Are you a seasoned gardener who is looking to add variety to your garden? Or are you an eager beginner who is looking to start your gardening journey? Welcome to the vibrant world of flowers that start with D! This comprehensive guide will introduce you to over 30 exquisite flowers that start with D, offering essential planting tips and care advice to ensure your garden thrives with color, texture, and fragrance. So, grab your gardening equipment and let's dive into the delightful flowers that start with D!
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D for Delightful Flowers that Start with D
1. Daffodil (Narcissus)
Daffodils are vibrant perennials that are mainly recognized for their trumpet-shaped flowers in a range of colors, mostly white and yellow. They represent rebirth and fresh starts since they are among the first flowers to blossom in the spring.
- Planting: Plant bulbs in fall, 6-8 inches deep, in well-drained soil. Choose a sunny or partly sunny location. Water well after planting.
2. Dahlia
Dahlias are stunning flowers that come in a wide range of colors and forms. They bloom from midsummer through fall. Dahlias are popular among gardeners for their beauty and pollinators for their nectar.
- Planting: Plant tubers in spring after the last frost, about 4-6 inches deep, in a sunny spot with well-drained soil. Provide stakes for tall varieties.
3. Daisy (Bellis perennis)
The classic daisy has a simple, innocent appearance, with white petals wrapping a yellow core. Daisies are quite adaptable and grow well in both natural and artificial environments.
- Planting: Sow seeds in spring or fall, in full sun to partial shade. Plant in well-drained soil and keep moist until germination.
4. Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)
Though mislabeled as weeds, dandelions are actually beneficial wildflowers. Their bright yellow flowers turn into distinctive puffballs of seeds that spread with the wind. Dandelions are edible and have medicinal benefits, used in traditional herbal remedies.
- Planting: Scatter the seeds in early spring. Thrives in full sun and well-drained soil.
5. Daylily (Hemerocallis)
Despite their name, daylilies are not true lilies since their individual flowers last only one day. They have many buds on each stem, so the flowers keep blooming. Daylilies are tough and adaptable, with a wide range of colors and sizes.
- Planting: Plant in spring or fall, in full sun to partial shade. Bury roots one inch below the soil surface. Water well.
6. Delphinium
Delphiniums, which are known for their striking spikes of brightly colored flowers, are popular in cottage gardens. They come in blue, purple, white, and pink, adding vertical interest to any garden. Delphiniums prefer cool weather and well-drained soil.
- Planting: Sow seeds in spring or fall, in fertile, well-drained soil, in full sun. Provide support as stems grow.
7. Dianthus
Dianthus flowers are popular for their spicy fragrance and various colors, including pink, red, white, and variegated patterns. They are commonly referred as "pinks" due to their frilly edges that appear to be cut with pinking shears. Dianthus blooms in late spring and early summer, with some varieties reblooming in the fall.
- Planting: Plant in spring or fall, in full sun and well-drained, alkaline soil. Space plants 6-12 inches apart.
8. Dimorphotheca (African Daisy)
Dimorphotheca is a cheerful flower that looks a lot like daisies. It comes in bright colors like white, pink, purple, and yellow. This sun-loving plant is great for brightening up flower beds, pots, or even covering the ground. One interesting fact: Dimorphothecas close up their flowers when it's cloudy or at night.
- Planting: Sow seeds in spring, in a sunny spot with well-drained soil. Water regularly until plants are established.
9. Dicentra (Bleeding Heart)
Dicentra, also known as Bleeding Heart, is known for its distinctive heart-shaped flowers that dangle from arching stems. It thrives in shady gardens, lending a touch of whimsy and romance. The plant dies in midsummer, but the foliage and flowers in the spring are unforgettable.
- Planting: Plant bare root plants in early spring, in part shade or full shade. Set roots 1 inch below the soil surface.
10. Digitalis (Foxglove)
Digitalis or Foxglove is a beautiful biennial or perennial plant that produces tall spikes of tubular flowers in pink, purple, white, and yellow. It thrives in partial shade and adds interest to the garden. However, all parts of the plant are toxic if consumed, so handle with caution.
- Planting: Sow seeds in late spring or early summer, in moist, well-drained soil. Prefers partial shade.
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D for Decent Flowers that Start with D
11. Dogwood (Cornus)
Dogwoods are famous for their beautiful spring flowers, which are actually bracts (modified leaves) that surround a small central flower cluster. They can be trees or shrubs, and some species have beautiful fall foliage and berries.
- Planting: Plant in fall or spring, in full sun to partial shade. Choose well-drained soil, and water deeply after planting.
12. Dutch Iris
Dutch iris are known for their elegant orchid-like flowers in blue, purple, yellow, and white. They are commonly grown from bulbs and make excellent cut flowers due to their long stems and vibrant blooms.
- Planting: Plant bulbs in fall, 4 inches deep, in well-drained soil and full sun. Water well after planting.
13. Dwarf Morning Glory (Convolvulus tricolor)
Dwarf Morning Glory, also known as Convolvulus tricolor, is a compact and bushy perennial with bright, trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom in the morning and close in the afternoon. It grows well in full sun and well-drained soil, making it ideal for containers, hanging baskets, and ground covers.
- Planting: Sow seeds in spring, after the last frost, in well-drained soil and full sun. Thin seedlings as needed.
14. Dahlberg Daisy (Thymophylla tenuiloba)
Dahlberg Daisy is a small perennial plant that produces bright yellow, daisy-like flowers. Its low-growing habit and bright blooms make it ideal for rock gardens, borders, or ground covers.
- Planting: Sow seeds in spring, in full sun and well-drained soil. Keep moist until germination.
15. Dragon Tree (Dracaena)
Dragon Tree is a slow-growing plant with sword-like leaves and a sculptural shape. In its natural habitat, this tree can produce white flowers followed by orange-colored berries. Perfect for adding architectural interest to the landscape or as a striking indoor plant.
- Planting: Although often grown as a houseplant, it can be planted outdoors in warm climates. Choose a spot with partial shade and well-drained soil. Water when the top inch of soil is dry.
16. Dragon Arum (Dracunculus)
Dragon Arum is known for its dramatic appearance, with a large maroon spathe and a central black spadix resembling a dragon's tongue. It attracts pollinators by releasing a strong, unpleasant odor. This plant is a conversation starter in any garden, but it should be planted somewhere where its scent will not bother you.
- Planting: Plant tubers in fall, 6 inches deep, in a spot with full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Note that the flowers emit a strong odor to attract pollinators.
17. Dudleya
Dudleya is a succulent with fleshy leaf rosettes that often have a powdery or waxy coating that helps reflect sunlight and conserve moisture. It produces flower stalks that are yellow, red, or white. Dudleya is suitable for rock gardens, succulent collections, and drought-tolerant landscaping.
- Planting: Plant in spring or fall in well-draining soil and a location with full sun to light shade. Water sparingly once established, as Dudleya is drought-tolerant.
18. Dusty Miller (Jacobaea maritima)
Dusty Miller is valued for its silvery-grey foliage, which adds great contrast and texture to the garden. While it produces yellow flowers, many gardeners prefer to clip them to promote leaf growth. It's drought-tolerant and looks great in borders, containers, or as a contrast to more colorful plants.
- Planting: Plant seeds or cuttings in spring, in full sun and well-drained soil. Dusty Miller is drought-tolerant, so water moderately once established.
19. Dutchman's Breeches (Dicentra cucullaria)
Dutchman's Breeches is a charming woodland perennial with white pantaloon-shaped flowers that hang from horizontal stems. This plant prefers rich, moist soil in shady areas, making it ideal for forest gardens. After flowering in spring, this plant goes dormant in summer.
- Planting: Plant rhizomes in fall, in rich, moist, well-drained soil, in a shaded or partly shaded area. Keep the soil consistently moist.
20. Dyer's Chamomile (Anthemis tinctoria)
Dyer's Chamomile or Golden Marguerite is a perennial herb with bright yellow daisy-like flowers. It is not only beautiful but also useful since the flowers can be used to make a natural yellow dye.
- Planting: Sow seeds in spring, in full sun and well-drained soil. Plants are drought-tolerant once established.
21. Dyer's Greenweed (Genista tinctoria)
Dyer's Greenweed is a small shrub with bright yellow flowers that has long been used to dye fabrics. It prefers sunny areas with well-drained soil and is ideal for wildflower meadows or naturalistic planting schemes. The plant helps a variety of wildlife by providing nectar and habitat.
- Planting: Plant seeds or cuttings in spring or fall, in full sun and well-drained soil. It's used for dyeing fabric and is drought-tolerant.
22. Deutzia
Deutzia are a type of deciduous shrub that blooms thoroughly in spring or early summer with white or pink flowers. They are easy to maintain, requiring only occasional pruning. Deutzias are ideal for adding color to borders, hedges, or as stand-alone plants.
- Planting: Plant in early spring or fall, in full sun to partial shade, in well-drained soil. Deutzia prefers moist, fertile soil but can tolerate a variety of soil conditions.
23. Devil's Trumpet (Datura)
Devil's Trumpet or Datura is a genus of poisonous plants identified by large, trumpet-shaped flowers in white, yellow, purple, or pink. These night-blooming plants are highly aromatic and have a mystical aura, making them often associated with both beauty and danger due to their toxicity.
- Planting: Plant seeds or cuttings in late spring, in full sun and well-drained soil. Be cautious, as all parts of the plant are toxic.
24. Dewflower (Murdannia loriformis)
Dewflower is a spreading perennial from the genus Murdannia that thrives in moist environments. It is admired by its delicate blue or violet flowers and ability to cover ground quickly. Dewflower, which is commonly used in hanging baskets or as ground cover, requires little care other than to keep it moist.
- Planting: Plant in spring, in moist, well-drained soil, in a location with full sun to partial shade. Ideal for ground cover in wet areas.
25. Diervilla (Bush Honeysuckle)
Diervilla is a tough shrub that loses its leaves in the fall. It blooms with yellow trumpet-shaped flowers in the summer, which bees and butterflies love. This plant is easy to care for and doesn't need a lot of water once it's grown a bit. It's a great choice for gardens that have a natural or wild look.
- Planting: Plant in spring or fall, in full sun to partial shade and in well-drained soil. It's a low-maintenance plant, ideal for naturalized areas.
Other Flowers that Start with D
26. Dichondra
Dichondra is better known as a ground cover than for its small and inconspicuous flowers. It is highly valued for its attractive and dense mats of small kidney-shaped leaves, which create a lush green carpet effect. Dichondra is ideal for hanging baskets, containers, or as a lawn replacement in warm climates.
- Planting: Plant seeds in spring, in well-drained soil and full sun. Keep soil moist until established.
27. Dittany (Origanum dictamnus)
Dittany is a fragrant herb with pink-purple flowers that grows on the island of Crete. People have used it for cooking and medicine for a long time. This plant likes sunny spots and soil that drains well, so it's a good choice for herb gardens or rocky areas.
- Planting: Plant cuttings or seedlings in spring, in well-drained soil and a sunny location. Dittany is drought-tolerant once established.
28. Dock (Rumex)
Dock plants might be seen as weeds, but they can also be quite pretty with their tall flowers and big leaves. Some people even use them as natural medicine! These plants are tough and can grow almost anywhere.
- Planting: Sow seeds in spring or fall, in well-drained soil and a full sun or partial shade location. Keep in mind that some species can become invasive.
29. Dogbane (Apocynum cannabinum)
Dogbane is a long-lasting plant with pretty pink or white flowers. Butterflies love it because their larvae eat its leaves. Dogbane is perfect for wild gardens or places where you want to attract butterflies.
- Planting: Plant seeds or cuttings in spring in full sun to partial shade, in well-drained soil. Dogbane is drought-tolerant and attracts butterflies.
30. Dogtooth Violet (Erythronium)
The Dogtooth Violet might be called a violet, but it's actually a type of lily! You might also hear it called a Trout Lily. This plant gets its name from the pointy shape of its underground bulbs. It blooms with pretty yellow or white flowers that hang downwards in the springtime.
- Planting: Plant bulbs in the fall, about 3 inches deep, in moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter, in partial to full shade.
31. Doll's Eyes (Actaea pachypoda)
Doll's Eyes (also called White Baneberry) is a plant found in North America. It has unique white berries with black dots that look like eyes. This plant likes shady areas and looks beautiful in woodland gardens. Be careful – all parts of the plant are poisonous if you eat them!
- Planting: Plant in moist, rich soil in part to full shade. The white berries are toxic, so place them away from pets and children.
32. Donkey Orchid (Diuris)
Donkey Orchids are Australian flowers with unusual blooms that look like a donkey's face. They like soil that drains well and prefer full sun or a little bit of shade. These unique flowers make a beautiful addition to orchid collections or gardens of native Australian plants.
- Planting: Best grown from tubers planted in the fall in well-drained soil and a sunny location. They require a dormant period in summer when the foliage dies back.
33. Dove Tree (Davidia involucrata)
The Dove Tree is a rare and beautiful tree with unique white flowers that look like doves or handkerchiefs. It needs a protected place to grow and prefers soil that stays moist. Young Dove Trees might not flower for several years, but their gorgeous spring blossoms are worth the wait!
- Planting: Plant in moist, well-drained soil in a sheltered location with partial shade. Young trees may take several years to flower.
34. Drumstick Primula (Primula denticulata)
Drumstick Primula is a long-lasting plant with ball-shaped clusters of flowers that look like drumsticks. The flowers can be purple, red, pink, or white. They like wet soil and some shade, so they grow well near water or in partly shaded garden areas.
- Planting: Plant in early fall or spring in moist, humus-rich soil, in partial shade. They prefer cool conditions and should be watered regularly.
35. Dryandra (Now classified under Banksia)
Dryandras are Australian native plants with beautiful, spiky flowers and evergreen leaves. They make gardens more interesting and bring in birds and helpful insects. Dryandras need soil that drains well and lots of sunshine.
- Planting: Plant in well-drained, sandy soil in a sunny spot. These plants are adapted to poor soils and do not need fertilization.
36. Dryas (Mountain Avens)
Dryas are small and tough plants that stay green all year. They have pretty white or yellow flowers that look like small roses. They love rocky areas with well-drained soil and lots of sunshine.
- Planting: Sow seeds in fall in a mix of sand and peat, in full sun. Ideal for rock gardens, they need well-drained soil and minimal water once established.
37. Duckweed (Lemna)
Duckweed is a tiny plant that floats on ponds, lakes, and other calm bodies of water. It's not your usual garden plant, but it's super useful! Duckweed cleans water and is a great protein-rich food for animals. It grows really fast and doesn't need much attention.
- Planting: Not typically "planted," but can be introduced to calm and nutrient-rich water bodies. It can quickly cover surfaces, so control may be necessary.
38. Dwarf Crested Iris (Iris cristata)
Dwarf Crested Iris is a low-growing, perennial iris that produces delicate blue, purple, or white flowers in early spring. It's ideal for rock gardens, woodland gardens, or as a ground cover, preferring partial shade and well-drained soil.
- Planting: Plant rhizomes in late summer or fall, in well-drained soil with partial shade. They spread to form a carpet of color in the spring.
39. Dymondia (Dymondia margaretae)
Dymondia is a tough ground cover that looks like a silvery-green carpet. It needs very little water and can replace grass in your yard. In summer, it blooms with small, yellow flowers like daisies. It likes full sun and soil that drains well.
- Planting: Plant in spring or fall, in full sun and well-drained soil. It's excellent as a drought-tolerant lawn alternative or ground cover.
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Conclusion
Starting your adventure with flowers that start with "D" can make your garden a place of beauty and peace. With this knowledge, you can create a garden that is beautiful and good for nature. Gardening teaches us about growth, strength, and respecting nature's beauty. Keep taking care of your garden, and let the flowers that start with "D" bring magic to your field!