blooming season and aromatic foliage.

Family: Geraniaceae
Native: South Africa
Blooming: Spring through fall
Care: Full sun, well-drained soil, moderate watering
Varieties: Over 200 species
Uses: Ornamental, essential oils, culinary

Begonia (Begonia)

Colorful flowers and attractive foliage make begonias popular for shade gardens. They come in many forms from small bedding plants to large specimens.

Family: Begoniaceae
Native: Tropical and subtropical regions worldwide
Blooming: Summer to fall
Care: Partial to full shade, well-drained soil
Varieties: Over 1,800 species
Types: Tuberous, fibrous, rhizomatous

Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum)

Autumn-blooming flowers with daisy-like or pompon forms. Chrysanthemums, or mums, are the official flower of fall and come in countless varieties.

Family: Asteraceae
Native: Asia, Northeastern Europe
Blooming: Late summer to fall
Care: Full sun, well-drained soil, regular watering
Varieties: Over 40 species, thousands of cultivars
Symbolism: Longevity, joy, optimism

Carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus)

Ruffled, fragrant flowers available in many colors. Carnations are popular cut flowers, symbolizing love, fascination, and distinction.

Family: Caryophyllaceae
Native: Mediterranean region
Blooming: Late spring to summer
Care: Full sun, well-drained soil, moderate watering
Height: 30-60 cm
Uses: Cut flowers, ornamental, culinary (edible petals)

Gladiolus (Gladiolus)

Tall spikes of funnel-shaped flowers in vibrant colors. Gladiolus, also called sword lily, makes excellent cut flowers and adds vertical interest to gardens.

Family: Iridaceae
Native: Africa, Mediterranean, Asia
Blooming: Summer
Care: Full sun, well-drained soil, plant corms in spring
Height: 60-150 cm
Varieties: Over 260 species

Freesia (Freesia)

Fragrant, funnel-shaped flowers on arching stems. Freesias are popular cut flowers known for their sweet perfume and delicate appearance.

Family: Iridaceae
Native: South Africa
Blooming: Spring to early summer
Care: Full sun, well-drained soil, plant corms in fall
Height: 30-45 cm
Colors: White, yellow, pink, purple, red

Anemone (Anemone)

Delicate, cup-shaped flowers with prominent centers. Anemones, also called windflowers, bloom in spring and come in various colors.

Family: Ranunculaceae
Native: Northern temperate zones
Blooming: Spring to early summer
Care: Partial shade, well-drained soil, moderate moisture
Varieties: Over 200 species
Symbolism: Anticipation, protection against evil

Ranunculus (Ranunculus)

Rose-like flowers with layers of delicate petals. Ranunculus, also called buttercup, produces stunning blooms in spring and early summer.

Family: Ranunculaceae
Native: Asia, Europe, North America
Blooming: Spring to early summer
Care: Full sun, well-drained soil, plant tubers in fall
Height: 30-60 cm
Colors: Wide range including white, yellow, pink, red, orange

Sweet Pea (Lathyrus odoratus)

Fragrant, butterfly-shaped flowers on climbing vines. Sweet peas are beloved for their intoxicating scent and pastel colors.

Family: Fabaceae
Native: Sicily, Southern Italy
Blooming: Spring to early summer
Care: Full sun, rich, well-drained soil, support for climbing
Height: 1-2 meters (climbing)
Note: Seeds are toxic if ingested

Cosmos (Cosmos)

Daisy-like flowers with delicate, fern-like foliage. Cosmos are easy-to-grow annuals that attract butterflies and bloom profusely from summer to frost.

Family: Asteraceae
Native: Mexico, Central America
Blooming: Summer to fall
Care: Full sun, average soil, drought tolerant
Height: 60-120 cm
Colors: Pink, white, red, orange, yellow

Nasturtium (Tropaeolum)

Bright, edible flowers with a peppery flavor. Nasturtiums are easy annuals that can be trailing or climbing, with both flowers and leaves being edible.

Family: Tropaeolaceae
Native: South America
Blooming: Summer to fall
Care: Full sun to partial shade, poor to average soil
Height: 30-300 cm (depending on variety)
Uses: Ornamental, culinary, companion planting

Morning Glory (Ipomoea)

Trumpet-shaped flowers that open in the morning and close by afternoon. Morning glories are fast-growing annual vines with heart-shaped leaves.

Family: Convolvulaceae
Native: Tropical and subtropical regions
Blooming: Summer to fall
Care: Full sun, well-drained soil, support for climbing
Height: 2-4 meters (climbing)
Colors: Blue, purple, pink, white, red

Hydrangea (Hydrangea)

Large, showy flower clusters in blue, pink, white, or purple. Hydrangea flower color changes based on soil pH, making them fascinating garden plants.

Family: Hydrangeaceae
Native: Asia, Americas
Blooming: Summer to fall
Care: Partial shade, rich, well-drained soil, regular watering
Height: 1-3 meters
Note: Flower color depends on soil pH

Magnolia (Magnolia)

Large, fragrant flowers on trees and shrubs. Magnolias are ancient flowering plants, with some species dating back millions of years.

Family: Magnoliaceae
Native: Asia, Americas
Blooming: Early spring to summer
Care: Full sun to partial shade, well-drained soil
Height: 3-25 meters (depending on species)
Varieties: Over 200 species

Wisteria (Wisteria)

Cascading clusters of fragrant, pea-like flowers. Wisteria is a vigorous climbing vine that creates stunning spring displays on pergolas and walls.

Family: Fabaceae
Native: China, Japan, Eastern United States
Blooming: Spring
Care: Full sun, well-drained soil, strong support needed
Height: 10-30 meters (climbing)
Colors: Purple, blue, white, pink

Jasmine (Jasminum)

Highly fragrant white or yellow flowers on climbing or trailing plants. Jasmine is prized for its intoxicating evening fragrance.

Family: Oleaceae
Native: Tropical and warm temperate regions
Blooming: Spring to fall (varies by species)
Care: Full sun to partial shade, well-drained soil
Height: 1-6 meters (depending on species)
Uses: Ornamental, perfumery, tea (jasmine tea)

Gardenia (Gardenia)

Fragrant, waxy white flowers with glossy green leaves. Gardenias are beloved for their intoxicating scent and elegant appearance.

Family: Rubiaceae
Native: Tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia
Blooming: Late spring to summer
Care: Partial shade, acidic soil, high humidity
Height: 1-3 meters
Symbolism: Purity, love, refinement

Camellia (Camellia)

Rose-like flowers in winter and early spring. Camellias are evergreen shrubs that provide color when most other plants are dormant.

Family: Theaceae
Native: Eastern and Southern Asia
Blooming: Fall to spring (varies by species)
Care: Partial shade, acidic, well-drained soil
Height: 2-20 meters
Notable: Tea comes from Camellia sinensis

Azalea (Rhododendron)

Showy clusters of funnel-shaped flowers in spring. Azaleas are actually a type of rhododendron, known for their spectacular spring displays.

Family: Ericaceae
Native: Asia, North America
Blooming: Spring
Care: Partial shade, acidic, well-drained soil
Height: 0.5-3 meters
Colors: Pink, red, white, purple, orange, yellow

Rhododendron (Rhododendron)

Large, showy flower clusters on evergreen or deciduous shrubs. Rhododendrons are the state flower of several U.S. states.

Family: Ericaceae
Native: Asia, North America, Europe
Blooming: Spring to early summer
Care: Partial shade, acidic, well-drained soil
Height: 1-8 meters
Varieties: Over 1,000 species

Poppy (Papaver)

Delicate, papery flowers with prominent centers. Poppies come in many forms, from the iconic red field poppy to elegant Oriental poppies.

Family: Papaveraceae
Native: Europe, Asia, North America
Blooming: Spring to summer
Care: Full sun, well-drained soil, avoid overwatering
Height: 30-90 cm
Symbolism: Remembrance, sleep, peace

Delphinium (Delphinium)

Tall spikes of blue, purple, or white flowers. Delphiniums, also called larkspur, add dramatic vertical interest to gardens.

Family: Ranunculaceae
Native: Northern Hemisphere, Africa
Blooming: Early to mid-summer
Care: Full sun, rich, well-drained soil, staking needed
Height: 60-200 cm
Note: All parts are toxic if ingested

Foxglove (Digitalis)

Tall spikes of tubular, bell-shaped flowers. Foxgloves are biennials that self-seed, creating naturalized drifts in gardens.

Family: Plantaginaceae
Native: Europe, Western Asia, Northwestern Africa
Blooming: Early to mid-summer
Care: Partial shade, well-drained soil, moderate moisture
Height: 60-150 cm
Note: Highly toxic; source of digitalis medicine

Lupine (Lupinus)

Tall spikes of pea-like flowers in various colors. Lupines are nitrogen-fixing plants that improve soil quality while providing stunning blooms.

Family: Fabaceae
Native: North and South America, Mediterranean
Blooming: Late spring to early summer
Care: Full sun, well-drained soil, avoid rich soil
Height: 30-150 cm
Colors: Blue, purple, pink, white, yellow, red

Coneflower (Echinacea)

Daisy-like flowers with raised, cone-shaped centers. Coneflowers are native perennials that attract butterflies and are drought-tolerant.

Family: Asteraceae
Native: Eastern and Central North America
Blooming: Summer to fall
Care: Full sun, well-drained soil, drought tolerant
Height: 60-120 cm
Uses: Ornamental, medicinal (immune support)

Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia)

Cheerful yellow or orange daisy-like flowers with dark centers. Black-eyed Susans are tough perennials that bloom profusely in late summer.

Family: Asteraceae
Native: Eastern and Central North America
Blooming: Late summer to fall
Care: Full sun, well-drained soil, drought tolerant
Height: 30-90 cm
Symbolism: Justice, encouragement, motivation

Aster (Aster)

Daisy-like flowers in purple, blue, pink, or white. Asters are fall-blooming perennials that provide late-season color and attract pollinators.

Family: Asteraceae
Native: North America, Europe, Asia
Blooming: Late summer to fall
Care: Full sun to partial shade, well-drained soil
Height: 30-180 cm
Symbolism: Patience, elegance, daintiness

Phlox (Phlox)

Clusters of fragrant, star-shaped flowers. Phlox comes in both creeping and upright forms, providing color from spring through fall.

Family: Polemoniaceae
Native: North America
Blooming: Spring to fall (varies by species)
Care: Full sun to partial shade, well-drained soil
Height: 15-120 cm (depending on species)
Colors: Pink, purple, white, red, blue

Verbena (Verbena)

Clusters of small, colorful flowers on spreading or upright plants. Verbenas are long-blooming annuals and perennials that attract butterflies.

Family: Verbenaceae
Native: Americas, Europe
Blooming: Spring through fall
Care: Full sun, well-drained soil, moderate watering
Height: 15-60 cm
Colors: Purple, pink, red, white, blue

Salvia (Salvia)

Spikes of tubular flowers that attract hummingbirds and butterflies. Salvia, also called sage, includes both ornamental and culinary varieties.

Family: Lamiaceae
Native: Worldwide distribution
Blooming: Summer to fall
Care: Full sun, well-drained soil, drought tolerant
Height: 30-150 cm
Uses: Ornamental, culinary (sage), medicinal

Snapdragon (Antirrhinum)

Spikes of colorful, "snapping" flowers that open when squeezed. Snapdragons are cool-season annuals that add vertical interest and attract bees.

Family: Plantaginaceae
Native: Mediterranean region
Blooming: Spring to fall
Care: Full sun to partial shade, well-drained soil
Height: 15-120 cm
Colors: Wide range including pink, red, yellow, white, purple

Dahlia (Dahlia)

Spectacular flowers in a wide range of forms and colors. Dahlias are tuberous perennials that produce stunning blooms from mid-summer to frost.

Family: Asteraceae
Native: Mexico, Central America
Blooming: Mid-summer to fall
Care: Full sun, well-drained soil, regular watering
Height: 30-200 cm
Varieties: Over 40 species, thousands of cultivars

Calla Lily (Zantedeschia)

Elegant, trumpet-shaped flowers with smooth, waxy petals. Calla lilies are popular for weddings and elegant arrangements.

Family: Araceae
Native: Southern Africa
Blooming: Late spring to summer
Care: Full sun to partial shade, rich, moist soil
Height: 30-90 cm
Colors: White, yellow, pink, orange, purple, black

Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia)

Exotic, bird-like flowers in orange and blue. Bird of paradise is a striking tropical plant that makes a dramatic statement.

Family: Strelitziaceae
Native: South Africa
Blooming: Fall to spring
Care: Full sun, well-drained soil, warm climate
Height: 1-5 meters
Symbolism: Freedom, magnificence, good perspective

Protea (Protea)

Unique, architectural flowers with large, colorful bracts. Proteas are native to South Africa and are the national flower of South Africa.

Family: Proteaceae
Native: South Africa, Australia
Blooming: Varies by species
Care: Full sun, well-drained, acidic soil
Height: 1-3 meters
Symbolism: Diversity, courage, transformation

Amaryllis (Hippeastrum)

Large, trumpet-shaped flowers on tall stalks. Amaryllis are popular indoor bulbs that bloom in winter, bringing color during the cold months.

Family: Amaryllidaceae
Native: Central and South America
Blooming: Winter to spring (when forced)
Care: Bright light, well-drained soil, moderate watering
Height: 30-60 cm
Colors: Red, pink, white, orange, striped

Frangipani (Plumeria)

Highly fragrant, waxy flowers in tropical colors. Frangipani, also called plumeria, is associated with tropical paradise and Hawaiian leis.

Family: Apocynaceae
Native: Central America, Caribbean
Blooming: Summer to fall
Care: Full sun, well-drained soil, warm climate
Height: 2-8 meters
Symbolism: Beauty, charm, grace

Popular Flower Species