50 State Flowers To Grow Anywhere

Carefree Floral Americana

As the United States celebrates its natural beauty with fireworks in July, the concept of official state flowers dates back to 1893 when each state was asked to nominate a floral emblem for the Chicago World’s Fair. Kansas’ sunflower nomination was a clear choice, symbolizing ‘the majesty of a golden future.’ However, debates ensued in other states as they struggled to agree on a single bloom.

In some cases, legislators sought the expertise of botanists to break ties or consulted schoolchildren, who played a crucial role in selecting Colorado’s Rocky Mountain columbine and Rhode Island’s violet. Most state flowers are common native blooms that thrive in summer roadways or familiar transplants, making them excellent all-around garden plants that can flourish with minimal maintenance. Many also embody the carefree spirit of America, adding charm to any landscape.

Here, we present all 50 official state flowers, including growing tips and recommended varieties.

Alabama: Camellia

A subtle yet striking beauty, the Camellia japonica has made its mark on American culture, becoming Alabama’s state flower in 1927. The ladies of the state championed this change, deeming the camellia’s refined elegance a far cry from the wild and uninviting appearance of the previously held goldenrod. This evergreen gem boasts glossy leaves and large, cupped flowers that burst forth into bloom during the late winter to early spring season, a time when many other plants remain dormant.

To cultivate the ideal growing conditions for this partial shade-loving species, such as ‘Rubescens Major,’ plant it in slightly acidic soil with excellent drainage.

Alaska: Forget-Me-Not

In Alaska’s pre-statehood era, the wild forget-me-not, Myosotis alpestris, was chosen as the territorial legislature’s official bloom. The legislation described it as ‘the emblem of the pioneers upon the rugged trail’, highlighting its symbolic significance. This charming perennial boasts a mounding habit and an abundance of bright blue flowers in spring and summer, making it an excellent choice for filling gaps around bulbs or adding color to rock gardens and containers.

Notably, the plant emits a sweet fragrance at night, further enhancing its appeal. Thriving in full sun to dappled light and well-draining soil, this self-sowing perennial is relatively low-maintenance. The cultivar ‘Ultramarine’ (as shown) stands out for its more compact growth habit, reaching only 6 inches tall and 12 inches wide.

Arizona: Saguaro Cactus Blossom

Arizona’s iconic symbol, the saguaro cactus blossom, has a rich history that predates statehood by over three decades. In 1901, this fragrant and creamy white flower was chosen as a representative of the territory, a decision that would eventually become official law thirty years later. The blossoms, which bloom in late spring from the tips of saguaro cacti, have a unique trait – they open at night and remain open for only a short time in the early morning hours.

This distinctive feature has captivated people’s imagination, making it an integral part of the Sonoran Desert landscape.

Arkansas: Apple Blossom

Arkansas, once a leading producer of apples, has a special affinity for the American crabapple tree. In 1901, the state officially adopted the apple blossom as its floral emblem, and for good reason. The tree’s showy pink-and-white blooms are not only beautiful but also incredibly fragrant, filling the air with their sweet scent from March to May.

As the seasons change, the tree produces clusters of light green to reddish bitter fruits in September, providing a third act of interest in an already-compelling package. With its relatively modest height of 6-14 feet, this versatile tree is well-suited as a focal point in residential landscapes.

California: California Poppy

As the 1700s dawned, Spanish sailors aptly dubbed California the ‘land of fire’, thanks to the sea of poppy-blanketed landscapes that stretched as far as the eye could see. This wildflower had long been cherished by indigenous peoples for its nutritional and medicinal properties. Over time, it has become an iconic symbol of the Golden State, effortlessly thriving in mild climates as a perennial, while also excelling as an annual elsewhere.

Its ability to bloom vibrantly in spring sunshine only to close at night is a testament to its unique charm. When sowing seeds, ensure they’re placed in well-drained soil and allow most plants to fade before pulling them up. However, it’s essential to let some go to seed to perpetuate the cycle.

With selections ranging from the striking orange-gold hue of the standard California poppy to more exotic varieties like ‘Carmine King’, which boasts red ruffles with white centers, ‘Mission Bells’ featuring a semi-double mix of colors, and ‘Thai Silk Lemon Blush’ with its yellow-cream tones, there’s no shortage of diversity in this beloved wildflower.

Colorado: Rocky Mountain Columbine

In the heart of Colorado’s natural beauty lies Aquilegia caerulea, a hardy perennial that has captured the hearts of locals for centuries. The plant’s vibrant blue stands for the state’s clear sky, white represents the snow-capped mountains, and yellow honors the region’s rich gold-mining history. In 1899, children across Colorado voted this fragrant wildlife magnet as their favorite, which led to ‘Where the Columbines Grow’ becoming the official state song.

The plant’s allure only grew stronger from there. When it comes to growing Aquilegia caerulea, timing is everything. Sow seeds in fall and let them sprout in spring, but be prepared for a wait – it takes another year for these perennials to bloom. Alternatively, start with seedlings in spring and keep them consistently moist. To encourage more blooms, don’t forget to deadhead the flowers as they fade.

While the classic blue and white varieties are well-loved, enthusiasts can also find dwarf ‘Red Hobbit’ and multihued ‘Origami Mix’ cultivars that add an extra layer of charm to this already captivating plant.

Connecticut: Mountain Laurel

A star-shaped flower with a rich history, Kalmia latifolia was first recorded in America in 1624 by Captain John Smith. This fragrant bloom has held a special place in Connecticut’s heart since it was designated the state flower in 1907. But beyond its picturesque appearance and sweet scent, mountain laurel also holds secrets of the past. Native Americans, for instance, used the wood to craft utensils like spoons.

Today, this dense evergreen shrub thrives in a range of light conditions, from partial shade to full sun. As the seasons transition into late spring and midsummer, mountain laurel’s blooms unfurl, filling the air with their intoxicating fragrance. While the plant’s beauty is undeniable, it’s essential to remember that all parts of Kalmia latifolia are toxic if ingested. For this reason, it’s crucial to keep it out of reach from children and pets.

Delaware: Peach Blossom

The peach’s illustrious history in Delaware dates back to the late 19th century, when the state’s orchards yielded an astonishing 800,000 fruits each year. This impressive yield led lawmakers to nickname Delaware as the Peach State. As a testament to the fruit’s significance, in 1895, they officially adopted the peach blossom as the state flower. Prunus persica, the tree that produces these delectable peaches, is a deciduous variety with glossy leaves and showy spring flowers.

Reaching a manageable height of 25 feet, it makes an excellent choice for smaller backyard orchards in warmer climates.

Florida: Orange Blossom

The fragrant white blooms of the Citrus sinensis are a staple of central and south Florida’s springtime. First adopted as the state flower by the legislature in 1909, the citrus tree’s scent fills the air with millions of these flowers. Come autumn or winter, the pyramid-shaped clusters transform into fruit. A compact evergreen tree that thrives in warmer climates, this citrus variety can also be successfully cultivated indoors where temperatures dip below freezing.

Its hardiness and adaptability make it an attractive choice for gardeners seeking a low-maintenance yet rewarding plant.

Georgia: Cherokee Rose

In the heart of spring, a rose by any other name would still be breathtakingly beautiful. The Rosa laevigata, also known as the state-flower of a certain region since 1916, has a fascinating history that’s as tangled as its vines. Native to China, this sprawling climber somehow took root in the southeast and became a symbol of hope for the Cherokees during their infamous Trail of Tears march in 1838.

Measuring up to 20 feet in height, it’s not just the fleeting sweet-scented flowers that catch the eye – its plump orange hips and evergreen foliage offer a burst of color in later seasons, when many other blooms have faded away.

Hawaii: Yellow Hibiscus

In 1922, the hibiscus was designated the territorial flower of Hawaii. However, it wasn’t until 1988 that a specific species, Hibiscus brackenridgei, was chosen by the state legislature as the official flower. This stunning shrub thrives in sunny conditions and produces an abundance of large, vibrant yellow flowers in the spring and early summer.

As a federally endangered species, efforts are being made to encourage Hawaiians to cultivate this beautiful plant, known locally as ma’o hau hele, in their own backyards.

Idaho: Lewis’s Mock Orange

Philadelphus lewisii, the deciduous shrub that has captured the hearts of many, has an intriguing history. Discovered and collected by Meriwether Lewis in 1806, its journal entry marked the beginning of a fascinating journey. The native Americans had already discovered its versatility, utilizing it to craft bows, arrows, cradles, and other essential items. Years later, in 1931, this remarkable shrub earned the distinction of becoming Idaho’s state flower.

A sun-loving plant that can thrive in partial shade as well, Philadelphus lewisii grows up to 10 feet tall. Its charm lies not only in its statuesque appearance but also in the clusters of small white flowers with a sweet, orange-blossom fragrance that bloom from late spring to midsummer.

Illinois: Common Violet

A striking native wildflower, Viola sororia has been a beloved favorite among schoolchildren since 1908. Its delicate appearance belies its robust nature as a garden plant. The self-sowing groundcover boasts an impressive array of characteristics that make it an ideal choice for many gardens. Not only does it thrive in full sun in cooler climates or partial shade in warmer zones, but it is also remarkably deer-resistant and able to tolerate clay soil.

With its heart-shaped leaves and showy purple-to-white blooms, this dainty yet resilient flower is a common sight in the state’s fields and woodlands, making it a popular choice for gardeners of all levels.

Indiana: Peony

In 1957, the peony was crowned the official flower of Indiana’s Hoosier State. This marked the fourth time in less than a century that the title had been bestowed upon a new bloom, following the carnation, tulip tree, and zinnia. Once established, peonies are remarkably resilient, boasting winter hardiness, a low susceptibility to pests, and an impressive lifespan of 50 years or more.

As early-summer bloomers, these stunning flowers display single, semi-double, or double petals in a kaleidoscope of colors, ranging from pure white to soft pink and deep red – as exemplified by the iconic ‘Sarah Bernhardt’ variety.

Iowa: Wild Rose

Iowa’s state flower, the wild rose (Rosa spp.), is represented by three native species: Rosa arkansana, Rosa blanda, and Rosa carolina. These hardy plants have adapted to the state’s harsh conditions, including droughts, grazing, and wildfires. From summer’s pink-and-white blooms to winter’s vibrant hips, these shrubs offer a long-lasting display of beauty along Iowa’s sunny roadways, hillsides, and open spaces where they can spread freely.

Kansas: Sunflower

Sunflowers, Helianthus annuus, have been a staple in many cultures for centuries, providing not only edible seeds and oil but also a burst of vibrant color to the landscape. Their rapid growth and ability to thrive in well-drained soil make them an ideal addition to any garden. To get started, simply plant the self-sowing annual from seed after the last spring frost, ensuring it receives plenty of sunlight and moderate watering. For added drama, stake tall varieties in windy areas.

The ‘Mammoth Russian’ and ‘Paul Bunyan’ are two notable giant varieties that can reach heights of 12 and 15 feet respectively, while ‘Velvet Queen’ is a dwarf variety that tops out at just 4 feet with its striking orange-red bicolored blooms.

Kentucky: Goldenrod

In Kentucky, the goldenrod holds a special place as the official state flower, a designation that was first introduced by the Kentucky Federation of Women’s Clubs back in 1926. With over 30 species of this hardy and adaptable herb sprouting up across the state, it’s no surprise that it even makes an appearance on the state flag. When deciding to bring some goldenrod into your own garden, it’s essential to consider the specific soil conditions required by each cultivar.

As there are around 100 different species to choose from, knowing where each one typically thrives is crucial for ensuring a successful and thriving planting experience.

Louisiana: Southern Magnolia

The majestic Magnolia grandiflora boasts an impressive stature, reaching up to 80 feet in height. Its unique foliage features glossy green leaves with a distinctive fuzzy brown underside. However, it’s the magnificent, fragrant creamy white flowers that truly set this tree apart and inspired Louisiana to designate it as the official state emblem back in 1900. The magnolia’s reign was almost dethroned in 1941 when a group of iris enthusiasts campaigned for its re-designation.

But the summer-blooming magnolia managed to prevail, and the Louisiana iris was instead declared the official state wildflower, securing its place as a beloved symbol of the state.

Maine: Eastern White Pine Cone and Tassel

The eastern white pine, Pinus strobus, stands out as the largest conifer in the northeastern United States. A notable characteristic is the simultaneous presence of yellow male and pink female flowers, or strobili, on a single tree. After pollination, these clusters give rise to a green cone that matures over the course of two years, eventually transforming into the distinctive 4- to 8-inch-long brown cones we’re familiar with – the fruit of this majestic tree.

It’s no surprise then that the eastern white pine was adopted as the official state flower in 1895 by the legislature.

Maryland: Black-Eyed Susan

The Rudbeckia hirta, a sun-loving biennial native to the eastern regions of North America, has long thrived in Maryland’s climate. When the state legislature proposed it as the official bloom, its popularity was well-deserved. This 3-foot tall flower is not only drought-adapted but also freely self-sows, producing flowers throughout the summer and fall that attract a swarm of butterflies.

For gardeners, Rudbeckia hirta offers two easy cultivation options: direct sowing seeds in late spring or transplanting seedlings after the last frost has passed. Additionally, enthusiasts can look for lively hybrids like ‘Indian Summer’, which boasts enormous gold blooms, or ‘Prairie Sun’, featuring striking bicolored petals and pale green centers.

Massachusetts: Mayflower

The mayflower, Epigaea repens, holds a special place in history as it was elected state flower in 1918 through a two-thirds vote by schoolchildren. This fragrant, trailing evergreen plant thrives near the ground, showcasing its distinctive five-petal pink-and-white flowers that bloom beautifully during spring.

Notoriously finicky when it comes to transplantation and establishment, the mayflower requires deep to light dappled shade to flourish, and has unfortunately been listed as endangered since 1925.

Michigan: Apple Blossom

Michigan’s reputation as the apple capital of the world led to its legislature declaring the apple blossom as the state flower in 1897. The Pyrus coronaria, also known as the crabapple tree, boasts stunning pink-and-white flowers that fill the early spring air with their sweet fragrance. As a bonus, this flowering fruit tree produces clusters of light green to reddish bitter fruits in September. Its compact height ranging from 6 to 14 feet makes it an ideal focal point for any landscape design.

Minnesota: Showy Lady’s Slipper

The Cypripedium reginae orchid, with its distinctive slipper-shaped pouch, has been hailed as the state flower since 1902. This rare and resilient beauty thrives in open wetland environments, where sunlight is plentiful, such as fens, bogs, swamps, and damp woods. One of the most fascinating aspects of this species is its slow maturation process – it can take up to 16 years for a lady’s slipper to produce its first blooms.

Nature enthusiasts can witness over 10,000 of these breathtaking flowers in full bloom along Minnesota’s Lady Slipper Scenic Byway between late June and early July.

Mississippi: Southern Magnolia

In the heart of Southern culture, few symbols are as quintessential as the majestic Magnolia grandiflora. This iconic broadleaf evergreen has been a landscape mainstay for centuries, but its official recognition as Mississippi’s state flower didn’t come until 1952 – a full half-century after schoolchildren first championed it.

Its enduring popularity is easy to understand, given the stunning display of creamy white flowers that bloom in spring and fill the air with a sweet, citrusy scent that’s almost intoxicating.

Missouri: Downy Hawthorn

In a move that celebrated the botanical splendor of the region, Missouri decreed Crataegus mollis, also known as hawthorn, its official state flower back in 1923. This remarkable plant boasts an array of stunning features, including dense clusters of tiny white blooms that evoke the fragrance of orange blossoms in early spring, and later, in autumn, pear-shaped fruit with a soft, fuzzy texture that bears a resemblance to rose hips or miniature apples.

Missouri is home to over 75 species of hawthorn, each with its unique characteristics. While most varieties thrive in full sun, they can also flourish in light shade conditions.

Montana: Bitterroot

In the era of Lewis and Clark, the bulb of bitterroot held significant value among some Native American tribes as a primary food source and medicine. A bag of it was reportedly traded for a horse, highlighting its importance in their daily lives. The plant’s significance continued to grow, with the Montana Floral Emblem Association eventually selecting bitterroot as the official state flower in 1895.

Bitterroot flourishes in dry, gravelly soil conditions, producing large, pink flowers on short stems that bloom from early spring to summer, often close to the ground.

Nebraska: Goldenrod

Nebraska’s state flower, Solidago serotina, commonly known as goldenrod, has a rich history. In 1895, legislative action declared it the official bloom of the Cornhusker State. One notable variety, pictured, stands tall at around 2 to 3 feet in height. This perennial herb is part of a larger family, with over a dozen species blooming from late July to October. Goldenrod’s success is attributed to its ability to thrive in poor to moderately fertile, well-drained soil, and full sun.

Interestingly, despite popular misconception, goldenrod is not the primary culprit behind fall allergies. Ragweed, which coincidentally blooms at the same time as goldenrod, is actually the main offender.

Nevada: Sagebrush

The Artemisia tridentata, a tall and resilient evergreen perennial shrub, thrives in the arid landscapes of western United States. Since 1917, it has been recognized as a symbol of the region’s resilience and adaptability. This remarkable plant not only survives in areas where others might struggle to grow, but also serves as a vital food source for grazing animals during harsh winter months.

In mid-autumn, delicate grayish-white or yellow blooms emerge at the tips of its branches, which are adorned with silvery-gray leaves that emit a fragrant, downy aroma. Sagebrush is well-suited to poor to moderately fertile dry soil with full sun exposure.

New Hampshire: Purple Lilac

In the year 1750, Governor Benning Wentworth brought a taste of England to Portsmouth, New Hampshire by planting Syringa vulgaris, also known as the purple lilac, at his home. Though this iconic flower had taken root in American soil nearly two centuries prior, it wasn’t until 1919 that it would be officially crowned the state flower. This decision was made because the hardiness of the lilac mirrored the resilience and determination of the people of New Hampshire.

In late spring and early summer, the purple lilac blooms with vibrant beauty, its spreading habit making it a popular choice for hedges and a beloved part of many gardens.

New Jersey: Common Violet

A symbol of New Jersey since 1913, Viola sororia has finally reached official state flower status in 1971 after some prodding from local garden clubs. This low-maintenance native is a self-sower, thriving as a hardy groundcover in fields, lawns, and any spot that receives warm sunshine. While the flowers can range in color from deep violet-blue to pure white with striking violet-blue markings at their centers, the more common sight is a delicate blend of white and violet hues.

New Mexico: Yucca

In the arid landscape of New Mexico, the yucca plant stands out as a symbol of resilience and loveliness. Its ability to flourish in well-drained soil under scorching hot conditions is a testament to its remarkable adaptability. With roots that can stretch for over 100 feet in search of moisture, this hardy succulent has earned its place as the state flower since its selection by schoolchildren in 1927.

During the summer months, white blooms unfurl on towering spikes reaching heights of 4 to 5 feet, adding a touch of elegance to the desert scenery. Not only does the yucca boast visually stunning flowers, but its various parts are also edible and have been utilized by Native Americans for centuries. The roots, in particular, have been used to create soap, further solidifying the plant’s utility in the region.

New York: Rose

New York’s national flower, the rose, is a beloved perennial that has gained popularity among schoolchildren. In response, the state claimed any type of rose, whether wild or cultivated, as its own. This diverse group of plants ranges from compact shrubs to sprawling vines, and all share similar growing requirements. To thrive, roses need at least 5-6 hours of direct sunlight per day, well-drained soil, and good air circulation.

A local rose society can offer valuable advice on selecting varieties suitable for your climate. When planting, choose either fall or early spring; maintain healthy growth by feeding until midsummer, keeping the soil consistently moist, and mulching beds to protect them during winter. Among the 35 recognized rose classes, hybrid teas remain a favorite among Americans.

Regional natives, heirlooms predating 1867, and new disease-resistant varieties like the Easy Elegance series are also relatively easy to grow. In contrast, rugosas are renowned for their hardiness.

North Carolina: Flowering Dogwood

The native dogwood (Cornus florida) has been an official state emblem since 1941. This beautiful tree is naturally found throughout the region, typically growing at the edges of woodlands where it’s sheltered from strong winds and direct sunlight. When provided with well-drained soil and partial shade, the dogwood can thrive as a stunning landscape tree, reaching heights of around 20 to 40 feet – an ideal size for smaller yards.

In late spring, delicate clusters of pale green flowers surrounded by white or pink bracts burst forth, followed by vibrant red fruit that adds a pop of color to the landscape.

North Dakota: Wild Prairie Rose

The Rosa arkansana is often viewed as a weed by some, but it holds a special significance in North Dakota’s history. In fact, the university’s first graduating class chose the bright pink flowers of this fast-growing native shrub as the inspiration for their school colors back in 1889. Years later, women’s clubs campaigned tirelessly to make the prairie rose the official state flower, and their efforts paid off when it was declared so in 1907.

The wild prairie rose is a true marvel, boasting long-lasting summer blooms and a wonderful fragrance that fills the air.

Ohio: Scarlet Carnation

The Ohio state emblem, Dianthus caryophyllus, boasts a special connection to its namesake President William McKinley. A fan of donning red carnations on his jacket lapels, McKinley’s affinity for the flowers led to their designation as the state symbol. Characterized by their vibrant hue and pungent clove-like fragrance, these sun-loving blooms typically burst forth during summer. Interestingly, this wild species has been cultivated to produce many of the cut-ready carnations we know today.

When it comes to preserving their beauty for longer periods, a key tip is to harvest them when they’re still tightly closed or just beginning to unfurl.

Oklahoma: Oklahoma Rose

In 2004, the Oklahoma rose replaced mistletoe as the state flower of Oklahoma after holding the title for over 114 years. This beautiful hybrid tea rose is a cross between two notable tea roses and was patented in 1963. Characterized by its dark red color, intoxicating fragrance, and impressive size, with blooms reaching up to 5 inches in diameter, it produces flushes throughout the growing season. Like all hybrid tea roses, Oklahoma requires full sun and consistent watering.

It can thrive either when grown directly in the ground or in a winter-protected container.

Oregon: Oregon Grape

Oregon’s state flower, Mahonia aquifolium, boasts vibrant canary yellow blooms in the spring, nestled amidst a dense thicket of prickly evergreen leaves. Following the floral display, juicy berries ripen to a stunning metallic blue-black hue by fall. This adaptable shrub stands 3-6 feet tall and thrives in warmer zones. Its ease of care makes it an ideal choice for mass planting or creating a lush hedge in shaded or partially shaded beds.

Pennsylvania: Mountain Laurel

In the picturesque mountainsides of Pennsylvania, a vibrant display of pink or white flowers unfurls each spring, drawing in thousands of onlookers. It’s little wonder that the mountain laurel (Kalmia latifolia) emerged victorious as the state flower in 1933, when Governor Gifford Pinchot made the decision between it and the azalea. This evergreen shrub typically grows into a dense, rounded form, thriving in well-drained, acidic soil conditions.

Rhode Island: Violet

Picked by schoolchildren in 1897, the Viola sororia, a native to the East Coast, didn’t receive official recognition until 1968. However, it had already been claimed by Wisconsin, Illinois, and New Jersey prior to that. This perennial is characterized by its vibrant purple blooms in spring and heart-shaped leaves that persist throughout the summer, creating a beautiful carpet along woodland paths and shrub borders.

Its ability to thrive on clay soils and tolerate partial sun make it an ideal choice for moist, well-drained beds. For those looking to add some variety to their violet collection, consider ‘Freckles’, which features pale purple blooms with white speckles, or the striking ‘Albiflora’ variety, known for its snowy white petals.

South Carolina: Yellow Jessamine

The state flower of South Carolina, Gelsemium sempervirens, is a quintessential vine that has been adopted since 1924. Native to the region, this climber is a favorite among locals for its ability to thrive on trees, arbors, and porch trellises. The plant’s most striking features are its heavenly scented yellow flowers, which bloom from February to April, followed by scarlet berries in the summer and purple-tinged leaves during the winter.

While it grows quickly, Gelsemium sempervirens is a well-mannered plant that prefers full sun but can still produce blooms in shadier conditions. Its adaptability also makes it suitable for most soil types.

South Dakota: Pasque Flower

In South Dakota, the prairie crocus (Pulsatilla patens) stands as a beacon of hope even in the depths of winter. As snow still lingers on the ground, this resilient perennial pokes its head above the surface, announcing spring’s arrival with unwavering enthusiasm. It’s no wonder that this flower earned special recognition from the state legislature back in 1903. A member of the buttercup family, the prairie crocus thrives in dry, sandy soil and full sun, making it surprisingly drought-tolerant.

Sown in fall, it grows from seed to produce delicate blooms ranging in hue from vibrant violet to pure white. As summer heat sets in, the flower’s beauty is complemented by its striking seed heads before finally succumbing to dormancy.

Tennessee: Iris

In 1919, Tennessee opted for the wild passionflower as its symbol of choice. However, just 14 years later, the state decided to supplement this with another iconic bloom – the iris, which was designated the official “cultivated” bloom in 1973. This versatile floral icon can take on various sizes, shapes and hues.

Bearded irises can grow up to 4 feet tall and rebloom; Siberian varieties are remarkably resilient in cold and drought conditions, while Japanese and Louisiana types thrive in moister environments. To cultivate this sun-loving perennial, plant it in late summer, ensure it receives adequate water supply, and fertilize in the spring and after the blooms have faded.

Notable standouts include the almost-black ‘Superstition’ bearded iris and the Siberian ‘Butter and Sugar’, characterized by its yellow-and-white hues.

Texas: Texas Bluebonnet

The bluebonnet’s iconic status as Texas’ state flower was cemented in 1901. Since then, its beauty has been immortalized in song. Today, five native species of lupinus are recognized, with their vibrant blooms carpeting springtime fields and highway verges. When planting, be mindful to water seeds only on the initial day, and transplants should receive sparing attention – repeat watering only when the soil feels dry an inch down.

Interestingly, while the Texas native is often depicted as a deep violet hue (as seen in the photo by Saxon Holt/Photo Botanic), other cultivars showcase intriguing non-blue colors, such as cream ‘Noble Maiden’ and maroon-and-white ‘Alamo Fire.’

Utah: Sego Lily

In 1911, Utah’s official state flower was chosen by schoolchildren after a vote. Calochortus nuttallii, also known as the Nuttall’s mariposa lily, is a drought-tolerant native that thrives in the Great Basin’s open grasslands. Its delicate flowers bloom white, lavender, or yellow and were once an important food source for Native Americans and early settlers. The bulbs of this late-spring-blooming flower were roasted, boiled, or eaten raw, providing sustenance to those who relied on them.

Despite being harvested in the past, these showy flowers still grow naturally today, a testament to their hardiness and enduring beauty.

Vermont: Red Clover

Red clover, Trifolium pratense, was selected in 1895 to symbolize Vermont’s agricultural landscape. A European variety that has successfully naturalized across New England, this legume is commonly cultivated by farmers as a food source for cattle and other livestock. While it may not be a common sight in garden plots, red clover can serve as an excellent cover crop for vegetable gardens during the off-season.

Its ability to enrich soil nitrogen levels makes it a valuable addition to any farm or gardening operation.

Virginia: Flowering Dogwood

Virginia’s flowering dogwoods are an iconic sight in the early spring, having held the official state title since 1918. These native trees can be found adorning lawns, schoolyards, parking lots, and roadsides with their vibrant displays. As late spring arrives, small clusters of pale green flowers emerge, encased by white or pink bracts, which are eventually followed by the appearance of bright red fruit and a showy display of red fall foliage.

When planted in well-drained soil and provided with a dash of shade, flowering dogwoods can thrive as a lovely landscape tree, reaching heights of up to 40 feet tall.

Washington: Coast Rhododendron

Since 1959, the Rhododendron macrophyllum has been the official flower of Washington State, also known as the Evergreen State. This stunning shrub is characterized by its large, free-flowing flowers that bloom in mid- to late spring, producing trusses of vibrant rose, purple, or white hues. The evergreen foliage provides a lush backdrop year-round, making it an attractive addition to any landscape.

With the ability to thrive in full sun, this plant can grow up to 15 feet tall and wide, making it an impressive sight. Its suitability for sunny areas only adds to its appeal.

West Virginia: Rosebay Rhododendron

The majestic Rhododendron maximum is a familiar sight in the Great Smoky Mountains, having earned its place as the official state flower in 1903 through a public school poll. As the seasons transition, clusters of bell-shaped flowers with intricate olive green to orange spotting emerge late in the bloom cycle.

The shrub’s enduring charm lies in its glossy evergreen foliage, impressive cold hardiness, and ability to thrive in dense shaded woods, even producing vibrant blooms despite the lack of direct sunlight.

Wisconsin: Wood Violet

The story of the violet’s official status began in 1909 when schoolchildren voted it into its current role, narrowly defeating the wild rose and water lily. As a moisture-loving wildflower, it is often found thriving in woodlands, stream banks, and well-watered lawns. Violets are self-sowing, hardy groundcovers that bloom abundantly throughout the summer months, with some varieties even self-seeding freely, allowing them to spread quickly across areas with suitable conditions.

Wyoming: Indian Paintbrush

Captivating Castilleja linariifolia, also known as Indian paintbrush, boasts an impressive reputation as Arizona’s state flower since 1917. This perennial beauty produces vibrant, showy blooms in shades of orange to red, which remain in full color throughout the summer months.

Reaching heights of up to two feet tall, cultivating this western native can be a daunting task due to its parasitic tendencies, where it competes with neighboring plants for water and nutrients by tapping into their roots.