Discover 35 stunning flowers that start with the letter A! From the delicate Acacia to the vibrant Azalea, explore a variety of blooms perfect for any garden. Learn about their unique characteristics, care tips, and how they can add beauty and charm to your outdoor or indoor spaces.
Hey there, plant pals! Ever feel like you’re stuck in an alphabet soup when it comes to flowers? Well, get ready to ace the A’s! We’re about to dive into a blooming wonderful world of 35 flowers that kick off the ABC’s of gardening. From the “aww-worthy” Alyssum to the “holy cow, what’s that?” Acanthus, we’ve got a bouquet of info that’ll turn your green thumb fifty shades brighter. Whether you’re a newbie who can barely keep a cactus alive (no judgment here!) or a seasoned pro who whispers to your wisteria, this guide’s got something for everyone. So grab your gardening gloves, and let’s dig into this A-mazing adventure! Who knows? By the end of this, you might just find yourself falling in love with a flower you’ve never heard of before. Ready to get your hands dirty? Let’s grow!
1. Asarina
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Here’s a chart with information about Asarina:
Category | Details |
---|---|
Botanical Name | Asarina scandens |
Common Name | Climbing Snapdragon |
Plant Zone | 9-11 (grown as an annual in cooler climates) |
Sun Exposure | Full sun to partial shade |
Soil Type | Well-drained, fertile soil |
Watering | Regular watering; keep soil consistently moist |
Growth Habit | Climbing, twining vine |
Height/Spread | 6-10 feet tall; 1-3 feet wide |
Special Features | Tubular flowers; blooms from summer to fall; excellent for trellises, fences, and containers |
Asarina, or Twining Snapdragon, is perfect if you’ve got a fence that needs prettying up. These climbers are like the ninja warriors of the flower world – they’ll scale just about anything. NC State Extension has a great overview of asarina and its growing habits.
2. Asclepias
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Here’s a chart with information about Asclepias (Butterfly Weed):
Category | Details |
---|---|
Botanical Name | Asclepias tuberosa |
Common Name | Butterfly Weed, Butterfly Milkweed |
Plant Zone | 3-9 |
Sun Exposure | Full sun |
Soil Type | Well-drained, sandy or gravelly soil |
Watering | Low water needs; drought-tolerant once established |
Growth Habit | Upright, clump-forming perennial |
Height/Spread | 1-3 feet tall; 1-2 feet wide |
Special Features | Bright orange flowers; attracts butterflies, especially Monarchs; deer resistant |
If you’re all about helping out our butterfly buddies, Butterfly Weed is a must-have. These orange blooms are like a “Welcome” sign for monarchs. The U.S. Forest Service has some cool info on butterfly weed and its importance to pollinators.
3. Aconitum
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Here’s a chart with information about Aconitum (Monkshood):
Category | Details |
---|---|
Botanical Name | Aconitum spp. |
Common Name | Monkshood, Wolfsbane |
Plant Zone | 3-7 |
Sun Exposure | Partial shade to full sun (prefers partial shade in hotter climates) |
Soil Type | Moist, well-drained, rich soil |
Watering | Regular watering; keep soil consistently moist |
Growth Habit | Upright, clump-forming perennial |
Height/Spread | 2-5 feet tall; 1-2 feet wide |
Special Features | Tall spires of helmet-shaped blue, purple, or white flowers; blooms in late summer to fall; all parts of the plant are highly toxic |
Monkshood’s got these cool, hood-shaped flowers that look like little helmets. Just remember, it’s for looking, not touching – this plant packs a poisonous punch. The University of Illinois Extension offers some important safety tips for growing monkshood.
4. Agrostemma
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Here’s a chart with information about Agrostemma:
Category | Details |
---|---|
Botanical Name | Agrostemma githago |
Common Name | Corn Cockle |
Plant Zone | 3-10 |
Sun Exposure | Full sun |
Soil Type | Well-drained, average soil |
Watering | Moderate watering; drought-tolerant once established |
Growth Habit | Upright annual |
Height/Spread | 2-4 feet tall; 1-2 feet wide |
Special Features | Delicate, rose-pink flowers with a star-shaped pattern; blooms in summer; attracts pollinators |
Ever heard of Corn Cockle? That’s Agrostemma’s other name. It’s got these pretty pink flowers that look great in wildflower gardens. The USDA has some good info on agrostemma’s characteristics and distribution.
5. Anise Hyssop
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Here’s a chart with information about Anise Hyssop:
Category | Details |
---|---|
Botanical Name | Agastache foeniculum |
Common Name | Anise Hyssop, Blue Giant Hyssop |
Plant Zone | 4-9 |
Sun Exposure | Full sun |
Soil Type | Well-drained, fertile soil |
Watering | Moderate watering; drought-tolerant once established |
Growth Habit | Upright perennial |
Height/Spread | 2-4 feet tall; 1-2 feet wide |
Special Features | Fragrant, licorice-scented leaves; spikes of lavender-blue flowers; attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds; edible flowers and leaves |
If you’re into herbs, you’ll love Anise Hyssop. It’s got purple flower spikes and leaves that smell like licorice. Bees go nuts for it too! The University of Minnesota Extension has a great guide on growing anise hyssop.
6. Arctotis
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Here’s a chart with information about Arctotis:
Category | Details |
---|---|
Botanical Name | Arctotis spp. |
Common Name | African Daisy |
Plant Zone | 9-11 (grown as an annual in cooler climates) |
Sun Exposure | Full sun |
Soil Type | Well-drained, sandy or loamy soil |
Watering | Low to moderate watering; drought-tolerant once established |
Growth Habit | Spreading perennial or annual |
Height/Spread | 1-2 feet tall; 1-2 feet wide |
Special Features | Brightly colored daisy-like flowers; blooms from spring to fall; attracts pollinators; heat and drought tolerant |
Arctotis, another type of African Daisy, is like a ray of sunshine in your garden. These daisy-like flowers come in bright, cheerful colors. NC State Extension offers some good tips for growing arctotis.
7. Akebia
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Here’s a chart with information about Akebia:
Category | Details |
---|---|
Botanical Name | Akebia quinata |
Common Name | Chocolate Vine, Five-leaf Akebia |
Plant Zone | 4-9 |
Sun Exposure | Full sun to partial shade |
Soil Type | Well-drained, fertile soil |
Watering | Regular watering; tolerates some drought |
Growth Habit | Vigorous, twining vine |
Height/Spread | 20-40 feet long; 6-9 feet wide |
Special Features | Fragrant, chocolate-scented flowers; attractive foliage; purple-brown flowers in spring; edible fruit in some varieties |
Akebia’s a fast-growing vine with quirky purple flowers. If you’ve got an ugly wall you want to hide, this is your plant. NC State Extension has some solid advice on growing akebia.
8. Adenium
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Here’s a chart with information about Adenium (Desert Rose):
Category | Details |
---|---|
Botanical Name | Adenium obesum |
Common Name | Desert Rose |
Plant Zone | 10-12 (can be grown as a houseplant in cooler climates) |
Sun Exposure | Full sun |
Soil Type | Well-drained, sandy or cactus mix soil |
Watering | Low water needs; allow soil to dry out between waterings |
Growth Habit | Succulent shrub |
Height/Spread | 3-6 feet tall; 1-3 feet wide |
Special Features | Showy, tubular flowers in various colors; swollen trunk (caudex) for water storage; drought-tolerant; often used as a bonsai specimen |
Desert Rose is like the supermodel of the succulent world. It’s got these gorgeous pink flowers and a cool, bulbous stem. The University of Florida has a comprehensive guide on desert rose care.
9. Aeonium
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Here’s a chart with information about Aeonium:
Category | Details |
---|---|
Botanical Name | Aeonium spp. |
Common Name | Aeonium |
Plant Zone | 9-11 (can be grown as a houseplant in cooler climates) |
Sun Exposure | Full sun to partial shade |
Soil Type | Well-drained, sandy or succulent mix soil |
Watering | Low water needs; allow soil to dry out between waterings |
Growth Habit | Rosette-forming succulent |
Height/Spread | 1-3 feet tall; 1-2 feet wide |
Special Features | Rosette-shaped foliage; varies in color from green to burgundy; drought-tolerant; attractive in containers and rock gardens |
Aeoniums are succulents that look like they’re from another planet. Some types have tiny star-shaped flowers, but they’re mostly grown for their cool leaf rosettes. The University of Arizona has some great tips for growing aeoniums.
10. Arabis
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Here’s a chart with information about Arabis (Rock Cress):
Category | Details |
---|---|
Botanical Name | Arabis spp. |
Common Name | Rock Cress |
Plant Zone | 3-7 |
Sun Exposure | Full sun to partial shade |
Soil Type | Well-drained, sandy or loamy soil |
Watering | Moderate watering; drought-tolerant once established |
Growth Habit | Low-growing, spreading perennial |
Height/Spread | 4-12 inches tall; spreads up to 18 inches |
Special Features | Masses of small, fragrant flowers in early spring; evergreen foliage; excellent for rock gardens, borders, and ground cover |
Rock Cress is perfect if you’re into rock gardens. These low-growing plants with their dainty flowers are tough little cookies. The USDA has some good info on arabis species and their habitats.
11. Armeria
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Here’s a chart with information about Armeria (Sea Thrift):
Category | Details |
---|---|
Botanical Name | Armeria maritima |
Common Name | Sea Thrift, Common Thrift |
Plant Zone | 4-8 |
Sun Exposure | Full sun to partial shade |
Soil Type | Well-drained, sandy or loamy soil |
Watering | Moderate watering; drought-tolerant once established |
Growth Habit | Low-growing, clump-forming perennial |
Height/Spread | 6-12 inches tall; spreads 12-18 inches wide |
Special Features | Clusters of round, pom-pom-like flowers; evergreen foliage; attracts butterflies; excellent for rock gardens and borders |
Sea Thrift’s got these cute, pom-pom like flowers. If you live near the coast, this plant will feel right at home in your garden. The Royal Horticultural Society has a great overview of armeria species.
12. Arum
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Here’s a chart with information about Arum:
Category | Details |
---|---|
Botanical Name | Arum spp. |
Common Name | Arum, Cuckoo Pint, Lords-and-Ladies |
Plant Zone | 5-9 |
Sun Exposure | Partial shade to full shade |
Soil Type | Moist, well-drained, rich soil |
Watering | Regular watering; prefers consistently moist soil |
Growth Habit | Herbaceous perennial |
Height/Spread | 6-12 inches tall; 12-18 inches wide |
Special Features | Unique, arrow-shaped leaves; distinctive spathes with a central spadix; blooms in spring; some species are toxic |
Arum’s got some of the weirdest-looking flowers you’ll ever see. They’re like nature’s version of modern art. Minnetrista has an interesting article on the unique characteristics of arum plants.
13. Asphodeline
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Here’s a chart with information about Asphodeline:
Category | Details |
---|---|
Botanical Name | Asphodeline lutea |
Common Name | Yellow Asphodel |
Plant Zone | 5-9 |
Sun Exposure | Full sun to partial shade |
Soil Type | Well-drained, average to sandy soil |
Watering | Moderate watering; drought-tolerant once established |
Growth Habit | Upright perennial |
Height/Spread | 2-3 feet tall; 1-2 feet wide |
Special Features | Tall spikes of yellow flowers; strap-like foliage; blooms in late spring to summer; attracts pollinators |
Asphodeline’s like the supermodel of the flower world – tall, slender, and yellow. It’s a real head-turner in any garden. NC State Extension offers some good info on growing asphodeline.
14. Astrantia
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Here’s a chart with information about Astrantia:
Category | Details |
---|---|
Botanical Name | Astrantia major |
Common Name | Masterwort, Hattie’s Pincushion |
Plant Zone | 4-8 |
Sun Exposure | Full sun to partial shade |
Soil Type | Well-drained, average to rich soil |
Watering | Regular watering; prefers consistently moist soil |
Growth Habit | Upright, clump-forming perennial |
Height/Spread | 12-18 inches tall; 12-18 inches wide |
Special Features | Unique, pincushion-like flower heads; long-lasting blooms; attractive to bees and butterflies |
Astrantia, or Masterwort, has these intricate flowers that look like fireworks frozen in time. They’re great for cottage gardens. The Royal Horticultural Society has a comprehensive guide on astrantia varieties and care.
15. Acanthus
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Here’s a chart with information about Acanthus:
Category | Details |
---|---|
Botanical Name | Acanthus mollis |
Common Name | Bear’s Breeches, Oyster Plant |
Plant Zone | 5-9 |
Sun Exposure | Full sun to partial shade |
Soil Type | Well-drained, rich soil |
Watering | Regular watering; prefers consistently moist soil |
Growth Habit | Upright, clump-forming perennial |
Height/Spread | 2-4 feet tall; 2-3 feet wide |
Special Features | Bold, glossy foliage; tall spikes of white to purple flowers; attractive in shaded or woodland gardens |
Last but not least, we’ve got Acanthus. These plants have big, bold leaves and spikes of flowers. They’re so cool-looking that ancient Greek architects used them as inspiration for column designs. NC State Extension has some great tips for growing acanthus.
16. Aster
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Here’s a chart with information about Aster:
Category | Details |
---|---|
Botanical Name | Aster spp. |
Common Name | Aster |
Plant Zone | 4-8 |
Sun Exposure | Full sun to partial shade |
Soil Type | Well-drained, fertile soil |
Watering | Regular watering; prefers consistently moist soil |
Growth Habit | Upright perennial |
Height/Spread | 1-4 feet tall; 1-2 feet wide |
Special Features | Star-shaped flowers in various colors; blooms from late summer to fall; attracts butterflies and bees |
First up, we’ve got asters. These little beauties are like nature’s fireworks, blooming just when summer’s winding down. They come in all sorts of colors – purple, pink, white, you name it. Plus, they’re super easy to grow and butterflies go nuts for ’em. Check out more about native aster species from the U.S. Forest Service.
17. Azalea
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Here’s a chart with information about Azalea:
Category | Details |
---|---|
Botanical Name | Rhododendron spp. |
Common Name | Azalea |
Plant Zone | 5-9 |
Sun Exposure | Partial shade to full sun (depending on variety) |
Soil Type | Well-drained, acidic soil |
Watering | Regular watering; prefers moist, acidic soil |
Growth Habit | Shrub or small tree |
Height/Spread | 2-6 feet tall; 3-6 feet wide (varies by species) |
Special Features | Showy flowers in a range of colors; blooms in spring; evergreen or deciduous depending on variety; attractive foliage |
Now, if you want a bush that’ll make your neighbors jealous, azaleas are your go-to. These guys put on a killer show in spring with their bright blooms. They’re not too picky, but they do like a bit of shade. The University of Arkansas has some great tips on azalea care.
18. Anemone
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Here’s a chart with information about Anemone:
Category | Details |
---|---|
Botanical Name | Anemone spp. |
Common Name | Anemone |
Plant Zone | 3-9 |
Sun Exposure | Full sun to partial shade |
Soil Type | Well-drained, rich soil |
Watering | Regular watering; prefers consistently moist soil |
Growth Habit | Upright or spreading perennial |
Height/Spread | 6-18 inches tall; 6-12 inches wide |
Special Features | Showy flowers in various colors; blooms from early spring to fall depending on variety; attractive foliage; can be used in cut flower arrangements |
Anemones are like the ballerinas of the flower world – all delicate and graceful. They’re great for gardens or if you want to fancy up a vase. Spring or fall, these guys know how to make an entrance. Learn more about anemone varieties from the USDA.
19. Amaryllis
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Here’s a chart with information about Amaryllis:
Category | Details |
---|---|
Botanical Name | Hippeastrum spp. |
Common Name | Amaryllis |
Plant Zone | 8-10 (can be grown indoors in cooler climates) |
Sun Exposure | Full sun to partial shade |
Soil Type | Well-drained, fertile soil |
Watering | Regular watering; allow soil to dry out between waterings |
Growth Habit | Bulbous perennial |
Height/Spread | 1-2 feet tall; 6-12 inches wide |
Special Features | Large, trumpet-shaped flowers in colors like red, white, pink, and striped; blooms in winter to early spring; excellent for indoor forcing and holiday displays |
If you’re looking for a flower that’s got some serious wow factor, amaryllis is your answer. These big, bold blooms are like the divas of the flower world. They’re perfect for brightening up your home during those dreary winter months. The University of Minnesota Extension has a great guide on how to grow amaryllis.
20. Alstroemeria
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Here’s a chart with information about Alstroemeria:
Category | Details |
---|---|
Botanical Name | Alstroemeria spp. |
Common Name | Peruvian Lily, Lily of the Incas |
Plant Zone | 6-10 |
Sun Exposure | Full sun to partial shade |
Soil Type | Well-drained, fertile soil |
Watering | Regular watering; prefers moist, well-drained soil |
Growth Habit | Upright, clump-forming perennial |
Height/Spread | 1-3 feet tall; 1-2 feet wide |
Special Features | Vibrant, funnel-shaped flowers in various colors; blooms from summer to fall; excellent for cut flower arrangements; attracts pollinators |
Also known as Peruvian Lily, alstroemerias are like the energizer bunnies of flowers – they just keep going and going. They’re a florist’s best friend ’cause they last forever in bouquets. Clemson Cooperative Extension offers some solid advice on growing alstroemeria.
21. African Daisy
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Here’s a chart with information about African Daisy:
Category | Details |
---|---|
Botanical Name | Osteospermum spp. |
Common Name | African Daisy |
Plant Zone | 9-11 |
Sun Exposure | Full sun |
Soil Type | Well-drained, average to sandy soil |
Watering | Moderate watering; drought-tolerant once established |
Growth Habit | Bushy, spreading perennial |
Height/Spread | 6-18 inches tall; 12-24 inches wide |
Special Features | Bright, daisy-like flowers in various colors; blooms from spring to fall; attracts butterflies; low maintenance |
These little sun-lovers are like the cheerleaders of the garden world. They come in colors that’ll make your eyes pop! NC State Extension has a cool rundown of African Daisy varieties.
22. Allium
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Here’s a chart with information about Allium:
Category | Details |
---|---|
Botanical Name | Allium spp. |
Common Name | Allium, Ornamental Onion |
Plant Zone | 4-8 |
Sun Exposure | Full sun to partial shade |
Soil Type | Well-drained, average to sandy soil |
Watering | Moderate watering; prefers well-drained soil |
Growth Habit | Upright, bulbous perennial |
Height/Spread | 12-36 inches tall; 6-12 inches wide |
Special Features | Globe-shaped flower clusters; blooms in late spring to early summer; adds architectural interest to gardens; attracts pollinators |
Ever seen those big, purple balls bobbing around in gardens? That’s allium for ya! They’re related to onions but trust me, they’re way prettier. Penn State Extension has some great info on these ornamental onions.
23. Alyssum
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Here’s a chart with information about Alyssum:
Category | Details |
---|---|
Botanical Name | Lobularia maritima |
Common Name | Alyssum |
Plant Zone | 5-9 |
Sun Exposure | Full sun to partial shade |
Soil Type | Well-drained, average to sandy soil |
Watering | Moderate watering; drought-tolerant once established |
Growth Habit | Low-growing, spreading perennial |
Height/Spread | 4-8 inches tall; 12-18 inches wide |
Special Features | Clusters of small, fragrant flowers in various colors; blooms from spring to fall; excellent for ground cover and edging; attracts pollinators |
If you’re looking for something sweet and small, alyssum’s your guy. These tiny flowers pack a punch in the scent department. Perfect for edging your garden or filling in gaps. Clemson Cooperative Extension offers some tips for growing alyssum.
24. Amaranth
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Here’s a chart with information about Amaranth:
Category | Details |
---|---|
Botanical Name | Amaranthus spp. |
Common Name | Amaranth |
Plant Zone | 2-11 (depending on variety) |
Sun Exposure | Full sun |
Soil Type | Well-drained, average to sandy soil |
Watering | Regular watering; drought-tolerant once established |
Growth Habit | Upright, bushy or spreading annual or perennial |
Height/Spread | 12-72 inches tall; 12-24 inches wide |
Special Features | Bold, colorful flower spikes; edible leaves and seeds (some varieties); blooms from summer to frost; attracts pollinators and adds dramatic color to gardens |
Now, amaranth’s a bit of a rebel. It’s got these crazy, dangling flowers that come in all sorts of wild colors. Some folks even grow it for the seeds! The USDA has some cool info on amaranth varieties and uses.
25. Anthurium
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Here’s a chart with information about Anthurium:
Category | Details |
---|---|
Botanical Name | Anthurium spp. |
Common Name | Anthurium, Flamingo Flower |
Plant Zone | 10-11 (often grown indoors elsewhere) |
Sun Exposure | Indirect light to partial shade |
Soil Type | Well-drained, rich, and moist soil |
Watering | Regular watering; prefers consistently moist soil |
Growth Habit | Upright, tropical perennial |
Height/Spread | 12-24 inches tall; 12-18 inches wide |
Special Features | Glossy, heart-shaped leaves; bright, long-lasting flowers in red, pink, white, and green; popular as an indoor plant; adds tropical flair to indoor spaces |
If you want to feel like you’re in a tropical paradise, get yourself an anthurium. These glossy, heart-shaped flowers are like little love notes from Mother Nature. The University of Florida has a great guide on anthurium care.
26. Agapanthus
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Here’s a chart with information about Agapanthus:
Category | Details |
---|---|
Botanical Name | Agapanthus spp. |
Common Name | African Lily, Lily of the Nile |
Plant Zone | 7-11 |
Sun Exposure | Full sun to partial shade |
Soil Type | Well-drained, average to sandy soil |
Watering | Moderate watering; drought-tolerant once established |
Growth Habit | Upright, clump-forming perennial |
Height/Spread | 2-4 feet tall; 1-2 feet wide |
Special Features | Large, globe-like clusters of flowers in blue, white, or purple; blooms in summer; attracts pollinators; adds a dramatic, architectural element to gardens |
Also known as Lily of the Nile, these flowers look like they’re straight out of a Dr. Seuss book with their big, round flower heads. Texas A&M AgriLife Extension has some solid tips for growing agapanthus.
27. Ageratum
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Here’s a chart with information about Ageratum:
Category | Details |
---|---|
Botanical Name | Ageratum houstonianum |
Common Name | Ageratum |
Plant Zone | 2-11 (often grown as an annual) |
Sun Exposure | Full sun to partial shade |
Soil Type | Well-drained, average to rich soil |
Watering | Regular watering; prefers consistently moist soil |
Growth Habit | Compact, bushy annual or perennial |
Height/Spread | 6-12 inches tall; 6-12 inches wide |
Special Features | Clusters of small, fluffy flowers in blue, pink, white, or lavender; blooms from spring to frost; attractive to butterflies and pollinators; great for borders and containers |
Ageratum’s like that chill friend who’s always easy to hang out with. These fluffy blue or purple flowers are super easy to grow and look great in any garden. Clemson Cooperative Extension offers some great advice on growing ageratum.
28. Achillea
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Here’s a chart with information about Achillea (Yarrow):
Category | Details |
---|---|
Botanical Name | Achillea spp. |
Common Name | Yarrow |
Plant Zone | 3-9 |
Sun Exposure | Full sun |
Soil Type | Well-drained, average to sandy soil |
Watering | Moderate watering; drought-tolerant once established |
Growth Habit | Upright, clump-forming perennial |
Height/Spread | 12-36 inches tall; 12-18 inches wide |
Special Features | Flat-topped clusters of small flowers in various colors (white, yellow, pink, red); blooms from late spring to summer; attracts butterflies and beneficial insects; used in dried flower arrangements |
Yarrow’s a tough cookie. It can handle dry spells like a champ and still look fabulous. Plus, it comes in tons of colors. The University of Minnesota Extension has a comprehensive guide on yarrow.
29. Aquilegia
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Here’s a chart with information about Aquilegia (Columbine):
Category | Details |
---|---|
Botanical Name | Aquilegia spp. |
Common Name | Columbine |
Plant Zone | 3-9 |
Sun Exposure | Full sun to partial shade |
Soil Type | Well-drained, average to rich soil |
Watering | Regular watering; prefers consistently moist soil |
Growth Habit | Upright, clump-forming perennial |
Height/Spread | 12-24 inches tall; 12-18 inches wide |
Special Features | Unique, spurred flowers in various colors (blue, red, pink, white); blooms in spring to early summer; attracts hummingbirds and butterflies; adds a whimsical touch to garden beds and borders |
Columbines are like the acrobats of the flower world with their unique, spurred flowers. They’re perfect if you’ve got a shady spot that needs some color. The USDA has some great info on native columbine species.
30. Astilbe
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Here’s a chart with information about Astilbe:
Category | Details |
---|---|
Botanical Name | Astilbe spp. |
Common Name | Astilbe |
Plant Zone | 4-9 |
Sun Exposure | Partial to full shade |
Soil Type | Well-drained, consistently moist, rich soil |
Watering | Regular watering; prefers consistently moist soil |
Growth Habit | Upright, clump-forming perennial |
Height/Spread | 12-36 inches tall; 12-18 inches wide |
Special Features | Plumes of feathery flowers in various colors (white, pink, red, purple); blooms in summer; attractive foliage with fern-like leaves; ideal for shady or woodland gardens; adds texture and color to shaded areas |
If you’ve got a shady, damp corner of your garden, astilbe’s your new best friend. These feathery flowers are like nature’s feather dusters. The University of Illinois Extension offers some solid tips for growing astilbe.
31. Abutilon
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Here’s a chart with information about Abutilon:
Category | Details |
---|---|
Botanical Name | Abutilon spp. |
Common Name | Abutilon, Flowering Maple |
Plant Zone | 9-11 (can be grown as an annual in cooler climates) |
Sun Exposure | Full sun to partial shade |
Soil Type | Well-drained, fertile soil |
Watering | Regular watering; prefers consistently moist soil |
Growth Habit | Upright or spreading shrub or small tree |
Height/Spread | 3-10 feet tall; 3-8 feet wide |
Special Features | Bell-shaped, pendulous flowers in various colors (red, orange, yellow, pink); blooms from spring to fall; attractive foliage; suitable for containers and garden beds; can be grown as a houseplant in cooler climates |
Also called Flowering Maple, these guys have the cutest little lantern-shaped flowers. They’re great in pots if you don’t have a lot of space. Texas A&M AgriLife Extension has some good info on native abutilon species.
32. Angel’s Trumpet
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Here’s a chart with information about Angel’s Trumpet:
Category | Details |
---|---|
Botanical Name | Brugmansia spp. |
Common Name | Angel’s Trumpet |
Plant Zone | 9-11 (can be grown as an annual in cooler climates) |
Sun Exposure | Full sun to partial shade |
Soil Type | Well-drained, rich soil |
Watering | Regular watering; prefers consistently moist soil |
Growth Habit | Upright, large shrub or small tree |
Height/Spread | 6-12 feet tall; 4-6 feet wide |
Special Features | Large, trumpet-shaped flowers in various colors (white, yellow, pink, orange); blooms from summer to fall; fragrant, especially in the evening; can be toxic if ingested; used in tropical and subtropical gardens for dramatic effect |
Now, if you want to impress the neighbors, plant some Angel’s Trumpets. These flowers are huge and smell amazing at night. Just remember, they’re all show and no touch – they’re poisonous! The University of Florida has a great fact sheet on Angel’s Trumpet.
33. Amsonia
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Here’s a chart with information about Amsonia:
Category | Details |
---|---|
Botanical Name | Amsonia spp. |
Common Name | Amsonia, Blue Star |
Plant Zone | 4-9 |
Sun Exposure | Full sun to partial shade |
Soil Type | Well-drained, average to sandy soil |
Watering | Moderate watering; drought-tolerant once established |
Growth Habit | Upright, clump-forming perennial |
Height/Spread | 12-36 inches tall; 12-24 inches wide |
Special Features | Clusters of star-shaped blue flowers; blooms in late spring to early summer; attractive foliage that turns golden yellow in fall; low maintenance; attracts butterflies |
Amsonia, or Bluestar, is like that friend who always looks good without trying. It’s got pretty blue flowers in spring and turns a gorgeous yellow in fall. The USDA has some good info on native amsonia species.
34. Angelonia
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Here’s a chart with information about Angelonia:
Category | Details |
---|---|
Botanical Name | Angelonia angustifolia |
Common Name | Angelonia, Summer Snapdragon |
Plant Zone | 9-11 (often grown as an annual in cooler climates) |
Sun Exposure | Full sun |
Soil Type | Well-drained, average to rich soil |
Watering | Regular watering; prefers well-drained soil |
Growth Habit | Upright, bushy annual or perennial |
Height/Spread | 12-18 inches tall; 12-15 inches wide |
Special Features | Spikes of small, colorful flowers in shades of pink, purple, white, and blue; blooms from summer to frost; attracts butterflies; heat and drought tolerant; ideal for containers, borders, and garden beds |
Angelonia’s a real trooper in hot weather. It’s sometimes called Summer Snapdragon, and it’ll keep blooming all summer long. Clemson Cooperative Extension offers some great tips for growing angelonia.
35. Aubrieta
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Here’s a chart with information about Aubrieta:
Category | Details |
---|---|
Botanical Name | Aubrieta deltoidea |
Common Name | Aubrieta, False Rock Cress |
Plant Zone | 4-9 |
Sun Exposure | Full sun to partial shade |
Soil Type | Well-drained, average to sandy soil |
Watering | Moderate watering; prefers well-drained soil |
Growth Habit | Low-growing, spreading perennial |
Height/Spread | 4-8 inches tall; spreads 12-24 inches wide |
Special Features | Clusters of small, vibrant flowers in shades of purple, pink, blue, or white; blooms in early spring; excellent for ground cover, borders, and rock gardens; attractive foliage that turns a reddish hue in fall |
If you’re into rock gardens, you’ve gotta try aubrieta. This low-growing plant will drape over rocks like a purple waterfall. NC State Extension has a nice overview of aubrieta.
And there you have it, folks! We’ve made it through all 35 of our awesome A-flowers. From common garden favorites to some real oddballs, there’s a whole alphabet of flowers out there waiting for you to discover. Why not pick a few of these to try out in your own backyard? Remember, every plant’s got its own quirks, so do a little homework before you start digging. Now get out there and make your garden the talk of the town!
Happy planting, everyone! And remember, if you’re ever stumped, your local extension office is a goldmine of gardening info. They’re like the Yoda of the plant world – full of wisdom and always happy to help. So don’t be shy about reaching out to them!