Types of Beautiful Flowers

Tulips

• Sprouting from bulbs in the early spring, there are over 100 species of tulips. From each bulb typically blooms an individual flower that sits atop a thick, green stem; some species can grow several flowers on a stem. The cup-shaped blooms can have three to six petals and come in a variety of colors, including red, yellow, white, pink and purple. Some species feature bi-colored blooms. They are annual flowers that do well in climates with cool springs and require rich, well-drained soil to avoid the rotting of the bulbs. To make a real impact with these flowers, plant several of them in a group.

Chrysanthemums

• Chrysanthemums, more commonly referred to as mums, are hardy perennial plants. The plant produces vibrant ray- or disc-shaped florets in an array of colors, including purple, yellow, white, copper, burgundy and orange. The woody stems of this plant produce so many blooms that the stems can oftentimes hardly be seen. While you will begin to see the stems and foliage of chrysanthemums sprout in mid-summer, the height of bloom time for the flowers arrives in late summer and early fall. Plant these flowers in moist soil in an area that receives abundant sunlight.

Verbena

• There are about 200 species of this perennial, ranging from hardy to tender. Clusters of flowers that span 2 to 3 inches across grow on stalks that can reach heights of 6 inches to 4 feet. The flowers usually have a white center framed by petals, which come in several colors, including red, pink, purple, blue, peach and sometimes multicolored. They are an ideal flower to grow in arid climates that receive little rainfall, as they are drought-tolerant. They do well when planted in a sunny location and moist, well-drained, nutrient-rich soil.

Clematis

• There are several hundred species of clematis, the majority of which are climbers. Its woody vines can grow in excess of 30 feet and produce blooms that range in size from 1 inch to 10 inches across, have eight petals and are shaped like large stars. The showy flowers can be white, dark purple, deep pink, light pink and blue; some are variegated with pink and white. Species that are grown in cool weather are deciduous perennials; however, those that are grown in warmer climates can remain evergreen. Clematis likes rich, well-drained soil and full to partial sun exposure.