A Relaxing and Natural Landscape of the United States
In the diverse tapestry of American culture, the selection of official state flowers is as iconic as fireworks on a summer night. This tradition originated in 1893 during the World’s Fair in Chicago, where each state was invited to choose a floral representative for a national celebration. For Kansas, the sunflower was a natural and fitting choice, symbolizing a bright and promising future. However, in other regions, the selection process sparked lively debates as states struggled to reach a consensus on a single flower. In some cases, legislative bodies sought the advice of botanists or the preferences of young scholars. For example, in Colorado, the decision fell to the Rocky Mountain columbine, while Rhode Island chose the violet, influenced by the voices of schoolchildren. Most of these selections are native species, flourishing in the wild or easily adapting to their new environments. These flowers not only thrive with minimal care but also add an effortless touch of American charm to any space. Now, let’s explore the floral emblems of all 50 states, accompanied by cultivation tips and notable varieties. Alabama: Camellia
Originally from Asia, the camellia became Alabama’s floral emblem in 1927, replacing the goldenrod. The state’s women advocated for this change, as they preferred the camellia’s refined beauty over the wildflower’s untidy appearance. With its lustrous evergreen foliage and robust cup-shaped blossoms, the camellia brings life to gardens during the sparse blooming months of late winter and early spring. For optimal growth, it is recommended to plant shade-loving varieties like ‘Rubescens Major’ in well-drained, slightly acidic soil. In contrast, Alaska’s floral emblem is the Forget-Me-Not.
The selection of the forget-me-not as the official flower of Alaska, even before it became a state, was a gesture honoring the resilient spirit of its early pioneers, as mentioned in legislative records. This charming plant adds a unique touch to any garden, boasting clusters of vibrant blue flowers in spring and summer. It is especially well-suited for pairing with bulbs in rock gardens or containers. The ‘Ultramarine’ variety, a more compact version of its wild counterpart, thrives in sunny or partially shaded areas with well-drained soil that retains moisture. Moving on to Arizona, the majestic saguaro cactus blossom holds significance for the state.
The beautiful flower of the saguaro cactus was officially recognized in 1931, although it was chosen as the state flower of Arizona in 1901. This creamy white blossom blooms at night and can only be found in the Sonoran Desert. Another state with a unique and charming flower is Arkansas, which boasts the vibrant apple blossom.
Arkansas, formerly known as a prominent apple producer, officially designated the apple blossom as its state flower in 1901. The Pyrus coronaria, also known as the American crabapple, showcases delightful pink and white flowers that emit a delightful fragrance from March to May. These beautiful blooms are then followed by clusters of tangy fruits. With its compact size, this tree is perfect for becoming the focal point in any household garden. In contrast, California takes pride in its state flower, the California Poppy
During the 18th century, explorers from Spain were already fascinated by the California poppy, comparing its vibrant blooms to a land set ablaze. Native peoples had long revered this drought-resistant flower for its medicinal and culinary uses. It is a perennial in milder climates and an annual in other regions, opening in the spring and closing at dusk. The ‘Carmine King’ variety features red ruffles, ‘Mission Bells’ showcases a range of colors, and ‘Thai Silk Lemon Blush’ offers a creamy yellow hue. In Colorado, the Rocky Mountain Columbine is a noteworthy flower.
Selected by the children of Colorado in 1899, the Rocky Mountain columbine is characterized by its blue, white, and yellow petals, representing the sky, snow, and the state’s gold-mining heritage, respectively. This fragrant perennial, which served as inspiration for the state song, blooms the year after it is planted in the fall. Cultivars of this flower include the small ‘Red Hobbit’ and the vibrant ‘Origami Mix.’ In Connecticut, the state flower is the Mountain Laurel.
The mountaintop laurel, which was first observed in America by Captain John Smith in 1624, was designated as the official state flower of Connecticut in 1907. This evergreen shrub, traditionally used by Native Americans for crafting purposes, thrives in a range of lighting conditions and blooms from late spring to midsummer. It is important to note that the plant is toxic, so caution must be exercised. In Delaware, the Peach Blossom is the state flower.
Delaware, known as the Peach State in the late 19th century due to its abundant orchards, officially chose the peach blossom to represent its state as a flower in 1895. This tree, with its shiny leaves and beautiful flowers, is a relatively compact choice for orchards in warmer regions. In contrast, Florida has adopted the orange blossom as its state flower.
The orange blossom is known as Florida’s state flower since 1909 and it signals the arrival of spring with its captivating scent. This small citrus tree produces white flowers and fruit, making it a perfect fit for warmer climates. Additionally, it can also be grown indoors in colder regions. In Georgia, the Cherokee rose is the state flower.
In 1916, the state of Georgia mistakenly believed that the Cherokee Rose, from China, was a native flower and designated it as the state flower. This beautiful climber represents hope and resilience, especially in relation to the Trail of Tears. It showcases fleeting flowers that are followed by vibrant hips and evergreen leaves. Moving on to Hawaii, the Yellow Hibiscus takes the spotlight.
Idaho designated Lewis’s Mock Orange as its state flower in 2000. This beautiful and unique flower, scientifically known as Philadelphus lewisii, adds charm to Idaho’s landscape. Lewis’s Mock Orange, also called Syringa lewisii, is a native species that showcases clusters of lovely white flowers with a delightful fragrance. Its presence in gardens across Idaho is highly encouraged and celebrated.
In 1806, Meriwether Lewis stumbled upon a fascinating plant that the Native Americans had been utilizing for their crafts. This plant, known as Lewis’s mock orange, later became Idaho’s official state flower in 1931. Thriving in either sunny or shady conditions, this shrub is renowned for its exquisite small white flowers that emit a captivating aroma reminiscent of orange blossoms.
