The Most Popular Flower In Your State

It can feel like a near-impossible task to select the best flowers for your garden. Plus, some flowers require specific research regarding your climate and the optimal growing conditions. If you're stumped on how to choose the right flora and foliage for your outdoor space, consider the most popular flower in your area. There are inspiring flowers in every corner of the U.S., and it's all about discovering what best suits your space. While you may have to follow some ground rules in order to foster lush blooms, the results can be totally worth it.

Show your state pride by choosing a flower that is reflective of your area's gardening favorites. From Alabama to Wyoming, each state has a distinct preference for a single flower — and we've made a list of each regional pick. Some states have overlap, and others have elected a unique and unexpected winner. The results might surprise you!

The Alaskan wild iris, Iris setosa, is native to the state. In order to break dormancy, the seeds must go through a process known as cold stratification during fall and spring, in which they're exposed to cold temperatures. When sown in late summer or fall, germination typically occurs the following spring or sometimes even a year later. Alaska includes a wide range of Hardiness Zones, from 1a to 8b, but wild irises are hardy and can be grown almost anywhere south of the Brooks Range. Before you start the planting process, don't forget to avoid the top mistake everyone makes when planting iris bulbs.

Arkansas has deemed daffodils the most beautiful blossom. Before you plant these yellow beauties, keep in mind that daffodils actually need a 10 to 16-week chilling period, where the temperature is below 45 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit. In Hardiness Zones 6 to 7, planting the bulbs in mid-October to early November will give them adequate chilling time before the ground freezes. If you are located in the warmer area of Arkansas, you should push your planting to very late fall. If adequate freezing temperatures aren't possible, you can use your refrigerator as an alternative.

The high humidity of Hawaii makes the state a great location to grow orchids. Phalaenopsis, some of the most popular orchids in Hawaii, prefer bright, indirect light and frequent bright shade (also making them suitable for growing indoors). There are several tips to follow in order to successfully care for indoor orchids. One important consideration is to be careful not to overwater when temperatures are lower in the fall and winter. The soil should be almost dry before adding more water. Although they love moisture, they don't love soggy soil.

If you're in Iowa, you've undoubtedly caught a glimpse of a vibrant display of zinnias. The best-known variety of zinnia is Zinnia elegans. To ensure continuous summer blooms, it needs frequent deadheading and steady watering. Planting it in a sunny spot with good airflow is essential, as poor conditions can lead to powdery mildew – a common issue in Iowa. For optimal growth, it's recommended to sow these flowers after the last frost, usually around mid to late May. You can also follow this easy trick for an endless supply of colorful zinnias every year.

Chamelaucium uncinatum, or, the Geraldton waxflower, is the most popular flower in Minnesota. However, this is surprising due to the waxflower's native Australian roots, and the fact that it thrives in Zones 9 to 11. It is a coastal plant, but can be grown inland with the right conditions. Although they can tolerate a light frost, potting your waxflowers is ideal, so that you can move them inside during the cold winter months. Choose a smaller pot, no more than twice the size of the plant, for easier moisture monitoring.

When you think of lavender, you might think of rolling French fields of Provence. However, there is one unexpected U.S. state that loves these herbal bushes. Lavender can be a little tricky to grow in the cooler Pennsylvania climate, but it's definitely not impossible. English Lavender, Lavandula angustifolia, is more frost-tolerant. However, if you opt for French Lavender, Lavandula intermedia, you should consider covering the plants with burlap in the winter or opting for potted plants and bringing them inside. They go dormant in the winter, which means they should not be overwatered. For a complete guide, this is everything you need to know before planting lavender.

If you're located in South Carolina and you've seen lush bushes covered in pink and red flowers, they were most likely azaleas. These eye-catching shrubs are a part of the vivid rhododendron family. Evergreen azalea hybrids suited for South Carolina include Southern Indica, Kurume, Kaempferi, Satsuki, Gable, Glen Dale, and the Encore series. Azaleas thrive in light to moderate shade, which promotes longer-lasting spring blooms, stronger growth, and less susceptibility to pests and winter cold. They perform well under pine trees, where filtered shade and acidic soil create ideal conditions.

If you're wondering how to successfully grow peonies in Tennessee, you're not alone. After all, it's the state's favorite flower! Many peony varieties grow well in Zones 4 to 9, which have significant overlap with most of Tennessee's Hardiness Zones. Choose a location with cooler soil, offering lots of morning sun and filtered afternoon shade when possible. Placing peonies near a large shrub can protect them from the direct afternoon sunlight. Last but not least, make sure to arrange for drip irrigation from the end of spring through early autumn.

Washingtonians will likely recognize the multi-colored flower beds filled with tall, showstopping blossoms. Dahlias are originally from Mexico, but they actually thrive in the mild Pacific Northwest summers. Make sure to plant your dahlias when the soil is dry, starting in mid-May. In the winter, they require well-draining soil to prevent root rot. The heavy Washington rain can be detrimental if drainage isn't made a priority. If you want to keep them in the ground during winter, add 4 inches of compost.

Although asters are also known as "New England asters," they are a massive fan favorite in West Virginia. There are several key tips to grow and take care of asters in this distinct climate. Asters typically thrive in cool, moist summers with cool nights, in full to partial sun. West Virginia is definitely humid, but it can get quite hot, which means your plants should be shaded from direct mid-day sunlight. In winter, you can either trim back the foliage after it dies or leave it for seasonal garden interest.

If you live in Arizona, Shasta daisies are an ideal variety to consider. In hot summer climates like Arizona's low desert, Shasta daisies need afternoon shade to prevent dieback, and should not be fertilized during these months. In Nebraska, Shasta daisies can tolerate the climate – but keep in mind they can be aggressive growers and should always be kept to beds. If you want a wild garden, black-eyed Susans or prairie ragworts are native prairie plants that can mimic the look of daisies and help maintain the local ecology.

Geraniums are easy to care for, making them a favorite in the NorthEast. Both Washington D.C. and Vermont have deemed geraniums the most desirable flower. They thrive in Zones 3 to 8, encompassing both D.C. and Vermont. These plants adapt to nearly all soil types and are largely unaffected by deer, rabbits, or insect damage – ideal for woody areas. Typically required only every 3 to 5 years, division should always be performed during spring or autumn, when the geraniums are not actively growing.

Idaho and Wyoming are supporters of an amusing little flower. Snapdragons grow well from seed, but for bedding displays, it's best to transplant young plants so they establish before flowering. When it comes to how to grow and take care of snapdragon flowers in these areas, the timing is crucial. Plant them early in spring while the soil is still cool; they can handle light frost – which is great news for cooler regions in Idaho and Wyoming. Keep in mind that they may stop blooming if the summer weather is too hot.

Two very different states have fallen in love with the same, elegant flower. Lilies are a timeless addition to any garden, especially if you live in Indiana or Nevada. The prime time to plant lilies in Indiana is between August 15 and September 30. Deciduous varieties perform reliably statewide, while many gardeners also succeed with evergreen and semi-evergreen types, despite their preference for warmer regions. In Nevada, the best species to grow include the Candidum, Henryi, Aurelianense, Flavum, and Perenne. This is because of the alkaline soil throughout the state.

Another favorite flower shared by two faraway states, ranunculuses have stolen the hearts of Maine and Montana residents. Ranunculus grow well in cool weather, which is generally good news for residents of Maine and Montana! They can withstand temperatures as low as 25 degrees Fahrenheit, but if the weather gets any colder, they won't survive unless they are moved inside a greenhouse or grown under a floating row cover. No matter which state you call home, this is everything you need to know before planting ranunculus.

A timeless and whimsical wildflower, poppies are present in many regions — but two states love them more than most. Poppies are the most popular flower in New Hampshire and South Dakota. Because much of New Hampshire and South Dakota fall into the colder Hardiness Zones, spring is the best time to plant the seeds. They should be sprinkled in the soil right after the frost has ended. They love full sun exposure, and can also grow well in pots, if you don't have a large patch of soil in the direct sunlight.

The most popular flower in Oregon and Utah is an explosion of fragrant purple blossoms. The hyacinth flower is a spring-blooming perennial. Hyacinths grow best in Zones 3 to 9, making Oregon and Utah the perfect places for hyacinths to thrive. The bulbs need to be chilled between 40 and 45 degrees Fahrenheit for 12 to 14 weeks. If this isn't possible in your region, you can use the refrigerator. Although they can grow in partial shade, more sunlight is better for large blooms.

Two southern states have taken a cue from the Netherlands and selected tulips as their most desirable flower. Oklahoma and Texas have similar Hardiness Zones, so it's no surprise that they share a favorite flower. However, you should be careful in Zones 7 and 8, as the tulips can get overheated if they are planted in an area exposed to afternoon sun. On the other hand, if your area has very cold winters, consider planting your tulips deeper so that the frost doesn't reach the roots.

Because alstroemeria is a beautiful, exotic flower that makes coastal gardens stand out, it's no surprise that it is a favorite in California and Massachusetts. Michigan was a surprise supporter of this vibrant flower, but it turns out they are being grown all across the Mitten State. They are only winter hardy in Zones 7 to 10, which means any colder zones will require additional winter protection. If you want to grow alstroemerias in Hardiness Zone 6, they must be planted in a container and brought inside during the winter.

Kentucky, New Mexico, and North Dakota have all embraced the joyful appearance of towering sunflower stalks. Sunflowers grow best in locations with direct sunlight for a minimum of six hours per day. They can grow in Hardiness Zones 2 to 11, meaning they can thrive in every state listed. The only weather condition that isn't suitable is extreme wind. If they are exposed to high heat, make sure the soil stays well-watered, but is still well-drained. When planting, keep in mind that most sunflowers germinate when the soil has reached 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit.

As the third most popular flower on the list, residents from more than a few states are interested in how to grow and take care of hydrangeas. Hydrangeas thrive in USDA Hardiness Zones 3 through 9, covering all the states within this range. They can tolerate more sun in cooler climates, as long as they receive plenty of water, but in hotter areas, they generally grow best in partial shade. Panicle hydrangeas are particularly well-suited for colder regions, while bigleaf hydrangeas tend to thrive in warmer areas.

The second most popular flower is the Marigold, being a fan favorite in Colorado, Delaware, Kansas, Missouri, and Wisconsin. Marigolds love sun and heat, but they are still hardy enough to survive in climates as cold as Zone 2. However, they must be planted after all frost has melted, as any risk of frost can kill the plants. Soil temperatures should be above 65 degrees Fahrenheit, or the plants can be started indoors. They also need six hours of direct sunlight, which is especially vital in cooler climates.

The most popular flower on the list comes as no surprise. 10 states have highlighted the historic appeal of romantic roses. Zones 1, 2, and 3 are generally too cold for roses to thrive, but fortunately, most of the states on the list fall into moderate to warmer climates. In Zone 4, or locations that tend to get significantly colder in the wintertime, situating a rose bush along a south- or west-facing fence or wall can offer protection against frost damage. Zones 5 to 8 are ideal for roses to thrive, requiring minimal seasonal maintenance overall.