Curious about flowers that start with the letter C? From coneflowers to calla lilies, our article invites you to discover a new addition to your garden. We’ll learn about things like bloom periods and sunlight requirements, as well as hardiness zones and medicinal uses. Plus, discover how these vibrant plants support local ecosystems and attract pollinators.
21 Flowers that start with the letter C
1 Coneflower
- Scientific name: Echinacea
- Bloom period: Early to late summer
- Hardiness zone: 3 to 8
- Sunlight requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Coneflower, widely known as Echinacea is a staple in many American gardens due to its medicinal properties and hardiness. Native to the central and eastern United States, coneflowers thrive in prairies and open wooded areas. They prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade and are drought-resistant once established.
Coneflowers bloom from early to late summer, producing large, daisy-like flowers with raised, cone-shaped centers that vary in color from purple and pink to red and yellow. These plants are not only visually appealing but also attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, making them beneficial for the ecosystem. Echinacea is also well-known for its use in herbal remedies that purportedly enhance the immune system.
You can conveniently purchase coneflower seeds online if you plan to grow them in your garden.
2 Calendula
- Scientific name: Calendula officinalis
- Bloom period: Early spring to frost
- Hardiness zone: 2 to 11
- Sunlight requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Calendula is commonly known as pot marigold. This plant is widely recognized for its vibrant yellow and orange blooms, which are edible and have been used traditionally in . Calendula flowers from early spring until frost, thriving in cooler conditions and tolerating partial shade.
These hardy annuals are easy to grow in a variety of soil types, as long as the ground is well-drained. Besides their aesthetic appeal, calendula flowers are valued for their anti-inflammatory properties and are often used in creams and oils for skin care. They are also beneficial in gardens as they attract beneficial insects, including pollinators like bees and butterflies.
3 Camellia
- Scientific name: Camellia japonica
- Bloom period: Fall to spring, depending on the variety
- Hardiness zone: 7 to 9
- Sunlight requirements: Prefers filtered sunlight or partial shade
The Camellia is the state flower of Alabama. Known for their lush foliage and beautiful blooms, Camellias are common in the Southeastern United States, thriving particularly well in regions like Georgia and South Carolina.
They prefer slightly acidic, well-drained soil and benefit from filtered sunlight or partial shade. The flowers, which can appear from fall to spring depending on the variety, range in color from white and pink to red and can be simple or double in form.
Camellias are widely cultivated for their ornamental value and are also used to produce tea, with Camellia sinensis being the species from which all tea is made. Despite their association with delicate beauty, Camellias are quite hardy and resistant to cold, making them a favored choice in southern gardens.
4 Calla lily
- Scientific name: Zantedeschia aethiopica
- Bloom period: Late spring to mid-summer
- Hardiness zone: 8 to 10
- Sunlight requirements: Prefers partial shade or filtered sunlight
The Calla lily is widely admired for its elegant, trumpet-shaped flowers and lush foliage. Native to Southern Africa, Calla lilies are common in the warmer, humid regions of the United States such as California and Florida. They thrive in moist, well-drained soil and prefer partial shade or filtered sunlight.
The typical color of the Calla lily is white, but it can also be found in shades of pink, yellow, and purple. While the plant is popular for its visual appeal in gardens and as a cut flower in floral arrangements, it’s important to note that all parts of the Calla lily are toxic if ingested. You can find Calla lily for sale at local garden centers or through online retailers.
5 Candytuft
- Scientific name: Iberis
- Bloom period: Early spring, with potential re-blooming in autumn
- Hardiness zone: 3 to 9
- Sunlight requirements: Full sun
Candytuf is a popular perennial garden plant noted for its neat clumps of glossy evergreen leaves and profuse white blooms. Originating from Europe, candytuft thrives in well-drained soil and full sun, making it a common choice for rock gardens, borders, and as a ground cover in the United States. It blooms primarily in the early spring, but some varieties can re-bloom in the autumn.
The flowers form dense clusters atop sturdy stems, creating a carpet of white that is particularly effective in mass plantings. Candytuft is valued for its low maintenance requirements and its ability to attract butterflies, enhancing garden biodiversity. Consider adding these to your garden collection; you can easily find them online.
6 California pepper-tree
- Scientific name: Schinus molle
- Bloom period: Spring to summer
- Hardiness zone: 8 to 11
- Sunlight requirements: Full sun
The California pepper-tree is a familiar sight in landscapes across the southwestern United States, especially California. Originally from the arid zones of Peru and other South American regions, this tree is appreciated for its weeping form, with long, drooping branches and narrow, bright green leaves.
The California pepper-tree is highly drought-resistant, making it ideal for arid climates. It produces clusters of small, pinkish-white flowers in spring and summer, followed by reddish berries that are often used as a spice. Despite its name, it is not related to true pepper plants but gets its name from the peppery flavor of its berries.
7 Canterbury bells
- Scientific name: Campanula medium
- Bloom period: Late spring to early summer
- Hardiness zone: 4 to 9
- Sunlight requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Canterbury bells are cherished in cottage gardens for their bell-shaped flowers, which come in shades of blue, white, and pink. Originally from Southern Europe, these biennial plants are commonly found in gardens across the United States, particularly in temperate regions. Canterbury bells grow well in full sun to partial shade and prefer moist, well-drained soil.
They typically bloom in late spring to early summer, presenting tall stalks up to two feet high that are covered with large, showy flowers. These plants are excellent for adding vertical interest to garden beds and borders and are popular in cut flower arrangements for their classic shape and vibrant colors.
8 Carnation
- Scientific name: Dianthus caryophyllus
- Bloom period: Late spring to early fall
- Hardiness zone: 6 to 9
- Sunlight requirements: Full sun
The Carnation is widely revered for its historical significance and extensive use in floral arrangements. This popular flower is native to the Mediterranean region but is now cultivated extensively across the United States. Carnations can be found in a variety of colors, including pink, white, red, and yellow, each color often symbolizing different meanings—red for love, white for good luck, and pink for gratitude.
They are known for their frilled petals and a sweet, clove-like scent. Carnations require full sun and well-drained soil to thrive, and they have a long vase life, making them a favorite in bouquets and boutonnieres. The flower is also commonly used in celebrations and as a traditional Mother’s Day gift in many countries.
9 Cattail
- Scientific name: Typha
- Bloom period: Early to mid-summer
- Hardiness zone: 3 to 10
- Sunlight requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Cattails are a common sight in wetlands across the country. These robust, adaptable plants thrive near ponds, marshes, and along riverbanks. Cattails are easily recognized by their tall, straight stalks topped with dense, brown cylindrical spikes, commonly referred to as “cattails.” These plants can grow up to 10 feet tall and are known for their ability to rapidly colonize areas, thanks to their extensive root systems.
Cattails play a crucial role in their ecosystems, providing habitat and food for wildlife while also stabilizing soil and cleaning water by absorbing pollutants. They have been used historically for various purposes, including making mats, and baskets, and even as a food source, as their roots and shoots are edible.
10 Cattleya orchid
- Scientific name: Cattleya
- Bloom period: Generally blooms once or twice a year; each bloom can last several weeks.
- Hardiness zone: Not applicable as these are typically grown indoors or in greenhouses in the U.S.; in outdoor environments, they might survive in USDA zones 10 to 12.
- Sunlight requirements: Bright, indirect light; direct sunlight can damage the flowers and leaves.
The Cattleya orchid, often referred to as the “queen of orchids,” is highly prized among orchid enthusiasts for its large, showy flowers. Native to Central and South America, the Cattleya orchid is commonly cultivated in the warmer and more humid regions of the United States, such as Florida.
These orchids produce impressive blooms in a variety of colors, including pinks, purples, and whites. Each flower can last several weeks and typically blooms once or twice a year. Cattleyas require good air circulation, high humidity, and ample light (but not direct sunlight) to thrive. They are often used as corsages due to their large, durable, and fragrant blooms.
11 Cockscomb
- Scientific name: Celosia cristata
- Bloom period: Late summer to fall
- Hardiness zone: 2 to 11 (typically grown as an annual)
- Sunlight requirements: Full sun
Cockscomb is well-known for its unique, vibrant flower heads that resemble a rooster’s comb. This plant is popular in gardens throughout the United States, particularly in areas with warm summers. Cockscomb can range in color from pink and red to yellow and orange. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, and it’s particularly heat-tolerant, making it an excellent choice for summer gardens.
The flowers are not only eye-catching but also excellent for dried arrangements as they retain their color and shape well after being cut. Cockscomb blooms from late summer into fall, adding long-lasting color to the landscape.
12 Chrysanthemum
- Scientific name: Chrysanthemum
- Bloom period: Late summer to fall
- Hardiness zone: 5 to 9
- Sunlight requirements: Full sun
The Chrysanthemum, often simply called “mum,” is renowned for its role in autumnal displays and garden color. Originating from East Asia, this flower has been cultivated for centuries for its beauty and variety. Chrysanthemums can range widely in color, from white and yellow to pink and deep burgundy.
They prefer cooler temperatures and bloom primarily in late summer and fall, making them ideal for extending garden vibrancy as other flowers wane. Mums require well-drained soil and at least six hours of sunlight daily to thrive. Not only do they add aesthetic value to gardens and homes, but they are also celebrated in many cultures for their symbolic meanings, such as longevity and rejuvenation.
13 Cleome
- Scientific name: Cleome hassleriana
- Bloom period: Early summer to fall
- Hardiness zone: 2 to 11
- Sunlight requirements: Full sun
Cleome, also known as spider flower. This distinctive plant is a favorite in gardens due to its tall, airy appearance and unique flower clusters that feature long, protruding stamens resembling spider legs. Cleome is commonly found throughout the United States, particularly thriving in warmer climates. It adapts well to various soil types but prefers full sun to flourish.
Blooming from early summer to fall, Cleome produces flowers in shades of pink, white, and purple, adding height and texture to garden beds. This plant is easy to grow from seed and is known for its ability to self-seed, often popping up in new locations around the garden each year. Cleome attracts bees and butterflies, making it beneficial for pollinator gardens.
14 Columbine
- Scientific name: Aquilegia spp.
- Bloom period: Late spring to early summer
- Hardiness zone: 3 to 8
- Sunlight requirements: Partial shade to full sun
Columbine is admired for its delicate and intricate flowers, which often feature a unique spurred design and come in a variety of colors, including blue, purple, red, and yellow. It thrives in light shade to full sun and prefers moist, well-drained soil. Columbine is commonly found in woodlands and mountainous areas across the United States, particularly thriving in higher altitudes.
Columbine plants are relatively easy to grow and are popular in gardens for their attractive foliage and nodding bell-shaped flowers. They bloom from late spring to early summer and are known for attracting hummingbirds and butterflies, making them a great choice for wildlife gardens.
15 Caladium
- Scientific name: Caladium spp.
- Bloom period: Rarely blooms; grown for foliage
- Hardiness zone: 9 to 11 as perennials, or grown as annuals in cooler zones
- Sunlight requirements: Prefers shade or indirect sunlight
Caladiums are often called elephant ears due to their large, heart-shaped leaves. These tropical plants are native to South America but have become popular in warmer parts of the United States, such as Florida and Texas, for their vibrant foliage. The leaves of caladiums come in a variety of colors, including red, pink, white, and green, often with contrasting veins and edges that make them stand out in shady garden spots.
Caladiums thrive in humid, indirect light conditions and need moist, well-drained soil. While they are primarily grown for their decorative leaves, caladiums do bloom with small, unremarkable flowers that are usually hidden beneath the foliage. They are typically used in containers or as bedding plants to add color and texture to garden designs.
16 Coreopsis
- Scientific name: Coreopsis
- Bloom period: Early summer to fall
- Hardiness zone: 4 to 9
- Sunlight requirements: Full sun
Coreopsis is favored for its bright, cheerful blooms that range in color from yellow to pink and red, with most common varieties sporting sunny yellow flowers. The coreopsis is widespread across the United States, particularly thriving in sunny, well-drained areas. They bloom from early summer to fall, providing long-lasting color in gardens and wildflower meadows.
These hardy perennials are easy to grow and maintain, making them a popular choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. Coreopsis plants are drought-tolerant once established and attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies, contributing to the health of the ecosystem.
17 Cosmos
- Scientific name: Cosmos
- Bloom period: Summer to fall
- Hardiness zone: Typically grown as an annual, adaptable to many zones
- Sunlight requirements: Full sun
Cosmos is a popular annual in many American gardens. Native to Mexico, cosmos flowers are appreciated for their simplicity and the vibrant colors they add to landscapes, including shades of pink, white, and purple. These plants are particularly common in the Southern and Southwestern states, where they thrive in the full sun and well-drained soil conditions typical of these regions.
Cosmos plants feature delicate, daisy-like flowers atop slender stems, with fine feathery foliage. They bloom from summer into fall, offering a long season of color. Easy to grow from seed, cosmos are often planted in wildflower mixes and are known for attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
18 Cotoneaster
- Scientific name: Cotoneaster spp.
- Bloom period: Spring
- Hardiness zone: 4 to 7
- Sunlight requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Cotoneaster is a versatile shrub widely used in landscaping for ground cover and hedges. Native to Asia, Europe, and North Africa, cotoneaster thrives in a variety of climates across the United States, particularly in zones 4 through 7. This plant is known for its small, glossy leaves and the profusion of red berries it produces in the fall and winter, which are a vital food source for birds.
Cotoneaster flowers are small and pink or white, appearing in spring and attracting bees and other pollinators. The plant’s ability to adapt to both full sun and partial shade makes it highly valuable for gardeners looking to stabilize soil and add year-round interest to their outdoor spaces.
19 Crocus
- Scientific name: Crocus spp.
- Bloom period: Late winter to early spring
- Hardiness zone: 3 to 8
- Sunlight requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Crocus is one of the first signs of spring in many areas, blooming as early as late winter in some regions. These small, bulbous plants are native to woodlands, scrub, and meadows from sea level to alpine tundra in the Old World, and are commonly cultivated in the United States. Crocus flowers vary in color, often displaying vibrant hues of purple, yellow, or white.
They are known for their cup-shaped flowers that close at night or during bad weather. Crocus plants are typically low to the ground, making them ideal for borders or as a ground cover under deciduous trees. They require well-drained soil and some species, like the saffron crocus ( Crocus sativus), are harvested for saffron, the spice derived from their stigmas.
20 Crown-of-Thorns
- Scientific name: Euphorbia milii
- Bloom period: Nearly year-round in appropriate climates
- Hardiness zone: 9 to 11
- Sunlight requirements: Full sun
Crown-of-thorns is originally from Madagascar, this drought-tolerant plant is commonly grown in warmer regions of the United States, such as Florida and Southern California. The crown-of-thorns is a succulent with thick, spiny stems and small, bright green leaves. This plant gets its name from its sharp thorns and the legend that it was the plant used for Christ’s crown of thorns.
It produces small flowers nearly year-round, surrounded by colorful bracts typically red, though they can also be pink, white, or yellow. It thrives in full sun and requires minimal watering, making it suitable for xeriscaping and low-maintenance gardens.
21 Cymbidium orchid
- Scientific name: Cymbidium spp.
- Bloom period: Winter to early spring
- Hardiness zone: Typically grown indoors; can be grown outdoors in zones 9 to 12 with proper care
- Sunlight requirements: Medium to bright light, with protection from direct sun
The Cymbidium orchid, often referred to as the “boat orchid,” is native to tropical and subtropical Asia and Australia. It has become a popular indoor and greenhouse plant in cooler climates across the United States, especially in states like California. Cymbidiums are prized for their long-lasting, gracefully arching flowers, available in a range of colors including green, white, yellow, and pink.
These orchids typically bloom in the winter and early spring, providing a splash of color when most plants are dormant. They require moderate temperatures and medium to bright light to thrive, making them well-suited to indoor environments where such conditions can be maintained. Cymbidiums are also popular in floral arrangements and corsages due to their durability and attractive appearance.
Mary is an outdoor enthusiast, nature lover, and amateur birdwatcher that enjoys sharing her knowledge and experiences with others.