In this article, we’ll explore various flowers starting with the letter A that are commonly found in the U.S. We’ll also learn how they survive and their hardiness zone requirements, blooming season, and sunlight preference.
25 Flowers that start with the letter A
1. Azalea
- Scientific name: Rhododendron
- Bloom period: Typically in spring
- Hardiness zone: USDA zones 6 to 9
- Sunlight requirements: Prefers partial shade to full sun
The Azalea, a vibrant flower known for its colorful blooms, belongs to the Rhododendron genus. It holds significance in Georgia, USA, where it’s celebrated annually during the Azalea Festival. Azaleas commonly thrive in temperate climates, with their distinct funnel-shaped flowers appearing in shades of pink, red, purple, yellow, and white.
These flowers typically bloom in spring, adding a burst of color to gardens and landscapes across various regions. Azaleas can be purchased at your local nursery or ordered online.
2. Amaranthus
- Scientific name: Amaranthus spp.
- Bloom period: Summer to fall
- Hardiness zone: Varies by species, generally tolerant of a wide range of climates
- Sunlight requirements: Prefers full sun
The Amaranthus flower, commonly referred to as Amaranth, isn’t designated as a state flower but holds cultural significance in some regions. It’s a common sight in gardens and landscapes across the United States, particularly in states like Texas and California.
Amaranthus is known for its tall, erect stems bearing long, vibrant clusters of tiny flowers in shades of dark red, burgundy, orange, yellow, and green. These flowers bloom from summer to fall.
3. Aster
- Scientific name: Asteraceae spp.
- Bloom period: Late summer to fall
- Hardiness zone: Typically zones 3 to 8
- Sunlight requirements: Full sun to partial shade
The Aster flower, also known as starwort, is a popular perennial known for its daisy-like appearance, with petals radiating around a central core. This flower is not a state flower in the USA but is widely appreciated for its variety of colors, including blue, white, and pink.
Asters are common across many states, especially thriving in regions with cool, moist summers. They typically bloom in late summer and fall, providing a late-season burst of color when many other flowers have faded.
4. Astilbe
- Scientific name: Astilbe spp.
- Bloom period: Late spring to midsummer
- Hardiness zone: Zones 3 to 9
- Sunlight requirements: Partial shade to full shade
The Astilbe flower, also known as false goat’s beard, is a hardy perennial favored for its feathery, plume-like flowers which bloom in various shades including pink, red, white, and lavender. Commonly found in the cooler, northern states, these plants prefer moist, well-drained soil and can often be found in woodland garden settings.
These plants typically grow between 18 to 24 inches tall and are known for their fern-like foliage and ability to flourish in shade, making them ideal for adding color to darker parts of gardens.
5. Alstroemeria
- Scientific name: Alstroemeria spp.
- Bloom period: Late spring to fall
- Hardiness zone: Typically zones 7 to 10
- Sunlight requirements: Full sun to partial shade
The Alstroemeria flower, commonly known as the Peruvian lily or lily of the Incas, is notable for its colorful and speckled petals that range from white and yellow to red and purple. It thrives particularly well in states with mild, Mediterranean-like climates such as California.
They typically grow about 2 to 3 feet tall and form clumps of green, lance-shaped leaves. Alstroemerias are also known for their unique ability to open from twisted buds.
6. African lily
- Scientific name: Agapanthus africanus
- Bloom period: Early to late summer
- Hardiness zone: Typically zones 8 to 11
- Sunlight requirements: Full sun
The African lily is renowned for its blue or white blooms that form on tall, slender stalks. It is commonly found in warmer states such as Florida and California, where its ability to thrive in coastal conditions makes it a popular choice for gardeners.
Agapanthus flowers from early to late summer, producing globe-like clusters of flowers atop stalks that can reach up to 4 feet in height. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil, and although it is tough against drought once established, it benefit from regular watering during the blooming period.
7. Aconite
- Scientific name: Aconitum napellus
- Bloom period: Late summer to early fall
- Hardiness zone: Zones 3 to 7
- Sunlight requirements: Partial shade to full shade
The Aconite flower, commonly referred to as monkshood or wolfsbane, is notable for its helmet-shaped blue or purple blooms. This plant features dark green, deeply divided leaves that enhance its tall, slender profile and can grow up to 4 feet tall.
Due to its toxicity, aconite should be handled with care as all parts of the plant are poisonous. It requires moist, fertile soil and performs best in shaded environments.
8. Allium
- Scientific name: Allium spp.
- Bloom period: Late spring to early summer
- Hardiness zone: Typically zones 4 to 9
- Sunlight requirements: Full sun
The Allium flower, part of the onion family, is known for its bold, spherical blooms that appear atop long stems. Alliums are a popular choice in gardens across many U.S. states, particularly those with temperate climates. These flowers bloom in shades of purple, blue, white, and pink from late spring to early summer.
Commonly referred to as ornamental onions, they can vary in height, with some varieties like ‘Globemaster’ reaching up to 4 feet. Alliums are appreciated for their ability to deter rodents and deer due to their onion-like scent.
9. Amaryllis
- Scientific name: Hippeastrum spp.
- Bloom period: Typically blooms indoors in winter if planted in fall
- Hardiness zone: Grown as a houseplant in the U.S.; can be planted outside in zones 9 to 11
- Sunlight requirements: Bright, indirect light
The Amaryllis, often associated with the holiday season, is known for its large, trumpet-shaped flowers which can be red, white, pink, or variegated. This bulbous plant is commonly grown indoors across the USA due to its preference for warm conditions and bright, indirect light.
Each bulb typically produces two to seven flowers per stem and can rebloom annually with proper care. The leaves are long and narrow, and the plant can grow up to 1 to 2 feet in height. Amaryllis is also known as Hippeastrum, distinguishing it from other related species in its family.
10. Anemone
- Scientific name: Anemone spp.
- Bloom period: Early spring or fall, depending on the variety
- Hardiness zone: Zones 4 to 8
- Sunlight requirements: Full sun to partial shade
The Anemone flower, often called windflower, is a versatile plant that thrives across many U.S. regions. They produce delicate cup-shaped flowers in hues of white, pink, red, and purple.
Anemones typically grow to about 1 to 2 feet in height and feature lobed or divided leaves, adding a soft texture to garden settings. While known for their beauty, anemones are also slightly toxic and should be handled with care to avoid irritation.
11. African daisy
- Scientific name: Osteospermum spp.
- Bloom period: Spring to fall
- Hardiness zone: Typically zones 9 to 11
- Sunlight requirements: Full sun
The African daisy, also known as osteospermum, is admired for its vivid colors and petal shapes. These flowers are commonly found in warmer states such as California and Florida, where they can enjoy full sun. African daisies bloom from spring to fall, offering a continuous display of color with shades ranging from white and pink to purple and blue, often with a distinctive darker eye in the center of the petals.
They typically grow about 1 to 2 feet tall and wide, with spoon-shaped or finely cut leaves. These plants are drought-tolerant once established, making them suitable for sunny and dry gardens.
12. Alchemilla
- Scientific name: Alchemilla mollis
- Bloom period: Late spring to early summer
- Hardiness zone: Zones 3 to 8
- Sunlight requirements: Partial shade; can tolerate full sun in cooler climates
The Alchemilla, commonly known as lady’s mantle, is favored for its scalloped and velvety leaves that effectively catch and sparkle with dewdrops. Alchemilla blooms from late spring to early summer, producing small, chartreuse flowers that add a subtle hint of color to gardens. It is commonly found in cooler regions of the USA, such as the Pacific Northwest and the Northeast, and typically grows to about 12 to 18 inches tall.
Lady’s mantle is low maintenance, requiring well-drained soil and occasional watering during dry spells. It’s often used in borders and as a ground cover due to its dense and mounding growth habit.
13. Anthurium
- Scientific name: Anthurium andraeanum
- Bloom period: Year-round in optimal conditions
- Hardiness zone: Indoor or tropical climates; can be grown outdoors in zones 11 to 12
- Sunlight requirements: Bright, indirect light
The Anthurium, often called flamingo flower or laceleaf, is known for its glossy, heart-shaped spathes which are often mistaken for petals. These vibrant spathes can be red, pink, white, or even green and usually surround a spadix that may be spiraled or straight. While not a state flower in the USA, anthuriums are popular in tropical states like Florida and Hawaii, where conditions mimic their native warm and humid environments.
They typically grow up to 1.5 feet tall, with large leaves that can be up to 8 inches long. Known for their air-purifying qualities, anthuriums are a favorite for indoor gardening.
14. Arum lily
- Scientific name: Zantedeschia aethiopica
- Bloom period: Late spring to mid-summer
- Hardiness zone: Zones 8 to 10
- Sunlight requirements: Full sun to partial shade
The Arum lily, also known as the calla lily, is recognized for its elegant trumpet-shaped spathe, which gracefully envelops the flower’s spadix. Arum lilies are commonly found in milder climates such as California and the Pacific Northwest. These plants typically bloom from late spring to mid-summer and are available in a range of colors from pristine white to deep purple.
Arum lilies can grow up to 3 feet tall and are often used in both gardens and as cut flowers due to their long vase life. They are also noted for their ability to adapt to both aquatic and terrestrial environments.
15. Angelonia
- Scientific name: Angelonia angustifolia
- Bloom period: Late spring to fall
- Hardiness zone: Zones 9 to 11
- Sunlight requirements: Full sun
The Angelonia is popular in southern states like Texas and Florida, where its heat tolerance makes it a staple in summer gardens. Angelonia blooms continuously from spring until fall, offering flowers in shades of purple, pink, white, and blue along its spiky stalks. This plant typically reaches about 1 to 2 feet in height and thrives in full sun, making it ideal for adding vertical interest to flower beds and containers.
It’s also known for being low maintenance, requiring only occasional watering once established. The flowers produce a subtle, grape-like scent, especially in the evening.
16. Anise hyssop
- Scientific name: Agastache foeniculum
- Bloom period: Mid-summer to fall
- Hardiness zone: Zones 4 to 9
- Sunlight requirements: Full sun to partial shade
The Anise hyssop, also known as Agastache, is a perennial herb widely grown in the Midwest and Northeast, thriving in USDA zones 4 through 9. The plant is recognized for its spike-like clusters of purple flowers, which bloom from mid-summer to fall, and aromatic leaves that give off a sweet, anise-like scent when crushed.
Anise Hyssop typically grows to about 2 to 4 feet in height and prefers full sun to partial shade. It is drought tolerant once established, making it a practical choice for sustainable gardens.
17. Annual honesty
- Scientific name: Lunaria annua
- Bloom period: Early to mid-spring
- Hardiness zone: Zones 4 to 8
- Sunlight requirements: Partial shade to full sun
Annual honesty, also known as Lunaria annua or simply “money plant,” is not a state flower anywhere in the USA. It is known for its unique seed pods that are silvery and translucent, often used in dried flower arrangements. This biennial plant is common in gardens throughout the temperate regions of the USA, particularly appreciated in the Midwest and Northeast for its adaptability.
The Annual honesty blooms in early to mid-spring, producing clusters of purple or white flowers. The plant grows up to 3 feet tall and features broad, coarse leaves.
18. Angel’s trumpet
- Scientific name: Brugmansia spp.
- Bloom period: Late spring to fall
- Hardiness zone: Typically zones 9 to 12
- Sunlight requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Angel’s trumpet, scientifically known as Brugmansia, is notable for its large, hanging, trumpet-shaped flowers. This plant is common in the warmer, southern states like California and Florida, where it thrives in the humid climate. Angel’s Trumpet typically blooms from late spring through fall, producing white, yellow, pink, or orange flowers that emit a strong, sweet fragrance in the evenings.
The plant can grow up to 10-20 feet tall, with leaves that are large, green, and oval-shaped. Care should be taken when handling Angel’s Trumpet, as all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested.
19. Annual phlox
- Scientific name: Phlox drummondii
- Bloom period: Spring to early fall
- Hardiness zone: Typically zones 3 to 8
- Sunlight requirements: Full sun
Annual phlox is popular in gardens for its vibrant display and easy care. Commonly found throughout the southern and central states, Annual Phlox thrives in warm climates. It blooms prolifically from spring to early fall, offering a range of colors including red, pink, purple, white, and bicolor patterns.
The flowers are small but dense, forming clusters that cover the slender, upright stems. Annual Phlox typically grows about 1 to 2 feet tall and prefers full sun, flourishing in well-drained soil.
20. Alyssum
- Scientific name: Lobularia maritima
- Bloom period: Spring through fall
- Hardiness zone: Zones 4 to 9
- Sunlight requirements: Full sun to partial shade
The Alyssum flower, also known as sweet alyssum, is favored for its delicate, honey-scented flowers that typically bloom in shades of white, pink, and purple. Alyssum is a popular choice for borders, rock gardens, and containers due to its low-growing, spreading habit.
Common across the United States, especially in temperate climates. The plant generally reaches about 3 to 9 inches in height and spreads out to create a full, lush ground cover.
21. Avens
- Scientific name: Geum spp.
- Bloom period: Late spring to early summer
- Hardiness zone: Zones 5 to 8
- Sunlight requirements: Full sun to partial shade
The Avens are perennial flowers appreciated for their simple yet cheerful appearance, featuring bright, rounded flowers atop tall, slender stems. Common colors include yellow, orange, and red. Avens are often found in the cooler, northern states of the USA.
The plant typically blooms from late spring to early summer, and it can reach up to 2 feet in height. Its foliage is somewhat fuzzy, adding texture to garden settings.
22. Asclepias syriaca
- Scientific name: Asclepias syriaca
- Bloom period: Early to mid-summer
- Hardiness zone: Zones 4 to 9
- Sunlight requirements: Full sun
The Asclepias syriaca, commonly known as common milkweed, holds ecological significance as a crucial host plant for the monarch butterfly and is prevalent across the eastern and midwestern United States. Common milkweed features clusters of pink to mauve flowers that bloom from early to mid-summer. These flowers emit a strong fragrance and are set against large, broad leaves.
Apart from its role in supporting monarch butterflies by providing food for larvae, the milky sap of Asclepias syriaca is notable for its traditional use in remedies, although it must be handled with care due to its toxic properties.
23. Aquilegia
- Scientific name: Aquilegia spp.
- Bloom period: Spring to early summer
- Hardiness zone: Zones 3 to 8
- Sunlight requirements: Partial shade; tolerates full sun in cooler climates
The Aquilegia, also known as columbine, is notably the state flower of Colorado and is popular across much of the United States. Columbine flowers in spring to early summer, presenting distinctive bell-shaped flowers with long, nectar-rich spurs that attract hummingbirds and bees. These flowers can be blue, purple, red, yellow, or white.
Aquilegia plants usually grow about 1 to 3 feet tall. The leaves are divided and have a soft, lacy appearance. These plants are favored by hummingbirds for their nectar-rich, bell-shaped flowers. While columbines are easy to grow, they are also known to self-seed, which allows them to spread easily throughout gardens.
24. Alpine aster
- Scientific Name: Aster alpinus
- Bloom Period: Late spring to early summer
- Hardiness Zone: Zones 4 to 7
- Sunlight Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
The Alpine aster is native to the mountains of Europe and Asia but has been widely adopted in rock gardens and alpine collections across the cooler northern states of the U.S. The plant blooms in late spring to early summer, producing daisy-like flowers with a central yellow disk surrounded by purple, blue, or white petals.
Alpine aster typically grows about 6 to 12 inches tall and prefers full sun to partial shade. It is well-suited to well-drained soil and can tolerate poor soil conditions, making it a durable choice for challenging garden spots.
25. Acacia
- Scientific name: Acacia
- Bloom period: Late winter or early spring
- Hardiness zone: Zones 9 to 11
- Sunlight requirements: Full sun
The Acacia flower, also known as wattle, is a hallmark of the genus Acacia, known for its distinctive fluffy yellow blossoms. In the U.S., acacias are commonly found in warmer climates such as California and Arizona. These trees or shrubs typically bloom in late winter to spring, offering not only visual appeal but also a source of nectar for pollinators such as bees.
Acacias have finely divided leaves, often appearing as small leaflets, and can vary in size from small shrubs to large trees, depending on the species. They are drought-resistant and prefer full sun, making them suited for arid landscapes.
Mary is an outdoor enthusiast, nature lover, and amateur birdwatcher that enjoys sharing her knowledge and experiences with others.