30 Types of Red Flowers and Their Meanings to Brighten Your Garden and Heart

Red flowers bring beauty and meaning to gardens and bouquets. They come in many types, from roses to dahlias to tulips. Each red flower has its own special look and symbolism.

Red flowers often represent love, passion, and energy. You might give red flowers to show strong feelings or make a bold statement. Learning about different red flowers can help you pick the right ones for your garden or gift. Let’s explore some popular red flowers and what they mean.

1. Roses

Red roses are the classic symbol of love and passion. You’ve probably seen them given on Valentine’s Day or anniversaries. These iconic flowers can express deep feelings without words.

But did you know red roses have other meanings too? They can show respect, courage, and admiration. Some people give them as a sign of congratulations or to say “job well done.”

Different shades of red roses carry subtle differences in meaning. Deep red roses might suggest a readiness for commitment. Brighter red roses often represent desire and excitement in a relationship.

2. Tulips

Red tulips are a classic symbol of perfect love and true affection. You’ll find these vibrant blooms often given on romantic occasions like Valentine’s Day.

Their bright red petals convey deep passion and strong feelings for someone special. When you give red tulips, you’re expressing your sincere love and admiration.

In flower language, red tulips mean “believe me” or “declaration of love.” They’re a bold way to show your feelings. If you want to make a romantic gesture, a bouquet of red tulips is sure to get the message across.

3. Poppies

Poppies are striking red flowers that catch your eye with their vibrant petals. You’ll often see them blooming in fields during late spring and early summer.

These flowers have deep symbolic meaning. They represent remembrance for soldiers who died in war. You might see people wearing artificial red poppies on Memorial Day to honor fallen veterans.

Poppies also symbolize sleep and peace in some cultures. This comes from their use in making opium, a powerful sedative.

In Greek mythology, poppies are linked to Demeter, the goddess of harvest. The story says she created poppies to help her sleep while searching for her lost daughter.

4. Camellias

Camellias are beautiful red flowers that can add elegance to your garden. These blooms have a rich history and deep meaning in various cultures.

In China, camellias symbolize love between two people. The petals represent the woman, while the green calyx represents the man. Both parts fall together when the flower withers.

Red camellias often stand for passion and desire. Their bold color can ignite strong emotions and make you feel a sense of longing.

You might choose to plant camellias in your garden to bring a touch of romance and beauty. Their striking appearance and symbolic meaning make them a popular choice for many flower lovers.

5. Geraniums

Red geraniums are a cheerful sight in window boxes and gardens. These bright blooms symbolize comfort and happiness. When you give someone red geraniums, you’re wishing them good feelings and positive emotions.

In flower language, red geraniums represent love and passion. They can make a thoughtful gift for a romantic partner or close friend. Some people see them as a sign of determination too.

Geraniums have been popular for centuries. Their vibrant red petals catch the eye and add a pop of color to any space. You’ll often see them decorating porches and patios in the summer months.

6. Carnations

Red carnations are a popular flower with deep meaning. They come from the Latin word for “flesh,” which may refer to their original color. These blooms symbolize love and affection.

You might give red carnations to show your deep love for someone special. They represent strong feelings and passion. In some cultures, they’re linked to socialism and workers’ rights.

Carnations come in different types, including dwarf, spray, and large-flowered varieties. The red ones stand out with their ruffled petals and rich hue. They’re often used in bouquets and decorations.

When you see red carnations, think of hearts full of love. They’re a great way to express your feelings on special occasions or just because.

7. Amaryllis

Amaryllis flowers are stunning with their large, trumpet-shaped blooms. You’ll often see them in bold red hues that catch the eye. These flowers can symbolize strength and determination in many cultures.

Red amaryllis also represents passion and love. You might give them as a gift to show deep affection for someone special. Their vibrant color makes them perfect for romantic gestures.

In Greek mythology, amaryllis flowers were linked to pride. Today, you can grow them indoors or in your garden for a splash of dramatic color. They bloom 6-10 weeks after planting, bringing beauty to your space.

8. Begonias

Begonias are a popular choice for adding vibrant red to your garden. These versatile flowers come in many shades of red, from deep crimson to bright scarlet.

You’ll love how begonias bloom continuously from spring through fall. They work well in containers, hanging baskets, or as border plants.

Red begonias symbolize passion and love. Their heart-shaped leaves add to this romantic association.

These flowers are easy to care for. You can grow them in partial shade or full sun, depending on the variety. Water them regularly and provide well-draining soil for best results.

With their showy blooms and lush foliage, red begonias will bring beauty and charm to any outdoor space.

9. Chrysanthemums

Red chrysanthemums are stunning flowers that can brighten up any garden or bouquet. These vibrant blooms symbolize love, passion, and deep emotions. When you give someone red chrysanthemums, you’re expressing intense feelings of affection.

In various cultures, these flowers hold special meanings. They represent the zest for life and the pursuit of happiness. You might see them used in celebrations or as decorations during joyful occasions.

Red chrysanthemums are also associated with trust and friendship. They make a thoughtful gift for someone you care about, whether it’s a romantic partner or a close friend. Their bold color and unique shape are sure to catch the eye and bring a smile to anyone’s face.

10. Peonies

Peonies are stunning red flowers that bring elegance to your garden. These blooms have deep symbolic meaning in various cultures.

In China, red peonies represent honor and wealth. You might see them used in celebrations and important events.

Victorian flower language links peonies to romance and compassion. They’re often given as 12th wedding anniversary gifts.

The red peony’s large, lush petals make it a showstopper in bouquets and landscaping. Its rich color symbolizes passion and love.

When you plant red peonies, you’re adding both beauty and meaning to your outdoor space. Their bold blooms are sure to catch everyone’s eye.

11. Zinnias

Red zinnias are vibrant flowers that can brighten up your garden. These cheerful blooms symbolize enduring love and deep affection. When you give someone red zinnias, you’re expressing your lasting devotion to them.

In flower language, red zinnias represent constancy. They show that your feelings are steady and unwavering. These flowers are perfect for celebrating long-term relationships or friendships.

Red zinnias also stand for passion and romance. Their bold color makes them a great alternative to roses for declaring your love. You can plant red zinnias in your garden to attract hummingbirds and butterflies too.

12. Dahlias

Red dahlias are stunning flowers that can add a bold pop of color to your garden. These eye-catching blooms come in many shades of red, from deep crimson to bright scarlet.

Dahlias symbolize strength and passion. When you give someone red dahlias, you’re expressing powerful emotions and admiration. They can represent inner strength and creativity too.

You’ll find red dahlias in various shapes and sizes. Some have large, showy blooms while others feature smaller, more delicate petals. Their versatility makes them great for bouquets or as statement plants in your flower beds.

Growing red dahlias can be rewarding. They bloom from midsummer to fall, giving you months of beautiful red flowers to enjoy.

13. Hibiscus

Hibiscus flowers can add a tropical flair to your garden. These showy blooms come in many shades of red, from bright scarlet to deep burgundy. You’ll love how their large, trumpet-shaped petals make a bold statement.

Red hibiscus symbolizes passion and love in many cultures. You might see them used in Hawaiian leis or as decorations for special occasions. Some varieties, like the ‘Burgundy Aquarius’, have red flowers and leaves for extra drama.

These eye-catching plants bloom for a long time, giving you plenty of color throughout the season. You can grow hibiscus in pots or in the ground, depending on your climate. With proper care, they’ll reward you with stunning red flowers year after year.

14. Gerberas

Gerberas are bright, cheerful flowers that bring a pop of color to any space. These daisy-like blooms come in many shades, including vibrant red.

Red gerberas symbolize love, passion, and energy. They make great gifts for your romantic partner or someone you admire.

You might choose red gerberas to express deep feelings or add warmth to your home. Their long-lasting blooms can brighten up a room for days.

Gerberas also represent innocence and purity. You can use them to celebrate new beginnings or show appreciation for someone’s positive spirit.

These flowers are easy to care for and work well in bouquets or potted plants. Add some red gerberas to your garden or indoor space for a cheerful touch.

15. Petunias

Red petunias are a vibrant choice for your garden. These flowers come in various shades, from deep burgundy to bright cherry red. You’ll find them easy to grow and maintain.

Petunias symbolize different things depending on their color. Red petunias often represent strong emotions like passion and desire. They can add a pop of color to your flower beds or hanging baskets.

Some popular red petunia varieties include Easy Wave Burgundy Velour and Neon Rose. These flowers attract pollinators to your garden and can withstand both heat and cold well.

When you plant red petunias, you’re adding beauty and meaning to your outdoor space. They’re a great way to express love or show your fiery side through flowers.

16. Snapdragons

Red snapdragons are eye-catching flowers with a unique shape. Their blooms resemble a dragon’s mouth that “snaps” open and closed. You might choose these flowers to add drama and height to your garden.

Red snapdragons symbolize strength and grace. They can represent new beginnings, making them popular in wedding bouquets. Their vivid color also conveys passion and love.

These flowers grow well in cooler weather. You can plant them in spring or fall for the best results. Snapdragons come in various heights, from dwarf varieties to tall stalks reaching up to 3 feet.

Remember to deadhead your snapdragons regularly. This will encourage more blooms throughout the growing season.

17. Marigolds

Marigolds come in vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. You’ll find these cheerful flowers blooming from spring through fall in many gardens.

Red marigolds symbolize love, joy, and good fortune. Their bright petals can add a pop of color to your flower beds or containers.

These easy-to-grow flowers are great for beginners. You can plant marigold seeds directly in your garden after the last frost. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil.

Marigolds have more than just looks. They help keep pests away from other plants in your garden. Their strong scent deters many insects that might damage your vegetables.

18. Gladiolus

Red gladiolus flowers are stunning additions to any garden. These tall, sword-like blooms stand out with their vibrant crimson hues. You’ll love how they add a bold splash of color to your flower beds or bouquets.

Gladiolus flowers symbolize strength and integrity. The red variety specifically represents passion and deep emotions. You might give these flowers to someone you admire or love intensely.

Gladiolus plants are fairly easy to grow. You can plant the corms in spring for summer blooms. They prefer full sun and well-draining soil. With proper care, you’ll enjoy their impressive spikes of red blossoms all season long.

19. Salvias

Salvias are vibrant red flowers that add a pop of color to your garden. These plants come in different varieties, each with its own unique charm.

Scarlet Sage is a popular type of red salvia. It has tall spikes covered in bright red blooms that attract hummingbirds and butterflies.

Mexican Sage is another eye-catching option. It features velvety red flowers that bloom from summer to fall.

Autumn Sage is a smaller variety that’s great for rock gardens. Its deep red flowers are a favorite among pollinators.

Pineapple Sage is known for its fruity scent. It produces tubular red flowers that are both beautiful and edible.

20. Lantanas

Lantanas are vibrant clusters of tiny flowers that can brighten up any garden. You’ll find these cheery blooms in shades of red, orange, yellow, and pink. Their color often changes as they age, creating a multicolored effect.

These flowers are tough and easy to grow. You can plant them in your garden or in pots on your patio. Lantanas love sunshine and can handle hot, dry conditions well.

Butterflies and hummingbirds adore lantanas. By adding these flowers to your yard, you’ll attract these beautiful visitors. In some cultures, lantanas are seen as lucky flowers that bring good fortune to your home.

21. Azaleas

Azaleas are stunning red flowers that can brighten up your garden. These shrubs produce vibrant blooms in various shades of red, from deep crimson to bright cherry.

You’ll find azaleas easy to grow and care for. They thrive in partial shade and acidic soil. With proper care, these plants will reward you with beautiful flowers year after year.

In flower language, red azaleas symbolize passion and romance. They’re perfect for expressing your love to someone special. You can also use them to add a pop of color to your landscape or create a eye-catching centerpiece.

22. Cyclamens

Cyclamens are charming flowers that bloom in shades of pink, red, and white. You’ll love their unique upswept petals that resemble butterfly wings. These pretty plants often flower in winter, bringing color to your garden when other blooms have faded.

Red cyclamens symbolize deep affection and passion. They’re a great gift to show your love for someone special. In some traditions, cyclamens represent lasting devotion and hope for the future.

These flowers are also linked to resilience. Despite their delicate appearance, cyclamens are tough plants that can withstand harsh conditions. You might see them as a reminder to stay strong during difficult times.

23. Lilies

Red lilies are stunning flowers that can add a bold splash of color to your garden. These eye-catching blooms come in various shades from deep crimson to bright scarlet. Many red lily varieties have large, trumpet-shaped flowers that face upwards.

Lilies symbolize fertility, purity, and remembrance. They’re often included in memorial arrangements and represent the circle of life. Red lilies specifically can convey passion and love.

You can find different types of red lilies, including Oriental and Martagon varieties. Oriental lilies are known for their exquisite beauty and intense fragrance. Martagon lilies have unique, turk’s cap-shaped flowers that add interest to any garden.

When planting red lilies, choose a spot with full sun. Protect young plants from deer, as they enjoy snacking on these tasty flowers.

24. Impatience

Impatiens are vibrant flowers that add a pop of color to shady spots in your garden. Despite their name meaning “impatient,” these blooms symbolize patience and perseverance.

You’ll find impatiens in various shades of red, from bright crimson to deep maroon. Their delicate petals and lush foliage make them a favorite for hanging baskets and borders.

These flowers thrive in partial to full shade, making them perfect for areas where other plants struggle. You can easily grow impatiens as annuals in most parts of the United States.

With their cheerful appearance, impatiens remind you to appreciate life’s simple joys and stay hopeful during tough times.

25. Cosmos

Red cosmos flowers are a striking addition to any garden. These vibrant blooms symbolize love and passion. You might use them to express deep affection for someone special in your life.

In Victorian times, people sent red cosmos to secret admirers. Today, they still represent romantic love. Artists often use these flowers in their work to show the energy of life and nature’s beauty.

Cosmos flowers also carry meanings of balance and harmony. Their evenly placed petals inspired Spanish priests to name them after the Greek word for order. When you see red cosmos, think of love and the beauty of a well-ordered universe.

26. Begonia

Begonias are a beloved flower known for their vibrant red blooms. You’ll find these beauties in gardens and window boxes around the world. Their delicate petals and lush foliage make them a standout choice for adding color to any space.

Red begonias symbolize passion and love in the language of flowers. You can give them to express deep feelings for someone special. These flowers also represent strong communication and connection.

Begonias come in many varieties, from wax begonias to tuberous types. You’ll love how easy they are to grow, whether in pots or garden beds. Their cheerful red blooms can brighten up shady spots in your yard.

27. Zinnia

Red zinnias are vibrant, cheerful flowers that can brighten up any garden. These blooms symbolize enduring love and affection. You might give red zinnias to show your lasting feelings for someone special.

Zinnias are tough plants that can withstand harsh conditions. This resilience gives them a meaning of strength and perseverance. When you see red zinnias, think about overcoming challenges in your own life.

In some cultures, zinnias represent fond memories of absent friends. You could plant these flowers to remember loved ones who are far away. Their bold red color also stands for passion and excitement in new beginnings.

28. Aster

Red asters are beautiful flowers that can brighten up any garden. These daisy-like blooms have vibrant red petals surrounding a yellow center. They’re easy to grow and can thrive in many different environments.

Asters symbolize love, wisdom, and faith. In ancient times, people thought they had magical powers to ward off evil spirits. Today, they’re often given as gifts to show affection or remembrance.

You might be surprised to learn that asters have practical uses too. Their petals can make natural red or purple dyes. Some folks even use asters in traditional medicine for headaches and fever.

These flowers are great for attracting bees and butterflies to your garden. If you plant red asters, you’ll enjoy their cheerful blooms and help local pollinators too.

29. Foxglove

Foxgloves are tall, elegant flowers with bell-shaped blooms. They come in shades of pink, purple, and white, but red varieties also exist. These stunning flowers can add a touch of drama to your garden.

Foxgloves have a rich history in folklore and medicine. They’re known for their healing properties when used correctly. But be careful – they can be dangerous if mishandled.

In flower language, foxgloves represent creativity and confidence. They symbolize pride in your abilities and bravery in pursuing your goals. When you see these flowers, let them inspire you to chase your dreams.

Foxgloves also bring a sense of childlike wonder to your garden. Their tall spires covered in delicate blooms can transport you to a magical forest setting.

30. Sweet Pea

Sweet peas come in many colors, including beautiful shades of red. These fragrant flowers have a delightful scent that can brighten any garden or bouquet.

Red sweet peas symbolize passion and love. You can give them to someone special to express your deep feelings. They’re perfect for romantic gestures or to show affection to a loved one.

Sweet peas are also linked to pleasure and joy. Adding them to your garden can bring a sense of happiness and celebration. Their cheerful blooms and lovely fragrance are sure to lift your spirits.

In flower language, sweet peas can mean “thank you” or “goodbye.” You might choose them as a thoughtful gift to show gratitude or bid farewell to a friend.