Flower Names A–Z: A Florist's Glossary

Flower Names A–Z: A Florist's Glossary

TJ Flowers & Events
2 min read · 435 words
This A-to-Z glossary lists the most common cut flowers by name, with each one's meaning and main season — from Alstroemeria and Anemone to Tulip and Zinnia. Use it to identify a flower, learn what it symbolizes, or pick the right bloom for an occasion. After 38 years arranging flowers in NYC, these are the names worth knowing.

Whether you're trying to name a flower you saw or choose one to send, here's a working florist's A–Z of the blooms you'll actually encounter — with meanings and seasons.

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Flower names A–Z

Flower Meaning Season
Alstroemeria Friendship, devotion Year-round
Anemone Anticipation Winter–spring
Carnation Love, fascination Year-round
Chrysanthemum Loyalty, joy Fall
Dahlia Elegance, commitment Late summer–fall
Daisy Innocence Spring–summer
Freesia Trust Year-round
Gardenia Purity, sweetness Summer
Gerbera daisy Cheerfulness Year-round
Gladiolus Strength of character Summer
Hydrangea Heartfelt emotion Summer–fall
Iris Hope, faith, courage Spring
Lily Purity, devotion Summer
Lisianthus Appreciation Summer
Orchid Luxury, refinement Year-round
Peony Prosperity, happy marriage Late spring
Ranunculus Radiant charm Spring
Rose Love (color-dependent) Year-round
Snapdragon Grace, inner strength Spring–fall
Stock Lasting beauty Spring
Sunflower Adoration, positivity Summer
Tulip Perfect love Spring
Zinnia Lasting affection Summer

How to use this list

Pick by meaning if the message matters (roses for love, gladiolus for strength), by season for the best freshness and value, or just by what catches your eye. For deeper dives, see our guides to flower meanings, types of flowers, and birth month flowers.

A note from the shop

Know the flower you want, or want help choosing? We carry all of these and design to order. Browse our full shop or call (212) 628-1214 — an Upper East Side florist since 1988, same-day Manhattan delivery by 1 PM.

FAQ

What are the most common flower names?
The most common cut flowers include roses, tulips, lilies, carnations, chrysanthemums, daisies, orchids, peonies, hydrangea, sunflowers, and ranunculus.

What flower names start with the letter A?
Common A-flowers include alstroemeria, anemone, aster, azalea, allium, and amaryllis.

How do I identify a flower by name?
Match its shape, color, and season against a glossary like this one, or send us a photo — our florists are happy to identify it.

What flowers are available year-round?
Roses, carnations, chrysanthemums, alstroemeria, gerbera daisies, lilies, and orchids are available year-round from most florists.

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