Nothing catches the eye more than a bold red flower. But what types of red flowers are there, and what does a red flower mean?
This guide will cover 65 types of red flowers, including common names, ideal growth conditions, symbolism, and interesting facts about each species. We also provide a picture of each bud to give you a better idea of identifying each.
Types of Red Flowers
Crocosmia
Family: Iridaceae
Type: Perennial
Hardiness zone: 5 through 9
Sun: partial sun to full shade
Water: moderate
Soil conditions: well-draining
Soil pH: neutral
Blooming season: summer – July through October
Common names: Crocosmia spp., montbretia, Coppertips
Flower shape: sword-shaped foliage and fennel flower
Symbolism: love, confidence, deepest emotions
Interesting facts
- The name translates from Greek words Krokos – saffron – and some – odor
- Placing dried petals in water releases a saffron aroma
Hibiscus
Family: Malvaceae
Type: Perennial or Annual
Hardiness zone: 4 through 9
Sun: full sun to partial shade
Water: relatively moist
Soil conditions: well-draining
Soil pH: 6 to 7
Blooming season: June through fall
Common names: rose of Sharon, rose mallow
Flower shape: trumpet, funnel, dinner-plate five-petal with an erect central stalk
Symbolism: beauty, youth, glory, success, feminity
Interesting facts
- Blooms usually only last for a single day
- The common name comes from the Greek word – hibiskos – mallow
- Edible and medicinal
Rose
Family: Rosa
Type: Perennial
Hardiness zone: 4 through 9
Sun: direct
Water: 1″ per week
Soil conditions: well-draining, moisture-retentive, loamy loose soil
Soil pH: 5.5 to 7 (6.5 is best)
Blooming season: May through October (can have multiple seasons every 6 to 8 weeks)
Common names: Rosa. spp.
Flower shape: Cupped (shallow, deep, or open). Flat. Globular. High centered. Quartered. Rosette. Pompon. Single – 1 to 7 petals. Semi-double – 8 to 15 petals in dual rows. Double – 16 to 25 petals of three rows or more. Full – 26 to 40 petals in three rows or more. Very full – more than 40 petals in more than three rows.
Symbolism: romance. Love. Confidentiality. secrecy
Interesting facts
- Originated from Adonis – Greek deity of rebirth and plants
- England’s national flower
- Three groups – species, modern, and old roses
- Petals are edible
Bergenia
Family: Saxifragaceae
Type: Perennial
Hardiness zone: 4 through 8
Sun: Full to partial shade
Water: consistent drought tolerant
Soil conditions: loam or clay-rich and moist
Soil pH: 5.8 to 7
Blooming season: spring April through May
Common names: pig squeak. Bergenia cordifolia. Elephant’s ears. Heartleaf bergenia. Large rockfoil. Elephant-eared saxifrage. Siberian tea. Leather Bergenia
Flower shape: clusters of small, erect, cone, or bell-shaped pink that darkens to ruby red
Symbolism: renewal and health
Interesting facts
- Leaves make a unique squeaking sound when rubbed together.
- Bergenia comes from Latin words Crassus – thick – and folia – leaf
- Avoid early morning sun
- Stems, leaves, and roots have tannin, which is a tea ingredient and makes ink and leather
Mask Flower
Family: Scrophulariaceae
Type: Perennial or annual
Hardiness zone: 9 through 11
Sun: full
Water: average
Soil conditions: fertile, light, well-drained
Soil pH: 6.1 to 7.8
Blooming season: early summer to the end of summer
Common names: alonsoa,
Flower shape: showy tiny blooms less than 1.”
Interesting facts
- Name comes from a Spanish official in Bogota, Zenón de Alonso Acosta
Chrysanthemum
Family: Compositae
Type: Perennial
Hardiness zone: 3 through 9
Sun: full sun to light shade in summer
Water: consistent
Soil conditions: well-draining
Soil pH: 6.5 to 6.7
Blooming season: Summer and autumn
Common names: mums. Chrysanths. Kiku (Japanese).
Flower shape: Multiple florets – disc or ray – formed into clusters
Symbolism: friendship. Loyalty. Fidelity. Modesty. Devotion. Sadness. Longevity. Cheerfulness. Good spirits. Death. Beauty. Joy. Happiness.
Interesting facts
- One of the world’s most popular flowers
- Comes from Greek words chrysos – gold – and anthemion – flower
- Official Mother’s Day flower – Australia
- Japan’s national flower – Kiku – represents longevity
- Unique Chinese symbol – the Four Gentlemen
Carnation
Family: Caryophyllaceae
Type: Perennial, annual, or subshrubs
Hardiness zone: 5 through 9
Sun: full sun
Water: average
Soil conditions: sandy, loamy friable
Soil pH: 6 and 7.5
Blooming season: spring through fall
Common names: Dianthus.
Flower shape: single flower with five petals, serrated or clawed
Symbolism: Women’s love. Fascination. Death. Affection. Sadness. Passion. Gratitude. Love. Capriciousness. Admiration. Family unity. Harmony. Pride.
Interesting facts
- Dianthus comes from Greek words Dios – Zeus – and anthos – flower, meaning Flowers of God
- Three types: dwarf (several small blooms), large (single flower), Spray – Mini -i (multiple)
- Carnation translates from Latin word corone – crown or garland or incarnation – God’s incarnation
- Official Mother’s Day flower worldwide
Begonia
Family: Begoniaceae
Type: Perennial, annual, or Bulb
Hardiness zone: 2 through 11
Sun: partial sun to shade
Water: moist average
Soil conditions: moist, acidic, well-draining
Soil pH: 5.5 to 6.2
Blooming season: Spring through fall
Common names: Begoniaceae
Flower shape: showy, single, or double bloom with smooth, delicate petals
Symbolism: be aware. Fanciful nature. Be cautious.
Interesting facts
- More than 1500 species
- Among the smallest seeds in the world – 1/100th of an inch
- Variations categorized by root type – rhizomatous, fibrous, or tuberous
- Medicinal – treats toothaches, burns, and kidney ailments
Hellebores
Family: hybridus
Type: Perennial
Hardiness zone: 3 through 9
Sun: partial shade
Water: evenly moist with water in dry periods
Soil conditions: well-draining, moist, rich
Soil pH: 7 to 8
Blooming season: February to May
Common names: Lenten rose. Helleborus. Winter rose. Christmas rose.
Flower shape: cup-like, resembling buttercups or roses
Symbolism: tranquility. Peace. Anxiety. Serenity. Scandal.
Interesting facts
- Toxic to pets and people
- Helleborus – Greek – translates to injure food
- Used as a poison during battle or to cure madness in small doses
- Genus name comes from Greek words elein – injure – and bora – food
Scarlet Bee Balm
Family: Lamiaceae
Type: Perennial
Hardiness zone: 3 through 9
Sun: Partial sun through full sun
Water: average
Soil conditions: well-draining
Soil pH: 6 to 7
Blooming season: summer through early fall
Common names: Bergamot. Monarda
Flower shape: densely clustered
Symbolism: healthy, prosperity, and wealth
Interesting facts
- Attracts hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees
- Medicinal
- A Native American tea made from the leaves played a role in American history. Oswego tea was an alternative drink that led to the Bost Tea Party.
Poinsettia
Family: Euphorbiaceae
Type: Perennial
Hardiness zone: 9 through 11
Sun: Full to partial
Water: regularly during bloom or when soil is dry to the touch
Soil conditions: well-drained, loamy
Soil pH: acidic or neutral
Blooming season: Winter
Common names: Euphorbia pulcherrima. Euphorbia. Painted leaf. Mexican flame flower. Christman cactus. Mexican flameleaf
Flower shape: small, inconspicuous yellow flowers surrounded by large bracts that resemble petals arranged n a star shape
Symbolism: star shape symbolizes the Star of Bethlehem. Red represents the crucifixion sacrifice. Good cheer. Success. Purity.
Interesting facts
- Euphorbia pulcherrima translates to very pretty plant
- Associated with Christmas
- The most economically important plant pot in the world
- December 12 is the National Poinsettia Day
Columbine
Family: Ranunculaceae
Type: Perennial
Hardiness zone: 3 through 9
Sun: Full to partial
Water: average
Soil conditions: well-draining, moist
Soil pH: 6 through 7
Blooming season: spring through summer
Common names: Aquilegia.
Flower shape: 5 sepals and five petals with five backward spurs on the base
Symbolism: happiness. Strength. Wisdom. Piety, knowledge, fear, wisdom, understanding, fortitude, and counsel of the Lord,
Interesting facts
- Attractant to hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies
- Aquilegia comes from Latin Aquila – eagle
- Columba translates to dove because the flower looks like a group of five doves
- Colorado Blue Columbine – Aquilegia caerulea – is Colorado’s official state flower
Ranunculus
Family: Ranunculaceae
Type: Perennial, annual, or bulb
Hardiness zone: 7 through 11
Sun: partial to full
Water: average
Soil conditions: well-drained, moist
Soil pH: slightly acidic
Blooming season: spring through summer
Common names: Crowfoot. Buttercup. Spearwort.
Flower shape: showy, long-lasting, with five or more petals and multiple stamens and pistils
Symbolism: charm and attractiveness
Interesting facts
- From Latin words Rana – frog – and unculus – little
- Poisonous due to containing ranunculin
- Among the most popular wedding flowers
- Medicinal
Verbena
Family: Verbenaceae
Type: Perennial
Hardiness zone: 3 through 12
Sun: partial to full
Water: average
Soil conditions: well-draining and moist
Soil pH: 6 through 8
Blooming season: Summer and autumn
Common names: Vervain.
Flower shape: tiny flowers forming round clusters
Symbolism: sweet memories. Romance. Creativity. Happiness. Healing. Protection.
Interesting facts
- Verbena is Latin for sacred flowers that were part of religious ceremonies.
- Vervain comes from Celtic words fer – to remove – and faen – stone as a cure for kidney stones.
Maltese Cross Flowers
Family: Caryophyllaceae
Type: Perennial
Hardiness zone: 3 through 10
Sun: Full
Water: evenly moist
Soil conditions: well-draining, evenly moist
Soil pH: neutral to acidic 6.5 to 7.5
Blooming season: throughout summer
Common names: Flower of Bristol. Bristol. Lychnis chalcedonica. Nonesuch. London pride. Tears of Christ. Jerusalem cross. Knight’s cross. Silene chalcedonic. Common rose campion. Scarlet lychnis. Nonesuch Flower.
Flower shape: cross-shaped to form a Maltese Cross with four or five petals to form clusters of showy blooms
Symbolism: courage and honor
Interesting facts
- Attracts butterflies, hummingbirds, bees
- Lychnis is the Greek word for lamp
Prickly Pear
Family: Cactaceae
Type: Succulents
Hardiness zone: 6 through 11
Sun: partial to full
Water: low
Soil conditions: well-drained
Soil pH: acidic, alkaline, or neutral
Blooming season: spring through summer
Common names: Opuntia.
Flower shape: cup-shaped
Symbolism: hope
Interesting facts
- One of Mexico’s most important economic resources
- The fruit – tuna – and the cactus- nopal – are ingredients of colonche, a Mexican alcoholic drink
- Opuntia is on Mexico’s coat of arms and in the middle of the flag
- Texas state flower
Pentas
Family: Rubiaceae
Type: Perennial or annual
Hardiness zone: 10 through 11
Sun: partial shade to full sun
Water: 1″ to 2″ per 2″ to 4″ of dried topsoil
Soil conditions: well-drained
Soil pH: Slightly acidic to slightly alkaline
Blooming season: Summer through fall
Common names: Pentas lanceolata. Egyptian stars. Egyptian Star Flower.
Flower shape: five petals in a small pentagon star shape
Symbolism: justice, charity, peace, hope, and faith. Death. Love. Chastity in Ancient Greece. Love. Protection. Balance. Good luck. 5th wedding anniversary. Fortune.
Interesting facts
- Penta means five
- A talisman against spells, demons, hexes, and evil spirits due to its resemblance to a pentacle – five-point star
- Used to treat depression, migraines, headaches, restlessness, insomnia, and anxiety
Daylily
Family: Asphodelaceae
Type: Perennial
Hardiness zone: 3 through 9
Sun: full
Water: 1″ a week
Soil conditions: well-drained, moist
Soil pH: 5.5 to 6.5
Blooming season: late spring through summer and to first frost (depending on species)
Common names: Hemerocallis spp. Perfect perennial.
Flower shape: 2″ to 8″ diameter in various forms – trumpet, triangular, double, circular, ruffled, star, recurved, spider – of two layers of three petals
Symbolism: flirtatious behavior. Coquetry. Mother’s devotion. Motherhood. Innocence, honesty, purity, perfection. Virgin Mary, making it a holy flower.
Interesting facts
- Once belonged to the Liliaceae family but moved to Asphodelaceae because they’re not true lilies
- Genus Hemerocallis comes from Greek words Hemera – day – and kallos – beauty – meaning beautiful for a day
- Medicinal and edible
- Classified by size – miniature, small, large
- Toxic to cats
Sweet Pea
Family: Fabaceae
Type: Annual
Hardiness zone: 2 through 11
Sun: partial shade to full sun
Water: Moderate
Soil conditions: organic-rich, well-draining
Soil pH: slightly alkaline to neutral
Blooming season: late spring through early summer
Common names: Lathyrus odoratus
Flower shape: clusters of partially folded petals that look like a butterfly
Symbolism: goodbyes and departures – Thanks for a lovely time. Pleasure, beauty, and delight. New friendships. Loyalty. Gratitude. Truth. Strength. Chastity. Love. Passion. Desire.
Interesting facts
- It has an orange blossom and honey aroma
- Lathyrus odoratus translates to fragrant and attractive
- Poisonous if ingested
- Attracts butterflies and bees
Celosia
Family: Amaranthaceae
Type: Annual
Hardiness zone: 9 through 11
Sun: full sun to partial shade
Water: regular watering
Soil conditions: excellent drainage
Soil pH: 6 to 6.5
Blooming season: summer to fall
Common names: woolflowers. Cockscomb. Red fox. Feathered amaranth. Celosia spp.
Flower shape: showy, unique, feathery plumes or coral-shaped
Symbolism: affection and love. Unfading love. Silliness. Partnership. Singularity. Immortality. Strength. Courage.
Interesting facts
- Edible with a similar taste to spinach
- Three types – plume, wheat, cockscomb
- Cockscomb comes from the way the flower can look like a rooster crest
- It comes from keleos – burning – due to the flower’s flame-red color
Gaillardia
Family: Asteraceae
Type: Perennial or annual
Hardiness zone: 3 through 10
Sun: full
Water: Moist and checked on every other day
Soil conditions: well-draining poor
Soil pH: 6.1 to 6.5
Blooming season: summer through fall, repeat bloomer
Common names: blanket flower.
Flower shape: single or double flowers with central disked florets surrounded with showier flat, trumpet, or tubular ray florets
Symbolism: joy, modesty, happiness, charm
Interesting facts
- Three species – Pulchella, Aristata, x Grandiflora – a hybrid of the two
- Partly toxic to humans
- Name came from how the flowers form thick ground cover similar to the brightly colored blankets made by Native Americans
- Food source for farm animals and livestock
Royal Poinciana
Family: Fabaceae
Type: Evergreen Flowering Tree
Hardiness zone: 10 through 11
Sun: Full
Water: Regular watering from spring through early fall
Soil conditions: well-draining gravelly, loamy, sandy, or clay
Soil pH:
Blooming season:
Common names: Flame Tree. Delonix regia. Royal poinciana. Gold mohair. Royal Flame tree. Gulmohar. Peacock flower. Arbol de Fuego. Flamboyant Tree. Flame of the Forest. Flower of Calvary
Flower shape: five, scarlet or reddish-orange petals with one larger than the rest with white and yellow markings
Symbolism: the Caribbean. Beauty of nature. Summer in Florida
Interesting facts
- Toxic for cats and dogs
- Regia translates to magnificent, regal, or royal
- Delonix regia is Greek words Delos – conspicuous – and onyx – claw
Calla Lily
Family: Araceae
Type: Perennial or Annual
Hardiness zone: 8 to 10
Sun: full sun to partial shade
Water: well watered
Soil conditions: loose, well-draining, moist
Soil pH: Acidic
Blooming season: early summer through early fall
Common names: pig lily. Arum lily. Trumpet lily. Zantedeschia sp.
Flower shape: large trumpet flower with a large yellow stamen in the middle
Symbolism: natural beauty. Jealousy. Lust. Faithfulness. Purity. Holiness. Resurrection. Rebirth. Determination. Courage.
Interesting facts
- Not an actual lily
- Comes from calla, a Greek word that translates to beautiful
- Toxic to people and animals.
- Some cultures use the flower as a delicacy.
Coleus
Family: Lamiaceae
Type: Perennial or annual
Hardiness zone: 10 through 12
Sun: full sun to partial shade
Water: Average
Soil conditions: well-drained, moist, humus-rich, sand, chalk, loam, clay
Soil pH: Acidic, neutral, or alkaline
Blooming season: summer to fall
Common names: Solenostemon Redhead. Painted Nettle. Coleus Wizard. Trailing Coleus
Flower shape: slender lipped clusters of irregular terminal flowers
Interesting facts
- Royal Horticultural Society awarded this species the Award of Garden Merit
- Attracts pollinators like butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds
Red Trumpet Creeper
Family: Bignoniaceae
Type: Perennial or Annual
Hardiness zone: 4 through 9
Sun: Full sun to partial shade
Water: low
Soil conditions: well-draining, moist dry
Soil pH: 6.8 to 7.2
Blooming season: summer through fall
Common names: trumpet vine. Campsis radicans. Trumpet creeper. Cow vine. Common Trumpet Creeper. Hellvine. Foxglove Vine. Devil’s Shoestring.
Flower shape: 3 ½” tubular, broad trumpet, waxy, showy
Interesting facts
- Rapid growth can reach 30 to 40 feet in a single season, classifying them as invasive
- If the vines are left to climb up trees, they can strangulate the tree
- Attracts long-tongued bees and hummingbirds
- Sap can cause mild skin irritation.
Marigold
Family: Asteraceae
Type: Annual
Hardiness zone: 2 through 11
Sun: full
Water: moisten soil to roots after planting until established – 10 to 12 days. Then weekly for the earth to be moist.
Soil conditions: moist, rich, well-draining
Soil pH: 6 to 7.5
Blooming season: early summer to frost
Common names: Tagetes patula. Calendula. Herb of the sun.
Flower shape: composite
Symbolism: energy and positive emotions. Good luck. Happiness. Warmth. Optimism. Joy. Grief. Despair. Mourning. Jealousy. Honoring and remembering the dead. Resurrection.
Interesting facts
- Marigold refers to two genus – Marigold vis. Tagetes or Calendula
- Strong, pungent odor
- It has medicinal purposes when used as an ointment
Gerbera Daisy
Family: Asteraceae
Type: Perennial
Hardiness zone: 8 to 10
Sun: Full sun to partial shade
Water: 1″ per week when the soil dries out 1″ to 2″ below the surface
Soil conditions: moist and well-drained
Soil pH: neutral to acidic 5.5 to 6.5
Blooming season: Spring through fall
Common names: African Daisy. Gerbera jamesonii
Flower shape: Large head with a center disk of tiny flowers surrounded by ray petals
Symbolism: Truth. Childlike joy. Purity. Optimism. Cheerfulness. Innocence. Beauty.
Interesting facts
- World’s 5th most popular flower in the world
- Attracts birds, butterflies, and bees
- Freya’s sacred flower (Norse goddess of fertility, love, and beauty).
- Four classifications: single, semi-double, double, or spider
Gloxinia
Family: Gesneriaceae
Type: Perennial or Tropical
Hardiness zone: 11 to 12
Sun: Partial shade
Water: moderate
Soil conditions: well-draining
Soil pH: 5.5 to 6.5
Blooming season: summer through fall – September through October
Common names: Sinningia. Gloxinia. Sinningia Speciosa.
Flower shape: single or double flower, up to 2″ long, five petals that are bell-shaped when open, trumpet when closed
Symbolism: love at first sight. Proud spirit.
Interesting facts
- Most Gloxinia hybrids are small, up to 10″ tall, and wide
- The flowers are not hardy against stress
- Very high-demanding species requiring frequent attention and care
Iris
Family: Iridaceae
Type: Perennial
Hardiness zone: 3 through 9
Sun: full sun
Water: deep and consistent
Soil conditions: well-draining
Soil pH: neutral to slightly acidic 6.8 to 7
Blooming season: spring to early summer; hybrids flower again in late summer – remontant
Common names: flags. Junos. Iris hollandica
Flower shape: 6 petals with three falls – outer hanging petals – and three standards – upright inner petals. Can be crested – beardless because the hairs ridge or crest – or bearded – the center of the falls has soft hairs
Symbolism: wisdom. Elegance. Faith. Charm. Ecstasy. Purity. Compassion. Admiration. Hope. New Beginnings. Royalty. Determination. Passion. Relentless hope. Kindness. Respect. Love. Happiness.
Interesting facts
- Iris is the name of the Greek goddess that traveled by riding rainbows
- Iris translates to rainbow in Greek
- Attracts hummingbirds and butterflies
Lycoris
Family: Amaryllidaceae
Type: Perennial
Hardiness zone: 5 to 10
Sun: Full to partial shade
Water: average
Soil conditions: well-draining
Soil pH: any
Blooming season: Spring through fall
Common names: Naked Lily. Spider Lily. Red Spider Lily. Lycoris Radiata. Amaryllis. Hurricane Lily. Red Magic Lily. Higanbana – blooming flower during the fall equinox. Manjusha – flower in heaven.
Flower shape: 3″ to 6″ narrow funnel strap-shaped six petals and spindly stamens that resemble spiders
Symbolism: Reincarnation. Death.
Interesting facts
- Poisonous to people due to alkaloid poisoning by lycorine
- Bulbs treat ulcers, liver and stomach problems, swelling, epilepsy, rheumatism
Hardy Mum
Family: Asteraceae
Type: Perennial
Hardiness zone: 4 through 9
Sun: full
Water: consistent moisture when the soil dries 1″ to 2″ down. 1″ of weekly water minimum, more for larger plants in bloom
Soil conditions: moist, well-draining, rich
Soil pH: 6.2 to 7
Blooming season: late summer through fall
Common names: florist’s daisy. Garden mum. Hardy mum. Chrysanthemum morifolium. Chrysanthemum
Flower shape: daisy-shaped heads with flat discs or round pom-poms with flat, curled, spidery, or needle-like,
Symbolism: loyalty. Longevity. Happiness. Joy. Devoted love.
Interesting facts
- The birth flower of November
- Leaves are edible
- Creates cleaner indoor air pollution
Amaranthus
Family: Alstroemeria
Type: Annual
Hardiness zone: 2 through 11
Sun: Direct
Water: Regular
Soil conditions: Nutrient-rich, loamy, well-drained
Soil pH: 4.5 to 8
Blooming season: August through October
Common names: Amaranth. Amaranthus Cruentus. Red Amaranth. Pigweed.
Flower shape: showy, feathery plumes
Symbolism: immortality.
Interesting facts
- Amaranth is from the Greek word meaning unfading or everlasting
- Edible
Gladiolus
Family: Iridaceae
Type: Annual or perennial
Hardiness zone: 8 through 10
Sun: full sun to partial shade
Water: 1″ a week down to 6″ to 8″
Soil conditions: sandy, well-drained, loose
Soil pH: 6 to 6.5
Blooming season: early to late summer through fall
Common names: Gladiolus alatus. Glad.
Flower shape: 3-foot spikes of satiny, dense sword-shaped 2″ to 3″ flowers
Symbolism: sincerity. Flower of the gladiator. Strong character.
Interesting facts
- Gladiolus is Latin for little sword
- Birth flower of August and astrological signs Libra and Virgo
Red Sunflower
Family: Asteraceae
Type: Annual
Hardiness zone: 2 through 11
Sun: Full
Water: several gallons of water once a week
Soil conditions: well-drained, loose
Soil pH: Slightly acidic to slightly alkaline or neutral
Blooming season: mid-summer to early fall
Common names: Helianthus annuus.
Flower shape: round face full of brown seeds, surrounded by tapered, pointed petals
Symbolism: honesty. Peace. Happiness. Longevity. Devotion. Admiration. Optimism.
Interesting facts
- 2021 was the Year of the Sunflower
- Sunflower is from Greek words helios (sun) and anthos (flower)
- Heliotropic – flowers turn to follow the Sun from east to west, returning to east at night
Yarrow
Family: Asteraceae
Type: Perennial
Hardiness zone: 3 to 7
Sun: Partial shade to full sun
Water: Medium
Soil conditions: dry
Soil pH: 5.5 to 6.8
Blooming season: April to October
Common names: Common yarrow. Achillea millefolium. Milfoil.Yarrow. Western Yarrow. Plumajillo (little feather). Nosebleed plant. Woundwort. Old man’s pepper. Carpenter’s weed. Seven Year’s Love.
Flower shape: domed or flat clusters of tiny umbrella flowers with feathery leaves
Symbolism: everlasting love. Cures a broken heart. Bravery during war. Protects and gives courage.
Interesting facts
- The Latin name millefolium means a thousand leaves
- Yarrow comes from hiera, the Greek word for holy herb
- Emits a sweet aroma similar to anise or tarragon
Amaryllis
Family: Amaryllidaceae
Type: Perennial
Hardiness zone: 8 through 10
Sun: partial shade to full sun
Water: when the top 2″ are dry
Soil conditions: well-drained, rich
Soil pH: 6 to 6.5
Blooming season: seasonal
Common names: Hippeastrum
Flower shape: large trumpet lily blooms in a star shape
Symbolism: love, determination, beauty, hope
Interesting facts
- The name Amaryllis is the name for the hippeastrum genus
- Hippeastrum is Greek for knight’s star, referring to the flower star shape
Freesia
Family:
Type: Perennial
Hardiness zone: 9 through 11
Sun: light shade to full sun
Water: Once a week during flowering
Soil conditions: well-drained, moist, rich
Soil pH: neutral
Blooming season: spring to summer
Common names: Freesia spp.
Flower shape: funnel, double or single petal in a Y-shape
Symbolism: trust, friendship, innocence, thoughtfulness, passion
Interesting facts
- Heavily fragrant
- One of the world’s most popular flowers
- Flowers only grow on half of the stalk – zygomorphic
Callistemon
Family: Myrtaceae
Type: Perennial desert shrub
Hardiness zone: 8 through 11
Sun: full
Water: regular while young, weekly without rain
Soil conditions: clay, sandy, loamy well-drained
Soil pH: s5.5 to 7
Blooming season: spring through summer
Common names: Red Bottlebrush. Crimson Bottlebrush. Lemon Bottlebrush. C. lanceolatus
Flower shape: spiky cylindrical clusters that form at the end of the stem
Symbolism: joy, abundance, laughter, and joy.
Interesting facts
- Lemon citrus scent
Salvia
Family: Lamiaceae
Type: Perennial
Hardiness zone: 5 through 9
Sun: full
Water: 1″ a week when there’s no rain
Soil conditions: well-drained
Soil pH: 5.5 to 6.5
Blooming season: late spring
Common names: sages.
Flower shape: 1″ two-lipped flowers that form in spikes
Symbolism: wisdom. Good health. Longevity. Esteem. Knowlege and a connection to the divine
Interesting facts
- Commonly used as a seasoning
- Attractions pollinators
- It comes from Latin Salus (healthy)
Anthurium
Family: Araceae
Type: Perennial
Hardiness zone: 11 to 12
Sun: medium to bright light
Water: slightly moist
Soil conditions: moist coarse
Soil pH: 5.5 to 6.5
Blooming season: year-round
Common names: flamingo flower. Tailflower. Laceleaf. Anthurium spp.
Flower shape: showy heart-shaped waxy leaves and tiny blooms around a spike (spadix)
Symbolism: abundance. Happiness.
Interesting facts
- More often grown as a house plant than outdoors
- Toxic to pets and people
Geranium
Family: Geraniaceae
Type: Perennial
Hardiness zone: 3 through 9
Sun: Full
Water: thorough after soil dries
Soil conditions: well-draining loose
Soil pH: 5.8 to 6.3
Blooming season: spring to fall
Common names: pelargonium spp. storksbills.
Flower shape: disc-like with heart or round foliage
Symbolism: good health, friendship, happiness. Folly. Stupidity. Healing.
Interesting facts
- Great for housewarming gifts
- Pelargonium means stork’s bill
Armeria
Family: Plumbaginaceae
Type: Perennial
Hardiness zone: 3 through 9
Sun: full sun to partial shade
Water: drought tolerant
Soil conditions: sandy, dry, infertile, well-drained
Soil pH: 5.5 to 7.5
Blooming season: June to August
Common names: Sea Thrift. Armeria maritima. Sea Pink. Cushion Pink. Cliff Rose. Lady’s Cushion. Marsh Daisy. Lady’s Pincushion. Sea Gilliflower. Sea Grass.
Flower shape: clusters of globed blooms
Interesting facts
- Used for medicinal purposes
- Endangered in some of the UK
Hyacinth
Family: Asparagaceae
Type: Perennial
Hardiness zone: 4 through 8
Sun: partial shade to full sun
Water: 1″ as needed for moist soil
Soil conditions: well-drained, loose, fertile, loamy
Soil pH: 6 to 7
Blooming season: spring
Common names: Hyacinthus orientalis. Garden hyacinth. Common hyacinth. Dutch hyacinth.
Flower shape: up to 10″ spikes of bell or star-flowers
Symbolism: jealousy. Sincerity. Sorrow. (good for funerals). Celebratory. Romance. Passion. Love.
Interesting facts
- Highly fragrant
Streptocarpus
Family: Gesneriaceae
Type: Perennial
Hardiness zone: 10 to 11
Sun: shade to partial sun
Water: average
Soil conditions: loamy, fertile, moist, well-draining
Soil pH: 5.5 to 6
Blooming season: spring through summer
Common names: Cape Primrose. Strips.
Flower shape: delicate, wrinkled petals with a velvety texture
Red Valerian
Family: Caprifoliaceae
Type: Perennial
Hardiness zone: 3-9
Sun: Partial shade to full sun
Water: light watering to none but rainfall
Soil conditions: well-drained
Soil pH: alkaline
Blooming season: summer through fall
Common names: Spur Valeria. Fox’s brush. Centranthus ruber. Devil’s beard. Jupiter’s beard.
Flower shape: showy star-shaped
Symbolism: strength. Awareness of what’s coming. Readiness. Health.
Interesting facts
- Favored for long flowering period
Dianthus
Family: Caryophyllaceae
Type: Perennial or Annual
Hardiness zone: 5 through 9
Sun: full sun to partial shade
Water: average
Soil conditions: well-drained, rich
Soil pH: 6 to 7.5
Blooming season: spring through fall
Common names: Carnation. Flower of the Gods.
Flower shape: four to five petals in a mound shape formed in two to four clusters
Symbolism: flower of the gods. Divine. Family unity. Pride. Passion. Admiration. Harmony. Death. Affection. Sadness. Capriciousness. Gratitude. Love.
Interesting facts
- Greek words Dios (god) and anthos (flower)
- Has a spicy clove smell
- Official Mother’s Day flower
Canna
Family:
Type: Perennial or Annual
Hardiness zone: 2 through 10
Sun: full sun to partial shade
Water: 1″ to 2″ a week (once or twice a day in containers)
Soil conditions: rich, moist, well0drained
Soil pH: 5.5 to 6
Blooming season: early summer to the first frost
Common names: Canna lilies. Canna spp. Arrowroot. Indian shot.
Flower shape: showy, clusters with five imitation petals
Interesting facts
- Not an actual lily
- Flowers only bloom for one to two days
Zinnia
Family: Asteraceae
Type: Annual
Hardiness zone: 2 through 11
Sun: full
Water: drought-tolerant
Soil conditions: well-draining
Soil pH: 5.5 to 7.5
Blooming season: late spring through frost
Common names: Zinnia Elegans
Flower shape: rounded heads with daisy, double, formal (dahlia), or cactus with petals surrounding a central disk
Symbolism: affection, friendship, acclaim, remembrance, tribute, everlasting love
Poppy
Family: Papaveraceae
Type: Perennial or Annual
Hardiness zone: 3 through 8
Sun: direct sun
Water: drought tolerant
Soil conditions:well-drained, fertile
Soil pH: 6.5 to 7.5
Blooming season: early spring to summer
Common names: Papaver rhoeas, corn rose, field poppy, red poppy, Flanders poppy, common poppy
Flower shape: 4, 8, or 12 separate petals with multiple stamens and 2 to 3 sepals in a papery, tissue texture
Symbolism: imagination. Dreams. Sleep. Remembrance. Sacrifice. Luxury. Regeneration.
Interesting facts
- Poppy is the source of opium, a narcotic alkaloid used to make codeine, heroin, and morphine
- The US is currently battling an opioid crisis (narcotic medications made from opium)
Dahlia
Family: Asteraceae
Type: Annual
Hardiness zone: 3 through 11
Sun: full
Water: 3 to 4 times weekly
Soil conditions: well-drained
Soil pH: 5.8 to 6.2
Blooming season: summer (for 120 days)
Common names:
Flower shape: fully double with ball or lightly flattened globe shape and incurved petals, indented, blunt, or rounded
Symbolism: change, creativity, elegance, dignity, inner strength.
Interesting facts
- The heavy watering needs often do best with a drip line irrigation
Tulip
Family: Liliaceae
Type: Perennial
Hardiness zone: 3-8
Sun: Full to partial shade
Water: weekly
Soil conditions: fertile, well-draining
Soil pH: 6 to 7
Blooming season: mid to late spring
Common names: Tulipa spp. Tulipa gesneriana.
Flower shape: cup-shaped
Symbolism: harbinger of spring
Interesting facts
- One of the first flowers to bloom in spring
Orchid
Family: Orchidaceae
Type: Perennial
Hardiness zone: 5 through 9
Sun: bright, indirect light
Water: dry soil between waterings, watered in the mornings
Soil conditions: soilless, well-draining
Soil pH: 5 to 6.5
Blooming season: summer to fall, or year-round
Flower shape: bilaterally symmetrical – mirror-imaged with three sepals and three petals with a central column. The showy wide bottom –lip- petal attracts pollinators.
Symbolism: fertility. Sexuality. Virility. Elegance. Love. Integrity. Friendship. Luxury. Refined taste
Interesting facts
- Most orchids are epiphytes, meaning they grow by clinging to trees or stones rather than in the ground
- The word orchid comes from the Latin orchis – testicle
- Orchids are one of the largest flowering species – angiosperm
Alstroemeria
Family: Alstroemeriaceae
Type: Perennial
Hardiness zone: 7 through 10
Sun: partial shade
Water: regular
Soil conditions: well-draining, loose with sand or compost
Soil pH: 6 to 7
Blooming season: end of spring to start of summer
Common names: Lily of the Incas. Parrot Lily. Peruvian Lily. Princess Lily.
Flower shape:
Symbolism: good fortune. Friendship. Mother’s Day gift
Interesting facts
- Contains toxins that irritate eyes
Azalea
Family: Rhododendron
Type: Deciduous shrub
Hardiness zone: 5-9
Sun: filtered light or afternoon shade and morning sun
Water: evenly moist, watering when dry to the touch – 1″ a week
Soil conditions: friable, well-draining, highly organic
Soil pH: 4 to 5.5
Blooming season: spring, reblooming (spring and fall), or mid to late-season.
Common names: Royalty of the Garden
Flower shape: 5 stamens, funnel, bell, tubular, recurved, open, or flat-faced shaped in round clusters – trusses
Symbolism: wealth, abundance, elegance, family and family duty, passion, feminine beauty, romance, and passion.
Interesting facts
- Poisonous if ingested
Cardinal Flower
Family: Campanulaceae
Type: Perennial
Hardiness zone: 3 through 9
Sun: partial to full
Water: frequently
Soil conditions: fertile and wet
Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral
Blooming season: summer through early fall
Common names: Lobelia cardinalis L. Indian Pink.
Flower shape: 4 cm wide, five-lobed petals in a double lip corolla and trumpet neck
Interesting facts
- Once used medicinally by Native Americans
- However, ingestion can lead to weakness, vomiting, nausea, convulsions, or coma
Petunia
Family: Solanaceae
Type: Annual
Hardiness zone: 9 – 11
Sun: partial to full sun
Water: 1″ to 2″ every seven to 10 days
Soil conditions: well-drained, fertile
Soil pH: 5.5 to 6.3
Blooming season: late spring through frost
Common names: petun (translates to tobacco). Garden petunia. Petunia
Flower shape: funnel-shaped with five petals and five green sepals with veined or speckled contrasts of color
Symbolism: resentment, anger, intimate moments, happy feelings of being with someone that you’re comfortable around
Interesting facts
- Four species of hundreds of variations – Grandiflora, Milliflora, Multiflora, Spreading
- Petun, from which comes the name Petunia, translates to “tobacco that isn’t good to smoke.”
Peony
Family: Paeoniaceae
Type: Perennial
Hardiness zone: 3-8
Sun: full
Water: 1″ weekly when there’s no rain
Soil conditions: well-drained
Soil pH: 6 to 7
Blooming season: late February through April
Common names: paeony
Flower shape: frilly notched saucer, ruffled, cup-shaped petals
Symbolism: good fortune. Prosperity. Happiness. Happy marriage. Compassion. Honor. Bashfulness. 12th wedding anniversary.
Interesting facts
- Peony flower structure can be single, Anemone, Japanese, semi-double, full double, or Bomb with up to 300 petals
- Seeds, roots, and flowers have medicinal properties
- Indiana state flower
Aster
Family: Asteraceae
Type: Perennial
Hardiness zone: 3 through 8
Sun: Full to partial sun
Water: as needed
Soil conditions: moist, loamy, well-drained cool temperature
Soil pH: 5.8 to 6.5
Blooming season: late summer through fall
Common names: Symphyotrichum spp.
Flower shape: thin, long petals surround a bold yellow center
Symbolism: elegance, daintiness, a love of new things, patience. 20th wedding anniversary
Interesting facts
- Often mixed up with the Daisy flower
- Aster is the Greek word meaning star
- September birth flower
Bleeding Heart
Family: Papaveraceae
Type: Perennial
Hardiness zone:
Sun: part to full shade
Water: regular watering to keep consistently moist
Soil conditions: moist, humus-rich with heavy organic matter
Soil pH: around 7
Blooming season: early spring
Common names: Asian bleeding heart, fallopian buds, Lamprocapnos spectabilis
Flower shape: heart-shaped hanging from an arched stem
Symbolism: rejection. Passionate love between two partners. Love for all things. Compassion. A connection between life and death.
Interesting facts
- Dicentra (two spurs) spectabilis (spectacular)
Camellia
Family: Theaceae
Type: Perennial
Hardiness zone: 6 through 9
Sun: partial sun to full shade
Water: average
Soil conditions: sandy, clay, loamy, well-drained, moist
Soil pH: neutral to acidic 5.5 to 6.5
Blooming season: spring through fall
Common names: Peony Camellia. Common Camellia. Thea Japonica. Japanese Camellia
Flower shape:
Symbolism: devotion, admiration, love, affection. Perfection. Faithfulness. Refinement. Divinity.
Cockscomb
Family: Amaranthaceae
Type: Perennial or Annual
Hardiness zone: 9-11
Sun: partial shade to full sun
Water: as needed when it’s dry 1″ to 2″ down
Soil conditions: moist, well-drained, loamy
Soil pH: acidic to neutral
Blooming season: summer to fall
Common names: Celosia argentea var. Cristata.
Flower shape: unusual, looking like a rooster’s crest or a brain
Symbolism: affection, silliness, unfading love
Lilium
Family: Liliaceae
Type: Perennial
Hardiness zone: 5-8
Sun: full
Water: 1″ weekly
Soil conditions: organically rich, well-drained
Soil pH: 6 to 6.5
Blooming season: summer
Common names: Lilium spp. Lily
Flower shape: Identical three petals and three sepals with elongated colored stamens
Symbolism: fertility. Purity. Rebirth. Fresh life. Passion. Romance.
Interesting facts
- Toxic to cats, causing kidney failure
Anemone
Family: Ranunculaceae
Type: Perennial
Hardiness zone: 3-10
Sun: full sun to partial shade
Water: lightly moist
Soil conditions: moist, rich
Soil pH: 5.6 to 7.5
Blooming season: spring through autumn
Common names: windflower. Poppy windflower. Grecian windflower.
Flower shape: 2″ to 5″ diameter simple single
Symbolism: anticipation. Remembrance for someone who’s died. Protection from evil and ill will. Forgotten love.
Interesting facts
- Anemos is Greek for wind’s daughter
- All parts are mildly toxic to pets and people
- The flower closes at night and reopens in the morning
- Closes when rain is incoming
Hardy Jewel Coreopsis
Family: Asteraceae
Type: Perennial
Hardiness zone: 2-11
Sun: full
Water: drought-tolerant when established past first year
Soil conditions: well-drained sandy
Soil pH: uncaring
Blooming season: early summer through fall
Common names: Tickseed. Calliopsis. Coreopsis spp.
Flower shape: daisy-like
Symbolism: always cheerful
Interesting facts
- 2018 National Garden Bureau flower of the year
- Coreopsis is from Greek words koris (bed-bug) and opsis (appearance)
Zonal Geranium
Family:
Type: Annual
Hardiness zone: 9-12 (perennial) 2-8 (annual)
Sun: full sun to light shade
Water: drought tolerant
Soil conditions: well-drained, rich, medium moisture
Soil pH: 5.8 to 6.5
Blooming season: freely throughout season
Common names: Annual geranium. Ivy-leaved geranium. Regal geranium. Pelargonium spp.
Flower shape: 5 petals in single or double bloom
Symbolism: ingenuity. Clever minds. Clever. Brilliant.
Interesting facts
- Not a real geranium – moved to Pelargonium genus
- Poisonous to people, dogs, and cats
Types of Red Flowers FAQ
Here are some quick, frequently asked questions many amateur botanists have about the many variations of red flower species.
What do red flowers mean?
Red is a powerful color that can have mixed meanings. Red flowers are naturally associated with passion, desire, and love.
But they can also be symbolic of respect, courage, admiration, and constancy. However, more sinister meanings include aggression, jealousy, danger, war.
Which trees have red flowers?
The Royal Poinciana – Flamboyant tree – is the most popular species to produce red flowers. Other potential species include Crepe Myrtle, Oleander, Crabapple, and the Red Dogwood.
Which red flowers do butterflies like?
Butterflies are attracted to numerous red flowers, including Hibiscus, Scarlett Bee Balm, Maltese Cross, Ranunculus, Yarrow, Red Sunflower, Pentas, and Sweet Peas.
Which cacti or succulents have red flowers?
The Prickly Pear is famous for producing bold red flowers.
Why do hummingbirds like red flowers?
Red flowers are easy for hummingbirds to spot while they are flying around. But the color can be more difficult for other pollinators to see, like bees and butterflies.
Which red flowers attract hummingbirds?
Hummingbirds have an attraction to bright colors like red and flowers that produce heavy pollen like Pentas, Coleus, Crocosmia, Hibiscus, Columbine, Scarlett Bee Balm, Maltese Cross, Red Trumpet Creeper, and Iris.
Are red flowers appropriate for a funeral?
Red can be a traditional color to send for funeral floral arrangements of someone you will miss or with whom you had a personal connection or love. However, red is not appropriate for funerals of Buddhists.
Conclusion
Mother nature knows how to put on a great show by producing dazzling flowers in various tones of red. We’ve covered important details about 67 types of red flowers. We also hooked you up with pictures of each and answered some frequently asked questions. Which red flower is your favorite?