30+ Beautiful Flowers That Start With N (Pictures and Growing Guides)

Flowers starting with “N” offer a surprising diversity, from familiar daffodils to exotic blooms you’ve likely never encountered. This guide explores a captivating collection of these “N” flowers, complete with descriptions, growing tips, and fascinating facts.

Narcissus (Daffodils and Jonquils)

  • Common Name: Daffodil, Jonquil
  • Scientific Name: Narcissus spp.
  • Description: Trumpet-shaped flowers in shades of yellow, white, orange, and pink.
  • Growing Conditions: Full sun to partial shade, well-drained soil. Plant bulbs in fall.
  • Care Tips: Deadhead after blooming; allow foliage to die back naturally.
  • Uses: Ornamental, cut flowers.
  • Special Notes: Deer resistant. The name “Narcissus” originates from Greek mythology, alluding to a figure known for self-love.

Nasturtium

  • Common Name: Nasturtium
  • Scientific Name: Tropaeolum spp.
  • Description: Round, vibrant leaves and flowers in fiery orange, yellow, and red with a peppery flavor.
  • Growing Conditions: Full sun, well-drained soil.
  • Care Tips: Direct sow seeds after the last frost. Deadhead for continuous blooms.
  • Uses: Ornamental, edible flowers and leaves (peppery flavor).
  • Special Notes: Attracts beneficial insects.

Nemesia

  • Common Name: Nemesia
  • Scientific Name: Nemesia spp.
  • Description: Bushy annuals with masses of small, star-shaped flowers in various colors.
  • Growing Conditions: Full sun, moist, well-drained soil.
  • Care Tips: Pinch back young stems for bushiness. Deadhead regularly.
  • Uses: Ornamental, attracts butterflies.

Nemophila (Baby Blue Eyes)

  • Common Name: Baby Blue Eyes
  • Scientific Name: Nemophila menziesii
  • Description: Delicate cup-shaped, sky-blue flowers.
  • Growing Conditions: Full sun to partial shade, well-drained soil.
  • Care Tips: Direct sow seeds in spring. Can be susceptible to powdery mildew.
  • Uses: Ornamental, ground cover.

Nepeta (Catmint)

  • Common Name: Catmint, Catnip
  • Scientific Name: Nepeta spp.
  • Description: Spikes of lavender-blue flowers.
  • Growing Conditions: Full sun, well-drained soil. Drought-tolerant once established.
  • Care Tips: Pinch back after blooming to encourage a second flush.
  • Uses: Ornamental, attracts cats, attracts beneficial pollinators.

Nerine (Guernsey Lily)

  • Common Name: Guernsey Lily
  • Scientific Name: Nerine spp.
  • Description: Spider-like blooms in vibrant shades of pink, red, and white.
  • Growing Conditions: Sunny to lightly shaded spots with well-drained soil. Plant bulbs in spring.
  • Care Tips: Protect from frost.
  • Uses: Ornamental.

Other Notable “N” Flowers

  • Nicandra (Shoo-Fly Plant): Bell-shaped blue-violet flowers followed by interesting seed pods. May repel some pests.
  • Nierembergia (Cupflower): Low-growing with small, cup-shaped flowers in shades of purple, white, and blue.
  • Nigella (Love-in-a-Mist): Delicate blue, pink, or white flowers and attractive seed pods.
  • Nicotiana (Flowering Tobacco): Fragrant, evening-blooming flowers. Toxic if ingested.
  • Nolana (Chilean Bellflower): Trailing plant with sky-blue, bell-shaped flowers.
  • Nothoscordum (False Garlic): Resembles chives, with clusters of star-shaped flowers.
  • Nuphar (Yellow Pond-lily): Aquatic plant with cup-shaped yellow flowers.
  • Nymphaea (Water Lily): A variety of colors and shapes available. Requires still water.
  • Neomarica (Walking Iris): Unique propagation method; new plantlets form on flower stalks.

Choosing the Right “N” Flower for Your Garden

Consider these factors when selecting “N” flowers:

  • Garden Style: Choose flowers that complement your desired aesthetic.
  • Experience Level: Opt for low-maintenance varieties if you’re a beginner.
  • Maintenance: Consider the time you’re willing to dedicate to watering, fertilizing, and deadheading.
  • Pollinators: Select flowers that attract beneficial insects and birds.
  • Local Climate & Conditions: Research the specific needs of each flower to ensure it’s suited to your region’s climate, soil type, and sun exposure.
  • Potential Challenges: Be aware of potential invasiveness, pests, or diseases.

Tips for Growing “N” Flowers

While each flower has specific needs, some general tips apply:

  • Soil: Most “N” flowers prefer well-drained soil. Amend heavy clay soils with organic matter.
  • Watering: Water deeply and regularly, especially during dry periods. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
  • Fertilizing: Use a balanced fertilizer according to package directions or enrich the soil with compost.
  • Deadheading: Removing spent blooms encourages continuous flowering for many “N” flowers.
  • Pest and Disease Control: Monitor plants regularly for pests and diseases. Use appropriate control methods if necessary.
  • Winter Care: Protect tender bulbs and perennials from frost in colder climates.

Flower Comparison Table

Flower Bloom Time Height Sun Requirements Other Notes
Narcissus Spring 6-18″ Full sun – Part shade Low-maintenance, naturalizes readily
Nemophila Spring-Summer 4-8″ Full sun – Part shade Susceptible to powdery mildew in humid conditions
Nerine Fall 12-24″ Full sun Protect from harsh winter winds
Nicotiana Summer-Fall 12-36″ Full sun Fragrant, attracts pollinators, toxic if ingested
Nigella Summer 12-18″ Full sun Easy to grow, self-sows, decorative seed pods
Nepeta Summer 12-36″ Full sun Attracts cats, drought-tolerant

Related Resources

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Always exercise caution when handling plants, especially those with toxic properties. Consult with a qualified professional for personalized advice. Current research continually evolves our understanding of plant care, so staying informed about the latest findings is always recommended.

Mark Soldy

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