In flowers, purple blooms are among the favorite for rich colors and symbolism. You can find dozens of types of purple flowers with varying growth needs and appearances.
Buckle your seatbelt as we travel through 60 types of purple flowers.
Zinnia
Zinnias are a perfect starter flower that grows as a perennial, annual, or sub-shrubs. They resemble a painted daisy with single, semi-double, or fully double petals. And they can have a cactus, globe, or dahlia flower head form.
| Family | Asteraceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 3-10 |
| Sun needs | Full |
| Water requirements | Once every two to three days |
| Soil conditions | Well-drained |
| Soil pH | 5.5 to 7.5 |
| Blooming season | Early summer through first frost |
| Botanical name | Zinnia Elegans |
| Common names | None |
| Pollinators | Hummingbirds, butterflies, bees |
Symbolisms:
- Lasting affection
- Goodness
- Absent friends
Interesting facts:
- Indiana state flower
- Zinnia translates to eyesore in Aztec
Sweet Pea
This mildly aromatic flower typically has more than one shade of purple. You can enjoy these annual, perennial, or legume climbing flowers along a trellis or growing along the side of your house or in baskets where they can fall out of the sides. The flower resembles a butterfly with fringed wings.
| Family | Fabaceae (Legumes) |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 3-8 |
| Sun needs | Full sun to partial shade |
| Water requirements | 2” weekly |
| Soil conditions | Well-drained, rich |
| Soil pH | 7.0-7.5 |
| Blooming season | Early spring through fall |
| Botanical name | Lathyrus odoratus |
| Common names | Everlasting pea, perennial pea |
| Pollinators | Bees |
Symbolisms:
- Good fortune
Interesting facts:
- Used as a fragrance in perfumes
- Non-edible and poisonous member of the pea family
Salvia
Frequently confused with lavender due to the flowers being a similar purple, Salvia produces a non-fragrant spike densely packed with two-lipped tubular flowers. There are more than 900 species of tender perennials or annuals.
| Family | Lamiaceae (Mint) |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 4-9 |
| Sun needs | Full sun to partial shade |
| Water requirements | 1” every 7 to 10 days |
| Soil conditions | well-drained |
| Soil pH | 6.0-7.0 |
| Blooming season | Spring to autumn |
| Botanical name | Salvia spp. |
| Common names | Sage |
| Pollinators | Butterflies, bees, hummingbirds |
Symbolisms:
- Healing
- Good health
- Wisdom
- Longevity
- Esteem
- A symbol of connection and knowledge to a divine source
- Royalty
- Good standing
- Success
Interesting facts:
- Salvia translates to “to heal” from the Latin word salvere
- Some species have hallucinogenic properties when smoked
- Others work in herbal remedies or religious practices in Oaxaca, Mexico
- Aso treat bad breath, dandruff, eczema, and sore throats
- Ancient Romans and Greeks used this plant as a memory enhancer
Purple Calla Lily
Calla lilies produce funnel or trumpet-shaped blooms surrounding a central yellow stalk – spadix – resembling a finger. This herbaceous annual comes in many colors; purple is stunning and regal. The name Calla comes from a Greek translation to beautiful.
| Family | Araceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 3-10 |
| Sun needs | Full sun to partial shade |
| Water requirements | Consistent moisture and humidity |
| Soil conditions | Loose, well-drained, moist, rich |
| Soil pH | 5.5-6.0 |
| Blooming season | Late spring through first freeze |
| Botanical name | Zantedeschia |
| Common names | Pig lily, Arum lily, Trumpet lily |
Symbolisms:
- Passion
- Charm
- To express strong feelings towards someone
Interesting facts:
- Not true lilies
- Six species types
- Has ties to Greek mythology and goddess Hera
Bittersweet Nightshade
Bittersweet Nightshade is a semi-woody or perennial vine that forms star-shaped flowers with five petals that fold back with a yellow stamen cone and purple or dark green leaves. The blooms turn into egg or round berries, starting as green, then orange, and finally, bright red.
| Family | Solanaceae (Nightshade) |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 4-8 |
| Sun needs | Partial shade to full sun |
| Water requirements | Moderate moisture; drought tolerant |
| Soil conditions | Disturbed, loamy moist areas |
| Soil pH | 6.0-8.0 |
| Blooming season | May through September |
| Botanical name | Solanum dulcamara |
| Common names | Poisonberry, Climbing Nightshade, Nightshade, Devil’s Apple, Fellonwort, European Bittersweet, Felonwood, Bitter Nightshade, Blue Blindweed, Climbing Nightshade, Blue Nightshade, Wolfgrape, Woody Nightshade, Scarlet Berry, Poisonous Nightshade, Snakeberry |
| Pollinators | Insects, bumblebee, birds |
Symbolisms:
- Truth
Interesting facts:
- The berries produced are deadly to pets, livestock, and children
- Has a pungent, foul odor
Wild Indigo
Wild Indigo is a long-living perennial that produces 12” to 24” purple spikes – racemes – formed of clusters of pea-shaped flowers. Bean-like pods start from the flowers, a pale green darkening to black in summer.
| Family | Fabaceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 3-9 |
| Sun needs | Full sun to light shade |
| Water requirements | Drought-tolerant once established |
| Soil conditions | Well-drained, rich, moist |
| Soil pH | 5.5-7 |
| Blooming season | March through early May |
| Botanical name | Baptisia australis |
| Common names | False Indigo, Baptisias |
| Pollinators | Hummingbirds, butterflies, bees |
Symbolisms:
- Protection
Interesting facts:
- Baptisia comes from bapto, Latin for “to dye” or “to dip.”
- Both the purple flower spikes and the dried seed pods are popular for dried floral pieces and wedding bouquets
- Native Americans used these plants to create clothing dyes
- Host plant for the larvae of several species of butterflies
China Aster
The bushy, heavily-petaled China Aster flower is commonly confused with chrysanthemums. But this annual aster is smaller – 3” to 5” in diameter. The starburst radial blooms resemble stars and can be single, semi-double, or full-double rows.
| Family | Asteraceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 2-11 |
| Sun needs | Full sun to partial shade |
| Water requirements | Even moisture deeply once a week |
| Soil conditions | Well-drained, moist, organically rich |
| Soil pH | 5.5 -7.5 |
| Blooming season | Late summer to fall |
| Botanical name | Callistephus chinensis |
| Common names | Annual aster, summer aster, C. chinensis, |
Symbolisms:
- Elegance
- Daintiness
- Patience
Interesting facts:
- Aster means star in Greek
- Excellent vase life for cut arrangements
Lavender
Perhaps the most recognizable purple flower is the Lavender herb. Beloved for its heady aroma, this species seeds fast and can be invasive if not controlled. The clusters of tiny flowers form on upright spikes. The main kinds are French (Spanish), English, Portuguese, and lavandin in 47 species and 450 varieties.
| Family | Lamiaceae (Mint) |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 5-10 |
| Sun needs | full |
| Water requirements | moderate |
| Soil conditions | Well-draining, sandy to dry |
| Soil pH | 6.5-8 |
| Blooming season | May to June |
| Botanical name | Lavandula |
| Common names | Spanish Lavender, Butterfly Lavender |
| Pollinators | Bees, butterflies |
Symbolisms:
- Devotion
Interesting facts:
- Repels mosquitos, ticks, fleas, and pests
- Flowers keep their scent once cut, making them useful as aromatics, dry arrangements, aromatherapy, or relaxation masks
- Edible
Morning Glory
Morning Glories are the perfect flower to view early in the morning while enjoying your coffee. Low maintenance and fast-growing, these annual climbing vines produce dainty trumpet or bell-flowers vivid purple-blue. The name Morning Glory belongs to over 1,000 flowering plants.
| Family | Convolvulaceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 3-10 |
| Sun needs | Full sun |
| Water requirements | 1” weekly |
| Soil conditions | Well-drained, loam, sand, clay, chalk |
| Soil pH | 6.0-6.8 |
| Blooming season | Summer to fall |
| Botanical name | Ipomoea purpurea |
| Common names | Tall Morning Glory, Common Morning Glory, Convolvulus purpureus |
| Pollinators | Butterflies, hummingbirds |
Symbolisms:
- Affection
Interesting facts:
- The petals close at night and reopen every morning
- A culinary garnish
- Can be invasive
Common Comfrey
Common Comfrey has furry leaves and purple drooping bell blooms. This perennial grows naturally, in containers, or for wildflower gardens. The plant has analgesic, astringent, and anti-inflammatory traits.
| Family | Boraginaceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 3-9 |
| Sun needs | full |
| Water requirements | As needed when top 1” to 2” of soil dries |
| Soil conditions | Well-draining, moist, loamy, rich |
| Soil pH | Neutral |
| Blooming season | Late spring |
| Botanical name | Symphytum officinale |
| Common names | Comfrey, true comfrey, knitbone, comfrey consound, knitback |
| Pollinators | Bees |
Symbolisms:
- Protection against theft
- Protects travelers
- Keeps lover faithful while apart
Interesting facts:
- Comfrey comes from confirmare, Latin for joining together.
- This herb was often used to make poultices and compresses to speed the healing process for bruises, broken bones, burns, and fractures.
Wild Hyacinth
Hyacinths produce medium-sized six-petal star-shaped flowers formed on dense cones with contrasting orange stamens.
| Family | Asparagaceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 4-9 |
| Sun needs | Full sun to partial shade |
| Water requirements | Drought tolerant |
| Soil conditions | well-drained |
| Soil pH | any |
| Blooming season | Early spring through summer |
| Botanical name | Dichelostemma capitatum |
| Common names | Missouri Hyacinth, Quamash, Camass, Bear Glass, English Bluebell |
| Pollinators | bees |
Symbolisms:
- Sports
- Constancy and play
- Jealousy
- Sincerity
- Sorrow
- Forgiveness
Interesting facts:
- Heavily fragranced
- Purple hyacinths are a suitable choice for someone you want to show your gratitude and respect
- Has a history in Greek mythology and Apollo
- Native tribes like Cree and Blackfoot use this as a traditional source of food
Carnation
Carnations are popular flowers for corsages and boutonnieres. This star bloom is a tender perennial that can also be an annual in the right climate. Deadheading blooms after first growth can encourage later season reblooming. These flowers come in three types – miniature (spray), standard (large-flowered), or dwarf-flowered.
| Family | Caryophyllaceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 7-10 |
| Sun needs | Full sun or partial shade |
| Water requirements | Moderate |
| Soil conditions | Medium, well-drained sand, loam |
| Soil pH | 7-8 |
| Blooming season | Late spring with reblooms possible later |
| Botanical name | Dianthus caryophyllus |
| Common names | Border Carnation, Clove pink, Pinks, Clove Gilly-flower, Sweet William, Gilly-flower, Wild Carnation |
Symbolisms:
- Flower of Gods
- Motherly love
Interesting facts:
- It smells and tastes sweet
- Used as a fragrance in many perfumes
- Popular flower put on bouquets, boutonnieres, and corsages
- It can be mildly toxic to cats
Heliotrope
In cooler climates, Heliotrope can grow as an annual or perennial (or half-hardy) in warm areas. This plant can get up to 6’ tall and 8’ wide in a natural habitat. They form a spiral stem that supports clusters of trumpet-shaped flowers that start purple and lighten with age as they open.
| Family | Boraginaceae (forget-me-not) |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 9-11 |
| Sun needs | Full sun or partial shade |
| Water requirements | Moderate moist even moisture |
| Soil conditions | Moist, well drained, loamy, rich |
| Soil pH | 6.6-7.3 |
| Blooming season | Summer through frost |
| Botanical name | Heliotropium arborescens |
| Common names | Cherry Pie Plant, Turnsole, Heliotrope spp. |
| Pollinators | Butterflies, bees |
Symbolisms:
- Eternal love
- Devotion
- Used as a gift of congratulations, get well, birthdays, romantic gestures, weddings, and anniversaries
Interesting facts:
- These flowers produce an aroma of vanilla or fresh-baked pie
- Heliotrope has a strong background in Greek mythology with Helios, the sun god
- As the sun moves across the sky, the petals turn to follow the light
- All parts of the plant are toxic to people and cause liver damage to horses, cats, dogs, or livestock
- Heliotrope is Greek for the sun (helios) and to turn (trepein)
Liatris
Liatris produce spiky fluffy flowers that reach 1 to 5 feet, with tiny star-like blooms covering the entire bottle-brush spire stalk from the top down. This herbaceous perennial can get to be 2’ to 4’ tall and 9” to 18” wide. The Liatris genus contains around 50 wildflower species.
| Family | Asteraceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 3-9 |
| Sun needs | Full sun to partial shade |
| Water requirements | Medium moisture |
| Soil conditions | well-drained |
| Soil pH | 5.5-7.5 |
| Blooming season | Summer through early fall |
| Botanical name | Liatris spicata |
| Common names | Blazing Star, gayfeather, Dense blazing star |
Symbolisms:
- Joy
- Bliss
- Happiness
- Apology
- A desire to try again
Interesting facts:
- The name Gayfeather comes from the flower’s feathery petals
Aster
Asters consist of around 180 perennials, often used in gardens or cut bouquets. The flower has similarities to daisies due to miniature tubular flowers that make up the central yellow disk. Surrounding the disk are the flower’s petals – ray flowers.
| Family | Asteraceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 3-9 |
| Sun needs | Full to partial sun |
| Water requirements | average |
| Soil conditions | Well-drained, moist |
| Soil pH | 5.5-7.5 |
| Blooming season | Summer through fall |
| Botanical name | Aster |
| Common names | Frost flower, Starwort |
| Pollinators | Bees, butterflies |
Symbolisms:
- Elegance
- Patience
Interesting facts:
- Aster originates from Astron – the Greek word for star
- Tied to Greek mythology about goddess Astraea
- Medicinal for treating snakebites and respiratory conditions like coughs
- French soldiers add Asters to the graves of fallen soldiers
- September’s birth flower
- 20th wedding anniversary flower
Butterfly Bush
Butterfly bushes produce cones of light honey fragranced tiny four-petaled tubular purple flowers. The shrub’s weeping silhouette resembles a Wisteria, another popular purple flower. There are around 140 species in the Buddleia genus.
| Family | Scrophulariaceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 5-10 |
| Sun needs | Full sun |
| Water requirements | Medium moisture, average |
| Soil conditions | well-drained |
| Soil pH | 6.0-7.0 |
| Blooming season | Summer trhoguh fall |
| Botanical name | Buddleja davidii |
| Common names | Orange Eye, Summer Lilac, Buddleia |
| Pollinators | Butterflies |
Symbolisms:
- Resurrection
- Rebirth
- New beginning
Interesting facts:
- Some species are invasive
- Butterfly bushes will get rid of other vegetation
- Medicinal in Korea and Chinese medicine
Scabiosa
Scabiosa contains around 70 flowers native to Asia, Europe, and Africa. The genus includes perennials and annuals. Each heavily-nectared bloom consists of multiple flowers – florets – and long stamens resembling pincushions.
| Family | Caprifoliaceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 3-9 |
| Sun needs | Full sun |
| Water requirements | Average |
| Soil conditions | Well-drained, rich |
| Soil pH | 5.0-7.5 |
| Blooming season | Summer through autumn |
| Botanical name | Scabiosa |
| Common names | Pincushion flower. |
| Pollinators | Bees, butterflies |
Symbolisms:
- Purity
- Peace
- Love
Interesting facts:
- The flowers got the name Pincushion due to the resemblance from the tall stamens
- Used medicinally to treat skin problems, fever, cough, or internal inflammation
- Romans thought the plant could treat scabies (Latin for itch), hence the name Scabiosa
Purple Pansy
Pansies grow as annuals when not in a suitable hardiness zone. They have a short lifespan and can tolerate frost, preferring cool weather. Pansies produce flat 2” wide flowers and grow to one foot wide or tall.
| Family | Violaceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 4-8 |
| Sun needs | Full sun to partial shade |
| Water requirements | 1” weekly |
| Soil conditions | Well-drained, moist, rich |
| Soil pH | 6-10 |
| Blooming season | Spring until summer temperatures |
| Botanical name | Viola x wittrockiana |
| Common names | Pansy violet. Heartsease. Johnny jump-up, Stepmother, |
Symbolisms:
- Being considerate
- Free thinking
Interesting facts:
- The name pansy is from the french word penser, meaning to thin
Anemone
The Anemone genus contains around 120 perennial flowers native to North America, Japan, and Europe. Each stem includes three petite flowers with delicate petals surrounding a dark purple stamen.
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 4-11 |
| Sun needs | Full to partial sun |
| Water requirements | Average |
| Soil conditions | Moist, well-drained |
| Soil pH | Tolerant to any – acidic to alkaline or neutral |
| Blooming season | Spring through Autumn |
| Botanical name | Anemone nemorosa |
| Common names | Windflower, daughter of the wind |
Symbolisms:
- Anticipation
- Protection
- Good luck
Interesting facts:
- All parts of the Anemone are toxic to animals and people
- But Anemone also has medicinal properties to treat gout, menstrual problems, headaches, and cramps
- Ties to Aphrodite in Greek mythology
- A popular choice for wedding arrangements
Coneflower
Uniquely shaped, the perennial coneflower has a vivid orange spiny centered cone surrounded by thin, daisy-like lanced purple petals that reach 5” in diameter, with the stalks growing 2’ to 4’ tall.
| Family | Asteraceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 3-9 |
| Sun needs | Full sun to partial shade |
| Water requirements | Average to drought tolerant |
| Soil conditions | Well-drained, clay, rocky |
| Soil pH | 6.0-7.0 |
| Blooming season | Summer |
| Botanical name | Echinacea purpurea |
| Common names | Purple coneflower, coneflower, Echinacea |
| Pollinators | Butterflies, songbirds |
Symbolisms:
- Healing
- Strength
Interesting facts:
- Fantastic get-well-gift
- Boosts immune system
- Has medicinal properties
Rhododendron
There are nearly 1,000 species within the Rhododendron genus of small trees and shrubs, falling into eight subgenera. They produce showy belled flowers in various sizes, shapes, and bloom times.
| Family | Ericaceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 3-11 |
| Sun needs | Partial |
| Water requirements | 2” weekly |
| Soil conditions | Well-drained, moist |
| Soil pH | 4.5-6 |
| Blooming season | All four seasons |
| Botanical name | Rhododendron |
| Common names | None |
Symbolisms:
- Danger
- Temptation
- Caution
- Protection
Interesting facts:
- Rhododendron comes from Greek words rhodon (rose) and dendron (tree) – Rose tree
- Rhododendrons are not the same thing as Azaleas, despite belonging to the same genus
- Poisonous to animals and people if ingested
- Rhododendron arboreum is the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal national flower
- The tallest flower is found in India on Mout Japfu and is 108 feet tall
Alpine Betony
The Alpine Betony grows in clumped foliage that produces unique feathery nectar-heavy petals that extend from the middle of the perennial upright spiked flower. It can reach 12” to 24” in height and 18” to 23” wide with large flower heads.
| Family | Lamiaceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 4-9 |
| Sun needs | full |
| Water requirements | Regular watering, average |
| Soil conditions | Well-drained average, clay, sandy |
| Soil pH | 6.6-7.8 |
| Blooming season | Spring to late summer |
| Botanical name | Stachys monieri ‘Hummelo’ |
| Common names | Hummelo Betony, Betony, Lamb’s Ear ‘Purpurea,’ Betonica, Bishopswort |
| Pollinators | Butterflies, Bees, Birds |
Symbolisms:
- Self-respect
- Tradition
- Success
- Adoration
- Admiration
- Elegance
- Riches
- Dynamic imagination
Interesting facts:
- Cutting off dead flowers can encourage new blooms for continuous weeks
- 2019 Perennial Plant of the Year, awarded by The Perennial Plat Association
- Also referred to as Stachys officinalis ‘Hummelo.’
Perennial Geranium
The Geranium genus contains over 400 species in both true geranium and pelargonium genera. Perennial Geraniums have identical radial symmetry disc-shaped flowers with heart or round foliage. However, the foliage and flowers can have different looks depending on the species.
| Family | Geraniaceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 3-9 |
| Sun needs | Full sun to partial shade |
| Water requirements | Moderate moist |
| Soil conditions | well-drained |
| Soil pH | 5.8-6.3 |
| Blooming season | Early summer through late fall, with repeat blooms |
| Botanical name | Geranium sp. |
| Common names | Cranesbeak, true geraniums, Horseshoe Geraniums, Scented Geraniums, Ivy Geraniums |
Symbolisms:
- Good health
- Friendship
- Happiness
- Folly or stupidity in Victorian times
- Protection
- Feminine health
- Love
- Fertility
Interesting facts:
- Great housewarming gift
- Brings good cheer
- Cranesbeak comes from the shape of the seed pods
- Geranium is from géranos, translating to crane
- Foliage and flowers are edible, used for garnish, fragrance, and flavor
Bell Heather
Bell Heather is a low-growing shrub with hundreds of dry-textured bell-shaped flowers atop low, spreading bushes that can grow to 6” to 18” in height. Foliage can range from dark green to gold.
| Family | Ericaceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 6-8 |
| Sun needs | full |
| Water requirements | Average, medium moisture |
| Soil conditions | Well-drained clay, sand, loam |
| Soil pH | 6.5-7.5 |
| Blooming season | Late spring through early fall |
| Botanical name | Erica cinerea |
| Common names | Twisted Heath, |
| Pollinators | Hummingbirds, butterflies, Ling |
Symbolisms:
- Good luck
- Protection
- Admiration
Interesting facts:
- Queen Victoria caused the popularity of this flower throughout England
- Received the prestigious Award of Garden Merit from the Royal Horticultural Society
- Ericaceae comes from Ereike, meaning heather or heath in Greek
Mystic Merlin
Mystic Merlin is a perennial, annual, or biennial Mallow (Malva) plant that grows to a spread of 1’ to 2’ and height of 4’ to 5 feet. It produces showy 2” diameter spikes of 5-petaled cup flowers in deep violet to purple flowers with dark veins.
| Family | Malvaceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 4-8 |
| Sun needs | Full to partial shade |
| Water requirements | Medium moist, average |
| Soil conditions | Clay, Sand, Loam, Chalk, well-drained, moist |
| Soil pH | 3-8 |
| Blooming season | Summer through fall |
| Botanical name | Malva sylvestris |
| Common names | French Mallow, Mallow ‘Mystic Merlin,’ Hollyhock Mallow ‘Mystic Merlin,’ French Mallow ‘Mystic Merlin,’ Common Mallow |
| Pollinators | Bees, Butterflies |
Symbolisms:
- Health
- Protection
- Love
- Spiritual and national roots
Interesting facts:
- Mallow comes from malakos – meaning mellow or soft in Greek
- Guardian of a house
- Has medicinal purposes in multiple cultures in history
Sea Thistle
Sea Thistle belongs to the Eryngium (Sea Holly) genus of over 250 perennials. It forms spiny globed blooms with spiky petals that become feathery at the top. These purple flowers are common for bouquets and wedding arrangements.
| Family | Eryngium |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 2-10 |
| Sun needs | Full sun |
| Water requirements | High moisture |
| Soil conditions | Well-drained, any conditions |
| Soil pH | any |
| Blooming season | Summer through fall |
| Botanical name | Cirsium japonicum |
| Common names | Sea holly, Eryngo |
| Pollinators | Birds, butteflies, bees |
Symbolisms:
- Attraction
- Severity
- Independence
Interesting facts:
- Native Americans used the flower to cure rattlesnake bites, hence the name Sea Holly
- Medicinal to treat kidney and liver diseases, urinary infections, and treating coughs
- Has stimulant, antitussive, or diuretic properties
- Aphrodisia
Candytuft
There are around 50 species of Candytuft throughout Europe and Asia, with many native to the Mediterranean. This low-growing perennial, shrub, or annual plant produces lilac petals that resemble cotton candy.
| Family | Brassicaceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 7-11 |
| Sun needs | Full |
| Water requirements | Regular |
| Soil conditions | Well-drained, moist, rich |
| Soil pH | 7.5 or higher |
| Blooming season | Spring throuhgh summer |
| Botanical name | Iberis pruitii |
| Common names | Pruit’s Candytuft |
Symbolisms:
- Indifference
- Beauty
- Sweet
Interesting facts:
- The name comes from Old English Candie – the name for the island Crete
- Excellent for gardens or cut arrangements
- Iberis is from Iberia, ancient Spain’s Roman name
- Edible and medicinal remedy
Crocus
Crocus is a perennial genus of 90 species that grows low to the ground 3”-6” tall – forming small cupped star-blooms and grassy with a stripe down the middle. The dainty purple flowers often emerge through a blanket of snow before spring even begins.
| Family | Iridaceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 3-8 |
| Sun needs | Full sun to partial shade |
| Water requirements | Moderately moist |
| Soil conditions | well-drained |
| Soil pH | 6.0-7.0 |
| Blooming season | March through April |
| Botanical name | Crocus vernus |
| Common names | Giant Crocus, Spring Crocus |
| Pollinators | Bees |
Symbolisms:
- Harbinger of spring
- Cheerfulness
- Innocence
- Youthfulness
- Joy
- Pleasure
- Gladness
Interesting facts:
- Petals close during rainy days and at night
- Crocus comes from Greek Krokos – saffron
- Crocus sativus – Saffron Crocus – is the most expensive and important spice
- Plays a role in multiple Greek mythologies
- Associated with St. Valentine’s day
Moonflower
Moonflowers share similar traits to morning glories in terms of behavior and look. These 10’ to 20’ long tender perennial vines have strongly fragranced 6” long, 3”-4” wide trumpet flowers that curl into cones during the day.
| Family | Convolvulaceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 8-11 |
| Sun needs | Full |
| Water requirements | Moderate when top 1” is dry |
| Soil conditions | Well-drained, moist |
| Soil pH | 6.0-7.5 |
| Blooming season | Summer through fall |
| Botanical name | Ipomoea alba |
| Common names | Moon vine, tropical white morning glory |
| Pollinators | Bats, Moths |
Symbolisms:
- Mystery
- Blossoming during dark times
- Night
- Enchantment
- Children (1st or 2nd birthday)
- Mysticism
Interesting facts:
- Blooms at night instead of during the day
- Mildly toxic to pets (cats, horses, dogs) and people
- Seeds have hallucinogenic properties
- Believed that the scent can cause a pregnant mother to go into labor
Dwarf Iris
Dwarf Irises are miniature versions of Irises, with violet-purple petals sporting bright yellow on the center. With ribbed grass-like leaves and six floppy petals (3 erect – standard – and three larger), these small irises only reach 6” in height, making them great border plants.
| Family | Iridaceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 4-9 |
| Sun needs | Full sun to partial shade |
| Water requirements | Low during summer, moist during grow |
| Soil conditions | Well-drained, medium moist, clay, loam, chalk, or sand |
| Soil pH | 6.8-7.0 |
| Blooming season | Late winter to early spring |
| Botanical name | Iris Reticulata |
| Common names | Vernal Iris |
Symbolisms:
- Wisdom
- Hope
- Faith
- Respect
- Royalty
- Valor
- Compliments
Interesting facts:
- Iris – translated to rainbow – comes from the flower being very colorful
- The flower shape is where the fleur-de-lis (French monarchy symbol) comes from
- Related to Greek mythology – goddess Iris
- Poisonous if ingested
Gloxinia
Gloxinia falls into a genus of 65 species of herbaceous perennials that grow to 6” to 12” in both width and height. It produces showy obovate to ovate leaves with a velvet texture, toothed margins, and tiny delicate bell or tubular flowers.
| Family | Gesneriaceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 3-10 |
| Sun needs | Bright, indirect light – partial to full shade |
| Water requirements | Evenly moist by bottom watering |
| Soil conditions | Loamy |
| Soil pH | 5.5-6.5 |
| Blooming season | Summer, reblooms possible after dormancy |
| Botanical name | Sinningia speciosa |
| Common names | Florist’s Gloxinia |
Symbolisms:
- Love at first sight
- A proud spirit
Interesting facts:
- Flowers grow for ten weeks
- Used for anniversaries, Valentine’s Day, or first dates
Dianthus
Dianthus belongs to around 340 flowering plants made of perennial, annual, and biennial species. These plants grow in tight mounds of silver-green to gray-blue feathered leaves and produce a clove or cinnamon aroma. Most species grow 6” to 18” in height.
| Family | Caryophyliaceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 6-9 |
| Sun needs | Full sun to partial shade |
| Water requirements | Once a week |
| Soil conditions | Well-draining, moist |
| Soil pH | Neutral to above 7.0 |
| Blooming season | Spring through early summer with reblooms |
| Botanical name | Dianthus spp. |
| Common names | Sweet William, pink, Carnation, gillyflower, clove pinks, garden pinks, cheddar pinks |
Symbolisms:
- Gratitude
- Love
- Affection
- Admiration
Interesting facts:
- Dianthus comes from Greek words Dios (god) and anthos (flower) – the flower of god
- One of the oldest cut flowers
- Has long-lasting fragrance and freshness
Cattleya Orchid
Cattleyas can be perennial unifoliate (single leaf) or bifoliate (double leaf) epiphytic – which requires other plants to grow rather than soil. These plants have dull foliage and varying shapes, sizes, and colors of flowers ranging in height from 0.25’ to 2-feet.
| Family | Orchidaceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 10-12 |
| Sun needs | Partial |
| Water requirements | Dry between waterings, less than once a week |
| Soil conditions | Soilless, well-drained |
| Soil pH | 5.5-6.5 |
| Blooming season | End of summer to late winter |
| Botanical name | Catleya spp. |
| Common names | Queen of the Orchids, orchid, corsage orchid |
Symbolisms:
- Virility
- Fertility
Interesting facts:
- Only blooms one flower a year
- It can take four to seven years to produce flowers when started by seed
Monkshood
Monkshood – more commonly known as wolf’s bane – belongs to a genus containing more than 250 herb perennials with flowers that resemble a monk’s habit cowl. Flowers have five sepals, with the top sepal curving down to form the cowl, hiding the actual petals. The plant can reach 2’ to 4’ tall and 1’ to 2-feet wide.
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 3-7 |
| Sun needs | Partly shady or full sun light when kept moist |
| Water requirements | Consistently moist with frequent waters during grow season |
| Soil conditions | Well-drained moist |
| Soil pH | 5.0-6.0 |
| Blooming season | Summer |
| Botanical name | Aconitum napellus |
| Common names | Aconite, Wolf’s-bane, mousebane, devil’s helmet, leopard’s bane, blue rocket, queen of poisons, |
Symbolisms:
- Caution
- Death
- Misanthropy
Interesting facts:
- Highly toxic to pets and people
- Aconite comes from akonitos, a combination of ak (pointed) and konos *cone) because the plant was used for poison on arrows
- Wolfsbane came from ancient Greek shepherds using poison to kill wolves
- Does have medicinal properties throughout the centuries
Canterbury Bells
Canterbury Bells can be biennial or annual, reaching 20” to 26” tall and 12” to 18” producing an abundance of showy dangling, bell-shaped flowers that open to cupped shape. The first year of growth consists of low-growing rosette or clumped green leaves.
| Family | Campanulaceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 5-8 |
| Sun needs | Full to partial shade |
| Water requirements | Evenly moist |
| Soil conditions | Well-drained, rich |
| Soil pH | |
| Blooming season | summer |
| Botanical name | Campanula medium |
| Common names | Cups and saucers, Widow bell, |
Symbolisms:
- Faith
- Acknowledgment
- Gratitude
- Constancy
Interesting facts:
- It takes two years to bloom, and then it dies
Lisianthus
Lisianthus is an annual to tender perennial that produces large bell-shaped flowers in purple and white that grow on upright stems. The dark green lance-shaped foliage has a succulent texture and reaches a spread of 6” to 12” wide and 1’ to 3’ tall.
| Family | Gentianaceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 7-10 |
| Sun needs | Full sun |
| Water requirements | Dry between waterings |
| Soil conditions | Well-drained, moist |
| Soil pH | 6.5-7.2 |
| Blooming season | Summer through fall |
| Botanical name | Eustoma russellianum |
| Common names | Prairie gentian, bluebell gentian |
Symbolisms:
- Appreciation
- Charisma
- Gratefulness
- Admiration for a friend
- Show respect
- Acceptance
- Love
- Acknowledgment
Interesting facts:
- In high demand for bridal bouquets
- It can be challenging to grow
- Resembles a rose but with a longer vase life
- Formerly Eustoma grandiflorum botanical name
Lilac
The lilac bush is a deciduous shrub that produces dainty purple flowers desirable for their blooms as their heady aromatic scent. Leaves are 2” to 5” in length and blue-green to gray-green. They grow to 8’ to 15’ in height and 6’ to 12’ wide with tiny flowers (⅓” across) formed on branched clusters (panicles).
| Family | Oleaceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 3-7 |
| Sun needs | Full |
| Water requirements | |
| Soil conditions | Well-drained, loamy |
| Soil pH | Neutral |
| Blooming season | Spring |
| Botanical name | Syringa vulgaris |
| Common names | Common lilac, Lilac bush |
Symbolisms:
- Spirituality
- Renewal
- Spring
- Confidence
Interesting facts:
- Roots in Greek mythology
- Associated with Easter
- Celtics believe it’s a magical flower
- The state flower of New Hampshire
Foxgloves
Foxgloves is a herbaceous biennial, shrub, or perennial belonging to a genus of 20 species. The stately look of these flowers is largely due to the stalks growing to heights of up to 6 feet, with clusters of dangling tubular to bell-shaped flowers.
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 4-10 |
| Sun needs | Full sun or partal shade |
| Water requirements | Moist consistent |
| Soil conditions | Well-draining, rich |
| Soil pH | 5.5-6.5 |
| Blooming season | Summer |
| Botanical name | Digitalis purpurea |
| Common names | Common foxglove |
| Pollinators | Hummingbirds |
Symbolisms:
- Creativity
- Pride
- Insincerity
- Intuition
- Energy
Interesting facts:
- Foxglove is a commercial plant used for Digitalis, a medication for heart conditions
- Keep away from pets and children – all parts are toxic
- It doesn’t flower from seed until the second year
Columbine
Columbine belongs to the Aquilegia genus, between 60 and 70 perennial flowers, largely known for the spurred blooms. These herbaceous perennials can grow to a 1’ to 2’ spread with a height of 1’ to 3’.
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 3-8 |
| Sun needs | Full sun to partial shade (in hot summers) |
| Water requirements | Weekly once established |
| Soil conditions | Well-draining, loamy, sandy, moist |
| Soil pH | 6.8-7.2 |
| Blooming season | Spring to summer |
| Botanical name | Aquilegia |
| Common names | Granny’s bonnet, Granny’s nightcap, Venus’ flower |
| Pollinators | Hummingbirds |
Symbolisms:
- Endurance
- Perseverance
- Love
- Romance
- Foolishness
- Support
- Faith
- Winning
- Royalty
- Beauty
- Nobility
Interesting facts:
- Flowers resemble jester hats
- Toxic to people
- Aquilegia translates to eagle in Latin, referring to the flowers’ spurs which look like eagle talons
- The state flower of Colorado
- Has roots in Greek Mythology and Aphrodite
Clematis
There are over 300 species in the Clematis genus, varying in size from 2’ to 5-feet (small), 8’ to 12’ (large flower hybrids), or 20’ to 30-feet (Anemone Clematis). These perennial vines produce many bold blooms in different shapes, sizes, and colors. You can find flowers in bell, tubular, semi-double, double, single, open-bell, tulip, or star-shaped blooms, between less than 3” diameter up to 8” wide.
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 4-9 |
| Sun needs | Full without excessive |
| Water requirements | 1” weekly once established; more in hot weather |
| Soil conditions | Well-amended, rich |
| Soil pH | 6.5 |
| Blooming season | Early spring, mid-spring, or late bloomers (summer to frost) |
| Botanical name | Clemantis |
| Common names | Traveler’s joy, old man’s beard, vase vine, leather flower, virgin’s bower, pepper vine, devil’s darning needle, Queen of climbers, |
Symbolisms:
- Wisdom
- Travel
- Acuity
- Mischief
- Aspiration
Interesting facts:
- Toxic to cats, dogs, horses
Dendrobium Orchid
Species in the Dendrobium genus belong to one of the largest Orchid groups, made of almost 2,000 species. These 0.5’ to 4’ wide and tall epiphytes produce profuse pastel-toned blooms and can be deciduous or retain leaves year-long.
| Family | Orchidaceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 9-12 |
| Sun needs | Partial sun or brightest window indoors |
| Water requirements | As the medium dries out slighty |
| Soil conditions | Well-drained, moist |
| Soil pH | 5.5-6.5 |
| Blooming season | February to September |
| Botanical name | Dendrobium spp. |
| Common names | Noble dendrobium |
Symbolisms:
- Life in a tree
- Beauty
- Love
- Refinement
- Fertility
- Charm
- Thoughtfulness
Interesting facts
- It can stay in bloom for six to eight weeks, making great cut flowers
- Can rebloom multiple times in one year in optimal conditions
- Significant in multiple cultures
Catmint
Catmint is an herbaceous perennial plant that forms blue-lavender flowers and gray-green foliage created in mounds. The heady aroma, billowing foliage, and repeat blooms make this a popular herb to use for edging or paths. It can grow one to two feet wide and between 10” and 24” tall.
| Family | Lamiaceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 4-8 |
| Sun needs | Sun to partial shade |
| Water requirements | Regularly until established |
| Soil conditions | Well-draining, average |
| Soil pH | 5.0-8.0 |
| Blooming season | Summer through fall |
| Botanical name | Nepeta mussinii |
| Common names | Catwort, Catmint, Cataria |
Symbolisms:
- Fertility
- Love
- Happiness
Interesting facts:
- Believed to be first cultivated in Nepeta, a Roman town, hench the genus Nepeta
- It shares similarities to catnip but not the same thing
- Some species grow aggressively, becoming invasive
- Culinary or herbal uses as frozen, dried, or fresh
- It can be used medicinally
Waxflower
Waxflowers are an Australian-native bloom that’s excellent for drought tolerant and xeriscape gardens. Fast-growing, these thick shrubs grow to 4’ to 6’ in spread and height. Leaves look needle-like, with red-tinted stems, and bright berry buds form on the tips of the waxy, glossy, open-petal flowers.
| Family | Myrtaceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 9 |
| Sun needs | Full sun |
| Water requirements | Low |
| Soil conditions | Well-draining, sandy |
| Soil pH | 5.5-7 |
| Blooming season | June through November |
| Botanical name | Chamelaucium uncinatum |
| Common names | Geraldton wax, Geraldton waxflower |
| Pollinators | Insects, Butterflies, birds, bees |
Symbolisms:
- Good luck
- Best wishes for lasting success
- Lasting love
- Wealth and riches
- Love that endures all
Interesting facts:
- Can be invasive
- Crushing the thin, non-spiny leaves releases a pleasing aroma
- It takes two years to start flowers
- Common cut flowers due to long vase life and enjoyable aromatic
Verbena
Verbena flowers can be annuals or perennials, with a long blooming season. These flowers can reach 12” in height, with an up to 18” spread. There are over 250 species, although most variations grown by home gardeners are hybrid rather than pure.
| Family | Verbenaceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 9-11 |
| Sun needs | Full sun |
| Water requirements | 1” weekly during no rain periods |
| Soil conditions | Well-draining, moderate fertility, medium to dry moisture |
| Soil pH | 5.8-7.2 |
| Blooming season | Spring through fall |
| Botanical name | Verbena x |
| Common names | Vervain, Verveine, Annual Verbena |
Symbolisms:
- Sweet memories
- Romance
- Creativity
- Protection
- Happiness
- Healing
Interesting facts:
- Verbena is Latin for flowers used in sacred religious ceremonies
- Vervain comes from Celtic words for (remove) and faen (stone) – this flower is a common ailment for treating kidney stones
- Verbena is said to be used to treat the wounds of Jesus after he came off the cross
- Medicinal and has anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, and analgesic properties
- A common ingredient in tea, cream, and lotions
Cosmos
Cosmos – same genus name – are bushy flowers that can reach various heights and come in a range of colors, including purple. These frilly flowers can grow as single or double blooms, to heights of one to six feet and widths of one to three feet. There are around 20 variations of Cosmos in perennial or annuals.
| Family | Asteraceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 2-11 |
| Sun needs | Full |
| Water requirements | No watering necessary unless prolonged drought |
| Soil conditions | Well-drained, medium moisture |
| Soil pH | 6.0-6.8 |
| Blooming season | Early summer til frost |
| Botanical name | Cosmos bipinnatus, Cosmos sulphureus |
| Common names | Mexican aster, cut-leaf cosmos |
| Pollinators | Birds, butterflies, bees |
Symbolisms:
- Harmony
- Order
- Tranquility
- Modesty
- Balance
- Innocence
- Love
- Peace
- Joy
- Beauty
Interesting facts:
- The birth flower of October
- One of the easiest flowers to attempt growing
Pasque
Pasque is a low-growing plant that belongs to the Pulsatilla genus, consisting of around 40 herbaceous perennials. These flowers grow to 9” to 12” in height with lacy gray-green leaves and silky hairs that give the whole plant a fuzzy look.
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 4-8 |
| Sun needs | Ful sun to partial shade |
| Water requirements | One to three times weekly |
| Soil conditions | Well-drained, humus or sandy soil |
| Soil pH | 5.5-6.5 |
| Blooming season | Spring |
| Botanical name | Pulsatilla vulgaris |
| Common names | Pasqueflower, Easter Flower |
| Pollinators | Native bees, honeybees |
Symbolisms:
- Rebirth
- Dignity
- Grace
- Nobility
Interesting facts:
- Pasque comes from pasakh, which is Hebrew for Passover, about the flower’s growth around Easter
- South Dakota state flower
- Pasque flowers are a treatment for diseases of the eyes, like cataracts
- Poisonous to livestock and people
- Invasive
Hellebores
Hellebores is one of around 20 perennial plants in the Helleborus genus. These flowers produce five sepals that surround small cupped petals that store nectar.
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 5-8 |
| Sun needs | Partial shade to full sun or shade |
| Water requirements | Weekly while growing the first year, then as needed for moist soil |
| Soil conditions | Moist soil |
| Soil pH | 7.0-8.0 |
| Blooming season | November through spring |
| Botanical name | Helleborus |
| Common names | Christman rose, Lenten rose, winter rose |
Symbolisms:
- Tranquility
- Scandal
- Peace
- Serenity
- Anxiety
Interesting facts:
- Not a close relative of roses despite nicknames
- Some species are poisonous
- Hellebores come from helein (injure) and bore (food), meaning you can become damaged by eating the flower
- All parts are toxic when ingested
Petunia
Petunias belong to a genus of 20 compact species, ranging from 18” up to 4’ tall. This perennial (sometimes used as an annual) nightshade family member has funnel-shaped blooms in vivid colors. Petunias fall into five classifications based on flower size: multiflora, Grandiflora, millifloras, floribundas, or trailing or spreading petunias.
| Family | Solanaceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 9*11 |
| Sun needs | Full |
| Water requirements | Two times daily for containers, deep once weekly for bedded |
| Soil conditions | Well-draining, moderately fertile |
| Soil pH | 6.0-7.0 |
| Blooming season | Spring through fall |
| Botanical name | Petunia spp. |
| Common names | None |
Symbolisms:
- Charm
- Fantasy
- Mystery
- Anger
- Resentment
- Nature
- Never lose hope
- Eloquence
- Grace
Interesting facts:
- It got its name from the French word for tobacco
- Petunias are relatives of tobacco, chili peppers, and tomatoes
- Petun means tobacco that doesn’t smoke well
Cyclamen
The Cyclamen genus contains around 23 perennial species of sweet-smelling petite blooms on long stems growing above the foliage. Growing to heights and widths of 6” to 9”, medium green heart-shaped leaves often have silver veining.
| Family | Primulaceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 9-11 |
| Sun needs | Partial |
| Water requirements | Bottom fed when soil is dry to touch |
| Soil conditions | Well-draining, moist, loamy |
| Soil pH | 5.0-6.0 |
| Blooming season | Fall, winter, or spring |
| Botanical name | Cyclamen persicum |
| Common names | Alpine Violet, Sowbread, Persian Violet |
Symbolisms:
- Devoted heart
- Empathetic
- Holy flower of love in Japan
- Sincere heart
Interesting facts:
- It goes dormant in hot, dry summers
- Requires cool, humid climate
- Toxic to pets and people
Hydrangea
Hydrangeas are a perennial genus with 75 plants that can grow up to 15 feet and live to 50 years.
| Family | Hydrangeaceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 3-7 |
| Sun needs | Morning sun and afternoon shade |
| Water requirements | 1” a week |
| Soil conditions | Friable, loamy, high organic, well-draining |
| Soil pH | Varies by color choice |
| Blooming season | Summer tbhrough fall |
| Botanical name | Hydrangea |
| Common names | Hortensia, Floris’s hydrangea, garden hydrangea |
Symbolisms:
- Grace
- Gratitude
- Peace
- Harmony
- Love
- Beauty
- Unity
- Togetherness
- Abundance
- Royalty
- Elegance
Interesting facts:
- Hydrangea comes from the Greek Hydor (water) and angos (vessel or jar)
- Symbolism differs by culture and time
- Extremely poisonous due to the leaves containing cyanide when consumed
- Some types (Hydrangea macrophylla) can change flower color by altering the soil pH – acidic makes blue, alkaline turns to pink
- January 5th is Hydrangea day
Balloon Flower
The herbaceous perennial Balloon Flower is the only member of its genus – Platycodon. The plant can grow 1’ to 2.5’ tall and wide, producing pointed starred flowers with puffy balloon buds that grow to 2” to 3” in an intense blue-violet.
| Family | Campanulaceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 3-8 |
| Sun needs | Full to partial shade |
| Water requirements | Consistently moist when young, drought tolarent when established, medium moisture |
| Soil conditions | Well-draining, loamy, rich, |
| Soil pH | 5.5-7.5 |
| Blooming season | summer |
| Botanical name | Platycodon grandiflorus |
| Common names | Chinese bellfower, Japanese bellflower |
Symbolisms:
- Endless love
- Obedience
- Honesty
- Desire to re-enter a friend’s
Interesting facts:
- Used medicinally to treat pain and respiratory problems, to soothe a distressed digestive tract, eliminate parasites, boost the immune system, or to reduce cancer risks and severity of allergic reactions
Gladiolus
Gladioli (plural) are popular perennials that produce tall spikes of flowers from 2 to 5 feet, although miniatures have less than a 3” diameter while giants can be larger than 5” wide.
| Family | Iridaceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 8-11 |
| Sun needs | Full sun |
| Water requirements | Regularly 1” a week in summers without rain |
| Soil conditions | Well-drained, fertile |
| Soil pH | 6.0-6.5 |
| Blooming season | Summer through fall |
| Botanical name | Gladiolus alatus |
| Common names | Sword lily, Glads, |
Symbolisms:
- Sincerity
- Strength of character
- Give me a break
- Gladiator flower
- Remembrance
Interesting facts:
- Gladiolus is Latin for little sword
- Flower of astrological signs Virgo and Libra
- The birth flower of August
- Gladius means sword in Latin
Wisteria
Wisteria is a massive climbing vine that can reach up to 66 feet and half the width by climbing up trees or other supports. The vibrant purple flowers are pendulous racemes, growing to 4” to 32” long, with some heavily aromatic variations. The growth rate, fragrance, size, and blooming season vary by species.
| Family | Fabaceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 3-9 |
| Sun needs | Full sun (6 hours a day) |
| Water requirements | Regular |
| Soil conditions | Fertile, well-draining moist |
| Soil pH | 6..0-7.0 |
| Blooming season | Spring |
| Botanical name | Wisteria |
| Common names | None |
Symbolisms:
- Long life
- Immortality
- Love
- Bliss
- Sensitivity
- Sensuality
- Personal growth
Interesting facts:
- Water wisteria (Hygrophila difformis) is an aquatic species, meaning it grows in water but is not the same thing as the climbing Wisteria vine
- Toxic if ingested, leading to nausea, dizziness, confusion, diarrhea in people and pets
- There is a Wisteria in Japan that is 1,200 years old
Lupin
The Lupin genus contains over 200 species of pea plants. The perennial or annual herbaceous plants reach 3’ to four feet and 1.5 meters in width. They form dense spires or towered purple flowers and foliage similar to palm leaves.
| Family | Fabaceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 4-8 |
| Sun needs | FUll |
| Water requirements | Regular waterings weekly when there’s no rain |
| Soil conditions | Well-drained, moist, rich |
| Soil pH | 5.5-7 |
| Blooming season | Spring through summer |
| Botanical name | Lupinus x hybrida |
| Common names | Lupines, Bluebonnets |
| Pollinators | Hummingbirds, butterflies, honey bees |
Symbolisms:
- Hunger for love or life
- Loyalty to family or pack
- Strength
- Great appetite for living life
- Admiration
- Adoration
- Happiness
- Creative imagination
- Positive outlook
- Renewal
- New opportunities
Interesting facts:
- Some species are toxic to people and animals, especially livestock
- Lupin comes from Lupus – Latin for wolf
- Fertilizes soil by converting nitrogen from the air to the earth, benefiting other plants nearby
- It has roots in Greek mythology and goddesses, Aphrodite and Venus
Bee Orchid
Bee orchids are deciduous perennials that can work for ornamental gardens or cut flowers that look like female bees. The tiny flowers have three sepals with varying lip color; many flowers can have dots, shapeless, or stripe patterns.
| Family | Orchidaceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 6-10 |
| Sun needs | Full sun to half shade |
| Water requirements | Low to average |
| Soil conditions | Sandy, loamy, clay well-draining |
| Soil pH | 6.1-7.8 |
| Blooming season | Spring through Autumn |
| Botanical name | Ophrys apifera |
| Common names | Humble bee Orchid, Bee-flower, Dumble dor, Bumble bee, Honey-flower |
| Pollinators | Attracts male bees |
Symbolisms:
- Unity
- Fertility
- Love
- Beauty
Interesting facts:
- The flower’s resemblance to female bee tricks male bees into landing on the flowers to mate, resulting in pollination
- Self-pollinates
- Protected in Northern Ireland
- Edible and medicinal
- Orchids are the birth flower of Aquarius
Lily of the Nile
There are around ten perennial species of Agapanthus with varying foliage looks. These plants produce tall, slender stems that support showy, funnel flowers. They can grow to heights of 8” up to 6 feet.
| Family | Amaryllidaceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 6-11 |
| Sun needs | Full sun to partial shade |
| Water requirements | average |
| Soil conditions | Fertile, well-drained, moist |
| Soil pH | uncaring |
| Blooming season | Summer through fall |
| Botanical name | Agapanthus |
| Common names | African Lily, Flower of Love |
Symbolisms:
- Love
- Beauty
- Purity
- Fertility
Interesting facts:
- Not an actual lily
- Genus – Agapanthus – is from Greek words agape (love) and anthos (flower), meaning lovely flower or flower of love
- Medicinal and magical – treat paralysis, chest pains, heart diseases, coughs, colds
- Used as an aphrodisiac in Africa
- Protection from thunderstorms
- Women wear them for fertility and strength
Honesty
Honesty is an herbaceous perennial plant that produces delicate showy blooms with four clawed petals with a thin papery texture and flat, thin fruits the size of silver dollars that become translucent.
| Family | Brassicaceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 5-9 |
| Sun needs | Full sun or partial shade |
| Water requirements | Consistently moist |
| Soil conditions | Well-drained, moist |
| Soil pH | Above 6 |
| Blooming season | Late spring through summer |
| Botanical name | Lunaria annua |
| Common names | Silver Dollar, Money Plant, Chinese money, Chinese coins, Annual Honesty Dollar Plant, Honesty Lunaria Money Plant, Moneywort, Moonwort, |
Symbolisms:
- Money
- Sincerity
- Honesty
Interesting facts:
- Lunaria is from luna – Latin for the moon, referring to the fruit’s shape
- Invasive in some areas
Bellflower
There are over 500 species (and several subspecies) of Campanula – bellflowers. Although this genus comes in many varieties and sizes, they share a similar small bell-shaped flower with five fused base petals. These perennials can grow to widths of 6” to 3’ and heights of less than 6” up to 1’ to three feet.
| Family | Campanulaceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 3-9 |
| Sun needs | Partial sun through full |
| Water requirements | average |
| Soil conditions | Well-drained, rich |
| Soil pH | 6-8, loose |
| Blooming season | Late spring through fall |
| Botanical name | Campanula rapunculoides |
| Common names | Rover bellflower, creeping bellflower |
Symbolisms:
- Humility
- Attractiveness
- Gratitude
- Everlasting love
- Death
Interesting facts:
- Campanula means little bell in Latin
- Vigorous growths can become invasive
- It plays a significant role in Greek Mythology and the goddess Venus
- Nutricoius and edible
Allium
Allium genus consists of perennial, flowering, herbaceous plants, largely used in culinary dishes. The flowers have strong garlic or onion aroma and taste with cascading or globe petals forming blooms.
| Family | Amaryllidaceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 3-8 |
| Sun needs | Full sun to partial shade |
| Water requirements | Moderate, infrequent |
| Soil conditions | Most |
| Soil pH | 5.5-6.5 |
| Blooming season | Late spring to early summer |
| Botanical name | Allium |
| Common names | Garlic |
| Pollinators | Butterflies, bees |
Symbolisms:
- Unity
- Patience
- Good fortune
- Prosperity
- Humility
Interesting facts:
- Most popular types of Allium are popular for edibility- leeks, onions, shallots, chives, garlic
- Also chosen for ornamental factor
- Allium is Latin for garlic, coming from aleo – a Greek word meaning to avoid
- Toxic to cats and dogs
Blue-Eyed Grass
A type of iris, perennial herb, Blue-Eyed grass produces delicate shallow inverted saucer petals surrounding the pistil and stamens that look like the petals. The base of each purple petal has a fringed yellow section that forms the central yellow spot.
| Family | Iridaceae |
|---|---|
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 4-9 |
| Sun needs | Partial shade |
| Water requirements | Moist |
| Soil conditions | Well-draing Clay to heavy soil |
| Soil pH | 5.0-7.0 |
| Blooming season | Spring (February through May) |
| Botanical name | Sisyrinchium bellum |
| Common names | Yellow-eyed non-grass,Western blue-eyed grass, Azulea, Narrow-leaved Blue-eyed grass |
Symbolisms:
- None
Interesting facts:
- Petals close at night or on cloudy days
- Spanish used roots to make tea to break fevers and called the plant azalea
- Not a grass or blue flower
Types of Purple Flowers FAQ
Before you head out to explore what purple flowers you want to put in your indoor or outdoor garden, check out these frequently answered questions and answers.
What are purple flowers called?
Most people call purple flowers lilacs, lavender, or violets, based on various shades of purple. But these terms refer to specific types of flowers and are not always correct.
What do purple flowers mean?
Purple is a color commonly associated with royalty. Therefore, purple flowers symbolize tradition, success, admiration, respect, honor, harmony, and majesty. Different cultures also have various meanings.
Which trees have purple flowers?
Multiple trees produce p[urple flowers. Lilac bush, Crape Myrtle, Jacaranda Tree, Mountain Laurel, Chaste Tree, Royal Purple Magnolia, Orchid tree, and Dogwoods are the most popular.
Which purple flowers do butterflies like?
Purple flowers are a popular attractant to pollinators like butterflies. Flowers that you can use in butterfly gardens include Heletropes, Wild Indigo, Salvia, Morning Glories, Aster, Lavender, Zinnia, Cosmos, Lupin, Wax Flower, Mystic Merlin, Scabiosa, and Butterfly Bushes.
Why do hummingbirds like purple flowers?
Hummingbirds are attracted to bright colors and strong aromas from heavy nectar. Many purple flowers are nectar-rich, enticing hummingbirds from their specific preference for red flowers.
Which purple flowers attract hummingbirds?
Some purple flowers that can attract hummingbirds include Salvia, Zinnia, Columbine, Lupine, Wild Indigo, Bell Heather, and Morning Glory.
Why are the little purple flowers growing in my yard?
If you have small purple flowers growing across your yard without purpose, you’re likely dealing with an outbreak of wild violet. This aggressive weed produces pretty purple flowers but chokes out your regular grass.
Are purple flowers appropriate for a funeral?
Purple symbolizes respect, dignity, sorrow, admiration, and sympathy, making them appropriate for funerals.
Conclusion
Purple flowers are a vivid, colorful choice for indoor containers or outdoor flower beds. And many species produce blooms in shades of purple, from light lavender to dark violet. Some flowers will be aromatic, while others will use their colors to attract pollinators.