10 Flowers That Bloom in December
It’s already winter in December, and although it’s a season when many plants enter dormancy, there are still some resilient flowers that bloom vibrantly despite the cold. Some well-known flowers…
Every July, the weather tends to be quite hot, but there are plants that thrive in the sun and can withstand the heat, blooming abundantly during this month.
In the following, I’d like to share with you twelve kinds of flowers that bloom in July, including lotus, lily, carnation, jasmine, cereus, water lily, oleander, morning glory, pansy, gardenia, cockscomb, and frangipani.
These flowers all have their peak blossoming period in July. Let’s delve into understanding them better:
The lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) is an iconic aquatic perennial that blooms magnificently in July, captivating observers with its elegant flowers. These blossoms, which can reach up to 25 cm in diameter, typically emerge from June to September, showcasing a palette of colors including pink, white, red, and occasionally purple. Each flower, borne on a long stalk rising well above the water’s surface, opens in the morning and closes at night for three consecutive days.
Revered for millennia, the lotus holds a special place in Asian culture, symbolizing purity, enlightenment, and rebirth. Its ability to rise from murky waters and unfurl immaculate petals has inspired countless poets, artists, and philosophers, earning it the poetic description of “emerging from the mud unsoiled and unwithered.”
The lotus’s versatility extends far beyond its aesthetic appeal. Every part of the plant serves a purpose:
Originating from tropical and temperate regions of Asia, lotus cultivation in China dates back to the Zhou Dynasty (1046-256 BCE). Its cultural significance is evident in its status as the national flower of India, Vietnam, and Malawi, as well as the city flower of seven Chinese municipalities.
Horticulturally, the lotus is classified into two main groups:
Cultivating lotus requires specific conditions:
In May 1985, the lotus was officially recognized as one of China’s top ten famous flowers, cementing its status in Chinese horticulture and culture. This recognition highlights not only its beauty but also its deep-rooted significance in Asian heritage and its valuable contributions to cuisine, medicine, and art.
The lily, a quintessential summer flower, graces gardens with its elegant blooms from June to July. Scientifically known as Lilium, this perennial herbaceous bulbous plant belongs to the Liliaceae family. Its stunning flowers and cultural significance make it a cornerstone of July’s floral displays.
Native to China, lilies have spread across the temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, thriving in diverse habitats from Eastern Asia to Europe and North America. The genus Lilium boasts an impressive biodiversity, with at least 120 species identified globally. China alone is home to 55 species, highlighting its role as a center of lily diversity.
Lilies are prized not only for their ornamental value but also for their versatility in culinary and medicinal applications. The fresh flowers contain aromatic compounds, primarily linalool and linalyl acetate, making them suitable as a delicate spice or flavoring agent in certain cuisines.
The bulb, the plant’s underground storage organ, is particularly noteworthy. Rich in starch, vitamins, and minerals, lily bulbs have been a valued food source in various cultures. In Chinese cuisine, for instance, they’re often used in soups and stir-fries, valued for their subtle flavor and crisp texture.
In traditional medicine, particularly in Eastern practices, lily bulbs have been employed for centuries. They are believed to have expectorant properties and are used to soothe coughs and reduce inflammation. Some studies suggest potential benefits for respiratory health and stress reduction, though more research is needed to confirm these effects.
Horticulturally, lilies offer gardeners a wide range of colors, forms, and sizes. From the trumpet-shaped flowers of Lilium longiflorum to the recurved petals of Lilium lancifolium, there’s a lily variety to suit every garden aesthetic. Their ability to thrive in both containers and open gardens, coupled with their relatively low maintenance requirements, makes them a favorite among both novice and experienced gardeners.
As we celebrate the beauty of July’s blooms, the lily stands out as a flower that combines aesthetic appeal with practical uses, embodying the diverse gifts that nature provides through its floral offerings.
Carnations, scientifically known as Dianthus caryophyllus, are herbaceous perennials belonging to the family Caryophyllaceae. These popular flowers, which bloom prominently in July, are prized for their long-lasting blooms and spicy fragrance. Typically growing to a height of 60-75 cm, carnations feature a woody base and slender, glaucous green leaves.
The flowering period of carnations extends from late spring through summer, generally from May to August, depending on the variety and growing conditions. Each stem usually bears a single flower, although some cultivars produce multiple blooms in a corymb-like arrangement. The flowers are characterized by their distinctive shape: a hemispherical crown atop an elongated, tubular calyx. Before opening, the buds resemble small acorns in shape.
Carnation flowers are notable for their intricately fringed petals, which are fan-shaped and often ruffled or serrated along the edges. This unique petal structure contributes to their fullness and visual appeal. The color palette of carnations is remarkably diverse, ranging from deep reds and vibrant pinks to soft yellows, pure whites, and variegated patterns. Some varieties even display bi-color or picotee effects, with contrasting borders around the petal edges.
Native to the Mediterranean region, carnations have been cultivated for over 2,000 years and have spread globally due to their versatility and charm. They are now one of the most widely grown flowers worldwide, valued not only for their ornamental qualities but also for their importance in the cut flower industry. Their ability to remain fresh for an extended period after cutting makes them a favorite for floral arrangements and bouquets.
The cultural significance of carnations is noteworthy, particularly in relation to Mother’s Day. Since 1907, when Anna Jarvis chose a pink carnation as the emblem of the holiday she founded, these flowers have symbolized maternal love and appreciation. This tradition has led to carnations, especially pink ones, becoming a popular gift choice for mothers on this special day.
In the language of flowers, carnations carry various meanings depending on their color. Red carnations often symbolize deep love and admiration, while white ones represent pure love and good luck. Pink carnations, beyond their association with Mother’s Day, are generally seen as a symbol of gratitude and affection.
Cultivation of carnations requires well-drained, slightly alkaline soil and full sun exposure. They benefit from regular deadheading to promote continuous blooming throughout the season. With proper care, including adequate watering and occasional feeding with a balanced fertilizer, carnations can provide a stunning display of color and fragrance in gardens or as potted plants.
Among the flowers that bloom in July, jasmine stands out with its flowering period extending from May to August, followed by a fruiting period from July to September. Jasmine (Jasminum spp.) is a versatile shrub belonging to the Oleaceae family, characterized by its upright or climbing growth habit. Depending on the species and growing conditions, jasmine plants can reach heights of up to 3 meters.
Jasmine thrives in warm and humid environments, preferring well-drained soil and locations that offer a balance of sunlight and shade. Optimal growth is achieved in well-ventilated, semi-shaded areas, which mimic their natural habitat. In China, the double-petaled jasmine (Jasminum sambac ‘Flore Pleno’) is the predominant cultivated variety, prized for its ornamental value and often cultivated as potted plants for both indoor and outdoor spaces.
The allure of jasmine lies not only in its delicate white or yellow flowers but also in its captivating fragrance. During each blooming cycle, jasmine releases a subtle yet pervasive scent that can perfume an entire room, creating a serene and pleasant atmosphere. This aromatic quality has made jasmine a favorite among gardeners and plant enthusiasts alike.
Beyond its ornamental value, jasmine holds significant importance in various industries and traditional practices. The flowers are a key ingredient in the production of jasmine tea, a popular floral infusion known for its soothing properties and delicate flavor. Jasmine essential oils, extracted through careful distillation processes, are highly valued in aromatherapy and perfumery for their calming and uplifting effects.
In traditional medicine, particularly in Chinese herbalism, jasmine has been utilized for its therapeutic properties. The flowers and leaves are employed in treatments for ocular issues, specifically for alleviating redness and pain in the eyes. Furthermore, jasmine is recognized for its expectorant properties, effectively aiding in the relief of coughs and reduction of phlegm, making it a valuable herb in respiratory care.
As gardeners cultivate jasmine, they not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of their spaces but also invite a multitude of benefits, from aromatic pleasure to potential health applications, embodying the plant’s versatility and enduring popularity in horticulture and beyond.
Cereus, native to the Americas from Brazil to Mexico, is now cultivated worldwide. Also known as Queen of the Night, this columnar cactus from the Cactaceae family encompasses several genera, including Cereus, Peniocereus, and Selenicereus. These plants bear large, white, funnel-shaped flowers that bloom along the ribs of their tall, segmented stems.
The magnificent blossoms typically open at night during summer or autumn, generally from June to October. This nocturnal blooming habit has earned the plant its poetic nickname, “Queen of the Night.” The flowers emit a powerful, sweet fragrance that attracts night-pollinating insects and bats. However, the Cereus’ blooming period is ephemeral, lasting only about 6-8 hours from opening to wilting, giving rise to the term “cereus bloom.”
As striking ornamental plants, Cereus species are prized in xeriscaping and indoor collections. They require well-draining soil, ample sunlight, and minimal watering. In their native habitats, these cacti play crucial ecological roles, providing food and shelter for various desert fauna.
Beyond their ornamental value, some Cereus species have ethnobotanical significance. For instance, Cereus peruvianus (Peruvian Apple Cactus) produces edible fruits, while others have been used in traditional medicine. However, it’s important to note that proper identification is crucial, as some related species can be toxic.
The allure of the Cereus lies not just in its stunning, short-lived blooms, but also in its ability to thrive in harsh, arid environments, making it a symbol of resilience and hidden beauty in the plant world.
The water lily (Nymphaea spp.) is a stunning aquatic perennial that graces ponds and water gardens with its elegant floating leaves and exquisite blossoms. These captivating flowers are indeed one of July’s horticultural highlights, although their blooming period extends beyond a single month.
Water lilies typically begin their flowering season in late spring or early summer, usually around June, and continue to produce blooms until late summer or early fall, often into September. This extended blooming period of approximately three to four months provides a prolonged display of beauty throughout the summer season.
The genus Nymphaea comprises approximately 50 species worldwide, with taxonomists continually refining classifications. In China, five native species have been identified, including Nymphaea tetragona and Nymphaea nouchali.
Water lilies are broadly categorized into two main groups based on their temperature requirements and geographical distribution:
Historically, water lilies have held significant cultural and spiritual importance in various civilizations. Like the lotus (Nelumbo nucifera), which belongs to a different genus, water lilies have been revered as symbols of purity, rebirth, and divine beauty. In ancient Egyptian mythology, for instance, the blue water lily (Nymphaea caerulea) was associated with the sun god Ra and considered sacred.
Beyond their ornamental value in aquatic landscapes, water lilies offer versatility in floral design. Their flowers can be used as fresh cut specimens, although they typically have a shorter vase life compared to many terrestrial flowers. When properly preserved, water lily blossoms can also be used in dried flower arrangements, retaining much of their original shape and color.
Water lilies play a crucial role in aquatic ecosystems and have practical applications in water management. Their extensive root systems and floating leaves provide habitat and shelter for various aquatic organisms. Moreover, water lilies possess remarkable phytoremediation capabilities. They can absorb and accumulate heavy metals such as lead and mercury, as well as organic pollutants like phenols, from the water. This natural filtration ability makes them valuable for improving water quality in urban water bodies, constructed wetlands, and wastewater treatment systems.
In addition to their purification properties, water lilies contribute to water oxygenation and help reduce algal growth by shading the water surface. These attributes, combined with their aesthetic appeal, make water lilies invaluable plants for both ecological restoration and the beautification of aquatic environments in urban and rural settings.
Oleander (Nerium oleander) is an evergreen shrub that blooms prolifically, with its peak flowering period occurring in summer and autumn, including July. This versatile ornamental plant is renowned for its striking flowers and resilient nature.
The foliage of oleander is distinctive, featuring long, narrow leaves that are typically 10-20 cm in length and 1-3 cm in width. These leaves are leathery in texture, with a dark green to grey-green color and a prominent midrib. Unlike bamboo leaves, oleander leaves are arranged in pairs or whorls of three along the stems.
Oleander flowers are reminiscent of single-petaled roses rather than peach blossoms, growing in clusters at the end of each branch. The blooms are funnel-shaped and can range from 2.5 to 5 cm in diameter. Their colors vary widely, including shades of pink, red, white, and occasionally yellow or salmon. Many cultivars produce flowers with contrasting centers or double petals. The fragrance of oleander flowers is sweet but can be quite potent, especially in warmer weather.
One of the most valuable characteristics of oleander is its exceptional tolerance to challenging environmental conditions. It demonstrates remarkable resistance to air pollution, including smoke, dust, and various gaseous pollutants.
Oleander’s leaves are particularly effective at filtering out harmful gases such as sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter. This ability, combined with its drought tolerance and salt resistance, makes oleander an excellent choice for urban landscaping and environmental remediation projects.
Due to its hardiness and aesthetic appeal, oleander is frequently planted in public spaces such as parks, along thoroughfares, and in coastal areas. It serves as an effective windbreak and erosion control plant, particularly in Mediterranean and subtropical climates.
However, it is crucial to emphasize that all parts of the oleander plant contain toxic cardiac glycosides, including oleandrin and neriine. Ingestion of any part of the plant can cause severe poisoning in humans and animals. Direct contact with the sap may also cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals. Therefore, while oleander is prized for its beauty and environmental benefits, it should be handled with caution, especially in areas frequented by children or pets. Proper safety measures should be implemented when planting or maintaining oleanders in public or private spaces.
Morning glory (Ipomoea spp.) is indeed a quintessential summer bloomer, gracing gardens with its vibrant flowers from July through early fall. This familiar climbing vine, known for its trumpet-shaped blossoms, has earned the colloquial name “trumpet flower” in some regions due to its distinctive floral form.
The flowering period of morning glories typically extends from June to October, showcasing an array of colors including pristine white, rich purplish-red, and captivating purplish-blue. These funnel-shaped flowers are not only visually striking but also ephemeral, usually opening in the early morning and closing by afternoon, hence the plant’s poetic name.
Botanically, morning glory plants are characterized by their hirsute nature, with the entire plant covered in fine, dense hairs. This feature contributes to the plant’s texture and appearance. The peak blooming period occurs during the height of summer when the vines are most prolific in their floral display.
Cultivation of morning glories typically begins with seed sowing in spring, after the danger of frost has passed. With proper care, these fast-growing annuals (or short-lived perennials in warmer climates) will reward gardeners with a spectacular floral show throughout summer and into autumn.
The genus Ipomoea encompasses a wide variety of morning glory species and cultivars, offering gardeners an extensive palette of colors beyond the traditional blue. Varieties include deep crimson, soft peach, royal purple, and even bi-color or multi-hued cultivars. The diversity extends to petal variations as well, with some flowers featuring stripes, picotee edges, or star-shaped centers, making morning glories a versatile and popular choice for ornamental gardening.
While primarily grown for their ornamental value in trellises, arbors, and hanging baskets, morning glories also have cultural and medicinal significance. In traditional Chinese medicine, the seeds of certain morning glory species, particularly Ipomoea nil, are known as “Qian Niu Zi” (千牛子) or “Er Chou” (耳柱). These seeds have been used for centuries in herbal preparations, though it’s important to note that they should only be used under professional guidance due to their potential toxicity when improperly prepared.
In garden settings, morning glories are prized for their rapid growth, ability to cover unsightly structures, and their attraction to pollinators such as bees and hummingbirds. However, gardeners should be mindful of their vigorous nature, as some species can become invasive if not properly managed.
Pansies (Viola × wittrockiana) are beloved garden flowers that bloom from early spring through midsummer, with their peak flowering period typically extending from April to July. These charming plants are cultivated as both biennials and short-lived perennials, belonging to the Viola genus within the Violaceae family. Their distinctive flowers often showcase a vibrant combination of purple, white, and yellow hues, which inspired their common name “pansy,” derived from the French word “pensée,” meaning “thought.”
Pansies are remarkably cold-hardy and thrive in cool conditions, making them ideal for early spring and fall gardens. They prefer full sun to partial shade, with optimal blooming occurring in areas that receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. The intensity and duration of light exposure significantly influence their flowering performance.
Originating in the cool climates of northern Europe, pansies have been widely cultivated and hybridized, resulting in numerous cultivars adapted to various growing conditions. In China, they are popular ornamental plants in both southern and northern regions, demonstrating their adaptability to diverse climates.
These flowers hold cultural significance in several countries. Notably, pansies are the national flowers of Iceland and Poland, symbolizing remembrance and free-thinking in these nations.
Beyond their ornamental value, pansies possess medicinal properties that have been recognized in traditional herbal medicine. The flowers contain compounds with mild anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects.
Topical applications of pansy extracts have been used to alleviate minor skin conditions such as acne, blackheads, and certain allergic reactions. However, it’s important to note that while traditional uses suggest potential benefits, scientific research on these applications is limited, and consultation with a healthcare professional is advised before using pansies medicinally.
In horticulture, pansies are prized for their versatility in garden design, thriving in borders, containers, and as bedding plants. Their compact growth habit, prolific blooming, and wide range of colors make them excellent choices for creating vibrant displays in both formal and informal garden settings.
Gardenia, also known as Cape jasmine (Gardenia jasminoides), is one of the exquisite flowers that grace gardens with their blooms from late spring through midsummer, typically May to July. This evergreen shrub, belonging to the Rubiaceae family, is renowned for its multifaceted beauty—from its pristine white flowers to its glossy green leaves and ornamental fruits.
When in full bloom, gardenias transform their surroundings with an intoxicating fragrance, making them highly prized ornamental plants for courtyards, patios, and gardens. Their aromatic presence creates an enchanting atmosphere, perfect for outdoor living spaces.
Gardenias thrive in environments that provide:
While gardenias prefer bright conditions, they can tolerate partial shade, especially in hotter climates. This adaptability makes them versatile plants for various garden settings.
Beyond their ornamental value, gardenias offer multiple uses:
Cultivating gardenias requires attention to their specific needs:
By providing these conditions, gardeners can enjoy the lush foliage, stunning flowers, and captivating fragrance of gardenias throughout the growing season, making them a rewarding addition to any garden or landscape design.
These eye-catching flowers, also known as “wool flowers” or “brain celosia,” are prized for their vibrant colors and distinctive, brain-like or rooster’s comb-shaped blooms. Cockscomb belongs to the amaranth family and comes in a variety of striking hues, including deep reds, bright pinks, oranges, and yellows.
Celosia cristata thrives in full sun exposure, requiring at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and flower production. They prefer well-draining, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0). While these plants are relatively drought-tolerant once established, consistent moisture is essential for healthy growth and abundant blooming.
Cockscomb flowers are excellent choices for both garden beds and containers. They typically grow to heights of 6-36 inches (15-90 cm), depending on the variety, making them versatile for various landscape designs. These annual plants are also popular in cut flower arrangements due to their long-lasting nature when dried.
To encourage bushier growth and prolong the blooming period, regularly deadhead spent flowers. Cockscombs are generally low-maintenance but may be susceptible to fungal diseases in overly humid conditions. Ensure proper air circulation and avoid overhead watering to mitigate these risks.
With their unique texture and bold colors, cockscomb flowers add a dramatic and exotic touch to any garden, attracting pollinators and serving as a striking focal point in floral displays.
Frangipani, scientifically known as Plumeria spp., is a genus of tropical trees renowned for their exquisitely fragrant and visually striking flowers. Native to Central America, the Caribbean, and parts of South America, these ornamental plants have become popular worldwide in tropical and subtropical regions.
The flowers of frangipani are notable for their waxy texture and distinctive five-petaled form, typically arranged in a spiral pattern. They come in a wide array of colors, including white, yellow, pink, red, and multicolored varieties. The fragrance is often described as sweet and intoxicating, reminiscent of jasmine, citrus, and spices.
Frangipani trees thrive in full sun exposure, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and abundant flowering. They are adaptable to various soil types but perform best in well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.1-7.5). Good drainage is crucial to prevent root rot, a common issue in overly moist conditions.
These deciduous trees are relatively low-maintenance once established. They are drought-tolerant and can withstand periods of low water availability, making them suitable for xeriscaping. However, regular watering during the growing season promotes healthier growth and more prolific blooming.
Frangipani trees typically reach heights of 20-40 feet (6-12 meters) in their natural habitat, but they can be maintained at smaller sizes through pruning, making them versatile for various landscape designs. They are often used as focal points in gardens, for tropical-themed landscaping, or as potted plants in cooler climates where they can be moved indoors during winter.
Propagation of frangipani is relatively easy, usually done through stem cuttings taken during the warm season. This method allows gardeners to reproduce exact clones of parent plants, preserving desirable traits such as flower color and fragrance.
While generally hardy, frangipanis can be susceptible to pests such as frangipani rust, spider mites, and mealybugs. Proper care, including adequate air circulation and avoiding overwatering, can help prevent many of these issues.
In many cultures, frangipani holds symbolic significance. In Hindu and Buddhist traditions, it is associated with immortality and is often used in religious ceremonies. In Pacific Island cultures, the flowers are commonly used in leis and for personal adornment.
With their intoxicating fragrance, stunning flowers, and relatively easy care requirements, frangipani trees offer a touch of tropical paradise to any suitable environment, making them a favorite among gardeners and landscapers in warm climates worldwide.
Peggie was once a high school mathematics teacher, but she set aside her chalkboard and textbooks to follow her lifelong passion for flowers. After years of dedication and learning, she not only established a thriving flower shop but also founded this blog, “Flowers Library”. If you have any questions or wish to learn more about flowers, feel free to contact Peggie.
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