Flowers

Meet the Most Popular British Flowers

There are millions of different colors, variants, and shapes of British flowers to be found…some of which you’ve probably never heard of!

Of those we are familiar with, certain species have remained favorites among florists, horticulturists, and botanists for centuries.

Here, we’ve listed Britain’s top ten most popular flowers.

10 Most Popular British Flowers

The Rose

Roses have been a favorite British flower for many years.

Yet despite this, they’ve only just regained their top status.

Originally from China, they are now cultivated everywhere from Eastern Europe to America, Africa, and the Far East.

They’re also obtainable in almost every hue imaginable, except blue and black. To add to their likability, they’re available all year round.

Two Dozen Red Roses Bouquet

Two Dozen Red Roses Bouquet

The Lily

First discovered in the Chinese Middle Ages, lilies have long been a symbol of purity.

There are three types of Lily to choose from: red, yellow, and purple. Certain types of Lily are scent-free, whilst others are highly perfumed.

To date, they have been cultivated for over 3,000 years. Asides from their beauty, lilies were once used in medicine – many believe their anti-toxic powers have the ability to cure an array of ailments.

Aztec Sun Bouquet

Aztec Sun

The Tulip

The Tulip is another popular British flower species that are available in almost every color imaginable.

Native to the Middle East, they bloom from January to April in the UK. Their name derives from the Turkish word for turban, due to the Tulip’s rounded form.

Although they’re readily available today, in the Middle Ages, one single bulb could have seen you out of pocket by four million pounds.

Little Star Bouquet

Little Star - Tulips

The Freesia

Amongst one of the most celebrated cut British flowers on the planet, many enjoy Freesia’s natural beauty.

Named after the German Physician Dr. Friedrich Heinrich, they first arrived in Europe at the end of the 19th century.

Today, more than 110 million stems are sold annually.

Twilight Bouquet with Roses and Freesias

Twilight

Gerbera

Despite originating from South Africa, this is another flower named after a German doctor, who went by the name of Traugott Gerber.

Gerberas are available in a wide array of beautiful colors and therefore, they’re often used in bouquets and centerpieces.

They’re also in season all year round, which makes them even easier to get a hold of.

Pink Pearls Bouquet with Gerberas and Roses

Pink Pearls - Gerberas

Sweet Pea

This pretty bloom is native to Italy and its botanical name (Lathyrus Odoratus) translates to ‘scented’.

Available from March to November, you can purchase this species in an assortment of shades, including pinks, creams, purples, and salmon hues.

Breeders are currently undergoing the process of developing a fragranced yellow sweet pea.

Orchid

Although a number of orchid species are native to both semi-tropical and tropical climates, including Central America, South America, and Asia, certain species are native to the UK.

They’re available in almost every colour possible, asides from blue. You’ll even find green and almost black variants in existence today.

As the largest plant family in continuation, with over 25,000 natural species to choose from (including some individually developed hybrids) when it comes to picking an orchid, you’re spoilt for choice!

Carnation

Available in every colour but blue, the carnation makes for a pretty addition to both the garden and the home.

There are two types of carnation to choose from: a standard carnation, which boasts one ample-sized flower per stem, or a spray carnation, which comprises lots of smaller flowers.

They’re available all year round, which only adds to their popularity.

Scarlet Pimpernel Bouquet with Carnations, Lilies, and Roses

Scarlet Pimpernel - Carnations

Sunflower

Native to South and West America, the Sunflower is now extremely popular in the UK.

You’ll likely remember hosting competitions at school to see who could grow the tallest sunflower.

The majority of sunflowers are vivid yellow with dark centers, whilst certain species are orange, maroon, and even striped. Asides from the traditional sunflower, a low-pollen version is now readily available – an ideal option for those who suffer from asthma. The sunflower is not only admired for its appearance though, as one mature sunflower can produce 40% of its weight in oil.

In the past, sunflower stems have been used for many things, including lifejackets. The stems were once used to fill the inner part of the jacket, prior to the invention of modern-day materials.

Sunflowers – Amber Vixen Bouquet

Anber Vixen - Sunflowers

Anemone

This flower’s name derives from the Greek word for ‘wind’. It’s available in a variety of hues, including hot shades of pink and purple, deep shades of red, and an all-white hue.

Native to the Eastern Mediterranean and Asia, anemones are now grown across Europe. Asides from traditional anemones, oversized versions are now in existence.

These are the perfect choice for those who wish to display them in their home in single vases. This particular species is available from September to May.

If you’re considering which popular flowers to choose, be sure to opt for ones that are in season as they’ll be more readily available.

Lily Calyx is our in-house flower whisperer, an expert on all things botanical and an enthusiastic orchids collector. She loves discussing the insights of the secret world of flowers, shares her gardening tips and hacks and moons over the latest additions to Serenata Flowers flower range. Ask Lily anything about flowers and we can guarantee she will have the answer.

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