Plant, Gifting, Lifestyle & Flower Blog by 1-800-Flowers.com
Author: Nancy Maffia
Nancy Maffia has a bachelor’s in biology and a master’s in horticulture and communications. She has worked in plant taxonomy, has written and edited gardening books and plant articles, and currently works at a garden center helping customers with plant and gardening questions. She has been published in the Encyclopedia of Indoor Gardening, Getting the Most from Your Garden, and others.
Weeds are everywhere, and the bane of gardeners worldwide. But what are they? How are weeds different from the flowers that you plant in your garden? It’s a matter of perception. Weeds are just rapidly spreading plants that have sprouted in a place where they’re not wanted, and they are usually wildflowers. The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines a weed as “a plant that is not valued where it is growing and is usually of vigorous growth.”
Many are unattractive, invasive, and annoying, and some are downright dangerous. On the other hand, some weeds can be beautiful. Wildflower gardens are composed of plants that would be considered weeds in a manicured rose garden. Will you think of that unusual wildflower that popped up in your flower bed a good weed that you keep? It’s up to you as a gardener to decide which will enhance your garden and which you will discard.
Here are 20 common plants that you see along roadsides, lawns, and gardens that are usually thought of as flowering weeds.
1. Black nightshades (Solanum nigrum)
Black nightshades are classified as broadleaf annuals, and they are commonly found in lawns or gardens that have really rich soil. These weeds are visually described as being climbing or bushy plants, and they typically produce white or purple flowers — they are also known to produce red or purple fruits. If you notice any signs of these in your yard you’ll want to remove them as soon as possible, as all parts of the plant are considered to be poisonous.
2. Chicory (Chicorium intybus)
This cheerful, flowering weed is widespread throughout North America. It reaches four feet in height with bright blue flowers that grow right against the stems. Cultivated varieties of chicory (radicchio and Belgian endive) are used for salad greens, and the roots can be used as a coffee substitute and sweetener. Chicory was used as a substitute for coffee in World War II, and blends of coffee and chicory have been popular in Europe and the Middle East for centuries. The young leaves of wild chicory can be used as salad greens, too, before they mature and become bitter. So whether you call it a wildflower or pretty weed, chicory is one of those plants that you can leave on the roadside or cultivate in your yard.
3. Common evening primrose (Oenothera biennis)
Common evening primrose is native to the United States and is a biennial, meaning that it blooms the second year. It is a distinctive plant with unusual characteristics. Its four-petaled, yellow flowers are nocturnal. They open in the evening and wilt the next day, and the four-parted sticky stigma in the center of the flowers is in the shape of a cross. These beautiful plants grow in the sun to partial shade in most kinds of soil, making them adaptable all over the U.S. Are they weeds, wildflowers, or garden plants? They can be any of the three depending on your perspective.
4. Common ragworts (Jacobaea vulgaris, syn)
Common ragworts are described as having lobed leaves that are blue or green in color and yellow flowers that are shaped like a star. Since common ragworts do re-seed at a pretty fast rate, it’s important that you remove the first few as soon as you notice them to prevent future growth.
Tip: Common ragworts produce toxins, so as you remove them, make sure you wear gloves to protect your hands.
5. Common St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum)
This yellow-flowered weed is native across temperate Europe and Asia, but has naturalized and become invasive throughout the Americas. St. John’s wort has been used medicinally for centuries for the treatment of wounds, and is currently popular as an herbal antidepressant. It spreads rapidly, and its clusters of half-inch, bright yellow flowers are pretty enough to be used as a two-foot-tall filler for bare spots in the garden.
6. Creeping buttercups (Ranunculus repens)
Creeping buttercups are most commonly found in soils that are damp, so if you want to keep these at bay you’ll need to keep a close watch on how well-drained your soil is. These weeds have small but bright yellow flowers, and they grow and spread as quickly as they do as a result of their root system.
7. Creeping thistles (Cirsium arvense)
Similar name to the above, but very, very different! You’re more likely to see creeping thistles in lawns that were just seeded or in bare spots of already existing lawns, and visually, they have light purple flowers —not yellow. Additionally, their leaves are said to be spiky, so you definitely won’t want to have them growing anywhere that you might walk! To remove these, you’ll want to use a fork or a daisy grubber.
8. Daisy weeds (Bellis Perennis)
Daisy weeds are considered to be one of the most common perennial weeds that pop up in lawns. Their main characteristics include white petals that surround a yellow center, and you’ll be able to tell that these are in fact a weed by looking closely at the leaves – daisy weeds have green leaves that resemble spoons. If you’ve ever tried to remove daisy weeds by mowing you’ll know that they are extremely resilient, so you’ll need to invest in a daisy grubber to keep them away.
9. Dandelions (Taraxacum)
Visually, you may recognize these better when they have a fluffy, white ball on top of the stem (we’re sure you’ve made a wish on one in the past), but before a dandelion becomes this, it is actually what looks like a yellow flower. Typically you’ll see these in abundance in spring and fall, and they’ll be easy to pick out since they can grow to be pretty tall. And though the best way to prevent dandelions from popping up in your lawn is to have thick, healthy grass, there are herbicides you can use to spray them that won’t damage your grass too.
10. Field bindweed (Convolvulusarvensis)
Field Bindweed, with its white, bell-shaped flowers, is a trailing, climbing vine native to Europe and Asia. It grows along roadsides and fields, and can easily invade your yard. This pretty weed resembles and is related to morning glory, but it is hard to contain and will compete with your other flowers for nutrients and sun if allowed to get a roothold. Bindweed spreads by underground rhizomes and deep roots that must be dug out to permanently get rid of the plant. It is also best to remove it before the flowers go to seed since they can remain viable in the soil for up to 20 years.
11. Fleabane (Erigeron sp.)
Fleabanes are delicate, half- to three-quarter inch, daisy-like flowers with yellow centers and numerous, fine white petals. There are several species of fleabane, and they all bloom from spring to fall. They are a common sight along roadsides, in meadows, fields, woodlands, and yards. Most species grow in the bright sun, but others do best in shady locations. Fleabanes are beautiful in wildflower gardens, so it’s up to you whether you allow them to grow in your yard.
12. Goldenrod (Solidago sp.)
There are between 60-70 species of goldenrod in the United States with plume-shaped, flat-topped, or narrow, spike-like, yellow flower heads. These weeds are a familiar sight along roadsides, in fields and meadows, thickets, and in open, sunny clearings. They foreshadow the coming of autumn since most of the species bloom from July through October. Goldenrods are not good plants for the garden, but are often used in fall-themed flower arrangements.
13. Henbits (Lamium amplexicaule)
Henbits are winter annuals that produce pink or purple flowers on top of their green foliage. The good news with henbits is that they are usually pretty easy to remove by hand. However, if you don’t catch them in time, they begin to take over your lawn or garden. In that case, you’ll want to opt for using a post-emergent herbicide to remove them.
Jimsonweed is a plant that you would not want in your yard. It has 3″-5″ long, white to light purple, trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom at night, and coarsely toothed leaves. It is thought to be native to Central America, as are all of its cousins in the nightshade family, and it has spread and naturalized throughout the United States. The flower is beautiful, but the plant contains hallucinogenic alkaloids that can be toxic. For your family’s safety, it would be best to remove this weed.
15. Milkweed (Asclepias sp.)
Milkweeds, with their dense clusters of pinkish-purple flowers, are a source of nectar for monarch butterflies. They are native to North America, and are frequently seen in fields and meadows. One species, butterfly weed (Asclepias tuberosa), is a popular garden flower for butterfly gardens. All of the Milkweed species are large-textured plants that love full sun and moist soil.
16. Oxalis (corniculata)
Don’t let an oxalis plant fool you into thinking it’s a clover! Although its leaves look like clovers, you’ll be able to tell the difference by looking for flowers — oxalis plants produce a cup-shaped yellow flower in both summer and fall. Since these are known to grow in shady and sunny areas, there’s a good chance you might see them in your yard. You can keep them at bay by adding mulch in the spring.
This is a pretty flowering weed with a flat, white, lacy flower head that you will see along sunny roadsides and meadows during the summer. Queen Anne’s Lace is a biennial that is native to temperate Europe and southwest Asia that has naturalized all over North America. It is directly related to garden carrots. In fact, its roots can be eaten when they are young before they become woody with age, and the leaves, flowers, and seeds are also safe to eat. But be careful! This pretty wildflower looks very much like poison hemlock (Conium maculatum), a weed that is highly toxic to humans and pets. The way you can tell them apart is that Queen Anne’s lace has green, hairy stems and poison hemlock’s stems are blotchy purple and smooth (without hair).
18. White clovers (trifolium repens)
White clover weeds are normally found growing in soil that is rich in nutrients and are best described as producing white or pink flowers. These too are perennial weeds and are known to have three-lobed leaves. You are more likely to see these particular weeds in areas of your lawn that receive sun and partial shade. Although we usually think of weeds as being a nuisance, these could actually be somewhat helpful since they release nitrogen into soil.
19. Wild roses (Rosa sp.)
Native wild roses grow all over the United States in pastures, meadows, woodlands, hedgerows, and yards. They are shrubby and do more spreading than their highly bred cousins. Their charming, pink or white flowers are simple, with five flat petals, and they bloom anywhere from May to August depending on the species. Wild roses have a following, and are preferred by some for their rustic beauty. Others consider them weeds. When planted in a garden, they do need to be pruned back to keep them contained since they will spread and overtake an area.
20. Wild violets (Viola odorata)
Just like daisy weeds and white clovers, violets are perennial weeds. These produce flowers that are either white or lavender in color, and although they may look pretty, they can become pretty invasive and difficult to manage if you don’t treat them with the proper herbicide quickly. Generally speaking, these weeds appear in thin lawns rather than thick, so check shady areas of your yard for signs of them (grass is typically thinner in shady spots).
It’s easy to take our friends for granted, but two special days every summer help make sure these friendships are front and center.
National Best Friend Day is Wednesday, June 8, and International Friendship Day is observed each year on July 30. The United States has celebrated National Friendship Day on the first Sunday in August for more than 100 years. Make sure these days are on your calendar!
A beautiful way to show a friend that you care about them and appreciate them — any time of the year — is by sending an arrangement of flowers that specifically symbolizes friendship.
7 types of friendship flowers
These seven types of flowers convey emotions that only a special relationship like friendship can evoke.
1. Yellow roses
Yellow roses are the quintessential friendship flower. They symbolize friendship, happiness, and new beginnings, and are the perfect way to rekindle a friendly relationship. Reach out to an old friend and send a vase full of fragrant yellow roses or a potted rose plant for their garden. They are a delightful way to show that you care and want to continue your friendship. There are more than 300 species of roses, with many thousands of cultivars.
2. Alstroemeria
Also called Peruvian lily, alstroemeria symbolizes the strong bond between two people that transcends romantic love. Send this elegant flower to a special friend to celebrate the strength and devotion of your friendship. Alstroemerias are tuberous perennials native to the cold, mountainous regions of South America. They are popular as cut flowers and also in the garden. Their delicate flowers come in many colors, and they bloom every summer and fall.
3. Chrysanthemums
Chrysanthemums (or mums, as they are commonly known) symbolize many things the world over: optimism, joy, longevity, and well wishes, for example. Honor a happy, upbeat friendship that looks forward to the future with a vase or pot full of chrysanthemums. Most of the species are native to East Asia, where they have been cultivated since 1500 BC. Mums are often sold as annuals in the fall, but if you start them in the spring, they will be established enough to overwinter and truly be perennial.
4. Sunflowers
Bright yellow sunflowers make a cheery statement any time of the year. Their flower heads move to faithfully follow the sun across the sky, and, as a result, they are thought to symbolize adoration and loyalty. Send a bouquet to a favorite person to show how highly you think of them and remind them that you’re a forever friend. Sunflowers for the garden are usually grown as summer annuals.
5. Pink tulip
Pink tulips are a delightful way to symbolize your affection and good wishes for a special friend. Send a bouquet “just because,” for a happy event, or for Friendship Day. You can supplement the flowers with pink tulip bulbs for the garden that will continue to share that affection year after year as they bloom in the spring.
6. Daffodil
Cheerful yellow daffodils carry the hope and positivity of new beginnings, joy, and good fortune. These jaunty perennial spring bulbs are the perfect gift to celebrate a new friendship or to send wishes of good fortune to a friend who is beginning a new venture. Daffodils can be sprouted in a pot, planted in the garden, or arranged in a vase. They are native to Northern Europe and bloom in early spring in much of the United States.
7. Zinnia
Cheerful, colorful zinnias brighten up a garden and are wonderful in a bouquet. They are perfect “cut and come again” flowers, since they keep blooming even after the blossoms have been cut. Zinnias symbolize endurance, lasting affection, and friendship. A bouquet of these bright flowers will send a message that you care and will always be there as a friend. Zinnias are annual flowers native to Mexico, South America, and the southwestern U.S.
Friendship Day gift ideas
Celebrate the ones who always know how to make you smile with Friendship Day gifts, including truly original Friendship Day flowers, food, and unique keepsakes for your besties!
Fragrant, graceful lavender, with its silvery-green foliage and spikes of purple, pink, or white flowers, is a perennial shrub and belongs to the mint family. Though grown throughout the world today, it’s native to areas surrounding the Mediterranean and countries east of India.
If you’ve ever looked out over a lavender field, you know the hypnotizing elegance of lavender flowers. But aside from the beauty that the purple blossoms bring, did you know that lavender brims with meaning and has a multitude of uses?
Lavender meaning
Lavender flowers represent purity, silence, devotion, serenity, grace, and calmness. Purple is the color of royalty and speaks of elegance, refinement, and luxury, too. The color is also associated with the crown chakra, which is the energy center associated with higher purpose and spiritual connectivity.
Lavender uses through history
Lavender has been used for more than 2,500 years for fragrances, therapeutics, and cooking and as an ornamental shrub. Egyptians used lavender oil in embalming, and the Greeks benefited from its medicinal properties for easing headaches, gastritis, and sore throats. It was also used extensively by the Romans, who brought it with them throughout the Empire.
The word “lavender” comes from the Latin lavare (“to wash”) — the Romans used the fragrant oil in their baths. From the Middle Ages and Renaissance right up to modern times, lavender has been used in perfumes, toilet waters, potpourris, and sachets. As an aromatherapy oil, it relieves stress and induces sleep. The oil’s antiseptic properties are also known to heal wounds and burns and to ward off disease. Taken internally, lavender preparations have been used to ease digestive complaints and headaches.
Lavender benefits today
Constantly shaking your fist at foraging deer and rabbits that eat up your flower, vegetable, and herb gardens? Plant lavender! Lavender plants are effective critter repellents, and they can be planted in containers or used as cut flowers to ward off pesky insects.
In the kitchen, the flowers lend a light, floral taste to meats, seafood, desserts, or summer drinks — but be sure to buy a variety of culinary lavender (L. angustfolia), since other types can be too strong and sharp.
Of course in addition to all the wonderful benefits of the oil, lavender is an excellent garden ornamental. It is breathtaking in a mass planting, a rock garden, a container, or as a border plant. And since it is a perennial shrub, lavender can be clipped into a low hedge.
Lavender is valued for its physical beauty, soothing fragrance, and healing properties. Here are some ways to enjoy it.
Dried lavender tea
Tea made from lavender leaves has been said to help relieve insomnia. Drinking this relaxing, calming tea before bedtime can reduce stress and help you doze off into a peaceful slumber. Lavender tea is also used to treat gastrointestinal issues, such as digestive problems or a nervous stomach.
Essential lavender oil
Lavender’s medicinal benefits and pleasant aroma make it the most used essential oil in the world. That familiar scent is a combination of fresh, floral, clean, and calm notes. Research suggests that the continuous use of lavender oil provides antioxidant protection, helps balance blood sugar, heals cuts and burns, improves acne, and alleviates headaches. And the healing properties don’t stop there: Dabbing essential lavender oil on your temples is said to alleviate tension headaches and migraines, and it is commonly used in relaxing massages and skin-care and bath products.
Lavender lotion
Lavender lotiondoes double duty: It moisturizes your skin, and the scent has a calming effect. No wonder it’s a popular gift!
Lavender in the kitchen
Culinary lavender is a versatile herb. It belongs to the mint family, so it adds freshness to any recipe, and its floral, slightly sweet flavor delivers a tasty boost to many dishes. Add lavender flowers to salads or meat dishes for a beautiful burst of color. Lavender lemonade mimosas are just one of the popular and delicious cocktail options.
Lavender potpourri, spray, and scented candles
These are all great ways to enjoy the scent of lavender in your home. Use them to freshen clothes drawers or to add a touch of zen to a room.
Types of lavender
A whopping 45 recognized species of the lavender plant (Lavandula) grow throughout temperate regions. The five most popular types of lavender are English, French, Portuguese, Spanish, and Lavandin.
English lavender or common lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
This 2-foot-high, compact woody plant with spikes of purple, lavender, pink, or white flowers blooms from late spring to midsummer. It is highly fragrant and grows in well-draining soil. English lavender is excellent as a border plant, in rock gardens, and in containers, and it has been a favorite as a low hedge in ornamental gardens since the Renaissance. It is the most commonly cultivated type, and its high-quality aromatic oil is used in perfumes, soaps, sachets, and potpourris, and as a flavoring.
French lavender (Lavandula dentata)
This species has light flowers with a mild scent and sharply aromatic toothed leaves. It grows from 12 inches to 36 inches high and blooms all the way from spring to fall. It is not a cold-weather shrub, and it thrives in warmer climates. French lavender is grown for perfumes, sachets, and potpourris.
Portuguese or spike lavender (Lavandula latifolia)
Possessing a stronger scent than its English cousin, Portuguese, or spike, lavender has pale lilac flowers that sway on long stems and bloom from late spring to late summer. The plant grows from 1 foot to 3 feet high. The oil from Portuguese lavender is prized as an antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral.
Spanish lavender (Lavandula stoechas)
This plant is characterized by distinctive white flowers with long petals (ears) arising from the top of the flower head that fade to pink and deep purple as the plant matures. Only the leaves are fragrant in this species, and they are used for essential oils and potpourris. The plant grows in an 18-inch- to 24-inch-high mound and blooms from mid-spring to late summer. It can tolerate more humid summers than English lavender. Spanish lavender is used in mass plantings and in containers, but it’s not the best choice for culinary purposes.
Lavandin (Lavandula × intermedia)
A hybrid of English and Portuguese lavender with strongly fragrant flowers and leaves, lavandin grows in mounds up to 30 inches high and blooms from mid- to late summer in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 9. It is popularly used as hedges, in rock gardens, and for perfumes and potpourris, but not for cooking.
How to care for lavender
Once established, lavender is easy to maintain in your garden. It’s possible to grow the plants from seed, but since they take a long time to germinate and sometimes are not successful, it’s best to buy plants from a nursery. Be sure to determine which type of lavender will grow in your USDA hardiness zone. Lavender requires full sun and well-draining, alkaline soil. If your soil is hard-packed, mix in organic material so that the roots can extend and the water can drain. Water the plants deeply, then allow the soil to dry before watering again. Deadhead any spent flowers to encourage reblooming, and prune the plants in the fall, making sure to cut out any dead branches.
The series “Freshly Sourced” provides all the tricks of the trade when it comes to floral care. From floral design classes to tips on how to prolong your new floral arrangement, we have sourced expertise from floral maestros all over the country so you can show off your own unique craft. In this guide, we explore the world’s most popular flower types.
Flowers come in thousands of different shapes and color combinations, each with their own name and classification. There are over 400,000 types of flowering plants, so there is sure to be a flower that speaks to your unique personality! If that seems like a lot to sort through, have no fear — here is a list of 60 of the most popular flower types.
1. Rose
Like the flower itself, the history of the rose is very colorful. Roses have been naturally growing for over 35 million years! However, they were not known to be cultivated until about 5,000 years ago. Their usage began not just as a decorative touch to one’s home, but they were also used for medicinal purposes and to make perfumes, and their petals were even used as confetti for festive occasions. Getting your roses into water quickly is the first step in caring for them. Fill a vase three-fourths full of fresh, cool tap water. The roses will absorb the water, soaking up the nutrients that will travel up to the bloom and create a lively flower. Check the water level in your rose’s vase every day and add more water as needed. Shop these classic flowers for Valentine’s Day!
2. Sunflower
Sunflowers are one of the most popular flower types and are best known for their dazzling yellow color and large size. They generally symbolize adoration, loyalty, and longevity in the language of flowers. Native Americans view sunflowers as a symbol of harvest and bounty since the flower provides seeds and pigments, in addition to being visually beautiful. Sunflowers need direct sunlight for six to eight hours per day and require hot conditions to flower well. Sunflowers also have long roots that require plenty of room to spread out, so soil should be well dug and not too dense for growth. Avoid over-fertilization or risk your stems breaking in the fall. In addition to being great in a garden, sunflowers make great gifts and look wonderful in bouquets.
3. Hydrangea
You know summer is here when big, showy hydrangea bushes begin gracing gardens across the country. This perennial, a native of East Asia and the Americas, comprises more than 75 species and 600 cultivated varieties, of which mophead, lacecap, oakleaf, and peegee are the most common. Some hydrangea flowers can turn a pretty pink or blue depending on the acidity or alkalinity of the soil, while others will remain white. Mopheads, lacecaps, and oakleafs bloom on the previous year’s wood and can be pruned in the summer after flowering; peegees bloom on this year’s wood and can be pruned in the late winter, before the new spring growth.
4. Lavender
Spanish, French, or English lavender are sweet herb garden favorites that provide soothing fragrances, flavorings, and beauty all together in little floral packages. More than 40 species are native to areas surrounding the Mediterranean and are semi-evergreen perennials or sub-shrubs with gray-green, hairy, linear leaves and purple, violet, lavender, or pinkish-white flowers. Tiny glands on the flowers, leaves, and stems of the plant produce the scented oil that is used in perfumes, bath preparations, lavender water, and in aromatherapy to relieve stress and anxiety and bring about sleep. Lavender is also prized as a flavoring in cooking, as an ingredient in teas, and for a monofloral honey.
5. Peony
Peonies, a beloved flower that blooms in late spring/early summer, come in a wide variety of colors. They range from white to red, coral, purple, pink, and yellow. These flowers make stunning centerpieces and work great in large bouquets. The key to growing a thriving peony is to make sure you plant it at the right time, plant correctly, and, of course, care for it all throughout the year, even when it isn’t necessarily in season. Since peonies can grow rather tall (sometimes as tall as 5 feet!), you’ll need to make sure that the spot you choose is spacious enough. And remember, peonies can come back year after year, so you’ll need to think long term.
6. Daisy
Daisies are a very popular flower that can be found on every continent other than Antarctica. They belong to one of the largest known plant families and symbolized innocence, a connotation that comes from the Victorian era. Based on what color the daisy is, the flower can take on a different meaning. Daisy flowers prefer full sun and average soil conditions. Depending on the variety, they can grow anywhere from 8 inches to 4 feet. Care tip: Only water during the summer if rainfall is less than 1 inch per week.
7. Orchid
Did you know that orchids are one of the oldest flowering plants known to man? Scientists speculate that orchids have been around as long as 100 million years. Some of the most popular types of the more than 30,000 that exist are phalaenopsis, dendrobium, cattleya, and vanilla. Orchids generally represent love, fertility, thoughtfulness, and charm. However, each variety of these flower types has its own color and meaning. Phalaenopsis orchids symbolize health and prosperity, while dendrobium represent wisdom and beauty. Cymbidium symbolize strength and nobility, and oncydium orchids symbolize love and talent.
8. Tulip
There are over 150 species and 3,000 varieties of tulips, which are part of the lily family. Like most common flowers, tulips come in a wide variety of colors and shapes, each of which has its own meaning. As a signal of the arrival of spring, these blooms are often associated with Easter. At one point, tulips were more valuable than gold in Holland during a period called “Tulip Mania,” and their popularity has only spread with time. Tulip bulbs should be planted in the fall, in areas where they can receive partial to full sun. Tulips will fare better in soil that allows for drainage, since over-watering will drown the bulb and roots.
9. Lily
Lilies are one of the most popular and versatile flowers in the world. Coming in a variety of colors and known for their strong fragrance, this elegant bloom is a show-stopper on its own while also serving as the perfect complement to any bouquet. In fact, lilies are one of the most popular flowers in the world, and it’s not hard to see why. There are over 100 different types of true lilies belonging to the “lilium” genus. Lilies are found predominantly in the Northern Hemisphere.
10. Chrysanthemum
Cultivated mums originated in China more than 3,000 years ago, and have become familiar and well-loved fall flowers the world over. Thousands of varieties with unique flower shapes brighten home gardens, containers, median strips, and parking lots from late summer through frost with their delightful orange, red, yellow, purple, or white blooms. Chrysanthemums are easy to grow perennials and will come back year after year if planted early in the season, so that they become established before winter. In addition to their beauty, chrysanthemum flowers can be made into a tea, and the leaves can be eaten as salad greens.
11. Dahlia
These attractive blooms come in a wide range of colors and can be easily incorporated into any existing or new garden. And unlike most plants, these flowers thrive in some shade. They also flower extremely long, first blooming midsummer and lasting through the first frost. However, even though dahlias are perennials, they are tuberous rooted plants, so they should be replanted every spring after resting.
12. Daffodil
Daffodils go by many names depending on the species and variety — narcissus, jonquils, or paperwhites — but they are all daffodils and they all belong to the genus Narcissus. These iconic flowers are perennial bulbs that are very easy to grow. They will multiply every year in the garden as long as they have good soil with adequate drainage. They are deer resistant and possess a natural pesticide, so few insects bother them other than for pollination. Daffodils are the national flower of Wales and the 10th anniversary posy.
13. Iris
Elegant irises are native to Europe, the Middle East, northern Africa, Asia, and North America. They grow from either perennial rhizomes or bulbs, and range in size from 8 to 36 inches high, with flat, sword-shaped or curved leaves, and purple, yellow, orange, blue, or white flowers, depending on the species and variety. The rhizomes of some iris species are called orrisroot and are used in perfumery and for potpourris. They are the state flower of Tennessee, the 25thwedding anniversary flower, and the national symbol of France, from the fleur-de-lis, a graphic representation of the iris. Irises also make great gifts for anyone in your life, particularly if you are looking for a non-traditional flower.
14. Periwinkle
Periwinkle, also known as myrtle, is a popular ground cover with shiny dark green leaves that blooms in April and May with purple, blue, or white flowers. There are over 30 varieties of the small plant that include variegated leaf types and lavender, blue, burgundy, or white flowers. They are great for erosion control, tumbling over rock walls in the sun, or spreading out underneath trees in the shade. Periwinkle is the flower of sweet and sad remembrance, and has often been planted over graves.
15. Azalea
One of the hallmarks of late spring are the vivid azaleas that bloom in yards, along trails, and in woodlands. These familiar shrubs are either evergreen or deciduous and display a profusion of white, pink, red, orange, yellow, or purple flowers that cover the bushes. Azaleas prefer shady locations under trees and thrive in acidic soil. But be careful — all parts of the azalea are poisonous.
16. Calla lily
The calla lily, sometimes also called the arum lily, is associated with faith and purity. For this reason, religious figures like the Virgin Mary are often depicted holding a bouquet of calla lilies. Calla lilies are also often associated with sympathy and rebirth, making them a popular flower for sympathy occasions. These beauties grow in full to partial sunlight and should be planted in spring to bloom in late summer. With continued care, they can grow up to 2 feet tall! Once cut, calla lilies can last two weeks in a vase.
17. Carnation
Carnations are an affordable option, making them a popular choice for gardens and floral arrangements. They come in three different types: large-flowered carnations (florist’s carnation), spray carnations, and dwarf flowered carnations. Large-flowered carnations can grow to over 20 inches high with one large bloom per stem. Spray and dwarf carnations have smaller blooms but multiple blooms per stem. These carnations grow to 12 inches and are more commonly found in gardens. When planting carnations, take care to plant them in well-draining soil and in an area with ample sunlight. Carnations have different meanings depending on their color: A pink carnation symbolizes motherly love, a white carnation means good luck, a yellow carnation means disappointment, etc. Their versatility has made them an extremely popular flower for all occasions.
18. Marigold
Beautifully orange and gold in color, marigolds symbolize a desire for wealth and success. They are such a bright color that their pigments are also used in the textile and food industry! Marigolds are easy to grow and are even deer resistant. They are a versatile flower and may also be used when grieving over the loss of a loved one or when celebrating those who have passed.
19. Violet
There are over 500 species of these merry little wildflowers, mostly in the temperate Northern Hemisphere, popping up in lawns, woodlands, streambanks, and hillsides. True violets are annual, perennial, or even small shrubs with white, yellow, lavender, or purple flowers. Our garden pansies are also violets but are larger, multicolored cultivars of the European flower known as heartsease. The violet is February’s birth flower, and the state flower of Illinois, New Jersey, and Wisconsin.
20. Begonia
With over 1,800 species native to tropical and subtropical regions around the world, begonias are one of the easiest-to-grow and best-loved plants we have in our gardens and homes. These annuals are mainly grouped by their root systems, and are grown for either their attractive flowers or ornamental foliage — or both. Rex begonias, with their striking leaves, are rhizomatous, and tuberous begonias are known for their big, beautiful flowers. Wax begonias and angel wing begonias are fibrous-rooted and grown for both flowers and foliage. Most are highly hybridized, such as the popular Rieger begonias, which is a cross between wax and tuberous.
21. Gardenia
Gardenias are most famous for their scented and waxy white flowers that can bring a garden to life. Depending on your geographical location (and personal preference), you can decide whether your gardenia will live indoors or outdoors. To ensure that your gardenias bloom throughout their growing season, keep the soil well-drained and at a pH of 4.5 to 5.5 regardless of whether they are planted in a pot or outside in the garden. These plants also need ample amounts of water, so make sure to never let your gardenia dry out — water regularly!
22. Hyacinth
Hyacinths, with their powerfully sweet scent, are popular spring bulbs native to eastern Mediterranean countries, including Turkey, Syria, and Lebanon. Today, about 60 cultivars exist, with white, pink, red, purple, or blue flowers that grow in a tight column along short stems. Hyacinths can easily be grown outside in the garden or in containers, or indoors in pots. After planting, can take upwards of three months for them to establish a root system, but once established and blooming, they will reward you with pretty colors and a sweet scent.
23. Kale
Ornamental kale is a member of the cabbage family and is closely related to broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts. Like its relatives, it is a cool-season plant that grows best and achieves its most vibrant colors in the fall, winter, or early spring. It has been hybridized for its ornamental value rather than taste, and it makes a colorful addition to a cold-weather garden when the other plants have faded. Its wide head of ruffled leaves in red, pink, white, and purple makes a stunning border or brightens a container with its color.
24. Amaranthus
Amaranths comprise about 75 species that are native to every continent but Antarctica. Some are grown as ornamentals, some only for their highly nutritious seeds and foliage, and some are grown for both reasons. Many varieties that you can plant in your flower garden are ornamentals that can be eaten. Depending on the variety, they can reach 2 to 5 feet in height, with plume-like or tassel-like red, pink, burgundy, or bronze flower heads growing out from their green or purplish leaves.
25. Geranium
What we call geraniums are actually in the genus Pelargonium and are tropical perennials native to South Africa and Australia. Our familiar garden geraniums are grown outdoors as annuals in temperate zones and can be brought indoors to overwinter or grown as year-round houseplants. The pretty clusters of flowers come in red, pink, salmon, white, violet, or bicolored, and some species and cultivars also have scented leaves with a surprising number of uses. Scented-leaf geraniums are used in the perfume industry, for potpourris and aromatherapy, as insect repellents (think citronella), and for flavorings like rose, lemon, and peppermint.
26. Gladiolus
Elegant gladiolus, or glads, from Europe and South Africa, make a bold statement in a garden, with trumpet-shaped flowers that open from bottom to top along tall stems. They grow 2 to 5 feet high, with sword-shaped leaves and pink, yellow, red, purple, green, orange, or white flowers. Glads take 70 to 100 days from planting to flowering, so start planting the corms when the ground warms up in the spring and then continue to do so every two weeks until mid-summer for a continuous display from summer to frost. Glads show off behind smaller flowers in a mixed bed and are a favorite in large, cut-flower arrangements.
27. Petunia
The cheerful petunia, a staple of old-fashioned gardens, planters, and hanging pots, is more vivid than ever, with red, yellow, pink, purple, lavender, white, multicolored, or striped blossoms. They are reliable flowers that will bloom from spring through autumn if grown in the sun and deadheaded consistently. Many of them feel sticky to the touch due to sap that is exuded from the plant tissues to protect them from insect pests. Petunias are native to South America and are related to tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, and tobacco.
28. Ranunculus
Ranunculus flowers are varieties of the big, showy, Persian buttercups that grow from claw-shaped corms and come in a variety of bright colors. Their layers of paper-thin, glossy petals give the blossoms a rose-like appearance that is appealing for wedding bouquets or long-lasting cut flowers. Ranunculus are not commonly grown in home gardens, but they could be. Southern gardeners can plant the corms in the fall for spring blooms, and northern gardeners can plant in the early spring for summer blossoms.
29. Zinnia
Colorful, easy-to-grow zinnias are a beginner gardener’s dream. They can be seeded from the last frost to early summer and will consistently produce blooms all season if dying blooms are deadheaded — truly a “cut and come again” flower. They are herbaceous annuals, native to Mexico, South America, and the southwestern U.S. that are of varying heights, with bright flowers that measure 1 to 7 inches in diameter and are single, semi-double, or double. Zinnias are perfect for a butterfly garden, with their red, pink, purple, yellow, white, or orange blossoms that attract pollinators of all kinds, including hummingbirds.
30. Anemone
Swaying in the wind on tall stems, charming, delicate anemones come in a rainbow of colors depending on the species and variety. These members of the buttercup family are native to temperate areas around the globe, including North America. They thrive in full to partial sun in rich and moist soil, and can be grown from seeds or corms. Sow seeds in the ground after the last frost, or plant corms in the fall or early spring, but be careful — anemones, while lovely additions to your garden, are toxic to humans and pets due their containing protoanemonin, a chemical compound that can cause skin irritation if contacted and gastrointestinal discomfort if ingested.
31. Aster
Most of these beautiful perennials are native to Eurasia, with only two from North America — the New York and New England asters. Their 1-inch flowers are starbursts of closely packed, narrow petals in intense blue, purple, lilac, pink, or white. They brighten a garden in late summer through fall and are great for attracting butterflies, bees, and other pollinators. Plant asters in well-drained soil, ensuring they get plenty of sun. The word aster means “star” in Greek, and it sparkles as the September birth flower and also for a 20th wedding anniversary.
32. Black-eyed Susan
Cheerful black-eyed Susans, one of North America’s favorite perennial wildflowers, are frequently seen in fields and meadows. They are a popular addition to a sunny garden since they are hardy, can tolerate drought and a variety of soils, and can reseed and come back year after year. Black-eyed Susans are perfect for a beginner gardener. Their jolly orange petals and brown centers represent encouragement and can be given to a friend who could use a bouquet of optimism.
33. Buttercup
Buttercups are amazingly diverse wildflowers popping up in temperate Asia, Europe, and North America. They can be perennial, biennial, or annual; herbaceous, terrestrial, or aquatic; and can be upright or creeping. They have reflective cells in their petals that make them shine the usual yellow color, but they can also be white, pink, or red. Although buttercups are a cute, familiar sight in spring and summer, it’s best to remember that all parts of them are poisonous to humans and animals.
34. Larkspur
Annual larkspur, native to Western Europe, the Mediterranean, and Asia, is a charming cottage garden plant that adds grace to a garden with its tall spires of bright flowers and fine-textured, fernlike leaves. It is beautiful in mass plantings, mixed groupings, or containers, but is toxic to both humans and animals. The five-petalled, spurred flowers come in colors of blue, red, purple, pink, or white. Since larkspur is a cool-season annual, its seeds should be sown in the early spring, right after the last frost, for springtime blooms that extend into the summer.
35. Pansy
Cheerful little pansies are native to Europe and Asia, and are some of the most popular garden plants grown. They come in blue, purple, white, yellow, and bi-color, and most varieties grow in bunches, close to the ground. Pansies are cool-weather plants and are only perennial in mild climates that have cold winters and summers that are not too hot. In warmer climates, they can only be grown as annuals during the spring and fall.
36. Snapdragon
Snapdragon flowers, shaped like little dragon snouts, are native to the United States, North Africa, and Europe, and have been widespread posies for centuries. Their flowers bloom from the bottom to the top of tall stalks in the summer and fall, and come in yellow, peach, pink, orange, purple, red, white, and bicolor. Snapdragons are picky about their pollinators: Large bumblebees are the only insects that are strong enough to open the upper and lower lips of the snapdragon flower.
37. Delphinium
The delphinium, which is often called larkspur, is an herbaceous perennial with tall spikes of blue or purple flowers. It is indispensable in English cottage gardens and frequently used in florists’ bouquets for its height and vivid blues and purples, with cultivars in whites, reds, and even yellows. It is said that West Coast Native Americans used the flowers to make blue and purple dyes. Delphiniums are a beautiful accent in the garden, but don’t let them escape to a grazing meadow — they’re highly toxic to humans and animals.
38. Gerbera daisy
The gerbera daisy comes in a full rainbow of colors, including pink, orange, yellow and red. Also known as the African daisy, the gerbera was discovered in 1884 in South Africa and then was brought to England, where breeders grew a variety of gerberas that boasted brighter colors and sturdier quality. The popularity of Gerberas slowly spread to the Netherlands, which became one of the biggest gerbera daisy distributors in the world — a title it still holds today. Its vibrant petals make it the flower of choice for celebrating happy occasions, from birthdays to weddings.
39. Yarrow
Yarrow is a perennial in the aster family that is native to Europe, Asia, and North America. Its flat clusters of small flowers come in white, pink, red, purple, yellow, or orange. Starting in the spring with seeds or from small nursery plants, it will bloom in the summer, and, if deadheaded, again in the fall. Yarrow does well in containers and is good as a cut flower for fresh or dried arrangements. It is attractive to pollinators but toxic to dogs, cats, and horses.
40. Allium
Ornamental alliums are close relatives of onions, but because they are not safe to eat, they belong in your flower garden rather than your vegetable garden. Bold pompoms of star-like flowers sit on top of tall, straight stems, and come in shades of white, lilac, pink, and purple. Like onions, ornamental alliums grow from bulbs and should be planted in the fall. These Middle East natives are deer and rabbit resistant, and mildly toxic to humans and pets.
41. Astilbe
Low-maintenance astilbe, with its 25 species native to Asia and North America and many cultivars from which to choose, is an easy flower for a beginner gardener to grow. Its fluffy, long-lasting plumes of red, pink, purple, or white rise on straight stalks above lacy, fernlike foliage during the spring and summer. This perennial grows from rhizomes, and, once established, will flower for years to come.
42. Cornflower
“Cornflower blue” is a color named for this perky annual garden flower. It used to grow abundantly in European cornfields, where it is native, but the modern use of herbicides has prevented it from seeding itself naturally. The original flower was bright blue, but cultivars of white, pink, and purple have been developed. The frilly flowers that bloom from May to mid-July grow singly on tall stalks that can reach 48 inches high. It is good as a bedding plant, in containers, or in a pollinator garden, and is excellent as a cut flower for arrangements, bouquets, and boutonnieres.
43. Crocus
For many of us, the first hint of spring is the little crocus pushing up through the snow. Ninety species of these beautiful bulbs are native to North Africa and the Mediterranean, all the way east to China. Their cup-shaped flowers come in an array of lavender, purple, white, yellow, and multicolored depending on the species and variety. Crocuses are not only grown for their cheerful blooms, but also for the stigmas of autumn-blooming crocuses that are harvested in Iran for the highly prized saffron spice.
44. Dianthus
Dianthus is a large genus that includes carnations and various types of pinks (so named for their jagged-edged petals, which resemble the way fabric looks when cut with pinking shears). Dianthus plants tend to have smaller flowers and be more compact than carnations, and their flowers come in red, pink, lavender, or white, often with complementary markings on the petals. The most common types are perennial and are native to Europe, Asia, and Africa. Excellent in rock gardens, pollinator gardens, and borders, dianthus are deer resistant but toxic to pets.
45. Phlox
Phlox come in enough sizes and types to fill almost any niche in your garden. The most familiar is creeping, or moss, phlox, a low-growing, perennial ground cover. Annual phlox is medium height, reaching about 2 feet, and garden phlox is a perennial that can grow 3 to 5 feet tall. These five-petalled flowers show up in a wide array of colors, depending on the variety, and also have different bloom times, categorized as early, mid-season, or late. Most phlox species are native to North America and are excellent pollinator flowers.
46. Alstroemeria
Alstroemerias are more often called either Peruvian lilies or lilies of the Incas and are native to South America. Peruvian lilies come in a variety of warm colors, such as pink and orange, and are symbolic of friendship, wealth, and devotion. They are popular in floral arrangements for their wide variety of colors. These flowers bloom in late spring/early summer when exposed to direct sunlight and watered weekly. (Water more often when you notice the soil looking dry and less when the soil looks soggy.)
47. California poppy
Also known as the golden poppy, this bright red, orange, or yellow native plant is the state flower of California. It is either an annual or a perennial depending on the climate — annual in colder areas and perennial in warmer regions. The California poppy is a sun worshipper that opens its petals in the sun and closes them on cloudy days and at night. Native Americans used preparations of the plant to relieve anxiety and for various kinds of pain, but unlike its cousin the opium poppy, it does not contain any opiates.
48. Celosia
A native of the Mediterranean area and East Africa, celosia is a member of the amaranth family, and like its cousin, the amaranth, a celosia’s young leaves are safe to eat. It is generally grown for its interesting, whimsical flowers in the garden and as cut flowers that come in red, orange, yellow, pink, white, maroon, or purple. There are three main types of flower structures: plumosa (plume), which has multiple, feathery flower stalks; spicata (wheat), which is the most common, with single flower spikes; and cristata (cockscomb), with its dense, coral, or brain-like flower heads. Celosias come in various sizes, too, so choose one that is appropriate for your garden.
49. Agapanthus
Agapanthus, with their round clusters of blue, lavender, or white flowers sitting atop long, stiff stems, are showy and exotic additions to a garden as accent plants or in a grouping. Since they are happiest and produce more flowers when they are root bound, agapanthus tend to thrive in containers. These natives of South Africa grow from rhizomes that can be planted in the spring after the danger of frost has passed and the ground has warmed to 50° F. The rhizomes can be divided in the spring or early fall and replanted in warm climates or brought inside for winter storage in cold areas.
50. Lisianthus
This elegant flower, native to the prairies of North America, is an herbaceous perennial often grown as an annual in cool regions. Its ruffled, rose-like flowers shine in jewel colors of blue, pink, purple, white, and bicolor against thick, waxy, blue-green foliage. Although it’s possible to grow them from their tiny, dust-like seeds, it takes between 15 to 20 months for them to mature into blooming plants. Buying nursery starts for spring planting is a better choice for most homeowners.
51. Freesia
Freesias are delightful members of the iris family that are native to South Africa. They feature five to seven fragrant, upward-pointing flowers that bloom sequentially in a line on slender, arching stalks. The flowers come in a rainbow of colors: pink, red, purple, blue, yellow, orange, and white. Freesias will flower 10 to 12 weeks after planting and stay fresh for six weeks or more, making them excellent cut flowers for arrangements or wedding bouquets.
52. Campanula
Over 500 species of campanula, or bellflowers, are native to the Northern Hemisphere. They can be annual, perennial, or biennial, and come in various heights and colors depending on the species and variety, but they are all charming additions to any garden. Tall bellflowers can be used in mass plantings as border plants, and shorter varieties are perfect in rock gardens. Their delicate flowers can be bell-, cup-, or star-shaped in white, pink, lavender, or pale blue.
53. Dusty Miller
Dusty Miller is a half-hardy perennial valued for its lacy, wooly, silvery-gray foliage. It is usually grown as a bedding plant or in containers where it acts as a light-colored accent against darker plants. It is especially beautiful paired with pink, reddish-purple, or violet flowers. Dusty Millers grow best in full sun and can stand heat and drought like in its native Mediterranean habitat.
54. Liatris
Fuzzy liatris flowers in amethyst, pink, or white blaze up tall, slender stalks that rise out of clumps of grass-like leaves. These herbaceous perennials are native to the eastern United States and can be grown from corms, small nursery plants, or seeds. They can be planted or sown in the early spring after the danger of frost has passed. Plants started from seeds will usually take two to three years to establish and bloom. They are perfect in meadows or wildflower gardens and are highly attractive to bees and butterflies.
55. Gypsophila
Delicate sprays of baby’s breath, with their tiny white or pink flowers at the ends of threadlike branches, are a favorite choice in arrangements and wedding bouquets. This delightful flower is native to Europe, Africa, Asia, and Australia. In the garden, they grow in mounds, creating a cloudlike effect in borders or mixed containers. Once established, they are resistant to drought, deer, and rabbits but are toxic to humans and pets.
56. Scabiosa
Scabiosa, or pincushion flowers, are native to Europe and make beautiful additions to any sunny garden. They are distinguished by spherical little buds sitting individually atop tall, wiry stems. These buds open into flowers with wavy petals surrounding flattened centers where stamens stick up like pins. Scabiosa are either annual or perennial; the annuals come in a variety of rich colors — lavender, pink, red, burgundy, white, or cream — whereas the perennials are usually larger and are white, blue, or pink.
57. Stock
Stock, or gillyflower as it’s known in Britain, has graced cottage gardens for centuries and was a favorite flower of the Victorian era. It is native to Mediterranean Europe, and is an annual in cool areas and biennial in warmer zones. Clusters of colorful, softly fragrant flowers grow on spikes and bloom throughout the spring and summer. Stocks are excellent as cut flowers, with a long vase life, and they also make beautiful dried flowers.
58. Hypericum
Commonly known as St. John’s Wort, this cheerful little plant is one of the easiest to grow in a home garden. It has 1-inch-long, yellow, star-shaped flowers that bloom in clusters at the ends of its branches from June to September. A herbaceous perennial that is native from Europe to China and northern Africa, it was brought to America by colonists in the 1600s and has naturalized in abundance. It has a long history of medicinal use, having been used to treat everything from anxiety and depression to cuts and burns, in addition to gracing many gardens.
59. Eryngium
Blooming from June through September, eryngium, whose common name is sea holly, is a striking perennial that is a member of the carrot family. It is native to Europe, with steel-blue, thistle-like flowers sitting above spiny purple, green, white, or silver bracts. The branched blue or green stems rise in profusion out of dark green basal leaves. They are drought tolerant and salt-spray tolerant, and are excellent pollinator flowers for bees and butterflies.
60. Brunia
Brunia, a woody, evergreen shrub, is native to the Cape Region of South Africa and is just beginning to be grown commercially in California, Australia, and New Zealand. Though not yet widely available to grow in your garden, its unusual silver, green, or red knobby fruiting heads are used by florists to add an interesting touch to fresh or dried flower arrangements, bouquets, and boutonnieres. Its dark green, needle-like leaves are also used as filler foliage in small arrangements.
Types of flowers by life cycle
Flowering plants can be divided into three main categories with regard to their life cycle: annual, perennial, and biennial.
Here’s what each of those terms means.
Annual
Annuals are plants that live for just a single season, meaning they go through their entire life cycle — from seed to flower — only once before they die. Examples of annuals are petunias, sunflowers, and marigolds.
Perennial
Perennials are plants that live for three or more seasons, meaning once you plant them, they come back year after year (with the proper care and maintenance, of course). Examples of perennials are asters, peonies, and daffodils.
Biennial
Biennials are plants that live for two seasons, meaning they have a two-year life cycle. During the first season, seeds produce the root structure, stems, and leaves; in the second season, the plant completes its growth with the formation of flowers, fruit, and seeds. An example of a biennial is kale.
What is the most popular flower?
These 10 treasures brighten gardens all over the United States, regardless of region or hardiness zone. Each species comes in a charming assortment of colors, shapes, and sizes, depending on the variety.
Rose
Tulip
Daffodil
Lily
Chrysanthemum
Iris
Dahlia
Pansy
Peony
Hydrangea
What are the most beautiful flower types in the world?
Beauty is always subjective, but these five flowers are considered to be among the most beautiful in the world.
Orchid – Speaks of elegance, prosperity, and calm. Perfect for any occasion.
Lotus – Delicate blossoms that float on water are ancient symbols of purity and rebirth in Eastern cultures.
Rose – Has conveyed beauty, love, and passion throughout the ages in poetry, song, and bouquets. A classic garden flower for millennia.
Cherry blossom – Clusters of pink and white flowers cover the branches of the Japanese cherry, or sakura, briefly transforming the tree into a picture of ethereal beauty.
Queen of the Night – The delicate, haunting, white flowers of this cactus bloom only at night and emit an exceptionally sweet perfume.
What are the most expensive flower types?
These exquisite flowers range in price from hundreds to millions of dollars.
David Austin “Sweet Juliet” rose – The cost of developing Juliet was about 3 million British pounds, or $3.7 million U.S. dollars, making it the world’s most expensive rose.
Gloriosa lily – This rare lily species can be difficult to harvest.
“Gold of Kinabalu” orchid – The high price tag of this rare, endangered orchid is due to the fact that it can take up to 15 years to bloom.
Saffron crocus – Harvesting the small stigma threads of the flower for saffron spice is a painstaking process.
Kadupul flower – The most expensive flower in the world (it’s literally priceless) due to its rarity and frailty — it lives for only a few hours, and then dies.
What are common flowers for a garden?
These 15 flowers, which comprise annuals, perennials, trees, and shrubs, are well-loved and frequently seen in gardens across the U.S.
Azalea
Begonia
Chrysanthemum
Clematis
Coneflower
Daisy
Iris
Lilac
Magnolia
Marigold
Petunia
Phlox
Salvia
Snapdragon
Vinca
What are the most unique flowers?
These six flowers are highly unusual in size, shape, texture, or fragrance.
Corpse flower – This huge, 100-pound plant only flowers once and gives off a strong, putrid odor.
Black bat flower – The wide petals of this flower resemble a bat with long, cascading whiskers.
Monkey orchid – The flowers of this orchid look remarkably like the face of a — you guessed it — monkey.
King protea – This flower is very large — up to 12 inches in diameter.
Ghost orchid – A rare, endangered orchid that is leafless and grows on trees, with a shape like a floating ghost.
Skeleton flower – When they get wet, the petals of this simple white flower become transparent and appear to be made of ice.
What is the rarest known flower?
The Middlemist Red is considered the rarest flower on earth. It was over-collected from China in the 1800s and eventually vanished from its native habitat. Today, it is grown in only two locations: the Treaty House garden in Waitangi, New Zealand, and Chiswick House & Gardens in London. Fascinatingly, the Middlemist Red is not actually red but more of a deep rose color.
What is the rarest color of flower?
Blue is a rare color in nature, especially in flowers. The pigment is difficult for plants to produce and is found only in flowers that need insects, especially bees, to pollinate them. (The reason for that is bees see colors differently than humans do and are sensitive to blue, green, and ultraviolet.) Harsh environments tend to produce more blue flowers; the Himalayan Poppy, for example, grows in north India, Bhutan, and high in the Himalayan Mountains of Nepal.
From tulips to chrysanthemums, our series “The Language of Flowers” explores everything from fresh flower care tips to flower symbolism and meaning.
Flowers, with their spectrum of colors, have a beautiful language all their own. Symbolism of both the flowers and their colors are found in scripture, literature, and art in both Eastern and Western cultures. Flowers carry heartfelt messages of all kinds depending on the type of flower and its color.
The symbolism took root in the 1500s when women in the Middle East and Europe preferred to express their sentiments with flowers rather than words. Dictionnaire du Language des Fleurs was the first published work on the subject in 1809 by Joseph Hammer-Purgstall, an Austrian historian. Hundreds of books on floriography — the language of flowers — followed, and interest in floral symbolism peaked in Europe and the United States in the 1800s.
Today, we speak this language every time we send messages of caring with flowers, so be sure to choose a bouquet with the appropriate meaning. Tulips bloom in the spring and symbolize new life and perfect love, but they come in many colors. What do their different colors mean? Take a look at each tulip color below to send just the right message to those you love.
Red tulips
Red tulips are a strong declaration of love, passion, and perfect love. When you’ve found that perfect someone and you want to let them know how much you care, send them a romantic bouquet of bright red tulips.
Pink tulips
Pink tulips have more to do with affection and good wishes than with passionate love. They are perfect to send to friends or family for a birthday, congratulations, or any happy occasion to show that you care.
Purple tulips
In the past, purple signified royalty. Today, you can let your loved one know that you appreciate how regal they are with an elegant purple tulip bouquet. Purple is also part of the Easter tradition, denoting the beginning of new life, and is a popular flower color for bouquets at that time of year.
Orange tulips
Orange tulips show understanding, compassion, and sympathy. You can celebrate your special connection to a colleague, friend, or a romantic partner with a bouquet of orange tulips.
Yellow tulips
Yellow is a cheerful color that symbolizes friendship, happiness, and hope. Yellow tulips are an excellent choice for a sunny bouquet of uplift and encouragement, get well wishes, or a just-because for a friend.
White tulips
White is the color of purity, innocence, honor, respect, and forgiveness. White tulips are often seen at religious services such as weddings, baptisms, and funerals. They can also say, “I’m sorry,” to ask for forgiveness and to mend a friendship.
Variegated tulips
Tulips with multiple-colored petals symbolize beautiful eyes. They are perfect for telling a special someone that they take your breath away.
Blue tulips
Blue tulips symbolize peace and tranquility. This is a unique color in tulips that can calm anxiousness and offer a sense of serenity. Send a bouquet of blue tulips to calm an anxious friend or family member.
There are so many avenues of communication today — by written note, text, email, phone, or video conferencing — that a simple sentiment expressed with flowers is a refreshing and delightful change of pace. Show a friend or loved one that you care by sending a bouquet of beautiful tulips that express your feelings with the age-old language of flowers.
Indoor plants are a delight, bringing beauty and life to our homes. You can enjoy an indoor garden year-round, whether you are a seasoned plant parent or a newbie to the gardening world, with easygoing, adaptable houseplants.
Here are 10 low-maintenance indoor plants that are sure to please if you give them just basic care — and will allow you to go away for a week and forget about them.
Aglaonema
The shiny, pointed leaves of the aglaonema come in a rich array of color combinations and patterns, including green, silver, pink, red, and white. It is treasured for its beauty and easy care, and has become a popular houseplant that will brighten any décor.
In general, aglaonemas need bright, indirect light, but the light-colored varieties will need more sun than the darker-leaved ones and can be set closer to a bright window — but never in direct sun. They also will appreciate warmth and being away from cold drafts. A standard potting mix should do fine for these plants, as long as it’s well draining and will retain some moisture. Water them only when the soil is dry an inch down from the top, since aglaonemas like moist soil that is not overly wet.
Toxic to humans and pets? Yes.
Air plants
These cute little plants, with their scaly, gray-green, curving leaves, have exploded in popularity and are seen everywhere plants are sold. They are unusual in that they require no soil to grow. In the wild, air plants grow on trees, their small roots used only to anchor them to the branches. They grow in dappled sunlight and get their water from rainfall and humidity in the air.
Set your air plants in medium-to-bright indirect light and water them once a week by letting them sit upside down in water for about an hour. Shake them off and let them drain before putting them back on their stand. Misting daily will also help keep them in tip-top shape.
Toxic to humans and pets? No.
Aloe vera
Aloe vera is a great plant for beginning gardeners because it requires very little care and its gray-green leaves have a quiet appeal. It needs bright, indirect light; direct sunlight can burn its sensitive leaves. Standard potting soil mixed with sand and perlite will do the trick and allow water to drain easily. Water your aloe only when the entire potting mix is dry, and allow the water to drain completely out of the pot.
In addition to its beauty as a houseplant, aloe’s thick, fleshy leaves hold a gel-like sap that can be harvested to ease sunburn and minor cuts and scrapes.
Toxic to humans and pets? Yes.
Lucky bamboo
Lucky bamboo gets its name from the upbeat symbolism of this plant in the Chinese tradition. It is sold as individual straight stalks or several stalks together in various curls, twists, or braids. The number of stalks growing together in a pot have different meanings. For example, two stalks represent love, three stalks mean happiness, wealth, and long life, and six stalks symbolize wealth and good luck.
Lucky bamboo is a very easy plant to care for. It can either be grown in water or a well-draining potting mix. If it’s grown in water, it’s good to use either distilled or rainwater since lucky bamboo is sensitive to the mineral salts in most tap water. If grown in soil, it needs to be evenly moist. Water only when the soil is dry down an inch from the top.
Toxic to humans and pets? Humans, no; pets, yes.
Orchids
Elegant, exotic orchids speak of luxury and beauty, but they are actually low-maintenance indoor plants. Give orchids as much bright, indirect light as possible, being careful to avoid direct contact with the sun’s rays, which could burn their leaves and flowers. They grow best in warm environments with about 40% to 70% humidity. This is best achieved by placing them in a warm, sunny room with some humidity, such as a bathroom or kitchen, or with a pebble tray or humidifier that can give the humidity a boost. The best soil is a chunky potting mix that allows for air circulation around the roots and is specially formulated for orchids. Water your plant so that it runs through the pot and soaks the bark chunks, but don’t allow the roots to sit in water. Only water it again when the bark dries out.
Toxic to human and pets? No.
Peperomia
There are more than 1,000 species of peperomia in the peppercorn family — one of which, peperomia obtusifolia, or baby rubber plant, is the 2022 Plant of the Year — and many of them are popular as easy-care houseplants. Their thick, rubbery leaves come in a variety of delightful shapes, sizes, textures, and colors. In addition, some peperomias are trailing plants — plants that have long, trailing stems — and others are upright.
But in spite of their diverse looks, peperomias all need similar care. They thrive in bright to moderate indirect light, and average household temperatures and humidity. Peperomias are pretty forgiving plants, so it’s OK to water them only when their soil is dry.
Toxic to humans and pets? No.
Pothos
Beautiful, trailing pothos is a wonderful houseplant that can be grown successfully in most household environments. Its heart-shaped leaves display different amounts of variegation depending on the variety, and this will dictate how much indirect light it needs. The foliage with the most variegation of white, cream, or yellow will need brighter light, and, conversely, the greenest foliage will need the least light. Pro tip: Highly variegated pothos leaves will begin to revert to all green if they don’t get enough light. They will live happily in average household temperatures and humidity, and will need water when their soil is dry.
Toxic to humans and pets? Mildly.
Snake plant
The sword-like spires of the snake plant rising out of the soil make a bold statement in a room. Depending on the variety, the leaves can be striped, patterned, or solid colored, with shades of green, cream, or yellow. It is a favorite for home and office because of its hardiness, low-maintenance qualities, and striking appearance. It will grow in medium to low light and in average humidity, and it doesn’t like to be watered frequently. Only water your snake plant when the soil is dry, and make sure the water drains completely out of the pot since the roots are susceptible to fungal diseases.
Toxic to humans and pets? Yes.
Succulents
Succulents are arguably the easiest low-maintenance indoor plants to grow because of the minimum amount of care they require. They are not a single scientific group but rather encompass over 10,000 species of fleshy-leaved, drought-resistant plants native to dry, desert areas of all continents except Antarctica.
Succulents come in a wide variety of shapes, colors, and patterns, and some will flower readily indoors. They need three basic things to grow successfully: the right soil, plenty of sun, and infrequent watering. A light, well-draining potting mix is essential to these plants’ survival. A commercial succulent mix works well, and you can also make your own by mixing half a standard potting mix with sand and perlite. Some will tolerate direct sunshine, while others will grow in a variety of light levels, but all succulents will grow happily in very bright, indirect light with a minimal amount of water.
Toxic to humans and pets? Most are not, but kalanchoe and euphorbia are.
ZZ plant
The stiff stems and leathery, compound leaves of the ZZ give the impression of a tough, resilient plant that is almost indestructible. In this case, the first impression is the right one, as the ZZ plant thrives on neglect and can live in a variety of conditions. It will grow in low light as well as bright, indirect light, although it tends to get leggy if the light is too dim. It will tolerate year-round household temperatures and humidity levels, and only wants to be watered when its soil is completely dry. Be sure the water drains out of the pot after watering. The ZZ plant is sensitive to overwatering and will develop root rot if its roots are allowed to sit in water.
