We aim to provide information about the most popular flower species growing in Tennessee’s cities and endemic flower varieties growing in Tennessee. Below you will find content about some of the flower species that grow in this region? We will examine the different types of colorful indoor garden and wildflowers that can grow in Tennessee.
Tennessee, located in the southeastern United States, has a rich variety of flora due to its diverse ecosystems and climate. Here are some popular flowers that are commonly found and appreciated in Tennessee:
- Iris (Iris spp.): Irises are well-loved in Tennessee, and the state even designated the Iris as its official state flower. There are several native and cultivated varieties of irises that can be found throughout the state, including the native Blue Flag Iris (Iris virginica) and the bearded irises (Iris germanica) with their stunning blooms in a wide range of colors.
- Tennessee Coneflower (Echinacea tennesseensis): As its name suggests, the Tennessee coneflower is a native wildflower specific to the region. It features showy, pinkish-purple petals surrounding a distinctive cone-shaped center. The Tennessee coneflower is considered endangered and is highly valued for its conservation.
- Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta): Black-Eyed Susan is a popular wildflower that thrives in Tennessee. It displays vibrant yellow petals surrounding a dark brown or black center. Black-Eyed Susans are often seen in meadows, prairies, and gardens, adding cheerful color to the landscape.
- Daylilies (Hemerocallis spp.): Daylilies are favored for their hardiness and beautiful blooms. They come in a variety of colors and shapes and can be found in many Tennessee gardens and landscapes.
- Dogwood (Cornus florida): While not technically a flower, the dogwood tree is renowned for its delicate white or pink blooms that typically appear in spring. The dogwood is the state tree of Tennessee and is cherished for its ornamental value.
- Phlox (Phlox spp.): Phloxes are popular perennial flowers that come in a range of colors, including shades of pink, purple, and white. They are known for their fragrant blooms and are commonly found in Tennessee gardens and borders.
- Hydrangea (Hydrangea spp.): Hydrangeas are beloved for their large clusters of flowers, which can be found in various colors, including white, pink, and blue. They thrive in Tennessee’s climate and are often featured in gardens and landscapes.
- Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa): Wild Bergamot, also known as Bee Balm, is a native wildflower in Tennessee. It produces clusters of tubular flowers in shades of pink, lavender, or purple and attracts pollinators, including bees and butterflies.

These are just a few examples of popular flowers in Tennessee. The state’s diverse ecosystems support a wide array of native wildflowers, as well as cultivated flowers that thrive in its climate.
When to plant flowers in Tennessee?
The ideal time to plant flowers in Tennessee can vary depending on the specific type of flower and the region within the state. Tennessee has a range of climate zones, from the cooler mountainous regions in the east to the milder conditions in the central and western parts of the state. However, as a general guideline, here are some recommendations for when to plant flowers in Tennessee:
Spring: Spring is a great time to plant a wide variety of flowers in Tennessee. After the last frost date, which typically occurs between mid-March to mid-April depending on the region, you can start planting cool-season annuals and perennials. Flowers like pansies, violas, snapdragons, dianthus, and sweet peas can be planted early in the spring.
Summer: In Tennessee, summers can be hot and humid, especially in the central and western regions. It’s best to plant heat-tolerant flowers during late spring or early summer to ensure they establish before the intense heat arrives. Flowers like marigolds, zinnias, cosmos, sunflowers, and salvias can be planted in late spring or early summer for a vibrant summer display.
Fall: Fall is another suitable season for planting flowers in Tennessee, as temperatures cool down and rainfall increases. In September and early October, you can plant fall-blooming annuals and perennials such as mums, asters, ornamental kale, and pansies. These flowers will add color to your garden throughout the fall season.
Winter: Tennessee’s winters can be cold, particularly in the mountainous regions. However, you can still enjoy winter blooms by planting cold-tolerant flowers like winter pansies, ornamental cabbage, and winter jasmine. These flowers can withstand the colder temperatures and provide color during the winter months.
What are the names of flowers that grow in Tennessee? It’s important to consider the specific requirements of each flower and the microclimates within Tennessee when planning your planting times. Additionally, always check the local weather conditions and the specific recommendations for each flower variety to ensure optimal planting success.
