Flowers bring joy and beauty to our lives, but finding unique blooms can be tricky. You might feel like you’ve seen it all when it comes to common flowers.
Don’t worry! I’m here to open your eyes to a world of stunning flowers you might not know about.
In this post, I’ll take you on a journey through 65 beautiful flowers that start with the letter D.
From familiar favorites to rare gems, you’ll discover a wide range of colors, shapes, and sizes.
Get ready to expand your flower knowledge and find new favorites to brighten up your garden or home.
List of Common Flowers That Start with D to Explore
1. Daffodil
Daffodils are bright, trumpet-shaped flowers commonly found in shades of yellow, though they can also appear in white or orange.
Known for heralding the arrival of spring, they thrive in well-drained soil and partial to full sunlight. Daffodils hold global importance as symbols of renewal and hope.
| Scientific Name: | Narcissus |
| Family: | Amaryllidaceae |
| Number of Species: | Over 50 |
| Native Regions: | Europe, North Africa, Western Asia |
| Blooming Period: | Early spring |
| Symbolism: | Rebirth, new beginnings |
Uses and Benefits:
- Commonly used in gardens for ornamental purposes.
- Daffodil bulbs are a source of galantamine that is used in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease.
- They are often featured in floral arrangements and as cut flowers in vases.
2. Dahlia
Dahlias are vibrant, multi-petaled flowers that come in almost every color except true blue.
These flowers are highly valued for their aesthetic appeal in gardens and floral displays, and they prefer well-drained soil and full sun.
Dahlias are particularly significant in Mexico, where they are the national flower.
| Scientific Name: | Dahlia |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Number of Species: | About 42 |
| Native Regions: | Mexico and Central America |
| Blooming Period: | Midsummer to autumn |
| Symbolism: | Elegance, inner strength, creativity |
Uses and Benefits:
- Widely used in decorative flower arrangements.
- Dahlia tubers are edible and were historically used as a food source by the Aztecs.
- The flowers are popular in gardening competitions and exhibitions.
3. Daisy
Daisies are simple yet charming flowers with white petals surrounding a yellow center, though some varieties come in pink or purple.
They are easy to grow and thrive in a range of soils and full to partial sunlight. Daisies symbolize purity and innocence across various cultures.
| Scientific Name: | Bellis perennis |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Number of Species: | Over 20 |
| Native Regions: | Europe, North America |
| Blooming Period: | Spring to early summer |
| Symbolism: | Purity, innocence, new beginnings |
Uses and Benefits:
- Often used in ornamental garden beds and as ground cover.
- Daisies have mild medicinal uses, such as treating wounds and bruises.
- It is frequently used in floral crowns and as a symbol in various cultural celebrations.
4. Dogwood
Dogwood trees are known for their stunning white or pink flowers, which bloom in clusters.
These trees prefer moist, well-drained soil and are commonly found in forests and gardens.
Dogwoods are significant in North American culture, especially as state flowers in Virginia and North Carolina.
| Scientific Name: | Cornus |
| Family: | Cornaceae |
| Number of Species: | Over 50 |
| Native Regions: | North America, Europe, East Asia |
| Blooming Period: | Spring |
| Symbolism: | Durability, strength, protection |
Uses and Benefits:
- Dogwoods are popular as ornamental trees in landscaping.
- Their wood is used in the production of various tools and crafts.
- The trees are also important in traditional medicine, particularly for treating fevers and pain.
5. Desert Rose (Adenium)
The Desert Rose is a succulent with thick, swollen stems and vibrant pink-to-red flowers. It is well-adapted to arid climates and requires minimal water, making it popular in xeriscaping.
The Desert Rose is culturally significant in Africa and the Arabian Peninsula.
| Scientific Name: | Adenium obesum |
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Number of Species: | 5 |
| Native Regions: | Africa, Arabian Peninsula |
| Blooming Period: | Spring to early summer |
| Symbolism: | Resilience, strength, beauty in harsh conditions |
Uses and Benefits:
- Widely used in ornamental gardening, particularly in desert landscapes.
- The plant’s sap is used in traditional African medicine.
- It is often cultivated as a bonsai due to its unique appearance.
6. Dendrobium (Orchid)
Dendrobium orchids are diverse and striking, with flowers that range from white and yellow to vibrant pink and purple.
They thrive in tropical and subtropical regions and are often grown in greenhouses. Dendrobiums are significant in Asian cultures, symbolizing grace and refinement.
| Scientific Name: | Dendrobium |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Number of Species: | Over 1,800 |
| Native Regions: | Asia, Australia, Pacific Islands |
| Blooming Period: | Varies by species, generally spring |
| Symbolism: | Beauty, refinement, grace |
Uses and Benefits:
- Widely used in floral arrangements and as decorative houseplants.
- Some species are used in traditional medicine, particularly in Chinese herbal remedies.
- Popular in the orchid trade for their variety and beauty.
7. Duranta
Duranta is a tropical shrub native to the Americas known for its small, lavender-blue flowers and golden berries.
It thrives in warm climates and is often used in hedging and ornamental gardens. The plant is appreciated for its decorative appeal.
| Scientific Name: | Duranta erecta |
| Family: | Verbenaceae |
| Number of Species: | 30 |
| Native Regions: | Central America, South America |
| Blooming Period: | Spring to autumn |
| Symbolism: | Tranquility, joy, protection |
Uses and Benefits:
- It is commonly used as an ornamental plant in landscaping.
- The berries, though toxic, are often used in traditional medicine in small doses.
- Duranta is also used to create privacy screens and as a hedge plant.
8. Dutchman’s Pipe (Aristolochia)
Dutchman’s Pipe is a vine with large, pipe-shaped flowers that are typically greenish-brown and emit a strong odor to attract pollinators.
This plant thrives in moist, shaded areas and is valued for its unusual appearance. It is native to the Americas and is significant in butterfly gardens.
| Scientific Name: | Aristolochia |
| Family: | Aristolochiaceae |
| Number of Species: | Over 500 |
| Native Regions: | North and South America |
| Blooming Period: | Late spring to summer |
| Symbolism: | Protection, mystery, adaptability |
Uses and Benefits:
- It is often used in butterfly gardens as a host plant for swallowtail butterflies.
- It has medicinal uses, particularly in traditional Chinese medicine.
- The plant’s unique flowers are a popular attraction in botanical gardens.
9. Delphinium
Delphiniums are tall, spiky flowers known for their vivid blue, pink, or white blooms. They are popular in cottage gardens and require rich, well-drained soil and full sun.
Delphiniums are associated with strong bonds of love and are often seen in wedding bouquets.
| Scientific Name: | Delphinium |
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Number of Species: | Over 300 |
| Native Regions: | Northern Hemisphere |
| Blooming Period: | Summer |
| Symbolism: | Love, attachment, goodwill |
Uses and Benefits:
- Widely used in floral arrangements, particularly in weddings.
- The flowers are toxic and have been used historically in insecticides.
- Delphiniums are also valued for their striking vertical presence in gardens.
10. Dracaena
Dracaenas are known for their sword-shaped leaves and small, fragrant white flowers. They are commonly grown as houseplants, thriving in low light and minimal care conditions.
Dracaenas are significant in Feng Shui, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune.
| Scientific Name: | Dracaena |
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Number of Species: | Over 120 |
| Native Regions: | Africa, Southeast Asia |
| Blooming Period: | Varies by species |
| Symbolism: | Prosperity, protection, resilience |
Uses and Benefits:
- They are commonly used as houseplants for air purification.
- The plant is used in traditional medicine, particularly in Africa.
- Dracaenas are also significant in Feng Shui for promoting positive energy.
11. Damask Rose (Rosa damascena)
The Damask Rose is a highly fragrant flower with pink or red petals, prized for its use in perfumery and cosmetics. It grows best in well-drained soil with full sunlight.
This rose is culturally significant in the Middle East, symbolizing beauty and love.
| Scientific Name: | Rosa damascena |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Number of Species: | 1 main cultivar |
| Native Regions: | Middle East |
| Blooming Period: | Spring to early summer |
| Symbolism: | Beauty, love, passion |
Uses and Benefits:
- Widely used in the production of rose oil for perfumes and cosmetics.
- Rose water, derived from this flower, is used in culinary traditions across the Middle East.
- The petals are used in making herbal teas and traditional medicines.
12. Dianella
Dianella, or flax lilies, are evergreen plants with small, star-shaped blue or purple flowers. They are drought-tolerant and thrive in well-drained soil and full sun.
Dianella is native to Australia and New Zealand and is appreciated for its resilience in gardens.
| Scientific Name: | Dianella |
| Family: | Asphodelaceae |
| Number of Species: | About 40 |
| Native Regions: | Australia, New Zealand |
| Blooming Period: | Spring to summer |
| Symbolism: | Simplicity, resilience, longevity |
Uses and Benefits:
- Often used in landscaping for low-maintenance gardens.
- The berries are sometimes used in traditional medicine.
- Dianella plants are also popular for erosion control in gardens.
13. Dipladenia
Dipladenia is a vining plant with bright pink or red trumpet-shaped flowers. It is often confused with Mandevilla but has a more bushy growth habit.
Dipladenia thrives in warm climates with well-drained soil and full sun.
| Scientific Name: | Mandevilla sanderi |
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Number of Species: | Several varieties |
| Native Regions: | South and Central America |
| Blooming Period: | Spring to autumn |
| Symbolism: | Love, passion, resilience |
Uses and Benefits:
- Popular in container gardening and hanging baskets.
- Frequently used in tropical-themed landscapes.
- Dipladenia flowers attract hummingbirds and butterflies.
14. Dodecatheon (Shooting Star)
Dodecatheon, known as Shooting Star, features unique flowers with backward-pointing petals resembling a shooting star.
This plant thrives in moist, well-drained soil and partial shade, commonly found in North American woodlands.
| Scientific Name: | Dodecatheon |
| Family: | Primulaceae |
| Number of Species: | About 15 |
| Native Regions: | North America |
| Blooming Period: | Spring to early summer |
| Symbolism: | Transformation, change, fleeting beauty |
Uses and Benefits:
- Valued in wildflower gardens and natural landscaping.
- The flowers attract pollinators, particularly bees.
- Dodecatheon plants are used in traditional Native American medicine.
15. Drosera (Sundew)
Drosera, or Sundew, is a carnivorous plant with sticky, glandular leaves that trap insects. It produces small, delicate flowers, usually white or pink.
Drosera thrives in boggy areas and is found worldwide, particularly in Australia and South Africa.
| Scientific Name: | Drosera |
| Family: | Droseraceae |
| Number of Species: | Over 190 |
| Native Regions: | Worldwide, with diversity in Australia |
| Blooming Period: | Summer |
| Symbolism: | Survival, resourcefulness, adaptability |
Uses and Benefits:
- Often grown as a novelty plant in carnivorous plant collections.
- The plant’s extracts are used in traditional medicine, especially for respiratory issues.
- Drosera helps control insect populations in its native habitats.
16. Dichondra
Dichondra is a groundcover plant with small, rounded leaves and tiny, inconspicuous flowers. It is commonly used in lawns and hanging baskets for its trailing habit.
Dichondra prefers well-drained soil and full to partial sun and is native to the Americas and Southeast Asia.
| Scientific Name: | Dichondra |
| Family: | Convolvulaceae |
| Number of Species: | About 10 |
| Native Regions: | Americas, Southeast Asia |
| Blooming Period: | Spring to early summer |
| Symbolism: | Simplicity, endurance, resilience |
Uses and Benefits:
- Widely used as a low-maintenance groundcover.
- Ideal for erosion control in landscaping.
- Dichondra is also used in hanging baskets for its cascading foliage.
17. Darwinia
Darwinia is a small shrub with bell-shaped flowers, typically red or green. It is native to Australia and thrives in well-drained soil and full sun.
Darwinia is significant in botanical circles and is named after Charles Darwin.
| Scientific Name: | Darwinia |
| Family: | Myrtaceae |
| Number of Species: | About 70 |
| Native Regions: | Australia |
| Blooming Period: | Late winter to spring |
| Symbolism: | Knowledge, evolution, natural beauty |
Uses and Benefits:
- Often used in native Australian gardens and xeriscaping.
- The flowers attract birds and insects, promoting biodiversity.
- Darwinia plants are also important in conservation efforts due to their rarity.
18. Desmodium
Desmodium, or Tick Trefoil, produces small, pink or purple pea-like flowers. This plant is often found in woodlands and grasslands, thriving in well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
It is significant for its role in soil nitrogen fixation and as forage for livestock.
| Scientific Name: | Desmodium |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Number of Species: | Over 400 |
| Native Regions: | Americas, Asia, Africa |
| Blooming Period: | Summer |
| Symbolism: | Fertility, nourishment, adaptability |
Uses and Benefits:
- Desmodium is used in agriculture to improve soil fertility through nitrogen fixation.
- The plant serves as forage for livestock, particularly in tropical regions.
- It is also used in traditional medicine, especially in Africa and Asia, for treating various ailments.
19. Daviesia
Daviesia is another Australian native shrub recognized for its small, yellow to orange pea-like flowers. The plant is adapted to dry conditions and often grows in sandy or gravelly soils.
Daviesia is notable for its unique foliage, often appearing as phyllodes (flattened leaf stems).
| Scientific Name: | Daviesia |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Number of Species: | About 130 |
| Native Regions: | Australia |
| Blooming Period: | Late winter to spring |
| Symbolism: | Adaptability, survival, strength |
Uses and Benefits:
- Commonly used in revegetation projects and as a garden ornamental.
- The plant provides habitat for native wildlife, including insects and small mammals.
- Daviesia is also valued in bushland restoration efforts for its hardiness and ability to thrive in poor soils.
20. Dracunculus
Dracunculus, commonly known as Dragon Arum, is a dramatic plant with large, maroon flowers and a foul odor.
It thrives in well-drained soil and full to partial shade. Dracunculus is native to the Mediterranean region and is known for its unusual and striking appearance.
| Scientific Name: | Dracunculus vulgaris |
| Family: | Araceae |
| Number of Species: | 1 main species |
| Native Regions: | Mediterranean region |
| Blooming Period: | Late spring to early summer |
| Symbolism: | Mystery, power, transformation |
Uses and Benefits:
- Often grown in botanical gardens for its unique and striking appearance.
- The plant is sometimes used in traditional medicine for its supposed healing properties.
- Dracunculus is also valued as a conversation piece in exotic gardens.
21. Diascia
Diascia is a charming plant with small, pink, or coral flowers, known for its long blooming period.
It thrives in well-drained soil and full sun, making it a popular choice for hanging baskets and borders. Diascia is native to South Africa and symbolizes gentleness and affection.
| Scientific Name: | Diascia |
| Family: | Scrophulariaceae |
| Number of Species: | Over 70 |
| Native Regions: | South Africa |
| Blooming Period: | Spring to autumn |
| Symbolism: | Gentleness, affection, harmony |
Uses and Benefits:
- Widely used in hanging baskets, containers, and as ground cover.
- Diascia flowers attract pollinators, particularly bees.
- The plant is valued for its extended blooming season, adding color to gardens for many months.
22. Drummond Phlox
Drummond Phlox is an annual flower known for its vibrant clusters of red, pink, or white blooms.
It thrives in well-drained soil and full sun and is commonly used in wildflower meadows and garden borders. This flower is native to Texas and symbolizes unity and partnership.
| Scientific Name: | Phlox drummondii |
| Family: | Polemoniaceae |
| Number of Species: | 1 main species |
| Native Regions: | Texas, USA |
| Blooming Period: | Spring to summer |
| Symbolism: | Unity, partnership, harmony |
Uses and Benefits:
- Popular in wildflower meadows and cottage gardens.
- The flowers are excellent for attracting butterflies and other pollinators.
- Due to its vibrant colors, Drummond Phlox is also used in cut flower arrangements.
23. Dianthus (Pinks)
Dianthus, commonly known as Pinks, features frilled flowers in shades of pink, red, and white. These highly fragrant flowers thrive in well-drained soil and full sun.
Dianthus is native to Europe and Asia and is significant in the floral industry for its use in bouquets.
| Scientific Name: | Dianthus |
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Number of Species: | Over 300 |
| Native Regions: | Europe, Asia |
| Blooming Period: | Spring to summer |
| Symbolism: | Passion, admiration, gratitude |
Uses and Benefits:
- Widely used in floral arrangements and bouquets.
- Dianthus flowers are also popular in gardens for their long-lasting blooms and fragrance.
- The plant is used in traditional medicine for various ailments, including digestive issues.
24. Dicentra (Bleeding Heart)
Dicentra, called Bleeding Heart, is a shade-loving plant with heart-shaped pink or white flowers. It thrives in moist, well-drained soil and is popular in woodland gardens.
Dicentra is native to Asia and North America and symbolizes love and compassion.
| Scientific Name: | Dicentra |
| Family: | Papaveraceae |
| Number of Species: | About 20 |
| Native Regions: | Asia, North America |
| Blooming Period: | Spring to early summer |
| Symbolism: | Love, compassion, sensitivity |
Uses and Benefits:
- Widely used in shade gardens and woodland landscapes.
- The flowers are often used in romantic floral arrangements due to their heart shape.
- Dicentra is also valued for its low maintenance and ability to thrive in shaded areas.
25. Doronicum (Leopard’s Bane)
Doronicum, known as Leopard’s Bane, features bright yellow daisy-like flowers. It thrives in well-drained soil and partial shade, making it a popular choice for early spring gardens.
Doronicum is native to Europe and Asia and symbolizes cheerfulness and resilience.
| Scientific Name: | Doronicum |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Number of Species: | About 40 |
| Native Regions: | Europe, Asia |
| Blooming Period: | Early spring to early summer |
| Symbolism: | Cheerfulness, resilience, vitality |
Uses and Benefits:
- Popular in early spring gardens for adding bright color.
- The plant is sometimes used in traditional medicine for its supposed anti-inflammatory properties.
- Doronicum is also valued for attracting pollinators early in the season.
26. Dichorisandra (Blue Ginger)
Dichorisandra, commonly known as Blue Ginger, is a tropical plant with striking blue flowers. It thrives in warm, humid conditions and well-drained soil.
Native to Brazil, Dichorisandra is valued for its unique color and is often used in tropical landscaping.
| Scientific Name: | Dichorisandra thyrsiflora |
| Family: | Commelinaceae |
| Number of Species: | About 30 |
| Native Regions: | Brazil |
| Blooming Period: | Late summer to autumn |
| Symbolism: | Uniqueness, beauty, rarity |
Uses and Benefits:
- They are widely used in tropical and subtropical gardens for their striking blue flowers.
- The plant is often featured in botanical gardens due to its rarity.
- Dichorisandra is also valued for its ornamental foliage, adding texture to garden designs.
27. Dombeya
Dombeya is a flowering shrub with clusters of pink, white, or red flowers that resemble hydrangeas. It thrives in well-drained soil and full sun and is popular in tropical and subtropical gardens.
Dombeya is native to Madagascar and symbolizes gratitude and joy.
| Scientific Name: | Dombeya |
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Number of Species: | Over 200 |
| Native Regions: | Madagascar, Africa, Asia |
| Blooming Period: | Winter to spring |
| Symbolism: | Gratitude, joy, abundance |
Uses and Benefits:
- Often used in tropical gardens for its showy flowers.
- Dombeya flowers are also popular in floral arrangements due to their resemblance to hydrangeas.
- The plant is sometimes used in traditional medicine for various treatments.
28. Dorotheanthus (Livingstone Daisy)
Dorotheanthus, commonly known as Livingstone Daisy, features bright, daisy-like flowers in a wide range of colors, including pink, orange, yellow, and white. It thrives in sandy, well-drained soil and full sun, making it ideal for rock gardens and borders.
This plant is native to South Africa and symbolizes cheerfulness and resilience.
| Scientific Name: | Dorotheanthus bellidiformis |
| Family: | Aizoaceae |
| Number of Species: | About 20 |
| Native Regions: | South Africa |
| Blooming Period: | Spring to summer |
| Symbolism: | Cheerfulness, resilience, vitality |
Uses and Benefits:
- Widely used in rock gardens, borders, and as ground cover.
- The flowers are valued for their vibrant colors and long-lasting blooms.
- Dorotheanthus is also used in xeriscaping for its drought tolerance.
29. Daphne
Daphne is a small, fragrant shrub with clusters of pink, white, or purple flowers. It prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil and partial shade.
Daphne is native to Europe and Asia and symbolizes immortality and eternal love.
| Scientific Name: | Daphne |
| Family: | Thymelaeaceae |
| Number of Species: | About 70 |
| Native Regions: | Europe, Asia |
| Blooming Period: | Winter to early spring |
| Symbolism: | Immortality, eternal love, protection |
Uses and Benefits:
- Widely used in gardens for its fragrant flowers and evergreen foliage.
- Daphne is often planted near walkways and entrances to enjoy its scent.
- The plant is also valued for its ability to thrive in shaded areas.
30. Dillwynia
Dillwynia is a small shrub known for its bright yellow and red pea-shaped flowers, which are often found in clusters and add vibrant color to the shrub.
Dillwynia thrives in well-drained, sandy soils and prefers full sun to partial shade. It is native to Australia and is often seen in heathland and open forests.
| Scientific Name: | Dillwynia |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Number of Species: | About 20 |
| Native Regions: | Australia |
| Blooming Period: | Spring to early summer |
| Symbolism: | Resilience, vitality, beauty in simplicity |
Uses and Benefits:
- Often used in native Australian gardens for its vibrant flowers.
- Dillwynia helps in soil stabilization, especially in sandy areas.
- The plant is important in local ecosystems, providing habitat and food for various insects.
List of UnCommon Flowers That Start with D to Explore
Here’s a list of 35 flowers that start with D, starting from number 31:
31. Dichroa
32. Dodecatheon pulchellum (Pretty Shooting Star)
33. Diphylleia (Skeleton Flower)
34. Dillenia
35. Dioscorea (Wild Yam)
36. Dill
37. Dimorphotheca (African Daisy)
38. Doronicum pardalianches (Leopard’s Bane)
39. Dracocephalum (Dragonhead)
40. Drosera capensis (Cape Sundew)
41. Dryas
42. Dierama (Angel’s Fishing Rod)
43. Diplotaxis (Wall Rocket)
44. Digitalis lanata (Woolly Foxglove)
45. Dyckia
46. Dactylorhiza (Marsh Orchid)
47. Dianthus barbatus (Sweet William)
48. Dryopteris (Wood Fern)
49. Dregea
50. Darwinia citriodora (Lemon-scented Darwinia)
51. Dactylis (Cock’s Foot)
52. Dasiphora fruticosa (Shrubby Cinquefoil)
53. Disanthus
54. Deutzia
55. Disporum (Fairy Bells)
56. Dombeya wallichii (Pinkball)
57. Disocactus
58. Digitaria (Crabgrass)
59. Drymaria
60. Delonix regia (Flame Tree)
61. Dimocarpus longan (Longan)
62. Dodonaea viscosa (Hop Bush)
63. Duboisia
64. Dahlberg Daisy
65. Dyssodia
Conclusion
We’ve explored a garden of 65 beautiful flowers that start with D. From the cheerful daisy to the exotic dendrobium, these blooms offer a rich array of colors, shapes, and scents.
I hope this guide has sparked your interest in trying out some new flowers in your garden or home.
Remember, each flower has its own care needs and growing conditions. Before adding any to your collection, check if they suit your local climate and available space.
Why not pick your favorite from this list and try growing it? Or use this knowledge to identify flowers on your next nature walk? The world of flowers is vast and exciting – keep exploring and enjoying their beauty!
What’s your favorite D flower? Share in the comments below!
