Here’s a list of 22 flowers that begin with the letter D. We’ll cover how they survive, their needs for sunlight, suitable hardiness zones, and their blooming seasons. Additionally, you’ll find tips on how to care for each flower to keep your garden thriving.
22 Flowers that start with the letter D
1 Dahlia
- Scientific name: Dahlia
- Bloom period: Midsummer to fall
- Hardiness zone: Typically grown as annuals in zones 7 and below; can be perennial in zones 8 to 11 with proper care.
- Sunlight requirements: Full sun
The Dahlia is widely admired for its versatility and vibrant blooms. Native to Mexico, dahlias are cultivated in many parts of the United States, thriving particularly in climates with cool, moist summers like the Pacific Northwest. These flowers come in a wide range of colors and sizes, from small pompons to large dinner-plate varieties.
Dahlias bloom from midsummer through fall, providing color when many other plants begin to fade. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun to flourish and require regular watering during the growing season. Dahlias are also known for their ability to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, making them beneficial for garden biodiversity.
2 Daisies
- Scientific name: Bellis perennis
- Bloom period: Early spring to mid-autumn
- Hardiness zone: 4 to 8
- Sunlight requirements: Full sun to partial shade
The Daisies” commonly refers to several plants in the Asteraceae family, most notably the Common daisy (Bellis perennis) and the Oxeye daisy (Leucanthemum vulgare). They are prevalent in many temperate regions across the country. Common daisies are particularly ubiquitous in grassy fields and along roadsides. They feature small, cheerful flowers with white petals and bright yellow centers.
They bloom primarily in the spring and summer and are well-adapted to a variety of growing conditions, though they prefer full sun and well-drained soil. These flowers are not only beloved for their simplicity and beauty but are also often used in gardens and floral arrangements.
3 Daffodil
- Scientific name: Narcissus
- Bloom period:
- Hardiness zone:
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The Daffodil, also known as Narcissus, is the state flower of Wales and a herald of spring in many regions. These bulbs are common throughout the temperate climates of the United States, particularly favored in areas that experience clear seasonal changes, like the Northeast. Daffodils feature a distinctive structure with six petal-like tepals surmounted by a trumpet-shaped corona.
The flowers are primarily yellow, but some varieties show off white, orange, and even pink hues. Daffodils are among the first flowers to bloom in spring, typically appearing from late winter through early spring.
They prefer full sun to partial shade and well-drained soils. Notably, daffodils are often planted in large clusters to create vivid displays of color in gardens and parks, and they are resistant to most pests and diseases, making them particularly easy to maintain.
4 Dame’s rocket
- Scientific name: Hesperis matronalis
- Bloom period:
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Dame’s rocket is a common sight in many regions, particularly in the Northeast and Midwest. Originating from Europe, it has become naturalized across much of North America. This plant is often found in woodland edges, roadsides, and garden landscapes. Dame’s rocket blooms in late spring to early summer, showcasing clusters of fragrant flowers that range in color from white to pink and purple.
The plant resembles wild phlox but can be distinguished by its four-petaled flowers, as opposed to phlox’s five-petaled ones. Despite its beauty, Dame’s rocket is considered invasive in several states, as it can outcompete native flora. It grows in full sun to partial shade and tends to spread quickly in favorable conditions.
5 Dandelion
- Scientific name: Taraxacum officinale
- Bloom period: Early spring to fall
- Hardiness zone: 3 to 10
- Sunlight requirements: Full sun to partial shade
The Dandelion is one of the most widespread and recognized wildflowers. Common across all 50 states, dandelions are known for their bright yellow flowers and distinctive seed heads, often called “puffballs,” which children love to blow to make a wish. These hardy plants can grow in almost any habitat but are particularly prevalent in lawns, meadows, and disturbed soils.
Dandelions bloom from early spring to fall, providing an extended period of color and ecological benefits. Each part of the plant is edible, with uses in salads, teas, and traditional medicines. Despite their benefits, dandelions are often considered a nuisance in gardens and lawns due to their aggressive growth and ability to quickly colonize areas.
6 Daylily
- Scientific name: Hemerocallis
- Bloom period: Early summer to early fall
- Hardiness zone: 3 to 9
- Sunlight requirements: Full sun to partial shade
The Daylily is a popular perennial in gardens across the country due to its adaptability and variety of colors. Commonly seen in nearly every state, daylilies thrive in a range of climates and soil types, although they perform best in well-drained soil with full sun to partial shade. Each bloom lasts only one day, but numerous buds on each plant ensure a long flowering period from early summer to early fall.
Daylilies come in many hues, including yellow, orange, red, and purple, often with patterns and eye-catching throat colors. Easy to grow and maintain, daylilies are favored for their ability to form dense clumps that crowd out weeds and stabilize soil, making them ideal for slopes and banks.
7 Delphinium
- Scientific name: Delphinium
- Bloom period: Early to mid-summer
- Hardiness zone: 3 to 7
- Sunlight requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Delphinium, also known as larkspur is a beloved addition to many gardens due to its tall spikes of vibrant blue flowers, which can also come in shades of pink, white, and purple. These perennials are commonly found throughout the temperate regions of the United States, especially favored in cottage and border gardens for their dramatic height and color.
Delphiniums thrive best in cooler climates with well-drained soil and need full sun to partial shade to prosper. They typically bloom in early to mid-summer and require staking due to their height, which can range from 2 to 6 feet.
While beautiful, it’s important to note that all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested. Delphiniums are also susceptible to pests and diseases, so they demand attentive care to maintain their appearance.
8 Dendrobium
- Scientific name: Dendrobium
- Bloom period: Varies by species; many bloom from late winter to spring
- Hardiness zone: Typically grown indoors; can be grown outdoors in USDA zones 10 to 12
- Sunlight requirements: Bright, indirect light
Dendrobium is widely cultivated for its beautiful and diverse flowers. This orchid genus is extensive, with over 1,000 species, commonly found in diverse habitats ranging from lowland tropical forests to high-altitude areas in Asia, Australia, and the Pacific Islands. In the United States, Dendrobiums are popular in households and greenhouses, particularly in states with warmer climates like Hawaii and Florida.
They display a variety of colors and forms, typically featuring multiple blooms along a single stem. Dendrobium flowers can be white, pink, purple, and yellow, among other colors.
These orchids prefer bright, indirect light and a drop in temperature at night to thrive. They are also known for their relatively easy care compared to other orchids, making them suitable for beginners.
9 Diascia
- Scientific name: Diascia
- Bloom period: Spring through fall
- Hardiness zone: Typically grown as an annual; can survive as a perennial in zones 9 to 11
- Sunlight requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Diascia, also known as twinspur is a charming addition to garden beds and containers. Originally from South Africa, this annual is less common in the wild but frequently used in temperate regions of the United States, particularly appreciated for its continuous blooming from spring through fall. Diascia produces small, delicate flowers that typically come in shades of pink, coral, and orange.
It grows best in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soil. The plant usually reaches about 12 inches in height and spreads out to form a low, dense mat. Diascia is particularly notable for its frost tolerance, making it a resilient choice for early spring and late fall gardens. Its nectar-rich flowers are also attractive to bees and butterflies, enhancing pollinator activity in the garden.
10 Dianthus
- Scientific name: Dianthus
- Bloom period: Late spring to early fall
- Hardiness zone: 3 to 9
- Sunlight requirements: Full sun
Dianthus, commonly referred to as “pinks,” is a favorite among gardeners for its fragrance and variety of colors. This plant is native to Europe and Asia but has become widely cultivated across the United States, thriving particularly well in temperate regions.
Dianthus species vary in size from tiny ground covers to taller cut-flower types, with the common characteristic of slender leaves and often fringed, vividly colored flowers ranging from pink to red, white, or purple.
They typically bloom from late spring to early fall, offering a long season of color. Dianthus prefers full sun and well-drained soil, making it suitable for rock gardens, borders, and containers. Its flowers are also known for their spicy fragrance and are often used in bouquets.
11 Daphne
- Scientific name: Daphne
- Bloom period: Late winter to early spring
- Hardiness zone: 4 to 9, depending on the species
- Sunlight requirements: Partial shade
Daphne, a genus of shrubs known for their fragrant flowers and attractive berries. These shrubs are native to Asia, Europe, and North Africa but are cultivated in temperate regions across the United States, particularly favored in the Pacific Northwest.
Daphne plants typically produce clusters of small, aromatic flowers in shades of white, pink, or light purple during late winter to early spring, offering color and scent when few other plants are in bloom.
They prefer well-drained soil and partial shade, making them suitable for woodland gardens or shaded border areas. Care should be taken with these plants as all parts are toxic if ingested, and they can be sensitive to over-watering.
12 Dock
- Scientific name: Rumex
- Bloom period: Late spring to mid-summer
- Hardiness zone: 3 to 9
- Sunlight requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Dock, also known as Rumex is a common plant often found in fields, roadsides, and disturbed areas across the country. This hardy perennial is known for its broad, oblong leaves and tall flower stalks that produce dense clusters of small, often greenish flowers.
Docks are especially common in the Northeastern and Midwestern states. They thrive in a variety of soil types but prefer moist, nitrogen-rich environments.
While often considered a weed due to its aggressive growth and tendency to dominate spaces, dock plants have edible leaves that are rich in vitamins and minerals. They have also been used traditionally in herbal medicine to treat various skin conditions.
13 Dog rose
- Scientific name: Rosa canina
- Bloom period: Late spring to early summer
- Hardiness zone: 3 to 7
- Sunlight requirements: Full sun to partial shade
The Dog rose is a widely recognized species of wild rose. Common across Europe, it is also found in various habitats across the northeastern and northwestern United States. Dog rose is characterized by its arching, thorny stems and pale pink to white flowers, which bloom in late spring and early summer.
The plant is particularly noted for its bright red, oval-shaped fruit, known as rose hips, which are rich in Vitamin C and commonly used in teas, jams, and health supplements.
Dog rose prefers well-drained soils and can thrive in a range of light conditions, from full sun to partial shade. It’s often used in hedgerows and wildlife gardens both for its aesthetic appeal and its value as a food source for birds and other wildlife.
14 Dogwood
- Scientific name: Cornus
- Bloom period: Spring (April to May)
- Hardiness zone: 5 to 9
- Sunlight requirements: Partial shade to full sun
The Dogwood, particularly the Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida), is the state tree and flower of Virginia and also designated as the state flower of North Carolina. Widely admired across the eastern United States, Dogwoods are noted for their springtime blooms with white, pink, or red bracts surrounding small, inconspicuous flowers. These trees are relatively small, often growing no taller than 20 to 30 feet, making them ideal for both woodland settings and residential landscapes.
Dogwoods flourish under a canopy of larger trees, preferring well-drained acidic soils and partial shade, although they can tolerate full sun if properly cared for. Beyond their ornamental value, the trees produce red berries that attract birds and other wildlife, enhancing local biodiversity.
15 Desert marigold
- Scientific name: Baileya multiradiata
- Bloom period: Early spring through summer, with sporadic blooms into fall
- Hardiness zone: 5 to 10
- Sunlight requirements: Full sun
Desert marigolds are native to the desert regions of the southwestern United States, particularly thriving in Arizona, Nevada, Utah, and Texas. Characterized by its bright yellow, daisy-like flowers, desert marigold blooms prolifically from early spring through summer and into fall, especially after rainfall.
The plant typically grows low to the ground, reaching about 12 to 18 inches in height, and features silvery-green foliage that helps reflect sunlight and conserve moisture. Desert marigolds are highly drought-tolerant and prefer full sun and well-drained soil, making them an ideal choice for xeriscapes and rock gardens where water conservation is essential.
16 Dead nettle
- Scientific name: Lamium
- Bloom period: Spring to early summer
- Hardiness zone: 3 to 10
- Sunlight requirements: Prefers shade; tolerates partial sun
Dead nettle is a common groundcover plant found in shaded gardens across the U.S. This plant is part of the mint family and is appreciated for its ability to thrive in low light and moist soil conditions.
Dead nettle is characterized by its square stems and hooded pink, purple, or white flowers that bloom in spring and early summer. The leaves vary in color from deep green to variegated forms featuring splashes of silver or white.
Unlike true nettles, dead nettle does not sting, hence the name. It’s often used for its ornamental value in controlling erosion and suppressing weeds, thanks to its dense mat-forming growth habit. Dead nettle also attracts pollinators such as bees, providing ecological benefits in shaded garden spots where few other plants can flourish.
17 Drummond’s phlox
- Scientific name: Phlox drummondii
- Bloom period: Spring to summer
- Hardiness zone: 2 to 11
- Sunlight requirements: Full sun
Drummond’s phlox is a popular wildflower native to Texas. This annual plant is admired for its vibrant clusters of flowers that can range in color from white and pink to red and purple. It typically blooms profusely from spring through summer, adding a splash of color to gardens and wildflower meadows.
Drummond’s phlox grows about 1 to 2 feet tall and prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It is commonly used in border plantings and as a ground cover, thanks to its dense growth and colorful display. Easy to grow from seed, it is often planted to attract butterflies and other pollinators, making it not only beautiful but also beneficial for garden ecosystems.
18 Dusty miller
- Scientific name: Jacobaea maritima
- Bloom period: Generally grown for foliage; may bloom with small yellow flowers in its second year
- Hardiness zone: 8 to 10
- Sunlight requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Dusty miller is a popular foliage plant across the U.S, especially favored for its silvery-gray leaves that provide a contrast in flower beds and borders. Native to the Mediterranean region, this plant is commonly used in gardens for its textured, lobed leaves, which add a unique visual element. Although primarily grown for its foliage, dusty miller can produce small yellow flowers in its second year.
It thrives in full sun to partial shade and requires well-drained soil. Due to its drought tolerance, it is especially useful in xeriscaping and coastal gardens. Dusty miller is also valued for its ability to resist deer and withstand salty conditions, making it a robust choice for various landscaping needs.
19 Dutchman’s breeches
- Scientific name: Dicentra cucullaria
- Bloom period: Early spring
- Hardiness zone: 3 to 7
- Sunlight requirements: Partial to full shade
Dutchman’s breeches is a distinctive native wildflower commonly found in the rich woods of the northeastern and midwestern states. This perennial is notable for its unique, white, pantaloon-shaped flowers that hang delicately from arching stems, resembling tiny pairs of upside-down pants, which is how it gets its name. Dutchman’s breeches bloom in early spring, providing one of the first splashes of white in the forest undergrowth.
The plant grows about 6 to 10 inches tall and prefers shaded areas with moist, well-drained soil. It’s known for its feathery, fern-like leaves and its ability to attract early spring pollinators, such as bumblebees, although its peculiar flower shape means only certain insects can navigate it effectively.
20 Dalmatian iris
- Scientific name: Iris pallida
- Scientific name: Iris pallida
- Bloom period: Late spring to early summer
- Hardiness zone: 4 to 9
- Sunlight requirements: Full sun to partial shade
The Dalmatian iris is native to the Dalmatian coast of Croatia, this species is well-regarded in gardens for its attractive foliage and soothingly fragrant flowers. Commonly found in temperate regions of the United States, the Dalmatian iris is notable for its light blue to lavender flowers, which bloom in late spring to early summer.
The plant typically reaches 2 to 3 feet in height and features broad, sword-like leaves that are often striped with creamy yellow or white variegations, adding year-round interest. This iris variety thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soils. Its distinctive fragrance makes it a popular choice for floral arrangements and gardens designed for sensory enjoyment.
21 Dalmatian bellflower
- Scientific name: Campanula portenschlagiana
- Bloom period: Early summer to early fall
- Hardiness zone: 4 to 9
- Sunlight requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Originating from the Dalmatian mountains in Croatia, this robust perennial is popular in temperate regions across the United States, particularly in rock gardens and as ground cover due to its hardiness and low maintenance.
The plant forms dense mounds of small, heart-shaped, dark green leaves and produces abundant star-shaped, deep blue to purple flowers from early summer to early fall. Dalmatian bellflower thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soils. Its cascading habit makes it an excellent choice for container edges, hanging
22 Dill
- Scientific name: Anethum graveolens
- Bloom period: Late spring to early summer
- Hardiness zone: 2 to 11
- Sunlight requirements: Full sun
Dills are a widely used herb in culinary traditions worldwide. In the United States, dill is commonly grown in home gardens and farms, especially in the Midwest and Northeast. Dill flowers in late spring to early summer, producing delicate, umbrella-shaped yellow flowers atop tall, slender stems. The entire plant is aromatic, adding a fresh, sharp flavor to dishes. Dill’s feathery, green leaves are as popular as the seeds, which are both used for seasoning.
This herb prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Beyond its culinary uses, dill is also appreciated in gardens for its ability to attract beneficial insects, including pollinators like bees and butterflies, and predatory insects that help control garden pests.
Mary is an outdoor enthusiast, nature lover, and amateur birdwatcher that enjoys sharing her knowledge and experiences with others.