As gardeners, we’re spoiled for choice when it comes to flowers, even when using a single letter of the alphabet. Some of the world’s most beautiful and popular flowers start with the letter ‘N,’ including narcissus, nasturtium, and nicotiana flowers. In this article, I’ll explore 50 beautiful flowers that start with the letter N, along with their descriptions, pictures, fun facts, symbolic meanings in the language of flowers, native ranges, and more!
- 50 Stunning Flowers That Start With The Letter ‘N’:
- 1) Naked Lady Lily
- 2) Nandina
- 3) Narcissus
- 4) Narrow-leaved Sunflower
- 5) Nasturtium
- 6) Natal Coral Tree
- 7) Natal Lily
- 8) Natal Plum
- 9) Native Elderberry
- 10) Native Hibiscus
- 11) Native Iris
- 12) Native Jasmine
- 13) Native Thistle
- 14) Native Violet
- 15) Nemesia
- 16) Nemesia denticulata
- 17) Nemophila
- 18) Neoregelia
- 19) Nepal Trumpet Flower
- 20) Nepenthes
- 21) Nepeta
- 22) Nerine
- 23) Nerium
- 24) Nettle-leaved Bellflower
- 25) Nevada Mallow
- 26) New Guinea Impatiens
- 27) New Jersey Tea
- 28) New York Aster
- 29) New Zealand Burr
- 30) New Zealand Christmas Tree
- 31) New Zealand Tea Tree
- 32) Nicotiana
- 33) Nigella
- 34) Night-blooming Jasmine
- 35) Night-scented Stock
- 36) Nightshade
- 37) Nikko Blue Hydrangea
- 38) Ningnan Peony
- 39) Nipple Cactus
- 40) Nipplewort
- 41) Nodding Thistle
- 42) Nodding Wild Onion
- 43) Nootka Rose
- 44) Norfolk Island Hibiscus
- 45) Northern Blue Flag Iris
- 46) Northern Globeflower
- 47) Northern Marsh Orchid
- 48) Nottingham Catchfly
- 49) Nutmeg Geranium
- 50) Nymphaea
- Flowers That Begin With ‘N’ FAQs
- Flowers That Start With The Letter ‘N’ – Wrapping Up
50 Stunning Flowers That Start With The Letter ‘N’:
1) Naked Lady Lily
Naked lady lilies are also known as belladonna lilies or Jersey lilies. However, despite their common names, these flowers aren’t actually lilies. Instead, naked lady lilies belong to the amaryllis family (Amaryllidaceae). These gorgeous flowers are native to South Africa.
Naked lady lilies are perennials that emerge from underground bulbs. Each bulb produces one or two upright stalks that are topped with large, fragrant, trumpet-shaped flowers. These flowers that start with the letter N bloom from late summer until fall.
| Scientific Name: | Amaryllis belladonna |
| Native Range: | South Africa |
| Flowering Season: | Summer to fall |
2) Nandina
Nandina flowers are more commonly known as heavenly or sacred bamboo. These attractive evergreen shrubs are native to parts of Eastern Asia. Nandina shrubs have been cultivated in Asia for centuries but also thrive in USDA Zones 6 to 9.
Sacred bamboo shrubs are known for their gorgeous leaves. The leaves are purple when they emerge but gradually turn green before turning reddish-purple towards the end of the year. Nandina shrubs also produce small white flowers during the spring.
| Scientific Name: | Nandina domestica |
| Native Range: | Eastern Asia |
| Flowering Season: | Spring to summer |
3) Narcissus
Narcissus flowers, also known as daffodils, are some of my favorite flowers that begin with ‘N’. These popular spring flowers are native to Mediterranean Europe and come from the amaryllis family. Narcissus flowers are also one of the official birth flowers for December.
Narcissus flowers grow from underground bulbs and produce upright stems and clusters of narrow strap-like leaves. During the spring, narcissus flowers have gorgeous yellow or white trumpet-shaped flowers with six tepals. These lovely flowers thrive in Zones 3 to 8.
| Scientific Name: | Narcissus spp. |
| Native Range: | Europe |
| Flowering Season: | Spring |
4) Narrow-leaved Sunflower
Narrow-leaved sunflowers are beautiful herbaceous perennial wildflowers native to eastern and southern parts of the United States. These charming sunflowers thrive in coastal areas but grow well in Zones 5 to 10.
These flowers that start with the letter N grow in clumps of narrow, hairy leaves and purplish-green stems. What’s more, these sunflowers have golden yellow flowers, up to 20 ray petals, and dark brown central florets. Narrow-leaved sunflowers bloom from summer to fall and are one of the last types of sunflowers to bloom.
| Scientific Name: | Helianthus angustifolius |
| Native Range: | United States |
| Flowering Season: | Summer to fall |
5) Nasturtium
In my opinion, nasturtiums are some of the most beautiful and useful flowers that begin with the letter ‘N’. Nasturtiums have gorgeous orange, red, yellow, or white trumpet-shaped flowers. These flowers are edible and have a peppery taste. Hence, they are also known as Indian cress.
Interestingly, many nasturtiums have attractive peltate green leaves and a creeping or trailing habit. Nasturtiums are native to parts of South America, including Bolivia and Colombia. These herbaceous annuals or short-lived perennials come from the nasturtium family (Tropaeolaceae).
| Scientific Name: | Tropaeolum majus |
| Native Range: | South America |
| Flowering Season: | Summer to fall |
6) Natal Coral Tree
Natal coral trees are also known as dwarf coral trees or dwarf erythrina trees. These deciduous to semi-evergreen shrubs or trees are native to South Africa. Natal coral trees come from the legume or pea family (Fabaceae).
These flowers that start with N have glossy, trilobed leaves and upright stems. From summer until fall, natal coral trees produce whorls of scarlet or reddish-orange flowers. Natal coral trees grow best in Zones 7 to 10 and are often used as compact ornamental trees.
| Scientific Name: | Erythrina humeana |
| Native Range: | South Africa |
| Flowering Season: | Summer to fall |
7) Natal Lily
Natal lilies are gorgeous evergreen perennials that inhabit woodland areas across South Africa. Despite their common name, these colorful flowers aren’t true lilies. They actually come from the amaryllis family. Natal lilies require warm conditions in Zones 9 to 11 to truly thrive.
Clivia miniata plants grow via rhizomes, producing clumps of thick stems and glossy, strap-like leaves. I love that natal lilies flower from winter to spring and create attractive clusters of reddish-orange or yellow trumpet-shaped flowers.
| Scientific Name: | Clivia miniata |
| Native Range: | South Africa |
| Flowering Season: | Winter to spring |
8) Natal Plum
Natal plums are evergreen shrubs from the dogbane family (Apocynaceae) that are native to South Africa. Despite their common name, natal plums aren’t related to true plums. Their reddish-purple fruits apparently taste like cranberries and are often used to make jam or jelly.
In my opinion, natal plum shrubs have glossy dark green leaves and fragrant white flowers. These star-shaped flowers appear throughout the year in Zones 9 to 11. Natal plum shrubs typically take two years to produce mature fruits.
| Scientific Name: | Carissa macrocarpa |
| Native Range: | South Africa |
| Flowering Season: | Throughout the year |
9) Native Elderberry
Native elderberry shrubs are some of my favorite ornamental plants that begin with ‘N’. These deciduous shrubs are native to Europe and belong to the moschatel family (Adoxaceae). Native elderberry shrubs are excellent ornamental shrubs for Zones 4 to 7.
These shrubs that start with the letter N have pinnate leaves that are divided into several pairs of glossy elliptical leaflets with serrated margins. From spring to summer, native elderberry shrubs produce umbel-like clusters of tiny white flowers. These are followed by clusters of shiny black berries.
| Scientific Name: | Sambucus nigra |
| Native Range: | Europe |
| Flowering Season: | Spring to summer |
10) Native Hibiscus
Also known as the rose of Sharon flowers, native hibiscus plants are deciduous shrubs from the mallow family (Malvaceae). Hibiscus syriacus is one of the most popular types of hibiscus. These hibiscus plants are native to parts of China but have become naturalized throughout Asia.
Native hibiscus shrubs have palmate or ovate leaves with prominent veins. From summer until fall, Hibiscus syriacus shrubs produce large, colorful flowers similar to hollyhocks. As an added bonus, these gorgeous flowers come in shades of pink, purple, red, and white.
| Scientific Name: | Hibiscus syriacus |
| Native Range: | China |
| Flowering Season: | Summer to fall |
11) Native Iris
Native iris plants are also known as long purple-flag irises. These subtle irises are native to parts of Southern Australia and belong to the Iridaceae family. Native irises are rhizomatous perennials that are divided into three subspecies.
These flowers that start with the letter N grow in clusters of four to ten smooth, strap-like leaves and can reach up to 4 feet tall. Native irises have purple flowers with lance-shaped petals. These irises bloom from spring to summer in the Southern Hemisphere.
| Scientific Name: | Patersonia occidentalis |
| Native Range: | Australia |
| Flowering Season: | Spring to summer |
12) Native Jasmine
Also known as pandora vines or wonga-vines, native jasmine is a woody vine that belongs to the trumpet vine family (Bigoniaceae). These attractive vines are native to parts of Australia and the Pacific. Native jasmine vines grow best in Zones 9 to 11.
Native jasmine vines have smooth, glossy, pinnate leaves. Each mature leaf is divided into three to nine elliptical leaflets. These tropical vines produce tubular white flowers with purple edges in the spring.
| Scientific Name: | Pandorea pandorana |
| Native Range: | Australia |
| Flowering Season: | Spring |
13) Native Thistle
Native thistles are more widely known as dune thistles or Pitcher’s thistles. These wildflowers belong to the Asteraceae family and are native to sand dunes throughout the Great Lakes region. Unfortunately, native thistles are listed as Vulnerable or Threatened in many areas.
These rare thistles take up to eight years to fully mature. Interestingly, native thistles have huge underground taproots that can grow up to 6 feet deep. These thistles have pink or white flowers and grayish-green strap-like leaves.
| Scientific Name: | Cirsium pitcheri |
| Native Range: | United States |
| Flowering Season: | Spring to fall |
14) Native Violet
Native violets are beautiful members of the Violaceae family. These attractive herbaceous perennials are native to southern parts of Australia and Tasmania. Native violets are sometimes grown in gardens but are less popular than other Viola species.
These flowers that start with the letter N have a spreading habit and dark green leaves that resemble ivy leaves. What’s more, native violets can flower throughout the year and produce innocuous purple or white flowers.
| Scientific Name: | Viola hederacea |
| Native Range: | Australia |
| Flowering Season: | Throughout the year |
15) Nemesia
Nemesia flowers are colorful annuals or tender perennials from the figwort family (Scrophulariaceae) that are native to South Africa. There are approximately 50 species in the Nemesia genus. Nemesia flowers can be grown as herbaceous annuals in cool climates in Zones 2 to 11.
These flowers that start with N produce several pairs of lance-shaped leaves on each stem. During spring and summer, nemesia plants have terminal racemes of colorful cup-shaped flowers. These flowers can be pink, purple, orange, red, yellow, or white.
| Scientific Name: | Nemesia spp. |
| Native Range: | South Africa |
| Flowering Season: | Spring to summer |
16) Nemesia denticulata
Nemesia denticulata is a species of nemesia that is commonly known as the toothed aloha. Like other Nemesia flowers, this species is native to South Africa. These low-growing herbaceous annuals form dense mats along the ground.
Nemesia denticulata plants have light green, ovate leaves with toothed margins. These plants can spread for approximately 3 feet along the ground. From spring until summer, these Nemesia plants produce clusters of violet flowers with yellow centers and distinctively notched petals.
| Scientific Name: | Nemesia denticulata |
| Native Range: | South Africa |
| Flowering Season: | Spring to summer |
17) Nemophila
Nemophila flowers are gorgeous wildflowers commonly known as baby blue eyes flowers. These charming herbaceous annuals belong to the borage or forget-me-not family (Boraginaceae). Nemophila flowers are native to western parts of North America.
These popular wildflowers have a low-growing, spreading habit and work well as groundcover plants. Nemophila plants have small, hairy leaves with up to 13 lobes. From late winter until early summer, Nemophila plants have blue cup-shaped flowers with white centers.
| Scientific Name: | Nemophila menziesii |
| Native Range: | North America |
| Flowering Season: | Winter to summer |
18) Neoregelia
Neoregelia plants are epiphytic bromeliads that are native to tropical rainforests in South America. These plants belong to the Bromeliaceae family. As tropical plants, Neoregelia bromeliads are usually grown indoors but can be grown outdoors in Zones 9 to 11.
Neoregelia bromeliads form rosettes of fleshy, glossy leaves that surround central cups. These cups collect rainwater and organic matter to sustain the plant. Tiny flowers bloom within these cups. Plus, there are approximately 90 species within the Neoregelia genus.
| Scientific Name: | Neoregelia spp. |
| Native Range: | South America |
| Flowering Season: | Throughout the year |
19) Nepal Trumpet Flower
I think that Nepal trumpet flowers are some of the most impressive flowers that start with ‘N’. These tropical evergreen vines are native to parts of Asia and India. Nepal trumpet flowers come from the dogbane family.
These flowers that start with the letter N are known for their large white trumpet-shaped flowers with wavy lobes. Also, they bloom from spring until summer and exude an aromatic fragrance.
| Scientific Name: | Beaumontia grandiflora |
| Native Range: | Asia and India |
| Flowering Season: | Spring to summer |
20) Nepenthes
The Nepenthes genus contains approximately 170 species known as tropical pitcher plants. These unusual plants don’t absorb nutrients from the soil like other plants. Instead, these carnivorous plants trap insects in their pitchers and dissolve them for nutrients.
Interestingly, Nepenthes plants don’t have extensive root systems. Instead, most pitcher plants are climbing vines or low-growing plants with a spreading habit. Most types of Nepenthes plants are native to tropical Asia, Australia, and the Pacific Islands. For an added benefit, Nepenthes plants may also produce racemes of flowers in the spring.
| Scientific Name: | Nepenthes spp. |
| Native Range: | Asia and Australia |
| Flowering Season: | Spring |
21) Nepeta
Nepeta flowers are more commonly known as catmint or catnip. As the name suggests, cats love these members of the mint or sage family (Lamiaceae). Catmint has an intoxicating effect on cats but also works as a natural insect repellent.
These flowers that start with the letter N are originally native to parts of Africa, Asia, and Europe. These herbaceous perennials have square stems and grow in clumps of grayish-green, heart-shaped leaves. Nepeta plants also have dense racemes of tiny blue, pink, purple, or white flowers.
| Scientific Name: | Nepeta spp. |
| Native Range: | Africa, Asia, Europe |
| Flowering Season: | Summer to fall |
22) Nerine
I think few flowers that begin with ‘N’ can match the beauty of nerine flowers. These herbaceous perennials belong to the amaryllis family and are native to South Africa. Despite this, Nerine bowdenii flowers are commonly known as Guernsey lilies.
Nerines grow from underground bulbs and flower from summer to fall. These plants grow in clumps of green strap-like leaves. These nerines also have gorgeous pink trumpet-shaped flowers that look similar to lilies and produce a subtle fragrance.
| Scientific Name: | Nerine bowdenii |
| Native Range: | South Africa |
| Flowering Season: | Summer to fall |
23) Nerium
Also known as oleander plants, nerium plants are beautiful evergreen shrubs from the dogbane family. Nerium plants are widespread throughout Mediterranean Europe, Northern Africa, and Southern Asia. These shrubs work well as ornamental plants in Zones 9 to 12.
I love that these shrubs have attractive gray bark and upright stems that gradually fan outwards. Nerium shrubs also have whorls of dark green lanceolate leaves. In summer, nerium shrubs produce clusters of scented pink, white, or red trumpet-shaped flowers.
| Scientific Name: | Nerium oleander |
| Native Range: | Africa, Asia, & Europe |
| Flowering Season: | Summer |
24) Nettle-leaved Bellflower
Nettle-leaved bellflowers are deciduous plants native to parts of Europe such as Denmark and the United Kingdom. As their name suggests, these herbaceous perennials belong to the bellflower family (Campanulaceae). Nettle-leaved bellflowers grow best in Zones 5 to 8.
In my opinion, these lovely flowers stand out for their tall, reddish stems that are covered in fine hairs. These bellflowers also have hairy upper leaves with toothed margins. Nettle-leaved bellflowers produce large, nodding, bell-shaped violet or white flowers from summer to fall.
| Scientific Name: | Campanula trachelium |
| Native Range: | Europe |
| Flowering Season: | Summer to fall |
25) Nevada Mallow
Nevada mallows are more commonly known as desert mallows or apricot mallows. These herbaceous perennial shrubs are native to the Southwestern United States and Northern Mexico. These drought-tolerant evergreens thrive in hot, arid conditions in Zones 6 to 9.
These flowers that start with N produce large clumps of long gray stems and broad, grayish-green leaves covered in white hairs. These desert mallows bloom from spring until fall. Nevada mallows have reddish-orange cup-shaped flowers that can sometimes be pink, purple, or white.
| Scientific Name: | Sphaeralcea ambigua |
| Native Range: | United States |
| Flowering Season: | Spring to fall |
26) New Guinea Impatiens
New Guinea impatiens flowers are some of the most colorful flowers that begin with ‘N’. These herbaceous annuals are native to Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands in the Pacific. I like to grow these gorgeous flowers in partial shade in Zones 10 to 12.
New Guinea impatiens plants form clumps of glossy elliptical or oval-shaped leaves with serrated margins. What’s more, these annuals bloom from spring to fall and have pink, purple, orange, red, or white flowers.
| Scientific Name: | Impatiens hawkeri |
| Native Range: | New Guinea |
| Flowering Season: | Spring to fall |
27) New Jersey Tea
New Jersey tea flowers are perennial shrubs that are native throughout North America. These attractive plants belong to the buckthorn family (Rhamnaceae) and thrive in Zones 4 to 8. During the American Revolution, Ceanothus americanus leaves were used as a replacement for tea leaves.
Interestingly, New Jersey tea shrubs have slender, semi-woody stems, ovate green leaves with toothed edges, and gray, hairy undersides. Plus, these deciduous shrubs produce dense clusters of tiny white flowers that exude a subtle fragrance.
| Scientific Name: | Ceanothus americanus |
| Native Range: | North America |
| Flowering Season: | Spring to summer |
28) New York Aster
New York asters are attractive, colorful wildflowers from the aster or daisy family. As their name suggests, New York asters are native to eastern regions of North America. I love using these charming flowers in native wildflower borders in Zones 4 to 8.
These herbaceous perennials grow in clumps of simple, lanceolate leaves and hairy, reddish-green stems. New York asters create drifts of pinkish-purple daisy-like flowers from summer to fall with yellow central florets.
| Scientific Name: | Symphyotrichum novi-belgii |
| Native Range: | North America |
| Flowering Season: | Summer to fall |
29) New Zealand Burr
New Zealand burr flowers are also known as piri-piri bur or red bidibid flowers. These low-growing herbaceous perennials are native to New Zealand. However, they are also naturalized in parts of California and the United Kingdom.
These prostrate perennials spread via runners and seeds with hooked burrs that latch onto passing animals. New Zealand burr plants have glossy dark green oblong leaves with toothed margins. The greenish-white pom-pom-like flowers don’t have any petals.
| Scientific Name: | Acaena novae-zelandiae |
| Native Range: | New Zealand |
| Flowering Season: | Summer |
30) New Zealand Christmas Tree
Also known as pohutukawa or iron trees, New Zealand Christmas trees are large, evergreen trees. These trees inhabit coastal areas of New Zealand. New Zealand Christmas trees belong to the myrtle family (Myrtaceae).
Metrosideros excelsa is a multi-trunked tree with a dome-like canopy of glossy dark green oblong leaves. In the Southern Hemisphere, these trees bloom from December to January in the summer. When in bloom, these trees are covered in vibrant scarlet flowers.
| Scientific Name: | Metrosideros excelsa |
| Native Range: | New Zealand |
| Flowering Season: | Summer |
31) New Zealand Tea Tree
New Zealand tea trees are more commonly known as manuka trees. These trees are incredibly lucrative as their nectar produces manuka honey, which reportedly has several health benefits. Leptospermum scoparium trees are native to New Zealand and Australia and belong to the myrtle family.
New Zealand tea trees have evergreen needle-like leaves that release an aroma when crushed. These trees produce single or double pink, red, or white flowers in spring and summer.
| Scientific Name: | Leptospermum scoparium |
| Native Range: | Australia & New Zealand |
| Flowering Season: | Spring to summer |
32) Nicotiana
Nicotiana flowers are some of my favorite flowers that begin with ‘N’. These attractive annuals come from the nightshade family (Solanaceae). Nicotiana flowers are native to South America and are commonly known as flowering tobacco or jasmine tobacco.
These plants that start with the letter N have leathery elliptical or spatulate leaves with hairy undersides. From summer until fall, nicotiana plants produce beautiful tubular flowers with five petals. Plus, these flowers produce a pungent scent during the evening and nighttime, attracting pollinating moths.
| Scientific Name: | Nicotiana alata |
| Native Range: | South America |
| Flowering Season: | Summer to fall |
33) Nigella
Nigella damascena flowers are commonly known as love-in-a-mist or devil-in-the-bush. These widespread annuals are native to parts of North Africa, Southern Europe, and Southwestern Asia. Nigella flowers belong to the buttercup family (Ranunculaceae).
I love that these flowers grow in clumps of delicate, feathery leaves interspersed with large purple, pink, or white flowers. The flowers bloom during the summer and are followed by bulbous green pods containing tiny seeds. These annuals prefer cool climates in Zones 2 to 11.
| Scientific Name: | Nigella damascena |
| Native Range: | Africa, Asia, & Europe |
| Flowering Season: | Summer |
34) Night-blooming Jasmine
Night-blooming jasmine flowers are evergreen woody shrubs from the nightshade family. These gorgeous flowering shrubs are native to the West Indies. I love the sweet, musky evening fragrance of these flowers. Night-blooming jasmine thrives in warm conditions in Zones 9 to 11.
Interestingly, Night-blooming jasmine shrubs have a bushy habit and glossy dark green lanceolate leaves. During the summer, these shrubs produce slender greenish-white tubular flowers. These flowers open during the evening and close in the morning.
| Scientific Name: | Cestrum nocturnum |
| Native Range: | West Indies |
| Flowering Season: | Summer to fall |
35) Night-scented Stock
Also known as evening stock flowers, night-scented stock flowers are herbaceous annuals native to Europe and Asia. These members of the mustard family (Brassicaceae) are grown for their wonderful evening fragrance. Night-scented stock flowers grow best in Zones 2 to 10.
These flowers that start with the letter N grow in spreading clumps of grayish-green lance-shaped leaves. From spring until fall, night-scented stock flowers have lovely purple or white flowers. These flowers exude a sweet, aromatic fragrance during the evening.
| Scientific Name: | Matthiola longipetala |
| Native Range: | Asia & Europe |
| Flowering Season: | Spring to fall |
36) Nightshade
Nightshade flowers are a group of plants within the nightshade family (Solanaceae) that contain approximately 1500 species. The most common species is Solanum dulcamara, also known as bittersweet or climbing nightshade. Nightshade flowers are native to Asia and Europe.
Most nightshades are woody vines with arrow-shaped leaves and glossy red berries. Nightshades typically bloom in the summer and produce clusters of small, star-shaped flowers. Some nightshade plants are poisonous, so take great care around these herbaceous perennials.
| Scientific Name: | Solanum dulcamara |
| Native Range: | Asia & Europe |
| Flowering Season: | Summer |
37) Nikko Blue Hydrangea
Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Nikko Blue’ is a gorgeous cultivar of the bigleaf hydrangea. This cultivar is one of my favorite types of hydrangea. Hydrangea macrophylla is native to Japan and belongs to the Hydrangeaceae family.
‘Nikko Blue’ hydrangeas have large round or elliptical leaves with serrated edges. These spectacular hydrangeas also have large, rounded clusters of blue flowers with five petals during the summer. ‘Nikko Blue’ hydrangeas bloom for about two months during the summer.
| Scientific Name: | Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Nikko Blue’ |
| Native Range: | Japan |
| Flowering Season: | Summer |
38) Ningnan Peony
Ningnan peonies are more commonly known as woodland peonies. These beautiful herbaceous perennials come from the Paeoniaceae family. Ningnan peonies are native to parts of Eastern Asia, such as China, Japan, and Korea. These pretty peonies thrive in Zones 5 to 8.
These intriguing flowers that start with the letter N have smooth stems and attractive grayish-green leaves. These leaves are divided into three to nine elliptical or oval-shaped leaflets. In spring, Ningnan peonies have stunning white or pinkish-purple cup-shaped flowers with a subtle scent.
| Scientific Name: | Paeonia obovata |
| Native Range: | Eastern Asia |
| Flowering Season: | Spring |
39) Nipple Cactus
Cacti from the Mammillaria genus are often called nipple cactuses because of their teat-shaped tubercles. These cacti are native to parts of Mexico, South America, and the Southwestern United States. These cacti are often grown as houseplants but also thrive outdoors in Zones 9 to 11.
Mammillaria cacti have a rounded shape and are covered with spines. These plants have distinctive tubercles that form a spiral pattern. Plus, these cacti can produce a halo of tiny pink flowers in spring.
| Scientific Name: | Mammillaria spp. |
| Native Range: | The Americas |
| Flowering Season: | Spring |
40) Nipplewort
Nipplewort plants are herbaceous annuals or perennials from the aster or daisy family. These plants are native to parts of Asia and Europe but have become naturalized in North America. Nipplewort flowers can produce a milky sap when cut, so always wear gloves when handling them.
Nipplewort plants grow in clumps of pinnate leaves split into several oval-shaped leaflets. These plants also have hairy, upright stems. During the summer, nipplewort plants produce yellow daisy-like flowers.
| Scientific Name: | Lapsana communis |
| Native Range: | Asia & Europe |
| Flowering Season: | Summer |
41) Nodding Thistle
Also known as musk thistles, nodding thistles are biennial members of the daisy family. These herbaceous plants are native to Asia and Europe. However, they are classed as an invasive weed in many parts of North America.
Nodding thistles are biennials, which means they usually take two years to complete their lifecycle. These thistles have coarse, dark green bipinnate leaves that are covered in hairs. What’s more, Nodding thistles have reddish-purple flowers that can produce approximately 1200 seeds.
| Scientific Name: | Carduus nutans |
| Native Range: | Asia & Europe |
| Flowering Season: | Summer |
42) Nodding Wild Onion
Nodding wild onions are attractive bulbous plants from the amaryllis family. These herbaceous perennial plants are native to North America. Thanks to their lovely flowers, nodding wild onions are popular ornamental alliums that thrive in Zones 3 to 9.
These herbaceous perennials grow in clumps of slender strap-like leaves. Each bulb produces a solitary upright flower stem topped with a cluster of small, bell-shaped flowers. These nodding flowers come in shades of pink, purple, and white.
| Scientific Name: | Allium cernuum |
| Native Range: | North America |
| Flowering Season: | Summer |
43) Nootka Rose
Also known as bristly roses, Nootka roses are one of my favorite types of wild roses. These deciduous shrubs are native to western parts of North America. Nootka roses are adaptable members of the Rosaceae family that grow best in Zones 5 to 9.
I love that these plants form dense thickets of grayish-green pinnate leaves divided into several leaflets. The stems are covered in sharp prickles. Nootka roses have gorgeous pink flowers with yellow stamens. During spring and summer, these flowers produce a pleasant scent.
| Scientific Name: | Rosa nutkana |
| Native Range: | North America |
| Flowering Season: | Spring to summer |
44) Norfolk Island Hibiscus
The Norfolk Island hibiscus is an evergreen tree from the mallow family (Malvaceae). These fast-growing tropical trees have glossy, leathery, oval-shaped leaves. From summer to fall, Norfolk Island hibiscus trees have pink or white flowers that are similar to hibiscus flowers.
Norfolk Island hibiscus trees are native to parts of Australia, including islands like Norfolk Island. These trees are commonly grown as ornamental street trees in Australia. Norfolk Island hibiscus trees thrive in Zones 9 to 11.
| Scientific Name: | Lagunaria patersonia |
| Native Range: | Australia |
| Flowering Season: | Summer to fall |
45) Northern Blue Flag Iris
In my opinion, northern blue flag irises are some of the most stunning types of irises. These breathtaking herbaceous perennials have large, vividly blue flowers with yellow markings. These flowers emerge from clumps of bluish-green, sword-shaped leaves.
Northern blue flag irises are native to North America. These irises bloom from late spring until early summer and usually grow at the edge of ponds and riverbanks. Northern blue flag irises thrive in Zones 3 to 9. I like to use these irises as marginal plants around a wildlife pond.
| Scientific Name: | Iris versicolor |
| Native Range: | North America |
| Flowering Season: | Spring to summer |
46) Northern Globeflower
Northern globeflowers are cheery herbaceous perennials from the buttercup family. These stunning flowers are native to parts of Western Asia and Eastern Europe. Northern globeflowers can also be cultivated in Zones 3 to 8.
From spring until summer, northern globeflowers produce luminous yellow, bowl-shaped flowers. These blooms look like double versions of buttercups. Northern globeflowers also have clumps of dark green leaves that are deeply divided into several lobes. Northern globeflowers grow best in moist soils.
| Scientific Name: | Trollius europaeus |
| Native Range: | Asia & Europe |
| Flowering Season: | Spring to summer |
47) Northern Marsh Orchid
Northern marsh orchids are beautiful orchids that are native to Northern Europe. These members of the Orchidaceae family can be found in Denmark, Norway, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom. Northern marsh orchids can also be grown in Zones 6 to 8.
These flowers that start with the letter N have clumps of unmarked lance-shaped leaves. These orchids produce dense clusters of small reddish-purple flowers with purple markings during spring and summer. Northern marsh orchids normally grow in marshes and other wetland habitats.
| Scientific Name: | Dactylorhiza purpurella |
| Native Range: | Northern Europe |
| Flowering Season: | Spring to summer |
48) Nottingham Catchfly
Nottingham catchfly flowers may be more well-known as Eurasian catchfly flowers. These herbaceous perennial plants are a type of campion from the carnation or pink family (Caryophyllaceae). Nottingham catchfly flowers are native to Europe and Asia.
Nottingham catchfly plants have dense taproots and upright green stems that are covered in sticky hairs. These stems bear narrow, lanceolate leaves. What’s more, these plants produce creamy white flowers in spring and summer with five petals and deeply notched lobes.
| Scientific Name: | Silene nutans |
| Native Range: | Europe & Asia |
| Flowering Season: | Spring to summer |
49) Nutmeg Geranium
Also known as scented pelargoniums, nutmeg geraniums are hybrid pelargoniums from the Geraniaceae family. These plants were bred by combining Pelargonium odoratissimum and Pelargonium exstipulatum. Both of the parent species are native to South Africa.
These lovely flowers that start with the letter N are low-growing pelargoniums with waxy oval-shaped leaves that have fringed edges. During the summer, nutmeg geraniums produce small white flowers with two upper and three lower petals. Plus, these pelargoniums exude a spicy, sweet scent similar to eucalyptus.
| Scientific Name: | Pelargonium fragrans |
| Native Range: | South Africa |
| Flowering Season: | Summer |
50) Nymphaea
Nymphaea flowers are more commonly known as water lilies. These hardy herbaceous perennials are aquatic plants from the water lily family (Nymphaeaceae). The Nymphaea genus contains approximately 65 species that are distributed around the world.
Nymphaea plants have underwater rhizomes that produce long petioles. These stalks support large round leaves with distinctive notches that are known as lily pads. The leaves float on the surface of the water and are accompanied by large, fragrant flowers that come in various colors.
| Scientific Name: | Nymphaea spp. |
| Native Range: | Global |
| Flowering Season: | Summer to fall |
Flowers That Begin With ‘N’ FAQs:
What Flower Starts With the Letter ‘N’?
Some of the world’s most beautiful flowers start with the letter ‘N’. Some of my favorites include narcissus, also known as daffodils and nasturtiums. Other gorgeous flowers that begin with ‘N’ include nerine, nicotiana, and night-scented stock flowers.
What is a Plant That Starts With ‘N’?
Several attractive and exciting plants begin with the letter ‘N’. Some of the more common ones include narcissus, nasturtiums, and night-blooming jasmine. Nepeta flowers are common plants that are also known as catmint or catnip.
What White Flower Starts With ‘N’?
Some of the most interesting and popular white flowers that start with ‘N’ include night-blooming jasmine and nicotiana flowers. These beautiful flowers produce strong scents at night that attract moths, which then pollinate these plants.
What is a Pink Flower That Starts With ‘N’?
Several gorgeous pink flowers begin with the letter ‘N’. These include nemesia flowers and nerine flowers. These pretty pink flowers can symbolize affection and love, including both platonic and romantic love.
What is an Edible Flower Beginning With ‘N’?
As well as being beautiful, some flowers that begin with the letter ‘N’ are also edible. My favorite edible flower that begins with ‘N’ is the nasturtium, which has a slightly peppery taste. Nigella flowers are also edible but only in small amounts.
Flowers That Start With The Letter ‘N’ – Wrapping Up
As I have found, there are tons of beautiful flowers that start with the letter ‘N’. I might plant some narcissus flowers for some spring color, followed by nasturtiums and nicotiana flowers in the summer. By using some of the plants on this list, you could even create an entire garden themed around the letter ‘N’.
For more, see our in-depth guide to:
- 50 beautiful flowers that start with the letter ‘A.’
- 50 beautiful flowers that start with the letter ‘B.’
- 50 beautiful flowers that start with the letter ‘C.’
- 50 beautiful flowers that start with the letter ‘D.’
- 50 beautiful flowers that start with the letter ‘E.’
- 50 beautiful flowers that start with the letter ‘F’
- 50 beautiful flowers that start with the letter ‘G’
- 50 beautiful flowers that start with the letter ‘H’
- 50 beautiful flowers that start with the letter ‘I’
- 50 beautiful flowers that start with the letter ‘J.’
- 50 beautiful flowers that start with the letter ‘K.’
- 50 beautiful flowers that start with the letter ‘L.’
- 50 beautiful flowers that start with the letter ‘M.’
- 50 beautiful flowers that start with the letter ‘O’
Edd is a budding content writer and gardener living in the United Kingdom. He has a bachelor's degree in Creative and Professional Writing and has written for several gardening publications online. He is passionate about nature and sustainability with a focus on gardening and wildlife.
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