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28 Plants With Red Flowers That Will Ignite Your Garden!

Selina Haverford
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There’s something undeniably captivating about plants with red flowers. They add a fiery burst of color to any garden, making it feel alive and vibrant!

I’ve gathered a fabulous list of 28 stunning plants that will ignite your garden and leave everyone in awe. From bold blooms to delicate petals, let’s dive into this fiery floral adventure!

1. Rose

Roses are classic beauties in the garden and come in an array of colors, with red being the most iconic. Their elegant blooms and delightful fragrance make them a favorite among gardeners of all levels. Red roses often symbolize love and passion, adding a romantic touch to any space.

Plus, they’re pretty versatile—whether you’re planting them in a garden bed or growing them in pots, they shine wherever they go!

These flowers typically bloom in late spring to early summer, but some varieties can give you blooms into the fall. Just remember, they love sunlight and well-drained soil, so choose your spot wisely!

  • ’Red Eden’: A climbing rose with lush, deep red blooms that are perfect for trellises.
  • ’Double Delight’: This hybrid tea rose has a sweet fragrance and striking red and white petals.
  • ’Mr. Lincoln’: A classic dark red rose known for its rich scent and long-stemmed beauty.

2. Poppy

Poppies are cheerful little flowers that can really brighten up your garden with their bold red petals. They have a unique, delicate appearance that seems to dance in the wind. Poppies are often associated with remembrance, especially the red ones which symbolize veterans and their sacrifices.

These beauties can be annual or perennial, depending on the variety. They thrive in full sun and can tolerate poor soil, making them a pretty low-maintenance option for any gardener. Just keep an eye on them—poppies can spread, so you might have more than you bargained for!

  • California Poppy: Known for its vibrant orange-red flowers, this annual is a true native beauty.
  • Oriental Poppy: With large, crinkly petals, this perennial is a showstopper in any garden.
  • Iceland Poppy: A unique choice with delicate blooms that can range from bright red to softer hues.

3. Hibiscus

Hibiscus flowers are like tropical sunshine in your garden! With their large, showy blooms, red hibiscus adds a touch of exotic flair. They thrive in warm climates and love full sun, making them perfect for summer gardens. Not only are they stunning, but they also attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, which is a bonus for any garden.

These plants can be grown as shrubs or even small trees, depending on the variety. They bloom from late spring to fall, so you’ll have their vibrant colors for quite a while!

  • Hibiscus rosa-sinensis: A classic tropical hibiscus with large, vibrant red flowers.
  • Rose of Sharon: This hardy shrub produces beautiful red flowers and can grow quite tall.
  • Hibiscus moscheutos: Sometimes called swamp mallow, known for its giant blooms and resilience in wet areas.

4. Geranium

Geraniums are a gardener’s best friend! These hardy plants are perfect for adding a pop of color in pots or garden beds. They’re known for their bright red flowers and lush green foliage. Geraniums are very forgiving and can thrive in various conditions, making them ideal for beginners.

They bloom from spring through summer, and with a little deadheading, you can keep those flowers coming! Plus, they’re great for attracting pollinators, so you’ll see lots of bees buzzing around them.

  • Geranium ‘Rozanne’: This hardy geranium offers a stunning display of reddish-purple flowers throughout the summer.
  • Geranium ‘Brookside’: Known for its vibrant red flowers and compact growth habit, perfect for borders.
  • Geranium ‘Biokovo’: A low-growing variety with pinkish-red flowers and fantastic foliage.

5. Amaranth

Amaranth is a unique addition to the garden with its striking red flowers and nutty seeds! These plants are not only beautiful but also edible, giving you double the value. The flowers can be used in arrangements, while the seeds can be harvested for a nutritious grain.

Amaranth is a heat-loving plant, thriving in full sun and well-drained soil. They can grow quite tall, making a bold statement in any garden. Plus, they’re drought-tolerant once established, which is a huge plus for those dry spells!

  • Amaranthus caudatus: Known as love-lies-bleeding for its long, drooping flower clusters.
  • Amaranthus tricolor: Also called Joseph’s coat, this variety boasts vibrant red, green, and yellow foliage.
  • Amaranthus cruentus: Often grown for its edible seeds, this variety also produces stunning red flowers.

6. Zinnia

Zinnias are such cheerful flowers! They come in various colors, but the red ones really stand out in the garden. With their daisy-like blooms, they’re perfect for adding a splash of color and attracting butterflies. Zinnias are super easy to grow from seeds, making them a favorite for many gardeners.

These flowers love full sun and are quite heat-resistant, blooming all summer long if you keep them deadheaded. They also make fantastic cut flowers, so you can bring a bit of your garden inside!

  • Zinnia elegans ‘State Fair’: A tall variety with enormous blooms in bold red shades.
  • Zinnia ‘Benary’s Giant’: Known for its huge, vibrant flowers and long-lasting blooms.
  • Zinnia ‘Profusion’: This compact variety produces lots of bright red flowers and is great for borders or containers.

7. Carnation

Carnations are beloved for their ruffled blooms and spicy fragrance. The red varieties are particularly popular for bouquets and arrangements, often symbolizing love and admiration. These flowers are incredibly versatile, thriving in gardens and as potted plants alike.

Carnations bloom from late spring to fall, and with a little care, they will reward you with plenty of stunning flowers. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun but can tolerate some shade too.

  • ’Red Sim’: A classic red carnation with a lovely fragrance, perfect for cutting.
  • ’Chabaud’: Known for its large, double blooms and rich red color, this variety is a showstopper.
  • ’Dianthus caryophyllus’: A traditional variety with a long blooming season and sweet scent.

8. Begonia

Begonias are a fantastic choice for anyone looking to brighten up their garden or patio. With their glossy leaves and charming red flowers, they add a touch of elegance. These beauties thrive in partial shade, making them perfect for those spots that don’t get full sun.

Begonias bloom from spring through fall, and they come in various types—some are even great for hanging baskets! Just remember to keep them well-watered but not soggy, and you’ll be rewarded with their stunning blooms.

  • Begonia ‘Nonstop Red’: This variety offers continuous blooms, making it a favorite for containers.
  • Begonia ‘Dragon Wing’: Known for its unique wing-shaped leaves and abundant red flowers.
  • Begonia ‘Wax’: A sturdy variety with glossy leaves and vibrant red blooms, perfect for indoor gardening.

9. Petunia

Petunias are a classic garden staple, and their red varieties can really light up your space! These cheerful flowers are known for their trumpet-shaped blooms and come in a wide range of colors. They’re perfect for hanging baskets, garden beds, or just about anywhere you want a splash of color.

Petunias bloom from spring to frost and love full sun. They can be a bit thirsty, so keep an eye on them during hot spells. With a little deadheading, you can keep those blooms coming all season long!

  • Petunia ‘Wave Red’: A trailing variety that spills beautifully over the edges of containers.
  • Petunia ‘Supertunia’: Known for its vigorous growth and vibrant red flowers that last all summer.
  • Petunia ‘Celebrity Red’: A compact variety with bright red blooms and excellent disease resistance.

10. Salvia

Salvia is a fantastic plant that brings vibrant red flowers and aromatic leaves to your garden. They’re known for attracting pollinators, especially hummingbirds, making them a must-have for any wildlife-friendly garden. Salvia blooms from late spring through fall, so you’ll enjoy their beauty for months on end!

These plants prefer well-drained soil and full sun but can tolerate some light shade. They’re also drought-tolerant once established, making them a great choice for low-maintenance gardeners.

  • Salvia splendens: Known as flaming sage, this variety boasts bright red flowers and sturdy growth.
  • Salvia nemorosa ‘Caradonna’: A perennial salvia with beautiful dark purple stems and red flowers.
  • Salvia microphylla ‘Hot Lips’: This variety features red and white blooms and is perfect for warmer climates.

11. Dahlia

Dahlias are stunning plants that can bring a burst of color to your garden with their bushy growth and impressive flowers. The red varieties, in particular, are show-stoppers! They come in various shapes and sizes, making them perfect for creating a vibrant and diverse garden display.

Dahlias bloom from mid-summer to fall, and they thrive in well-drained soil and full sun. These beauties love a bit of pampering, so be sure to stake them if they get too tall!

  • Dahlia ‘Bishop of Llandaff’: A striking variety with dark foliage and vivid red flowers.
  • Dahlia ‘Thomas Edison’: Known for its large, deep red blooms and impressive height.
  • Dahlia ‘Sunny Boy’: A cheerful, bright red dahlia that’s great for cutting and arrangements.

12. Snapdragon

Snapdragons are delightful flowers that bring a playful touch to any garden with their unique blooms. The red varieties are particularly charming and can add a striking contrast against green foliage. These flowers bloom from spring to fall, providing a long season of color.

Snapdragons thrive in cooler weather, making them perfect for spring gardens. They love full sun and well-drained soil, but they can handle a little shade too if needed.

  • Snapdragon ‘Rocket’: A tall variety with strong stems and vibrant red blooms, perfect for borders.
  • Snapdragon ‘Madame Butterfly’: Known for its unique, frilled blooms in deep red shades.
  • Snapdragon ‘Antirrhinum majus’: A classic variety that offers stunning red flowers in a range of heights.

13. Celosia

Celosia, also known as cockscomb, is a unique and eye-catching plant that adds an interesting texture to your garden. The red varieties are especially stunning, with their fluffy, plume-like flowers standing out beautifully. Celosia is a heat-loving plant that thrives in sunny spots, making it perfect for summer gardens.

These flowers bloom from summer to fall, and they attract butterflies, which is always a win! Celosia is pretty forgiving, as it can tolerate various soil types, making it a great choice for beginners.

  • Celosia argentea ‘Cristata’: Known for its unique, brain-like flowers in vibrant red.
  • Celosia spicata: A tall variety with feathery red plumes that look fantastic in arrangements.
  • Celosia ‘Flamingo’: This variety boasts fluffy, bright red flowers and is perfect for borders.

14. Red Hot Poker

Red Hot Poker is a unique plant known for its dramatic, torch-like flower spikes. With bright red and orange flowers, it’s a showstopper in any garden! These plants are drought-tolerant once established, making them great for sunny, dry spots.

They bloom in late spring to summer and love full sun. Red Hot Poker is a magnet for hummingbirds, making it a fun choice for wildlife gardens. Just make sure to give them some space, as they can spread out a bit!

  • Kniphofia uvaria: The classic variety known for its vibrant red and yellow spikes.
  • Kniphofia ‘Flamenco’: This variety features shorter, more compact spikes and a mix of red and orange flowers.
  • Kniphofia ‘Alcazar’: Known for its tall, stunning red and yellow blooms that can reach impressive heights.

15. Azalea

Azaleas are popular shrubs that add a beautiful pop of color to gardens, especially in spring when they bloom. The red varieties are particularly striking, creating a vibrant display that can light up any landscape. They thrive in partial shade and prefer acidic soil, making them perfect for woodland gardens.

These plants can be quite hardy, surviving in various climates. With a little care, you’ll enjoy their beautiful blooms year after year!

  • ‘Red Ruffles’: Known for its frilly, bright red flowers that bloom abundantly in spring.
  • ‘G.G. Gerbing’: A compact variety with deep red flowers and a low-growing habit.
  • ‘Southern Charm’: This variety offers stunning, bright red blooms and is great for southern gardens.

16. Bougainvillea

Bougainvillea is a showy plant that brings a tropical vibe to any garden with its vibrant bracts, which can be red, purple, or pink. These plants are often seen climbing walls and fences, creating a stunning display of color. Bougainvillea loves full sun and is quite drought-tolerant, making it an excellent option for warmer climates.

They bloom year-round in ideal conditions, so you can enjoy their beauty practically all the time. Just be mindful of their thorns if you’re planting them close to pathways!

  • Bougainvillea ‘San Diego Red’: Known for its bright, deep red bracts that bloom profusely.
  • Bougainvillea ‘Pink Pixie’: A smaller variety that still packs a punch with its vibrant colors.
  • Bougainvillea ‘Royal Purple’: This variety features stunning purple bracts, adding a unique twist to the red hues.

17. Tulip

Tulips are a classic spring flower, and the red varieties are iconic for their elegant, cup-shaped blooms. They’re often one of the first flowers to bloom in the spring, bringing a sense of joy after a long winter. Tulips come in many colors, but red tulips are especially popular for their symbolism of love and beauty.

They thrive in well-drained soil and full sun, making them perfect for flower beds or pots. With a little care, you can enjoy their beauty year after year!

  • ‘Red Emperor’: A classic variety with large, bright red flowers that stand out beautifully.
  • ‘Queen of Night’: A deep, dark red tulip that adds elegance to any garden.
  • ‘Apeldoorn’: Known for its bold red blooms and sturdy stems, perfect for cutting.

18. Anemone

Anemones are delicate beauties that can add a soft touch to your garden. The red varieties are particularly lovely, with their charming, cup-shaped blooms. Anemones thrive in partial shade and well-drained soil, making them perfect for woodland gardens.

They bloom in spring and fall, bringing color to your garden during those transitional seasons. Anemones also make excellent cut flowers, brightening up any indoor space!

  • Anemone coronaria: Known for its vibrant red blooms and eye-catching centers, perfect for borders.
  • Anemone hupehensis ‘September Charm’: This variety offers lovely pinkish-red flowers that bloom in late summer.
  • Anemone ‘De Caen’: A classic variety that produces large, brilliant red flowers in spring.

19. Indian Paintbrush

Indian Paintbrush is a stunning wildflower that brings a splash of red to meadows and gardens. Known for its vibrant, brush-like blooms, it’s a favorite among gardeners who love native plants. This plant loves full sun and well-drained soil, making it a great option for a sunny spot in your garden.

These flowers typically bloom in late spring to early summer, and they attract bees and butterflies, adding life to your garden!

  • Castilleja linariifolia: Known for its striking red and orange blooms, often seen in wildflower mixes.
  • Castilleja miniata: A shorter variety that produces eye-catching red flowers, great for borders.
  • Castilleja sessiliflora: This species features bright red blooms and is well-suited for prairie gardens.

20. Cardinal Flower

Cardinal Flowers are known for their striking red spikes that attract hummingbirds and butterflies. These beauties love wet, moist areas and can often be found near streams or in rain gardens. They add a beautiful vertical element to your garden with their tall blooms and lush green foliage.

These plants bloom in mid to late summer, so you’ll enjoy their vibrant color when many other flowers are starting to fade. They prefer partial shade and consistently moist soil to thrive.

  • Lobelia cardinalis: The classic species known for its tall, vibrant red flower spikes.
  • ‘Queen Victoria’: This variety has a compact form and darker foliage, adding contrast to the bright blooms.
  • ‘Starry Eyes’: A delightful option with unique, bi-colored flowers that include red and pink.

21. Red Clover

Red Clover is a lovely perennial that not only adds beauty to your garden but is also beneficial for the soil. Known for its round red flower heads, it attracts pollinators and is often used in wildflower mixes. Red Clover thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it easy to grow.

These plants bloom in late spring to early summer, providing a burst of color and a source of nectar for bees and butterflies. Plus, they’re great for improving soil health by fixing nitrogen!

  • Trifolium pratense: The classic red clover known for its vibrant flower heads and usability as a cover crop.
  • ‘Medium Red Clover’: A variety commonly used for forage and cover cropping, featuring attractive blooms.
  • ‘Nitro’: A hybrid variety that offers exceptional growth and productivity.

22. Flaming Katy

Flaming Katy, or Kalanchoe, is a charming succulent that can bring a splash of color to your indoor or outdoor spaces with its vibrant red flowers. These plants are low-maintenance and thrive in bright, indirect sunlight. They bloom in the winter and early spring, adding a lovely touch during the colder months.

These plants prefer well-draining soil and can tolerate short dry spells, making them perfect for beginner gardeners. When they bloom, they create a stunning display that can brighten up any room!

  • Kalanchoe blossfeldiana: The classic variety known for its clusters of bright red flowers.
  • Kalanchoe ‘Calandiva’: A double-flowered variety that offers lush blooms in various colors, including red.
  • Kalanchoe ‘Mother of Thousands’: Known for its unique foliage and charming red flowers that attract attention.

23. Red Lily

Red Lilies, particularly the Asiatic and Oriental hybrids, are stunning plants that make a bold statement in any garden. Known for their large, vibrant blooms, these flowers are a favorite for cutting gardens. Lilies thrive in well-drained soil and full sun, making them perfect for sunny spots.

They bloom in mid to late summer, adding a burst of color when many other plants are winding down. With proper care, they can return year after year, delighting you with their beauty!

  • Lilium ‘Stargazer’: A popular variety with striking red blooms and a lovely fragrance.
  • Lilium ‘Red Velvet’: Known for its rich, dark red flowers that stand tall and proud.
  • Lilium ‘Black Beauty’: Features deep red petals with a unique, striking appearance.

24. Kalanchoe

Kalanchoe, often called Flaming Katy, is a delightful succulent that produces clusters of vibrant red flowers. These plants are perfect for adding color to your indoor space and are low-maintenance, making them ideal for busy gardeners. They bloom primarily in the winter and early spring, providing a cheerful sight during the colder months.

Kalanchoes thrive in bright, indirect sunlight and well-draining soil. They’re drought-tolerant, so just be careful not to overwater them!

  • Kalanchoe blossfeldiana: The classic variety known for its clusters of bright red blooms.
  • Kalanchoe ‘Calandiva’: A double-flowered variety that features gorgeous red blooms with lush petals.
  • Kalanchoe ‘Mother of Thousands’: Known for its unique foliage and charming red flowers that attract attention.

25. Chrysanthemum

Chrysanthemums, or mums, are popular fall flowers that add a vibrant touch to gardens. The red varieties are especially stunning and can brighten up any landscape as they bloom in late summer to fall. These hardy plants thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, making them perfect for sunny spots.

Mums are great for attracting pollinators and are often used in fall arrangements and decorations. With proper care, they can return each year, making them a staple in many gardens!

  • ‘Mum’s the Word’: Known for its deep red blooms and compact growth, perfect for containers.
  • ‘Red Daisy’: A classic variety that features bright red blooms and a cheerful presence in any garden.
  • ‘Firecracker’: This variety offers vibrant red petals with a unique shape, adding interest to fall gardens.

26. Firecracker Plant

The Firecracker Plant, or Russelia equisetiformis, is a unique, trailing plant that produces eye-catching red tubular flowers. These plants are perfect for hanging baskets or cascading over walls, creating a stunning display. They thrive in full sun and are quite drought-tolerant once established, making them a great choice for low-maintenance gardens.

Blooming from spring through fall, the Firecracker Plant attracts hummingbirds and butterflies, making your garden come alive with movement!

  • Russelia equisetiformis ‘Red’: The classic variety known for its abundant red flowers and trailing habit.
  • Russelia ‘Yellow’: A version that offers cheerful yellow flowers, providing contrast in your garden.
  • Russelia ‘Silver Falls’: A unique variety with silver foliage and red blooms, perfect for adding interest.

27. Red Verbena

Red Verbena is a fantastic plant for adding a burst of color to your garden! Known for its clusters of small flowers, red verbena is perfect for borders, hanging baskets, or ground cover. These plants are heat-tolerant and thrive in full sun, making them ideal for summer gardens.

They bloom continuously from spring through fall, creating a vibrant display that will attract butterflies and pollinators to your garden. Plus, they’re quite low-maintenance, making them great for busy gardeners!

  • Verbena bonariensis: A tall variety that offers clusters of red flowers, perfect for adding height to your garden.
  • Verbena ‘Superbena’: This variety features large clusters of bright red flowers that are great for containers.
  • Verbena ‘Lollipop’: A compact variety with vibrant red blooms, perfect for small gardens or pots.

28. Scarlet Sage

Scarlet Sage, or Salvia coccinea, is a stunning plant that adds a vibrant touch to any garden with its bright red flowers. These plants are particularly attractive to hummingbirds, making them a great addition to wildlife gardens. Scarlet Sage thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it fairly easy to care for.

Blooming from late spring through fall, scarlet sage is a fantastic choice for attracting pollinators while adding color to your garden. They can also tolerate some drought once established, making them a low-maintenance option!

  • Salvia coccinea ‘Lady in Red’: Known for its compact growth and bright red blooms.
  • Salvia coccinea ‘Coral Nymph’: This variety features lovely coral-red flowers, adding a unique twist.
  • Salvia ‘Red Blooming Sage’: A classic variety known for its vibrant red flowers and ability to attract hummingbirds.

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