When you start digging into flowers that start with N, it’s a lovely surprise just how many there are – and how varied they can be. From familiar garden favourites we’ve grown up with, to more unusual flowering plants from tropical regions, North America, South Africa and beyond, flowers beginning with N offer something for every type of garden and gardener. Whether you’re planting for early spring, enjoying blooms in late summer, or looking ahead to early autumn, there’s no shortage of choice.
List of flowers that start with N
In this guide, we’ve put together a practical and inspiring list of flowers that begin with N, sharing the common name, scientific name, a brief overview of each plant, and the symbolism traditionally associated with them. Whether you’re after a splash of colour, sweet fragrance, or a dependable low-maintenance plant, you’ll find plenty of beautiful options here to suit every growing season and style of garden.
Nandina (Nandina domestica) – Heavenly Bamboo
Not technically bamboo, but loved for its berries and foliage. Symbolises prosperity.
Narcissus (Daffodil)
The true national flower of Wales and one of the most common flowers in UK gardens. Blooming from bulbs in early spring, these cheerful yellow or white flowers symbolise rebirth and hope.
Nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus)
Perfect for containers and hanging baskets, these edible flowers thrive in poor soil with little water. Bright reds and oranges offer a bold splash of colour. Symbolises patriotism.
Navarretia (Navarretia)
Often called pincushion plant, produces small flowers in soft blues and purples and prefers full sun and well-draining soil. Symbolises determination.
Nemastylis Gracilis – Celestial Lily
Sometimes known as Celestial Lily, this dainty perennial has elegant, star-shaped flowers in soft blue with a delicate centre. Symbolises fleeting beauty.
Nemesia (Nemesia strumosa)
Sweetly scented small flowers in various colours. Ideal for containers and rock gardens with good drainage. Represents fun and spontaneity.
Nemophila (Nemophila menziesii) -Baby Blue Eyes
Delicate spring annual with pale blue petals and white centres. Symbolises innocence.
Neoregelia (Neoregelia carolinae)
One of the fireball bromeliads from tropical regions, loved for vibrant colours. Symbolises passion.
Neotinea (Neotinea maculata) – Dense-flowered Orchid
A dainty wild orchid flowering in late spring. Symbolises rarity.
Nepeta (Nepeta Mussinii) – Catmint
A perennial herb with aromatic, grey-green foliage and clouds of purple flowers from late spring right through the summer months. Symbolises happiness and relaxation.
Nerine (Nerine bowdenii)
Elegant red flowers and pinks bloom in early autumn. Great for borders in full sun. Symbolises endurance.
Nerium Oleander
A striking deciduous shrub that grows in cooler areas (it’s evergreen in warmer climates). Grown for ornamental purposes, it offers fragrant flowers in pinks and whites. Symbolises caution and beauty.
Nettle-Leaved Bellflower (Campanula trachelium)
Also known as bats-in-the-belfry, this charming plant blooms with purple bells in early summer. A great option for wildlife-friendly gardens. Symbolises gratitude.
New Guinea Impatiens (Impatiens) – Busy Lizzie
A brilliant low-maintenance plant for partial shade or part sun. Vibrant blooms are produced all through the summer months. Symbolises motherly love.
Nicotiana (Nicotiana alata) – Flowering Tobacco
Tall plants with star-shaped flowers and evening scent. Ideal for late summer. Symbolises reflection.
Nierembergia
Pretty, low-growing blooms from South America. Perfect for edging and pots. Symbolises gentleness.
Nigella (Nigella damascena) -Love-in-a-Mist
With its dreamy lacy foliage and starry blooms, Nigella adds whimsical charm to borders. An annual flower that’s perfect for late spring to early summer. Symbolises harmony and love.
Night-Blooming Cereus (Epiphyllum oxypetalum) – Queen of the Night
This unusual plant blooms for a short period at night with dramatic white flowers. Symbolises mystery and fleeting beauty.
Night-Blooming Jasmine (Cestrum nocturnum)
Not a true jasmine, but once evening falls, the sweet fragrance from the white flowers is incredible. Enjoys full sun or light shade and free-draining compost. Symbolises romance, mystery, and sensuality.
Night Phlox (Zaluzianskya ovata)
From South Africa, this little beauty releases a sweet fragrance at dusk. Suits well-drained soil. Symbolises quiet attraction.
Nightshade – Ornamental (Solanum rantonnetii)
Starry purple blooms with yellow centres. Symbolises protection.
Ninebark (Physocarpus opulifolius)
A hardy shrub from North America, valued for its textured bark and variety of colours in foliage. Symbolises resilience.
Nolana paradoxa (Nolana paradoxa) – Chilean Bell Flower
Trailing blooms ideal for baskets, thriving in sandy soil and drought conditions. Symbolises adaptability.
Nuphar (Nuphar lutea) – Yellow Water Lily
Native to North Africa and Europe, with bold yellow flowers and a bright yellow centre. Symbolises renewal.
Nymphaea (Nymphaea) – Water Lily
Classic water lilies are showstopping flowers for ponds and still water. The floating white, pink or red flowers thrive in full sun. A symbol of peace and enlightenment.
What are your favourite flowers starting with n?
As you can see, flowers beginning with N offer a great way to add interest, texture and colour to your garden, whether you’re after fragrant flowers, wildlife appeal, or something a little different. From late winter through early spring, right into summer and beyond, there’s a perfect choice here for every space and soil type.
If you fancy experimenting with different flowers this year, why not try one or two new “N” blooms?
More flower inspiration
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Catherine
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