Nature lovers, you know the joy of discovering new flowers. But have you ever noticed how many beautiful blooms begin with the letter N?
From common garden favorites to rare exotic species, a whole world of N-named flowers is waiting to be explored.
I’m here to introduce you to 60 stunning flowers that start with N from around the globe. This guide will take you on a journey through gardens, meadows, and forests, showcasing the diversity and beauty of these plants.
Get ready to learn about well-known flowers like Narcissus and discover hidden gems like Nemesia.
Let’s dive into this colorful world of N-flowers together!
List of Common Flowers That Starts with N
1. Narcissus (Daffodil)
Narcissus, commonly known as daffodil, is a spring-flowering bulb known for its trumpet-shaped flowers, usually yellow or white.
This flower symbolizes rebirth and new beginnings, making it a popular choice worldwide. It thrives in well-drained soil and full to partial sunlight.
| Scientific Name | Narcissus pseudonarcissus |
|---|---|
| Family | Amaryllidaceae |
| Number of Species | Over 50 |
| Native Regions | Europe, North Africa, and Asia |
| Blooming Period | Early Spring |
| Symbolism | Rebirth, new beginnings |
Uses and Benefits
- Used in gardens and landscaping for early spring color.
- Extracted oils are used in perfumery.
- Symbolic flower for the American Cancer Society.
2. Nemesia
Nemesia is a delicate, low-growing plant that produces small, vibrant flowers in a range of colors, including purple, pink, white, and yellow.
Due to its prolific blooming, it’s often used in borders and containers. Nemesia prefers cooler climates and well-drained soil.
| Scientific Name | Nemesia strumosa |
|---|---|
| Family | Scrophulariaceae |
| Number of Species | Approximately 50 |
| Native Regions | South Africa |
| Blooming Period | Spring to Fall |
| Symbolism | Cheerfulness, joy |
Uses and Benefits
- It is ideal for adding color to garden borders and containers.
- Attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies.
- Some species are used in traditional medicine.
3. Nerium (Oleander)
Nerium, or Oleander, is an evergreen shrub known for its highly fragrant, funnel-shaped flowers, which come in various colors, such as pink, red, and white.
Despite its beauty, oleander is highly toxic if ingested. It thrives in hot, dry climates and is often used in Mediterranean landscapes.
| Scientific Name | Nerium oleander |
|---|---|
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Number of Species | 1 |
| Native Regions | Mediterranean, Southern Asia |
| Blooming Period | Summer to Fall |
| Symbolism | Caution, danger |
Uses and Benefits
- Widely used as an ornamental plant in gardens.
- It acts as a natural barrier due to its toxicity.
- Historically used in traditional medicine, though with caution.
4. Nymphaea (Water Lily)
The Nymphaea, or water lily, is a stunning aquatic plant with large, round leaves and fragrant flowers that float on water surfaces.
Various cultures have symbolically associated water lilies with purity and beauty. They thrive in still, shallow waters with full sun.
| Scientific Name | Nymphaea alba |
|---|---|
| Family | Nymphaeaceae |
| Number of Species | About 50 |
| Native Regions | Temperate and tropical regions worldwide |
| Blooming Period | Summer |
| Symbolism | Purity, beauty |
Uses and Benefits
- Often used in ornamental ponds and water gardens.
- Leaves provide shade for aquatic life.
- Roots and seeds are used in traditional medicine.
5. Nigella (Love-in-a-Mist)
Nigella, commonly known as Love-in-a-Mist, features delicate, feathery foliage and star-shaped flowers in shades of blue, white, pink, and purple.
It’s a favorite in cottage gardens and makes a charming addition to cut flower arrangements. Nigella prefers well-drained soil and full sun.
| Scientific Name | Nigella damascena |
|---|---|
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Number of Species | 20 |
| Native Regions | Southern Europe, North Africa |
| Blooming Period | Late Spring to Summer |
| Symbolism | Perplexity, love |
Uses and Benefits
- Seeds are used as a spice in culinary dishes.
- Popular in cottage gardens for its decorative seed pods.
- Attracts pollinators and beneficial insects.
6. Nepeta (Catmint)
Nepeta, or Catmint, is a perennial plant known for its aromatic, gray-green foliage and spikes of lavender-blue flowers.
It’s popular in gardens for its drought tolerance and ability to attract pollinators. Catmint thrives in full sun and well-drained soil.
| Scientific Name | Nepeta cataria |
|---|---|
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Number of Species | About 250 |
| Native Regions | Europe, Asia |
| Blooming Period | Late Spring to Fall |
| Symbolism | Happiness, love |
Uses and Benefits
- Used in gardens for its fragrant foliage and flowers.
- Attracts bees, butterflies, and cats.
- Leaves are used in herbal teas for relaxation.
7. Nasturtium
Nasturtium is a vibrant, easy-to-grow annual plant with rounded leaves and showy, funnel-shaped flowers in orange, yellow, and red.
Nasturtiums are often used in edible landscaping, as both the flowers and leaves are edible and have a peppery flavor. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil.
| Scientific Name | Tropaeolum majus |
|---|---|
| Family | Tropaeolaceae |
| Number of Species | About 80 |
| Native Regions | South America |
| Blooming Period | Summer to Fall |
| Symbolism | Patriotism, conquest |
Uses and Benefits
- Edible flowers and leaves are used in salads.
- Used in companion planting to repel pests.
- High in vitamin C and used in traditional remedies.
8. Nolana
Nolana is a low-growing, trailing plant known for its striking, bell-shaped flowers in shades of blue, purple, and white.
It’s drought-tolerant and thrives in coastal gardens, making it a popular choice for rockeries and ground cover. Nolana prefers full sun and sandy, well-drained soil.
| Scientific Name | Nolana paradoxa |
|---|---|
| Family | Solanaceae |
| Number of Species | 80 |
| Native Regions | South America |
| Blooming Period | Spring to Summer |
| Symbolism | Resilience, adaptation |
Uses and Benefits
- Ideal for ground cover in xeriscaping.
- Attracts pollinators, especially bees.
- Used in coastal and rock gardens for erosion control.
9. Noni
Noni is a small, evergreen tree that produces white, tubular flowers and yellow-green, oval fruits. The fruit is famous for its strong odor and has been used for centuries in traditional Polynesian medicine.
Noni trees prefer tropical climates and well-drained soil.
| Scientific Name | Morinda citrifolia |
|---|---|
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Number of Species | 80 |
| Native Regions | Southeast Asia, Australia |
| Blooming Period | Year-round |
| Symbolism | Healing, strength |
Uses and Benefits
- The fruit is used in traditional medicine for various ailments.
- Juice is popular for its health benefits, including immune support.
- Leaves and roots are used in herbal remedies.
10. Nigra (Black Elderberry)
Black Elderberry, or Nigra, is a deciduous shrub known for its clusters of small, white or cream-colored flowers that develop into dark purple to black berries. It is highly valued for its medicinal properties, particularly in boosting the immune system. Black Elderberry thrives in moist, well-drained soil and partial to full sun.
| Scientific Name | Sambucus nigra |
|---|---|
| Family | Adoxaceae |
| Number of Species | 25 |
| Native Regions | Europe, North America |
| Blooming Period | Late Spring to Summer |
| Symbolism | Protection, health |
Uses and Benefits
- Berries are used in syrups, teas, and supplements for immune support.
- Flowers are used in culinary dishes and beverages.
- Planting enhances wildlife habitats, attracting birds and insects.
11. Nicotiana (Flowering Tobacco)
Nicotiana, commonly known as Flowering Tobacco, is an annual or perennial plant with tubular flowers that emit a sweet fragrance, especially in the evening.
Flowers come in various colors, including white, pink, red, and green. Nicotiana prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
| Scientific Name | Nicotiana alata |
|---|---|
| Family | Solanaceae |
| Number of Species | 67 |
| Native Regions | South America |
| Blooming Period | Summer to Fall |
| Symbolism | Healing, protection |
Uses and Benefits
- Ornamental use in gardens for its fragrance and night-time blooming.
- Some species are used in traditional medicines.
- Attracts night-flying pollinators like moths.
12. Neomarica (Walking Iris)
Neomarica, also known as Walking Iris, is a unique plant that produces blue, yellow, or white flowers that resemble those of the iris.
The plant gets its name from the way new plants develop at the end of flower stalks, causing them to bend down to the ground and “walk.” It prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade.
| Scientific Name | Neomarica caerulea |
|---|---|
| Family | Iridaceae |
| Number of Species | 15 |
| Native Regions | Central and South America |
| Blooming Period | Spring to Summer |
| Symbolism | Faith, hope |
Uses and Benefits
- Ideal for shade gardens and indoor containers.
- Used in landscaping for its unusual growth habit.
- Attracts butterflies and other pollinators.
13. Nierembergia (Cupflower)
Nierembergia, commonly called Cupflower, is a compact, low-growing plant with cup-shaped flowers in shades of purple, blue, and white.
It is a popular choice for borders, rock gardens, and containers. Nierembergia thrives in full sun and well-drained soil.
| Scientific Name | Nierembergia scoparia |
|---|---|
| Family | Solanaceae |
| Number of Species | 20 |
| Native Regions | South America |
| Blooming Period | Summer |
| Symbolism | Modesty, simplicity |
Uses and Benefits
- Used in garden borders and rock gardens for color and texture.
- Drought-tolerant, making it suitable for xeriscaping.
- Attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies.
14. Nyssa (Tupelo)
Nyssa, commonly known as Tupelo, is a deciduous tree with glossy, green leaves that turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow in the fall.
The tree produces small, greenish-white flowers followed by blue-black fruits. It thrives in moist, well-drained soils and full sun to partial shade.
| Scientific Name | Nyssa sylvatica |
|---|---|
| Family | Nyssaceae |
| Number of Species | 9 |
| Native Regions | Eastern North America |
| Blooming Period | Spring |
| Symbolism | Prosperity, endurance |
Uses and Benefits
- Used in landscaping for its vibrant fall color.
- Wood is used in furniture and specialty items.
- Fruits provide food for wildlife, particularly birds.
15. Nyctanthes (Night-Flowering Jasmine)
Nyctanthes, commonly known as Night-Flowering Jasmine, is a small, ornamental tree or shrub with fragrant, white flowers that bloom at night.
The flowers are often used in religious ceremonies and traditional medicines. It prefers well-drained soil and partial to full sunlight.
| Scientific Name | Nyctanthes arbor-tristis |
|---|---|
| Family | Oleaceae |
| Number of Species | 1 |
| Native Regions | South Asia |
| Blooming Period | Late Summer to Fall |
| Symbolism | Immortality, spiritual awakening |
Uses and Benefits
- Flowers are used in religious rituals and garlands.
- Extracts are used in traditional medicines for various ailments.
- Popular in gardens for its night-time fragrance.
16. Nerine (Guernsey Lily)
Nerine, also known as Guernsey Lily, is a bulbous plant that produces clusters of vibrant, spider-like flowers in shades of pink, red, and white.
It is often grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and containers. Nerine prefers well-drained soil and full sun.
| Scientific Name | Nerine bowdenii |
|---|---|
| Family | Amaryllidaceae |
| Number of Species | 30 |
| Native Regions | South Africa |
| Blooming Period | Late Summer to Fall |
| Symbolism | Freedom, elegance |
Uses and Benefits
- Grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and containers.
- Used in floral arrangements for its long-lasting blooms.
- Attracts bees and other pollinators.
17. Nuttallanthus (Toadflax)
Nuttallanthus, commonly known as Toadflax, is a small, slender plant with delicate, violet-blue flowers resembling snapdragons.
It grows wild in open fields and roadsides and is often used in wildflower gardens. Toadflax thrives in well-drained soil and full sun.
| Scientific Name | Nuttallanthus texanus |
|---|---|
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Number of Species | 1 |
| Native Regions | North America |
| Blooming Period | Spring to Fall |
| Symbolism | Resilience, simplicity |
Uses and Benefits
- Used in wildflower gardens for naturalizing landscapes.
- Attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies.
- Can be used in erosion control on slopes and hillsides.
18. Nothoscordum (False Garlic)
Nothoscordum, also known as False Garlic, is a perennial plant with grass-like leaves and small, star-shaped white or yellow flowers.
Despite its common name, it has no garlic odor. It is often found growing in lawns and gardens. False Garlic prefers well-drained soil and full sun.
| Scientific Name | Nothoscordum bivalve |
|---|---|
| Family | Amaryllidaceae |
| Number of Species | 20 |
| Native Regions | Americas |
| Blooming Period | Spring to Summer |
| Symbolism | Modesty, humility |
Uses and Benefits
- Naturalized in lawns and gardens for ground cover.
- Attracts beneficial insects to the garden.
- Tolerates poor soils and drought conditions.
19. Nigritella (Vanilla Orchid)
Nigritella, commonly known as Vanilla Orchid, is a rare, alpine orchid with small, dark purple to red flowers that emit a vanilla fragrance.
It grows in high-altitude meadows and rocky slopes. This orchid prefers well-drained, lime-rich soils and full sun.
| Scientific Name | Nigritella nigra |
|---|---|
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Number of Species | 3 |
| Native Regions | Europe |
| Blooming Period | Summer |
| Symbolism | Rarity, luxury |
Uses and Benefits
- Grown as a rare ornamental plant in specialized collections.
- Vanilla-scented flowers are valued in perfumery.
- Plays a role in the conservation of alpine habitats.
20. Nemophila (Baby Blue Eyes)
Nemophila, commonly known as Baby Blue Eyes, is a low-growing annual plant with delicate, cup-shaped blue flowers.
It is often found in meadows and open woodlands. Baby Blue Eyes thrives in cool, moist, and well-drained soils with partial to full sun.
| Scientific Name | Nemophila menziesii |
|---|---|
| Family | Boraginaceae |
| Number of Species | 11 |
| Native Regions | North America |
| Blooming Period | Spring |
| Symbolism | Innocence, trust |
Uses and Benefits
- Popular in wildflower gardens for mass planting.
- Attracts bees and butterflies.
- Used in erosion control and natural landscaping.
21. Nephrolepis (Boston Fern)
Nephrolepis, or Boston Fern, is a popular houseplant known for its lush, arching fronds that add a touch of greenery to indoor spaces.
It is also grown outdoors in shaded, moist areas. Boston Fern prefers humid environments and indirect light.
| Scientific Name | Nephrolepis exaltata |
|---|---|
| Family | Nephrolepidaceae |
| Number of Species | 30 |
| Native Regions | Tropical regions worldwide |
| Blooming Period | N/A |
| Symbolism | Sincerity, humility |
Uses and Benefits
- Widely used as a houseplant for air purification.
- Adds texture and greenery to indoor and outdoor spaces.
- Fronds are used in floral arrangements.
22. Nelumbo (Sacred Lotus)
Nelumbo, or Sacred Lotus, is an aquatic plant with large, showy pink or white flowers and broad, round leaves that float on the water’s surface.
The lotus is deeply symbolic in many cultures, representing purity, enlightenment, and rebirth. It grows in still, shallow water bodies with full sun.
| Scientific Name | Nelumbo nucifera |
|---|---|
| Family | Nelumbonaceae |
| Number of Species | 2 |
| Native Regions | Asia, Australia |
| Blooming Period | Summer |
| Symbolism | Purity, rebirth |
Uses and Benefits
- Widely used in water gardens and ornamental ponds.
- Sacred in religious and cultural practices, especially in Buddhism and Hinduism.
- Seeds and roots are edible and used in culinary dishes.
23. Neomarica caerulea (Blue Walking Iris)
Neomarica caerulea, also known as Blue Walking Iris, is a tropical plant with striking blue flowers that resemble those of the iris.
The plant is called “walking” iris because it produces new plants at the tips of its flower stalks, which then take root nearby. It prefers partial shade and well-drained, moist soil.
| Scientific Name | Neomarica caerulea |
|---|---|
| Family | Iridaceae |
| Number of Species | 15 |
| Native Regions | Central and South America |
| Blooming Period | Spring to Summer |
| Symbolism | Faith, perseverance |
Uses and Benefits
- Grown as an ornamental plant in tropical gardens.
- Attracts pollinators like butterflies.
- Used in landscape design for its unusual growth habit.
24. Nidularium (Bromeliad)
Nidularium, a type of bromeliad, is an epiphytic plant known for its rosette of green leaves and central, colorful bracts that surround the small flowers.
It is commonly grown as a houseplant or in tropical gardens. Nidularium prefers humid environments and indirect light.
| Scientific Name | Nidularium innocentii |
|---|---|
| Family | Bromeliaceae |
| Number of Species | 40 |
| Native Regions | South America |
| Blooming Period | Year-round |
| Symbolism | Protection, renewal |
Uses and Benefits
- Popular as a houseplant for its exotic appearance.
- Used in tropical garden designs for its vibrant bracts.
- Contributes to indoor air purification.
25. Nothofagus (Southern Beech)
Nothofagus, commonly known as Southern Beech, is a deciduous or evergreen tree with small, rounded leaves and tiny flowers that develop into nuts.
It is an important tree in southern hemisphere forests, providing habitat for wildlife. Southern Beech thrives in cool, moist climates.
| Scientific Name | Nothofagus antarctica |
|---|---|
| Family | Nothofagaceae |
| Number of Species | 35 |
| Native Regions | South America, Australasia |
| Blooming Period | Spring to Summer |
| Symbolism | Longevity, resilience |
Uses and Benefits
- Used in reforestation and forest restoration projects.
- Wood is valuable for timber and furniture-making.
- Provides habitat for a variety of wildlife species.
26. Nertera (Bead Plant)
Nertera, also known as Bead Plant, is a small, creeping perennial known for its bright orange, berry-like fruits that resemble beads.
It is often grown as a houseplant or in rock gardens. Bead Plant prefers cool, shaded environments and well-drained soil.
| Scientific Name | Nertera granadensis |
|---|---|
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Number of Species | 15 |
| Native Regions | South America, New Zealand |
| Blooming Period | Spring |
| Symbolism | Prosperity, abundance |
Uses and Benefits
- Grown as an ornamental plant for its bright, bead-like fruits.
- Used in rock gardens and as a ground cover.
- Adds color and interest to indoor and outdoor spaces.
27. Nyssa sylvatica (Black Tupelo)
Nyssa sylvatica, commonly known as Black Tupelo, is a deciduous tree with glossy, dark green leaves that turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow in the fall.
The tree produces small, greenish-white flowers followed by dark blue fruits. Black Tupelo prefers moist, acidic soils and full sun to partial shade.
| Scientific Name | Nyssa sylvatica |
|---|---|
| Family | Nyssaceae |
| Number of Species | 9 |
| Native Regions | Eastern North America |
| Blooming Period | Spring |
| Symbolism | Prosperity, longevity |
Uses and Benefits
- Used in landscaping for its vibrant fall color.
- Wood is valued for making furniture and specialty items.
- Fruits provide food for wildlife, particularly birds.
28. Nepenthes (Tropical Pitcher Plant)
Nepenthes, commonly known as Tropical Pitcher Plant, is a carnivorous plant with tubular, pitcher-shaped leaves that trap and digest insects. The plant is found in tropical and subtropical regions and thrives in humid environments with filtered sunlight.
| Scientific Name | Nepenthes alata |
|---|---|
| Family | Nepenthaceae |
| Number of Species | About 170 |
| Native Regions | Southeast Asia, Madagascar |
| Blooming Period | Year-round |
| Symbolism | Mystery, fascination |
Uses and Benefits
- Grown as a unique ornamental plant in greenhouses and terrariums.
- Helps control insect populations naturally.
- Used in educational exhibits about carnivorous plants.
29. Nardostachys (Spikenard)
Nardostachys, commonly known as Spikenard, is a perennial herb with small, pinkish-white flowers and a fragrant rhizome used in making essential oils. It is often found in the Himalayan region and has been used in traditional medicine and religious rituals for centuries.
| Scientific Name | Nardostachys jatamansi |
|---|---|
| Family | Caprifoliaceae |
| Number of Species | 1 |
| Native Regions | Himalayas |
| Blooming Period | Summer |
| Symbolism | Healing, devotion |
Uses and Benefits
- Rhizomes are used to produce essential oils for perfumery and aromatherapy.
- Widely used in traditional Ayurvedic and Tibetan medicine.
- Considered sacred in various religious practices.
30. Nuphar (Yellow Water Lily)
Nuphar, commonly known as Yellow Water Lily, is an aquatic plant with large, round leaves and bright yellow, cup-shaped flowers.
It grows in still or slow-moving water bodies and is commonly found in temperate regions. Yellow Water Lily prefers full sun and shallow water.
| Scientific Name | Nuphar lutea |
|---|---|
| Family | Nymphaeaceae |
| Number of Species | 15 |
| Native Regions | Europe, North America |
| Blooming Period | Summer |
| Symbolism | Serenity, peace |
Uses and Benefits
- Used in water gardens and ornamental ponds.
- Provides shelter and food for aquatic life.
- Roots and leaves are used in traditional herbal remedies.
List of Uncommon Flowers That Starts with N
Here are the remaining 30 flower names starting with “N,” continuing from the previous list:
31. Nolana humifusa (Chilean Bluebell)
32. Nemesia fruticans (Sunsatia Nemesia)
33. Nerium indicum (Indian Oleander)
34. Nicotiana rustica (Aztec Tobacco)
35. Nandina domestica (Heavenly Bamboo)
36. Nepeta grandiflora (Giant Catmint)
37. Narcissus tazetta (Paperwhite Narcissus)
38. Nerine undulata (Jersey Lily)
39. Nematanthus gregarius (Goldfish Plant)
40. Narcissus bulbocodium (Hoop Petticoat Daffodil)
41. Nephrolepis obliterata (Kimberly Queen Fern)
42. Nicotiana glauca (Tree Tobacco)
43. Nepenthes rajah (King Pitcher Plant)
44. Nolana paradoxa (Blue Chilean Bellflower)
45. Nierembergia hippomanica (Purple Robe Cupflower)
46. Nyssa biflora (Swamp Tupelo)
47. Nymphaea rubra (Red Water Lily)
48. Nothoscordum gracile (Slender False Garlic)
49. Nepeta faassenii (Faassen’s Catmint)
50. Nasturtium officinale (Watercress)
51. Nolana acuminata (Flower of the Shore)
52. Nerine masoniorum (Coral Lily)
53. Narcissus poeticus (Poet’s Daffodil)
54. Nyctanthes arbor-tristis (Night-Flowering Jasmine)
55. Nierembergia caerulea (Cupflower)
56. Nicotiana sylvestris (Woodland Tobacco)
57. Neoregelia (Blushing Bromeliad)
58. Narcissus jonquilla (Jonquil)
59. Nuphar pumila (Dwarf Yellow Pond Lily)
60. Nierembergia scoparia (Cupflower)
Conclusion
We’ve explored 60 amazing flowers that start with N, from the familiar Narcissus to the rare Nolana. I hope this journey through the floral world has sparked your curiosity and appreciation for nature’s diversity.
Why does this matter? These flowers aren’t just pretty to look at. They play vital roles in ecosystems, support pollinators, and bring joy to gardens worldwide. By learning about them, we become better stewards of our environment.
What’s next? I encourage you to seek out these N-named flowers in your local parks, botanical gardens, or even your own backyard. Try growing some in your garden or balcony. Share your favorite N-flower discoveries in the comments below!
Remember, every flower has a story. What will your next floral adventure be?
