Sunflowers (Helianthus annuus) are a treasure of summertime. They typically begin blooming in the mid-summer and can persist into early fall. The flowers, which stretch around 3 to 6 inches across on average, have a broad central disk surrounded by short, yellow petals. Sunflowers grow on a hairy, sturdy, upright stem that can be several feet high. The stems can hold a single flower or be branched with multiple blooms. Rough, hairy, oval to triangular leaves grow along the stem. These flowers are annual, meaning they complete their growth cycle in one year. You should plant them in the spring after the garden soil has warmed to at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit.

Sunflower Care

The only mandatory requirements for sunflowers are a sunny location and well-drained soil. Select an area sheltered from strong winds that might topple these tall plants if possible. It can be helpful to plant sunflowers in groups to support each other against wind and rain. Growers often have to stake their sunflowers, especially the tall varieties, to keep them growing upright. The plants can become very top-heavy when in bloom. Planting sunflowers along a fence is the easiest way to stake them. Bamboo stakes are also strong enough to keep them upright. Use care when inserting the stakes so you don’t damage the plant’s roots.

Sunflowers don’t like to compete with weeds, so keep the garden clean. Mulching around your sunflowers will help maintain soil moisture and weed suppression. Furthermore, wildlife is often attracted to sunflower seedlings. So it’s best to protect seedlings with row covers or screening, removing the cover once the plants are 1 to 2 feet tall.

Light

For the best flowering and sturdiest stems, plant your sunflowers in full sun, meaning at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Because they are heliotropic (their flower heads follow the sun), ample sun exposure will help sunflowers remain straight rather than bending toward the direction where the light is strongest.

Soil

Sunflowers will grow in almost any soil, including poor, dry soils. However, they thrive in well-drained soil that contains a good amount of organic matter.

Water

Although tolerant of dry conditions, watering sunflowers regularly promotes blooming, as flowering often reduces during periods of drought. Allow the top 1 to 2 inches of soil to dry out between waterings. If your sunflowers are drooping and the soil is dry, that’s often a sign they need more water.

Temperature and Humidity

Optimal temperatures for growing sunflowers are between 70 and 78 F. Still, they tolerate high heat as long as their moisture needs are met. Sunflowers can handle somewhat chilly but sunny environments. They also tolerate high humidity but must have well-draining soil and good air circulation to prevent root rot and other diseases. 

Types of Sunflowers

Helianthus annuus ‘Russian Giant’

Helianthus annuus ‘Teddy Bear’

Helianthus annuus ‘Giant Sungold’

Helianthus annuus ‘Autumn Mix’

Helianthus annuus ‘Italian White’

SOURCE: THE SPRUCE

The peony is a true showstopper, flaunting large, lush blooms with delicate petals that come in an array of colors, including white, pink, red, and even purple. These captivating flowers can grow up to 10 inches in diameter, making them an irresistible sight in any garden.  Peonies are also known for their intoxicating fragrance, which varies from soft and sweet to rich and spicy.

Varieties and Colors

Did you know there are over 30 species and thousands of cultivars of peonies? Some of the most popular types include:

Tree peonies — they develop woody stems

Herbaceous peonies — they die back to the ground each winter

There are also intersectional peonies, a hybrid of the two, boasting the best features of both. With so many varieties, there’s a perfect peony for everyone!

Designation in 1957

The peony’s coronation as Indiana’s state flower happened in 1957, thanks to the dedicated efforts of flower enthusiasts and lawmakers. The Indiana General Assembly passed a bill that year, declaring the peony the new state flower, and it’s been a beloved symbol ever since.

Replacement of the Original State Flower

You might be surprised to learn that the peony wasn’t always Indiana’s floral emblem. In fact, the original state flower was the zinnia, which was designated in 1931. But over time, the people of Indiana decided that the peony was a more fitting symbol of their state, leading to the change in 1957. Now, the peony stands proud as Indiana’s official state flower, capturing the hearts of Hoosiers and visitors alike.

The Symbolism of the Peony

It’s not just the peony’s beauty and fragrance that make it so special. This flower also carries deep symbolism that resonates with the people of Indiana. So, let’s explore the rich meanings and connections that have helped the peony become such an enduring symbol of the Hoosier State.

Significance in Indiana’s History and Culture

Throughout history, the peony has been associated with positive qualities like prosperity, honor, and good fortune. In Indiana, these qualities reflect the state’s heritage and the hardworking nature of its people. The peony’s lush blooms are also reminiscent of the fertile lands and agricultural roots of Indiana, which contribute to the state’s identity.

Connection to Indiana’s Values and Identity

The peony’s stunning beauty and resilience echo the spirit of Indiana, a state that cherishes its natural beauty and the strength of its people. As the peony thrives in Indiana’s climate, it serves as a symbol of the state’s ability to overcome challenges and flourish. The flower’s diverse colors and varieties also represent the unity and diversity of Indiana’s communities, making the peony a fitting emblem of the state’s values and identity.

SOURCE: A-Z-ANIMALS.COM

Violet flowers, hailing from the violaceae family, are a fascinating and diverse group of perennials. Famous for their stunning violets, their shades range from deep, sultry purples of the common blue violet (Viola sororia) to the charming tricolor petals of the Viola tricolor.

Violet flowers are versatile and can thrive in a variety of conditions. They can grow under full sun or partial shade, making them a favorite among gardeners across different climates. In Europe, these perennials are a popular choice for both outdoor gardens and as a houseplant due to their adaptability and striking appearance.

The violet flower is a self-pollinating plant, which means it doesn’t rely on insects or wind to propagate. This feature ensures a continuous bloom of flowers from late summer to early autumn. The plant sends out runners, which contribute to its swift spread and swelling population in a garden.

Caring for a violet flower, part of the Violaceae family, requires an understanding of subtle nurturing techniques. These flowers produce delicate petals and lush leaves that resonate vividly in both spring and late summer.

Interestingly, violet flowers are self-pollinating, and some varieties produce runners, swelling their garden presence. However, be cautious of pests such as insects and slugs which could damage the plant.

As a houseplant, violets require careful watering to prevent leaf yellowing, a common sign of overwatering. These characteristic violet flowers are not only visually enchanting but are a source of flavonoids, beneficial for both their beauty and their nutritional value.

Violet flowers grow best in partial shade to full sun. These small plants, often considered perennials, require a delicate balance of light to flourish.

Too much direct sunlight can cause the leaves to scorch, while too little can hinder their growth and flowering. In Europe, they are often found growing in dappled light under trees.

SOURCE: PLANETNATURAL.COM

According to the boisedev.com, the Idaho state flower has an interesting scientific name.  Read on find out what it is!

FROM BOISEDEV.COM:

Spring has sprung, and that means flowers are blooming across the state. One type of flower you’ll see is the syringa, designated the state flower of Idaho by the legislature in 1931.

Flowering late May through July, the syringa blooms in groups and often resembles a snowy mountainside.

It grows best in medium-dry to moist soil along streams, rocky talus, dry ravines, and canyons. According to US Forest Service, the syringa can be found across the state and most abundantly in the Boise National Forest near Idaho City and the canyons around Anderson Ranch Reservoir.

It’s a woody shrub that grows 8 feet tall and has clusters of white and yellow flowers. While it’s most commonly known as the syringa, it’s also called mock orange because the flowers have a strong smell similar to orange blossoms – hence the name.

The flower’s scientific name is the Philadelphus lewisii – after Meriwether Lewis of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. It’s said that Lewis wrote about the flower in his journal and collected them in the early 1800s as he explored the state. According to the Bureau of Land Management, other flowers in Idaho that are named after Lewis and Clark include the Lewis’s monkeyflower, the Bitterroots, the Lewis’s flax, and the beautiful clarkia.

Also, according to the US Forest Service, Native Americans used the syringa’s straight, sturdy stems to make arrows, pipe stems, and combs.

SOURCE: BOISEDEV.COM

The Hawaii State Flower is a beautiful ornamental known as yellow Hawaiian hibiscus. It is distinguished by its large and full bright yellow flowers with a reddish center, and leaves that resemble a maple leaf.

Visitors to Hawaii will enjoy numerous colorful species of hibiscus growing prominently across the Big Island. There are seven varieties of the plant known as Hawaiian hibiscus, referring to the flowering plants considered native to Hawaii. There are other varieties that are similar in appearance to the Hawaiian hibiscus that are often used as ornamentals in homes and gardens, but most of these have been introduced from Asia and other parts of the Pacific.

The hibiscus flower, in all its varieties and colors, had been designated as the official flower of the Territory of Hawaii since way back in the early 1920’s. The particular species of yellow Hawaiian hibiscus, called ma`ohauhele or hibiscus brackenridgei, was specified as the newly official State Flower in 1988.

Ma’ohauhele (mah-oh-how-hay-lay) is the Hawaiian term for yellow Hibiscus. It literally means “green traveling introduced hibiscus”, perhaps due to the way the flowers turn green as they dry out. Blossoms are typically 5-6 inches across with a long yellow stamen and reddish center. The blossoms form as single flowers, but are sometimes seen in clusters at the end of the branch. There are sharp spines around the base of the plant.

Domestic hibiscus plants in gardens and around homes generally grow as shrubs anywhere from 3-12 feet tall. In their natural habitat they will sometimes grow into trees as high as 30 feet! They grow best in areas with an abundance of sunlight and need very little water.

Blooms are most prominent in spring and early summer, but flowers can be seen throughout the year. Due to the warm Pacific climate and rich volcanic soil, many tropical flowers grow in abundance in Hawaii. Visitors will enjoy a multitude of colorful flowers of Hawaii on display throughout the year.

The yellow Hawaiian hibiscus is found only in Hawaii. While it grows on all the main Hawaiian Islands, it is extremely rare. Because there are so few remaining in the wild, it is considered an endangered species.

Look for the beautiful yellow Hawaiian hibiscus growing in gardens and along roadsides across the The Big Island, particularly on the west side of the island where there is plenty of sunshine

SOURCE: EXPLORETHEBIGISLAND.COM

From the floraqueen.com blog:

In the realm of state symbols, flowers hold a special place, representing the natural beauty and heritage of a region. When it comes to Georgia, the state flower is the Cherokee Rose. This elegant and resilient flower carries deep significance in Georgia’s history and culture. In this article, we will explore the Cherokee Rose as the state flower for Georgia, uncovering its origins, characteristics, and the symbolic meaning it holds. From its delicate blooms to its enduring spirit, we will delve into the rich tapestry of the Cherokee Rose, providing valuable insights and fostering a deeper appreciation for this cherished symbol.

The Cherokee Rose: A Historical and Cultural Emblem

The Cherokee Rose (Rosa laevigata) holds great historical significance in Georgia, particularly in relation to the Native American tribe from which it derives its name. Here, we will delve into the history and cultural associations of the Cherokee Rose:

Origins and Naming

The Cherokee Rose is native to East Asia but gained prominence in the southeastern United States, including Georgia. It is believed that the flower was introduced to North America by early European settlers.

The Cherokee Rose earned its name in honor of the Cherokee Native American tribe, which inhabited the region where the flower thrived. The association between the Cherokee people and the rose stems from a tale of hardship and resilience during the Trail of Tears.

The Trail of Tears

The Trail of Tears refers to the forced removal of Native American tribes, including the Cherokee, from their ancestral lands in the southeastern United States to Indian Territory (present-day Oklahoma) in the 1830s. This devastating event resulted in the loss of thousands of lives and marked a dark chapter in American history.

According to legend, the Cherokee Rose grew along the route traveled by the Cherokee people during their forced relocation. As they endured immense suffering and loss, it is said that the tears shed by Cherokee women transformed into the delicate white petals of the rose, symbolizing their resilience and strength in the face of adversity.

Characteristics and Symbolism of the Cherokee Rose

The Cherokee Rose is a deciduous climbing rose that features intricate and fragrant white blooms. Here, we will explore the characteristics and symbolic meaning associated with this captivating flower:

Appearance and Growth Habits

The Cherokee Rose is characterized by its elegant and abundant white flowers, which typically bloom in spring or early summer. Its blooms have a distinct yellow center, surrounded by layers of delicate petals. The plant itself is known for its climbing nature, often adorning fences, trellises, and walls with its sprawling vines.

Symbolic Significance

The Cherokee Rose holds deep symbolic meaning, reflecting both the resilience of the Cherokee people and the spirit of Georgia. Here are some interpretations associated with the Cherokee Rose:

Resilience and Strength: The Cherokee Rose serves as a symbol of resilience, representing the endurance and strength of the Cherokee people in the face of great adversity. Its presence along the Trail of Tears serves as a reminder of the perseverance and fortitude displayed by the Native American tribe during their forced relocation.

Beauty and Fragility: The delicate white blooms of the Cherokee Rose evoke a sense of beauty and fragility. Despite the hardships faced by the Cherokee people, the flower symbolizes their ability to find beauty amidst challenging circumstances, offering a source of hope and inspiration.

Unity and Heritage: The Cherokee Rose holds a unifying significance, symbolizing the shared heritage and cultural legacy of the Cherokee people. It serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving and honoring Native American traditions and history.

SOURCE: FLORAQUEEN.COM

The blossom of the orange tree (Citrus sinensis) is one of the most fragrant flowers in Florida. Millions of these white flowers perfume the atmosphere throughout central and south Florida during orange blossom time. The orange blossom was selected as the state flower by the 1909 legislature.

The orange fruit is an important agricultural product, used for both the juicy fruit pulp and the aromatic peel (rind). Orange blossoms (the flowers) are used in several different ways, as are the leaves and wood of the tree.

Flowers

The orange blossom, which is the state flower of Florida, is highly fragrant and traditionally associated with good fortune. It has long been popular in bridal bouquets and head wreaths.

Orange blossom essence is an important component in the making of perfume.

Orange blossom petals can also be made into a delicately citrus-scented version of rosewater, known as “orange blossom water” or “orange flower water”. It is a common ingredient in French and Middle Eastern cuisines, especially in desserts and baked goods. In some Middle Eastern countries, drops of orange flower water are added to disguise the unpleasant taste of hard water drawn from wells or stored in qullahs (traditional Egyptian water pitchers made of porous clay). In the United States, orange flower water is used to make orange blossom scones and marshmallows.

In Spain, fallen blossoms are dried and used to make orange tea.

Orange blossom honey (or citrus honey) is obtained by putting beehives in the citrus groves while trees bloom. By this method, bees also pollinate seeded citrus varieties. This type of honey has an orangey taste and is highly prized.

Leaves

Orange leaves can be boiled to make orange tea.

Wood

Orangewood sticks are used as cuticle pushers in manicures and pedicures, and as spudgers for manipulating slender electronic wires.

Orangewood is used in the same way as mesquite, oak, and hickory for seasoning grilled meat.

SOURC: MIAMI LIVING

At the turn of the 20th century, over 3,000 women urged Connecticut’s state legislature to adopt the beautiful Mountain Laurel as the Connecticut state flower. However, not everyone embraced the idea at first. One senator grumbled that floral emblems were unnecessary. Ultimately though, as supportive lawmakers received sprigs of Mountain Laurel on their desks, it prevailed becoming the state flower of Connecticut in 1907.

As one of the most beautiful flowering plants in America, it’s easy to see why all of those women wanted the Mountain Laurel as the Connecticut state flower. Every year in the months of May and June, the Mountain Laurel bursts with masses of bright tiny blooms. These colorful flowers turn roadsides, wildernesses and suburban yards throughout the state delightful colors of pink, white or red.

The Mountain Laurel grows throughout the eastern half of the U.S., including the southern region of Connecticut. During blossom time, the Mountain Laurel’s beautiful flowers line the roadsides and put on a floral show for drivers along Interstate 95. Clumps of the Connecticut state flower are also prominent along the scenic Merritt Parkway as well as in the northern half of Connecticut.

Each year visitors head to Haystack Mountain State Park in Norfolk to hike amongst the laurel bushes. Hikers can view these beauties under stands of spruce fir or in the open clearings along the trails. In addition to being the state flower of Connecticut, the Mountain Laurel is also the state flower of Pennsylvania where it appears annually in the Appalachian Mountains.

Fun Fact

Almost all of the parts of the mountain laurel are poisonous to wildlife and humans.

The state flower of Colorado is the Rocky Mountain Columbine (Aquilegia caerulea). The Rocky Mountain Columbine is a beautiful and delicate wildflower with unique two-tone flowers. It features white petals and deep blue-violet sepals, giving it a striking appearance.

The flower’s colors are said to symbolize Colorado’s blue skies and snow-capped mountains. The Rocky Mountain Columbine was designated as the state flower of Colorado in 1899. It is cherished for its beauty and its connection to the state’s rugged and scenic landscapes.

The Rocky Mountain Columbine (Aquilegia caerulea) is a perennial wildflower native to the western United States, particularly the Rocky Mountain region. It is a member of the buttercup family (Ranunculaceae) and is known for its striking and distinctive flowers.

Flowers: The flowers of the Rocky Mountain Columbine are its most defining feature. They have a unique and elegant design with white petals that form a star-like shape and deep blue-violet sepals that extend backward. The sepals are often mistaken for petals, creating a visually stunning contrast. In the center of the flower are bright yellow stamens and delicate, nectar-filled spurs that attract pollinators.

Leaves: The Rocky Mountain Columbine has fern-like, light green leaves that grow along the stems. The foliage adds to the plant’s overall attractiveness, even when it is not in bloom.

Habitat: As its name suggests, the Rocky Mountain Columbine thrives in mountainous regions, often found at elevations between 6,000 to 10,000 feet (1,800 to 3,000 meters) above sea level. It prefers well-drained soil and is commonly found in open woodlands, meadows, and rocky slopes.

Blooming Season: The Rocky Mountain Columbine typically blooms in late spring to early summer, depending on the elevation and climate. Its flowers provide a valuable source of nectar for pollinators like bees and hummingbirds during this time.

Cultural Significance: The Rocky Mountain Columbine holds special significance for the state of Colorado, where it is designated as the official state flower. Its blue and white colors are said to represent the blue skies and snow-capped mountains of the region. It is celebrated in various festivals and events throughout the state.

SOURCE: The Garden Magazine

The white and lavender Rocky Mountain Columbine was designated the official state flower of Colorado in 1899 after winning the vote of Colorado’s school children.

Discovered in 1820 on Pike’s Peak by mountain climber Edwin James, the Rocky Mountain columbine (Columbine Aquilegia caerulea) is a lovely flower with a rich aroma to attract bees, hummingbirds and butterflies to its nectar. The Latin word aquila means “Eagle” and refers to the claw-like spurs at the base of the flower.

Columbines bloom in pastel shades of blue, violet, red, yellow and white. There are 70 species of columbines in the world and about 1/3 are native to North America. Colorado specifies the white and lavender Rocky Mt. Columbine which has blue-violet petals and spurs, a white cup and yellow center. Blue is a symbol of the sky, white represents snow, and yellow symbolizes Colorado’s gold mining history.

SOURCE: STATE SYMBOLS USA

The California poppy (Eschscholzia Californica) was designated the state flower of California in 1903. Also known as the flame flower, la amapola, and copa de oro (cup of gold), the California poppy grows wild throughout the state. Native Americans in California valued the poppy as a food source and for the oil extracted from the plant. Every year, April 6 is California Poppy Day and May 13th – 18th is Poppy Week.

Seeds of this plant were introduced into English gardens in the nineteenth century. Seed catalogs now offer many different colors. California poppies have been planted in most of the United States and have become established along roadsides, in empty lots, and other disturbed places. In California, it is hard to tell anymore which poppies are native wildflowers and which are garden escapes.

California poppies are easy to grow. Sow the seeds shallowly (1/16-inch deep) in fall or early spring in mild, wet winter climates, including most of California west of the Sierra-Nevada. Seeds will germinate after the first fall rains or when the soil warms in the spring. In hot summer areas, the poppies will bloom in spring and early summer, and then the tops will die back and the plants become dormant during the heat of the summer. The poppy survives in the form of a fleshy taproot. In cooler coastal climates, California poppies may bloom most of the summer. Sandy, well-drained soil in full sun is best. No supplemental watering is required unless the growing season is exceptionally dry.

In mild-winter climates, these poppies will survive several years, resprouting each fall. They will reseed themselves if they are happy. Where winters are cold, the poppy behaves as an annual, renewing itself from seed each year. The flowers of California poppy close each night, and on cloudy days. Enjoy them where they grow. If you pick California poppies for a wildflower bouquet, you will be disappointed when the petals almost immediately fall off.

SOURCE: US FOREST SERVICE