If you are fascinated by flowers, this article unveils a breathtaking bouquet of 60 beautiful flowers that start with ‘C’. From perennial chrysanthemums to easy to grow blossoms of cosmos, this ultimate collection celebrates the captivating world of floral beauty that starts with the letter C.
If you are interested in exploring other flowers, starting with the letter D, here is a complete collection with images to browse through.
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or want to buy a bouquet, this article is for you.
List Of Flowers That Name Starts With the Letter ‘C’
1. Chrysanthemum: The Majesty of Autumn
Chrysanthemums are known for their fall blooms, making them a symbol of autumn. Known simply as “mums,” Chrysanthemums are perennial plants renowned for their striking blooms. These hardy plants thrive in well-drained soil and full sun, thus easy to grow plants that resemble roses. Chrysanthemums come in various forms, including decorative, spider, and button mums, each with its unique appearance. Beyond their decorative appeal, these popular flowers hold diverse meanings globally. In Asia, they symbolize longevity and happiness; in Europe, they serve as flowers of remembrance, often placed on graves to honor loved ones. In the United States, they convey sympathy and support during times of grief.
2. Beautiful flower Carnation: A Symbol of Love
Carnations, known for their charming and delicate petals, are perennial plants native to various regions, including Europe and Asia. They are common and easy to grow plants, making them a fantastic addition to your garden. Ranging in various colors, from classic white to vibrant reds and pinks, they are often associated with love and affection, making them a popular choice for bouquets and arrangements, especially during weddings and Valentine’s Day. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, carnation flowers are edible and sometimes used to garnish salads, desserts, and beverages. In addition to their culinary use, carnations have historical and cultural significance. In some traditions, carnations are worn as boutonnieres or given as gifts on special occasions to express love and admiration.
3. Healing Calendula
Calendula, (Calendula Officinalis, a.k.a. “Pot Marigold”), is a flowering plant often used in herbal remedies and can add color to your garden. These yellow flowers are easy to grow and are known for their healing properties.
For its anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and wound-healing properties, calendula has been a staple in traditional medicine for centuries. I have used its soothing properties in calendula oils, salves, and creams, making it a go-to option for treating minor cuts, burns, and skin irritations. People often attribute the common name “marigold” to its historical and cultural significance, as it was frequently used as an offering to the Virgin Mary.
Calendula flowers are useful for hair treatment to moisturize dry scalps. It has an anti-dandruff effect and improves the condition of the scalp. I was very pleased with this homemade antidandruff shampoo bar with calendula to improve your dry scalp or this hair growth oil.
One of the intriguing facts about calendula is its versatility in the garden and its capacity to repel bugs including aphids and nematodes, making it a valuable companion plant for organic gardening. Beyond its practical uses, calendula’s vibrant blossoms are edible and you can add them to salads, energy bars, or natural food coloring. Furthermore, calendula has a unique ability to track the sun, with its blooms opening and closing in response to sunlight. This behavior, typical for sunflowers, is known as “heliotropism,” which adds to its allure and charm in gardens worldwide.
4. Clematis: The Vine of Grace
Clematis, often called the “Queen of Climbers,” is a captivating flowering plant. Native to diverse climates worldwide, clematis is celebrated for its star-shaped flowers, which come in an array of colors, including vibrant purples, pinks, and whites. The plant’s names reflect its charm and grace, with monikers such as “vase vine,” “leather flower,” and “traveler’s joy.” Clematis vines exhibit a climbing habit, producing a profusion of these enchanting blooms, making them a favorite choice for adorning fences, trellises, and arbors.
One of the most intriguing aspects of clematis is its adaptability to different climates and soil conditions, making it a versatile and resilient garden addition. Beyond its ornamental value, clematis has a rich history and a place in various cultures, often symbolizing mental beauty, ingenuity, and artistic expression.
5. Cosmos: Dazzling Stars in the Garden
Easy-to-grow flower Cosmos, known for their vibrant and colorful blooms, produce a profusion of daisy-like flowers that typically bloom in early summer and continue until the first frost. Cosmos flowers come in shades of purple, pink, and white, adding a splash of color to your garden.
Cosmos, also called Mexican aster or simply “cosmo,” is a unique flower that boasts feathery, fern-like leaves and vibrant, daisy-like flowers. Its captivating flowers with shades of pink, purple, and white attract pollinators, particularly butterflies and bees.
Cosmos’ adaptability, attractive appearance, and role in supporting pollinators contribute to its popularity among gardeners and nature enthusiasts, enhancing outdoor spaces’ beauty and biodiversity.
6.Cardinal Flower: A Red Jewel of Nature
The cardinal flower is a striking perennial herbaceous plant that begins with the letter “C.” It features bright red flowers and attracts hummingbirds with its vivid blooms. These native beauties are known for their vibrant color and grow well as solitary plants in natural landscaping, mixed flower beds, and borders.
The Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis) is known for its brilliant red, tube-shaped blossoms and attractive lance-shaped foliage. Its name, “Cardinal Flower,” is derived from the vivid red color of its blooms, which resembles the robes of Catholic cardinals.
Aside from its aesthetic appeal, the Cardinal Flower has limited medicinal use in traditional herbal remedies. The Zuni people use it in “schumaakwe cakes” and apply it externally to alleviate rheumatism and swelling. Among the Penobscot people, dried leaves were smoked as a tobacco substitute and might have been chewed (1).
7. Calla Lilly: Elegance in Bloom
Another delicate flower starting with C letter of the alphabet is The Calla Lily (Zantedeschia spp.). This pretty flower known for its striking trumpet-shaped blooms and long, sleek stems is native to southern Africa but cultivated worldwide. The common name “Calla Lily” is from the Greek word “kalos,” which means beautiful.
These flower blooms come in a range of colors, including classic white, shades of pink, yellow, and even deep purple. They frequently find their place in weddings and elegant flower arrangements, thanks to their extended vase life. In some cultures, however, Calla Lilly symbolizes purity, rebirth, and admiration.
8. Camellia Flower: Beauty in Every Petal
The Camellia flower, often referred to simply as “camellia,” has stunning rose-like blooms and glossy, dark green foliage. It originates from eastern and southern Asia, particularly China and Japan, boasting timeless beauty and cultural significance.
These captivating flowers come in various species and cultivars, offering an array of colors, from white and pink to vibrant reds and variegated patterns. The common name “camellia” pays homage to Georg Joseph Kamel, a 17th-century Jesuit missionary and botanist. In addition, Camellia flowers hold cultural significance, symbolizing purity, love, and longevity in many Asian cultures, especially Japan. They are closely tied to tea culture, as Camellia sinensis provides tea leaves. Camellia oil, extracted from some species’ seeds, finds application in cosmetics and hair care for its moisturizing properties. Camellias grace gardens, parks, and even bonsai collections.
9. Crocus Flowers: Harbingers of Spring
Crocus flowers are charming, early-blooming perennials cherished for their vibrant, cup-shaped blossoms and their role as heralds of spring. These small, but enchanting flowers belong to the iris family and are native to various parts of Europe and Asia. They are known for their ability to push through the snow, The bright flowers appear in early spring, bringing a burst of color to gardens and landscapes as the winter chill gives way to warmer days.
Crocus flowers are available in various colors, including purple, white, yellow, and striped varieties. Their common name, “crocus,” is derived from the Greek word “krokos,” which signifies saffron, a spice obtained from the Crocus sativus species. Beyond their ornamental value, saffron crocuses have been cultivated for their prized saffron threads, used in cooking and traditional medicine. People adore crocuses for their simplicity, resilience, and their role in ushering in a season of renewal and growth after the winter slumber.
10. Clarkia Flowers: A Wildflower Delight
Another flower that starts with the third letter of the alphabet is Clarkia. These annuals produce flowers in various shades, including pink and purple, and are perfect for adding a touch of wildflower charm to your garden. Clarkia species are often included in wildflower seed mixes, particularly in regions with a Mediterranean climate where they contribute to the diverse array of wildflowers that bloom in these areas.
Clarkia species have historical significance among Native Americans who used them for medicinal purposes or to make decorative garlands or necklaces.
11. Coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara)
Coltsfoot, a perennial plant with historical medicinal significance, hails from Europe and Asia. Its distinct life cycle involves the emergence of yellow, daisy-like flowers before the appearance of its large, hoof-shaped leaves, giving it the name “coltsfoot” due to its resemblance to a young horse’s hoof.
In the past, people turned to coltsfoot for its potential medicinal benefits in addressing respiratory problems. Its dried leaves were traditionally used to brew teas and create tinctures to relieve conditions like coughs, bronchitis, and other respiratory ailments.
However, it’s essential to note that the plant contains certain compounds that can be toxic in large quantities. Consequently, its use has raised concerns in modern herbal medicine.
Moreover, in addition to its medicinal history, coltsfoot is a fascinating plant known for its ability to colonize disturbed areas and thrive in diverse soil conditions.
12. Columbine (Aquilegia)
Columbines are known for their distinctive spurred petals, and they’re native to North America, Europe, and Asia. The name “Aquilegia” comes from the Latin word “aquila,” meaning eagle, as the petals are said to resemble an eagle’s talons. Their name, “columbine,” have been derived from the Latin word “columba,” which means dove, possibly due to the resemblance of the flower’s five spurs to a cluster of doves nestled together.
13. Cattleya Orchid (Cattleya)
These orchids are often called “Queen of the Orchids” and originate from tropical South America, particularly Brazil. They symbolize love and beauty, making them a popular choice for corsages and bouquets. These striking orchids have played a starring role in orchid breeding, contributing their remarkable genetics to create numerous hybrid varieties admired for their vibrant colors and alluring fragrances.
14. Cineraria (Cineraria):
Native to South Africa, Cineraria plants produce vibrant clusters of colorful flowers and often grow indoors as houseplants. They’re a favorite choice for brightening up homes and patios and symbolize joy and celebration.
15. Crocosmia (Crocosmia):
Originating from South Africa, Crocosmia plants are well-known for their elegant sword-like leaves and fiery red or orange flowers. In the language of flowers, they symbolize fiery passion and courage. Hummingbirds and gardeners adore these summer-blooming perennials. Their unique, arching stems and vibrant hues make them stand out in the landscape.
16. Candytuft (Iberis):
Native to the Mediterranean region, Candytuft is a beloved plant known for its dense clusters of white, pink, or lavender flowers. These charming blooms symbolize purity and innocence. With their low-growing habit, they’re a popular choice for edging, rock gardens, and ground covers. Easy to care for and drought-tolerant, Candytuft brings a touch of elegance to any garden, attracting pollinators and admirers alike.
17. Coreopsis (Coreopsis):
These native North and Central American flowers, often called “tickseed,” symbolize happiness. Their heart-shaped leaves and bright blooms make them a favorite among pollinators like butterflies and bees, adding cheerful color to gardens.
18. Cyclamen (Cyclamen):
Cyclamen flowers, native to Europe and the Mediterranean, captivate with their upswept petals and unique appearance. Their symbolism of resignation and goodbye lends them a poignant touch, making them a thoughtful choice for farewell arrangements and remembrance gardens. Cyclamen’s tuberous nature adds intrigue as these hardy perennials emerge from below the surface to bloom.
19. Chinese Lantern (Physalis):
Native to Asia, these plants are renowned for their papery, lantern-like husks that encase their fruits. Beyond their distinctive appearance, they carry good fortune and protection associations, making them intriguing garden additions. Chinese Lanterns belong to the genus Physalis, which includes various species of flowering plants, each with its own intriguing features.
20. Clivia (Clivia):
Another flower name starting with C is Clivia from South Africa. Clivia plants are celebrated for their bold orange or yellow blooms. Their association with beauty makes them a popular choice for both indoor and outdoor gardens, thus adding elegance to any setting. Clivia represents just one species of flowering plant native to South Africa, where it thrives with its striking color and graceful presence.
21. Cornflower (Centaurea):
Also known as “bachelor’s buttons,” Cornflowers are European natives famous for their striking blue petals and symbols of delicacy. These wildflowers are cherished for their simple beauty and have inspired poets and artists alike. Cornflower is just one of the many species within the Centaurea genus, showcasing the diversity within this botanical family.
22. Coneflower
Coneflower is a kind of plant from the daisy family (Asteraceae). In the Echinacea group, there are nine different types of plants that have been used in herbal medicine to ease colds and infections by making the body’s defense system stronger.
23. Cockscomb (Celosia):
These unique and velvety blooms, resembling rooster combs, set Cockscomb flowers apart. Native to tropical regions, they bring warmth and affection to gardens. Some varieties even showcase vibrant purple flowers, adding an extra layer of charm.
24. Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemia):
Originating from Asia, Crape Myrtle trees are dazzling, long-lasting summer blooms. These blooms are in various shades, including white, pink, and purple, making them versatile symbols of love and passion. Their striking beauty makes them occasionally chosen as cut flowers to enhance floral arrangements.
25. Candelabra Primrose (Primula):
Candelabra Primroses are unique for their candle-like clusters of flowers. Native to Europe and Asia, they symbolize youth, capturing the essence of freshness and transformation. While they often appear in shades, including white, their symbolic representation of change and growth remains consistent. These charming flowers are a delightful garden choice, adding a touch of elegance.
26. Cup and Saucer Plant (Cobaea scandens):
Native to Mexico, Cup and Saucer Plants produce captivating cup-shaped flowers that symbolize change and transformation. While their typical colors include shades of white and purple, their intriguing form and symbolism make them a favorite choice for gardens seeking a touch of the extraordinary.
27. Canary Creeper (Tropaeolum peregrinum):
These climbing plants, native to South America, delight with their bright yellow, canary-like flowers. They symbolize positivity and cheerfulness, brightening any garden. Thanks to their sunny disposition, they occasionally find their way into floral arrangements, contributing to the allure of cut flower displays.
28. Cranesbill Geranium (Geranium):
Cranesbill Geraniums, symbolize gentleness and are cherished for their long-lasting blooms. As perennial flowering plants, they’re among the first flowers to bloom in gardens, welcoming spring with their gentle presence.
29. Corn Poppy (Papaver rhoeas):
Commonly called corn poppy, Flanders poppy, field poppy, red poppy, or common poppy they strike with their vibrant red petals and dark centers. Corn Poppies are often associated with remembrance and eternal sleep. YOu can find these striking flowers frequently on lists of beautiful blooms or excel in Instagram feeds for their catchy images with quotes. As one of the first flowers to grace fields and meadows, they symbolize the spirit of renewal and vitality.
30. Coral Bells (Heuchera):
Coral Bells are prized not only for their colorful foliage but also for symbolizing admiration and protection. You can often find them in lists of beautiful flowers, adding elegance to gardens.
31. Chinese Forget-Me-Not (Cynoglossum amabile):
These charming blue flowers, native to Asia, evoke memories and true love, often making them a part of lists of beautiful flowers. Their delicate appearance adds a touch of nostalgia to gardens.
32. Creeping Jenny (Lysimachia nummularia):
Native to Europe, Creeping Jenny is known for its trailing habit and bright yellow flowers, symbolizing money and wealth. As a perennial flowering plant, it’s one of the first flowers to bloom in spring, ushering in a season of prosperity.
33. Cocksfoot Grass (Dactylis glomerata):
Native to Europe, Cocksfoot Grass has tall, feathery flower heads, that distinguish it among grasses. Beyond its appearance, it carries associations of endurance and fertility, reflecting its robust nature. You can find it in meadows and open landscapes, where its loose flowers sway gracefully in the wind.
34. Coral Vine (Antigonon leptopus):
Hailing from Mexico, Coral Vine enchants with cascading clusters of pink or coral-colored flowers. Its ability to flourish in adversity, often in challenging climates, makes it a symbol of beauty overcoming obstacles. This plant, known for its vibrant blooms, is a testament to the resilience of nature’s creations.
35. Coral Honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens):
One of the most beautiful flowers that begin with letter c are Coral Honeysuckle. Native to North America, it is renowned for its tubular, coral-red flowers that beckon hummingbirds. These flowers with names like “coral” evoke visions of tropical paradises. Beyond aesthetics, it embodies fidelity and devotion, as it forms a strong bond with pollinators and garden enthusiasts.
36. Common Comfrey (Symphytum officinale):
Found in Europe and Asia, Common Comfrey is celebrated for its medicinal properties, as it’s used for healing and consolation. Its ability to transform adversity into relief echoes its symbolism. As plants produce flowers, Common Comfrey stands as a testament to the natural world’s capacity for nurturing and comforting.
37. Canna Lily (Canna):
These vibrant flowers, native to the Americas, are renowned for their association with refined beauty and elegance. The Canna Lily’s regal appearance and striking colors stand out among flowers with names.
38. Crinum Lily (Crinum):
Originating from Africa, Crinum Lilies are cherished for their large, trumpet-shaped flowers that often form a group of flowers, creating a striking display. Beyond their vibrant appearance, they symbolize purity and rebirth, making them a popular choice for gardens seeking renewal and fresh beginnings.
39. California Lilac (Ceanothus):
Native to North America, California Lilac is striking with its blue or lavender flowers. These garden plants symbolize protection and change, offering a sense of security amidst nature’s transformations. As one of the first flowers to bloom in spring, they usher in a season of change and renewal.
40. Coral Root Orchid (Corallorhiza):
These unique orchids, native to North America, stand out due to their lack of chlorophyll, a characteristic that makes them both intriguing and rare. Symbolically, they represent the rarity and concealed allure of the natural world.
41. Chinese Witch Hazel (Hamamelis mollis):
Hailing from China, Chinese Witch Hazel captivates with fragrant, spidery flowers that bloom in winter. Beyond its beauty, it’s associated with divination and protection, adding a touch of mystique to the garden. As a native flower that comes to life during the winter months, it carries the promise of insight and safeguarding.
42. Crooked Orchid (Coelogyne):
Native to Asia, Coelogyne orchids are celebrated for their graceful, arching flower spikes. They symbolize grace and beauty, embodying the elegance of the plant kingdom. Often found in garden collections, they represent the enduring allure of orchids in horticulture.
43. Common Daisy (Bellis perennis):
Native to Europe, Common Daisies are beloved for their simple white petals and vibrant yellow centers. They often form a group of flowers, creating charming displays in gardens. Symbolically, they represent innocence and purity. Due to their long flower stems and flower features, they are a popular choice for floral arrangements.
44. Clustered Bellflower (Campanula glomerata):
These bell-shaped flowers, native to Europe, are known for their tendency to grow in clusters. Their symbolization of gratitude and humility reflects the humble beauty of these garden plants. Their flowers in loose groupings add a touch of whimsy to any garden landscape.
45. Coastal Goldenbush (Ericameria cuneata):
Native to North America, Coastal Goldenbush symbolizes vitality and positive energy, embodying the spirit of flourishing in natural landscapes. With their radiant yellow flower stalks and stems, they brighten coastal environments, adding a burst of color to the region.
46. Celandine Poppy (Stylophorum diphyllum):
Native to North America, these bright yellow flowers bring joy and sunshine to gardens. Their cheerful disposition and resilience make them a favorite among garden enthusiasts. They’re cherished for their uplifting presence as a garden plant that signifies happiness.
47. Camassia (Camassia)
Camassia flower that is native to North American wildflowers and produces spikes of star-shaped, blue to purple flowers that are known for their edible bulbs.
48. Chionodoxa (Chionodoxa):
Also called Glory of the Snow, these small bulbs produce delicate, star-shaped attractive flowers in shades of blue, pink, or white. They often naturalize and are one of the first flowers to bloom in spring.
49. Clarkia (Clarkia):
Annuals known for producing flowers in various shades, including pink and purple, clarkia are perfect for adding a touch of wildflower charm to your garden.
50. Cuphea (Cuphea):
Cuphea plants, or cigar plants, are prized for their tubular, often bi-colored flowers and attractive to hummingbirds.
51. Cleome (Cleome):
Cleome, also called spider flower, is known for its tall spikes of spidery, fragrant flowers. They are native to South America.
52. Centaury (Centaurium):
These small, dainty flowers are native to Europe and are often used in herbal remedies.
53. Cerinthe (Cerinthe):
Cerinthe plants produce unique, tubular flowers that are often a striking shade of blue-purple.
54. Chervil (Anthriscus cerefolium):
Chervil, famous for its role as a culinary herb, produces clusters of small white flowers.
55. Curcuma (Curcuma):
Curcuma, also called hidden lily, stands out with its striking tropical flowers and appealing foliage. It originates from Southeast Asia and frequently serves as an ornamental plant.
56. Cape Primrose (Streptocarpus)
These gorgeous flowers native to South Africa. They have become popular houseplants worldwide due to their striking appearance and ease of care.
Cape Primrose flowers are known for their tubular, trumpet-like shape and vibrant colors, including shades of purple, blue, pink, and white. The flowers often have intricate patterns and markings, adding to their visual appeal.
These delightful flowers symbolize grace and beauty, making them a perfect choice for indoor gardens and floral arrangements. Their distinctive feature includes the production of heart-shaped leaves, adding to their overall ornamental appeal.
Cape Primrose flowers are beloved for their long-lasting blooms and are often one of the flowers typically bloom in early spring.
57. Canterbury Bells (Campanula medium)
These biennial plants have bell-shaped flowers that come in various colors, including shades of blue, pink, and white. Canterbury Bells are popular for cottage gardens and add a touch of charm and elegance with their graceful, clustered blooms.
They are often associated with gratitude and humility, symbolizing appreciation for the simple and delicate beauty they bring to garden landscapes. Canterbury Bells are a classic choice for those looking to create a traditional and picturesque garden setting.
58. Cat’s Ear (Hypochaeris radicata)
Cat’s Ear (Hypochaeris radicata) is known for its bright yellow, dandelion-like flowers that brighten up meadows and grassy areas. Despite being considered a weed by some, its edible leaves offer a mild, slightly bitter flavor, thus making it a potential addition to salads or cooked dishes.
59. Cottage Pink (Dianthus plumarius)
Cottage Pink, also called Common Pink or just Pink, is a type of plant that belongs to the Caryophyllaceae family. These plants have bunches of green leaves, and when they bloom, they show off lovely red, pink, or white flowers with fringed edges. These flowers smell nice, like cloves. In the language of flowers, Pinks stand for being brave and bold.
60. Catmint (Nepeta)
Finally, the last flower that begin with letter the c in our list is Catmint. The Nepeta genus comprises approximately 287 herbaceous plant varieties belonging to the mint family (Lamiaceae). These plants, commonly referred to as catmint or catnip, are recognized for their attractive bluish-purple flowers, which draw the attention of butterflies, moths, bees, and hummingbirds. One of these species, Nepeta cataria, is particularly interesting because it can make cats, both pet and wild, act in unusual ways.