Top Floral Names for Boys and Girls to Inspire Your Choice

Embrace the grounded beauty of nature (see what I did there?) with floral baby names that offer charm and plenty of cuteness. From the delicate petals of Lily to the vibrant hues of Poppy, these names not only celebrate the natural world we live in but also carry deep symbolic meanings. 

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If your little bud is due to bloom (pun intended) sometime soon, why not pick one of these beautiful flower baby names?

Here are some of our favourite picks of girl and boy botanical names for your little bud! (Okay, these puns just seem to write themselves.)

Why choose floral baby names?

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The beauty of nature is timeless, so it’s no surprise that flower baby names have re-emerged as popular choices among parents who want beautiful and meaningful names for their children.

But I secretly think it’s because when we’re knee-deep in nappy duty, we feel the thought of a little “Rose” or “Daisy” can add some freshness to the day!

All the same, a bouquet of daisies sounds lovely, but a baby named Daisy? Even better (Plus, no watering required. Okay, maybe they need a little more attention, time and resources than your average houseplant, but you get the idea.)

Well, here are five reasons why floral baby names for girls and boys are a lovely choice:

1. Flower names carry nature’s innocence and beauty

Flower names like “Lily” and “Iris” evoke a sense of innocence, grace, and reverence for nature. They carry an air of simplicity and purity and echo the calm beauty of white flowers that brighten fields, gardens, and homes.

And, let’s be real—if your baby’s going to wake you up at 2 a.m., you need something to calm you down and a name would do!

2. Deep symbolism and ancient stories

Nature-inspired names often hold symbolic meanings.

Take “Laurel,” for example—this isn’t just a pretty name; it’s a shout-out to ancient victory and honour, as in, “Our baby came, she saw, she conquered…sleep schedules (hopefully)!”

Or “Bay,” inspired by the alder or linden tree, has traditionally symbolised luck and protection—perfect for the kid who’ll be climbing trees as soon as they can walk.

Then there’s “Flora,” whose origins go all the way back to mythology, where she was the Roman goddess of flowers.

3. A sweet escape from trends and connotations

We’ve all heard a name and thought, “Oh, that sounds like my cousin’s loud neighbour” or “Didn’t my middle school nemesis have that name?”

Well, floral names allow you to sidestep all those awkward associations by offering a neutral, refreshing alternative to modern name trends and preconceived connotations.

I mean, your “Fern” will be one-of-a-kind in a sea of Olivers, Islas, and Charlottes, which are the top baby names in Australia for the year 2024.

By naming your kid after your favourite flower, you offer them a neutral charm and gracefulness that lets their personality bloom uniquely. Pick a gender-neutral option and you also give them flexibility.

4. Easy to remember and elegant in simplicity

We love a good ‘rare’ name, but they can often be mispronounced. Flower names are easy, memorable and easy to spell.

A name like “Rose” or “Daisy” doesn’t just roll off the tongue effortlessly; it also ensures your kid won’t ever find themselves explaining that it’s “No, it’s Rose, but spelled with three Zs.”

5. Honouring generations and family traditions

Naming a child after a flower also has that classic vintage appeal.

Floral names were big from the 1890s to the 1920s, so if Great Grandma was a “Violet,” you’re keeping the family garden blooming through the generations.

Alyssa, Daisy, Ivy, Jasmine, Poppy, Rose, and Petunia are just some of the popular flower baby names.

Here’s a complete list of flower baby names for boys and girls:

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Popular flower baby names for baby girls

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Alyssa

• Origin: Greek
• Meaning: Related to the alyssum flower.
• Why you should use it: Alyssa has a classic yet modern sound and is associated with the delicate beauty of the alyssum flower.

Blossom

• Origin: English
• Meaning: ‘Flower, lovely, fresh’.
• Why you should use it: Blossom gives a sense of freshness and beauty, making it a charming choice for your baby girl.

Bryony

• Origin: Greek
• Meaning: ‘A plant’, specifically a climbing plant with poisonous berries.
• Why you should use it: Bryony is a unique and botanical-inspired name that has risen in popularity over the last few years. We love that it has character and a bit of rebellion in it. (Might not seem like the best choice when the teen years kick in though.)

Calanthe

• Origin: French
• Meaning: ‘Beautiful flower’, also associated with a winter-blooming genus of orchids.
• Why you should use it: Calanthe evokes images of exquisite blooms and has a sophisticated elegance perfect for a baby girl.

Calla

• Origin: Arabic
• Meaning: ‘Castle’, but also associated with the beautiful Calla Lily blooms.
• Why you should use it: Calla is a short and sweet name that you don’t hear often, but hey, it’s inspired by the graceful Calla Lily, a flower that has been associated with the Greek goddess Hera.

Camellia

• Origin: Italian
• Meaning: Named after a flowering plant known for its beautiful blooms and evergreen shrubs.
• Why you should use it: Camellia has a timeless and elegant appeal, reminiscent of the lush and graceful camellia flowers. The Camellia is also the floral representation of Chanel, so if you want your baby girl to inherit the qualities of Mademoiselle Gabrielle Chanel, maybe consider the beautiful Camellia as a name.

Coral

• Origin: English
• Meaning: ‘Small stone’, while the plant produces bright, coral-colored flowers.
• Why you should use it: Coral is a vibrant and cheerful name associated with the beauty of the coral-coloured flower, perfect for a lively and spirited baby girl.

Cassia

• Origin: Greek
• Meaning: ‘Champion’, but also the name of a tree-producing spice similar to cinnamon.
• Why you should use it: Cassia is a strong and empowering name with rich botanical and historical associations.

Lily

• Origin: Old German
• Meaning: ‘Industrious, strength’, associated with the elegant and beautiful lily flower.
• Why you should use it: Lily is a timeless and classic name symbolizing purity, strength, and beauty. It’s soft, subtle, and honestly, you can’t go wrong with it!

Primrose

• Origin: English
• Meaning: ‘First rose’ (Reminds me of Primrose Everdeen from The Hunger Games.’)
• Why you should use it: Primrose feels charming and whimsical, embodying literary and floral associations.

Dahlia

• Origin: Scandinavian
• Meaning: ‘Valley, flower’, associated with the vibrant daisy family of flowers.
• Why you should use it: Dahlia is a trendy name with plenty of pop culture references and a bit of mystery woven in. 

Fuchsia

• Origin: English
• Meaning: ‘The fuchsia flower or the colour fuchsia’.
• Why you should use it: Fuchsia is bold and vibrant, inspired by the colourful fuchsia flower—a beautiful name for a baby girl.

Azalea

• Origin: Hebrew
• Meaning: ‘Spared by Jehovah’, also a popular garden plant with various flower colours.
• Why you should use it: Azalea is quite a grand statement that carries some religious significance along with an elegant feel.  

Clover

• Origin: English
• Meaning: ‘From the meadow’, associated with the lucky four-leaf clover.
• Why you should use it: Clover is a charming and whimsical name that brings Irish luck and natural beauty – you can basically see her frolicking in a garden, right?

Daisy

• Origin: Old English
• Meaning: ‘Day’s eye’, symbolising purity, freshness, and loyalty.
• Why you should use it: Daisy is a sweet and cheerful name associated with innocence and simplicity. It’s a sweet and safe classic. 

Poppy 

• Origin: English
• Meaning: The red flower known as the poppy, symbolising remembrance, peace, and consolation.
• Why you should use it: Poppy is a colourful and thoughtful name that carries a sense of remembrance and honour, making it a meaningful choice for parents who wish to honour the memory of loved ones or express hope for peace in their child’s life.

Jasmine

• Origin: Persian
• Meaning: ‘Gift from God’; also a rich and flourishing plant.
• Why you should use it: Jasmine is a beautiful and timeless name all about love, purity, and motherhood. It’s cherished for its sweet aroma and cultural significance across Eurasia, Africa, Australasia, and Oceania. Fans of Disney will also recognise Jasmine as the loyal princess of Agrabah, adding a touch of royalty to this elegant name.

Chrysanthemum

• Origin: Greek
• Meaning: ‘Golden flower’; derived from “chrysos” (gold) and “anthemon” (flower).
• Why you should use it: Chrysanthemum is a distinctive name that symbolises longevity and happiness. With its roots in ancient Greece, this name evokes the beauty and strength of a flower revered across cultures.

Marguerite

• Origin: French
• Meaning: ‘Pearl’.
• Why you should use it: Marguerite is a graceful and refined name, carrying both elegance and historical depth. It is a variation of Margaret and was the birth name of poet and civil rights activist Maya Angelou. With nicknames like Maggie, Marge, or Rita, Marguerite brings a blend of French flair and strength, perfect for a precious baby girl.

 Erica

• Origin: Norse and Latin
• Meaning: ‘Eternal ruler; Ever powerful’; also related to ‘Heather’.
• Why you should use it: Erica is both strong and nature-inspired, symbolising influence and endurance. This name embodies a sense of leadership and resilience, as well as the beauty of the hardy heather plant.

Marigold

• Origin: British
• Meaning: Named after the vibrant marigold flower.
• Why you should use it: Marigold is warm and cheerful, transitioning effortlessly through the seasons. A blend of “Mary” and “gold,” this name offers a lovely floral vibe with an optional nod to faith. Perfect for parents looking for a name that combines nature’s beauty with depth and versatility.

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Floral names for baby boys

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Aster

• Origin: English
• Meaning: ‘From the stars’, associated with star-like flowers.
• Why you should use it: Aster is a unique and celestial-inspired name that gives a sense of natural beauty and wonder. 

Aciano

• Origin: Spanish
• Meaning: A flower often used for culinary decoration, with a strong blue colour.
• Why you should use it: Aciano is a distinctive and assured name that rolls off the tongue like a royal scroll. 

Ash

• Origin: English
• Meaning: A large tree known for its yellow leaves in autumn.
• Why you should use it: Ash is a strong and nature-inspired name with a touch of rustic charm. It’s warm and approachable. 

Ren

• Origin: Irish, Japanese
• Meaning: ‘Charming, water lily, wealthy’, associated with flowers in various colors.
• Why you should use it: Ren is a multicultural and versatile name with positive meanings and natural associations. You can also go for the more feminine interpretation of ‘Wren’ meaning little bird. 

Sage

• Origin: French, English
• Meaning: ‘Wise’, associated with a plant used as a spice and for health purposes.
• Why you should use it: Sage is a strong and wise name that implies herbal wisdom and natural strength. Also, it’s a pretty colour!

Indigo

• Origin: Latin
• Meaning: ‘Dark blue’, associated with the indigo plant and soft purple flowers.
• Why you should use it: Indigo is a bold and vibrant name that has the super cute nickname of ‘Indi”. 

William

• Origin: English, French, German
• Meaning: ‘Determined protector’, associated with clusters of small flowers.
• Why you should use it: Okay, this might not seem overly ‘floral’, but its roots  (yep, another pun) are actually in flowers! This is a classic and timeless name, from Shakespeare to the Prince). 

Hamilton

• Origin: Old English
• Meaning: ‘Beautiful mountain’, also associated with a type of rose.
• Why you should use it: Hamilton is a distinguished and elegant name with a touch of natural beauty and sophistication – and a few famous songs use it too (see Hamilton the Musical). 

Heath

• Origin: Old English
• Meaning: ‘Wasteland’, associated with a low-maintenance plant.
• Why you should use it: One can only wish your child will be ‘low-maintenance’ like this name’s meaning. It’s also a strong and sturdy name that seems important, so we love it! 

Perry

• Origin: Anglo-Saxon
• Meaning: ‘Pear tree’.
• Why you should use it: Perry is a great gender-neutral bet that feels playful and uplifting. Whether thinking of the Little Mix band member or the platypus from Phineas and Ferb, there are plenty of pop culture references on this one. 

Rhodes

• Origin: Greek
• Meaning: ‘Roses’.
• Why you should use it: Rhodes is a romantic and floral-inspired name with a touch of elegance and charm. And the company makes great microphones, so you might be manifesting a born singer. 

Fiorello

• Origin: Italian
• Meaning: ‘Little flower’.
• Why you should use it: Fiorello is an endearing name that belongs in a villa somewhere in Tuscany. A cute shortened version might be “Fi.” 

Laurence

• Origin: English
• Meaning: ‘Laurel trees’.
• Why you should use it: Laurence is a classic and dignified name that has yet to go out of style. In Little Women, the girls refer to “Laurie” as a nickname. 

Watson

• Origin: English
• Meaning: Associated with the Watsonia plant varieties.
• Why you should use it: Watson is a distinctive and surname-inspired name that might inspire a tiny sleuth to buddy up with their own Sherlock. 

Blaze

• Origin: Latin
• Meaning: Associated with vibrant red climbing roses.
• Why you should use it: Blaze is a bold and fiery name for the babies set to pave ways (after they tick off a few milestones first). It’s different enough to be interesting, without raising eyebrows. So a nice middle ground!

Sorrel

• Origin: Old French, German
• Meaning: ‘Reddish-brown hair,’ associated with the hibiscus flower, used in teas and drinks.
• Why you should use it: Sorrel is a great choice if your little one has a hint of copper in his hair. With its herbal association and refreshing meaning, Sorrel stands out as a vibrant name.

Cedar

• Origin: Latin, French, Greek
• Meaning: ‘Cedar tree,’ symbolizing strength, resilience, and longevity.
• Why you should use it: Cedar is a nature-inspired, gender-neutral name with a deep-rooted history. Associated with purity and even revered in religious contexts, this evergreen name is full of strength and character.

Basil

• Origin: Greek
• Meaning: ‘King,’ also an herb used in culinary arts.
• Why you should use it: Basil combines noble heritage with a fresh, zesty charm. Its Greek origin connects it to royalty, making it a distinguished yet approachable choice.

Jared / Jarred

• Origin: Hebrew
• Meaning: ‘Rose,’ ‘Descending’ or ‘Descent’
• Why you should use it: Jared is a timeless name with rich biblical roots, symbolising both beauty and faith. With prominent real-life and fictional bearers, it carries both depth and familiarity.

Tips for choosing the perfect floral baby name

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Choosing a plant-inspired name is a wonderful way to celebrate nature’s beauty, but the decision can be even more meaningful with some personal touches. Here are a few tips to help you find the perfect plant baby name for your little one.

Reflect on the meaning behind each flower

Many botanical names have unique meanings, so consider the sentiments you want to embody in your child’s name. For instance, “Lily” signifies purity, innocence, and femininity, while “Jasmine” often represents spiritual insight and warmth. These meanings not only add depth to a name but can also reflect the values you hope your child will embrace from day one.

Look for personal connections

If a particular flower has special significance for you or your partner, it could make a heartfelt name choice.

Think back: Did a daisy make an appearance in your wedding bouquet? Did a peony stand witness to your first date? Or maybe your partner’s favourite flower is something obscure and intriguing, like the gloriously named Corpse Flower? (Okay, maybe don’t name the kid after that one.) Finding a flower with personal significance makes its name a beautiful callback to your story. Plus, it’s a handy way to win future family trivia.

Draw inspiration from family and heritage

Are there flowers that your grandparents grew in their garden, or blooms that hold cultural importance? Your little “Camellia” might just grow up with tales of family gatherings around tea—or at least, be able to tell people her name isn’t just a random floral choice. A touch of heritage in a name gives it deeper roots (pun intended) and keeps family traditions in bloom.

Choosing a flower that holds cultural or family significance can create a meaningful legacy. Consider blooms that are important in your family or that represent a part of your cultural background. This can be a lovely way to honour family traditions and connect your child with their heritage.

Align with the season of birth

A spring baby? How about “Tulip” or “Azalea”? Winter arrival? Think “Amaryllis” or “Holly.” Not only do these names offer a little nod to their season, but they also make remembering birth months a little easier down the line. You might even consider the month’s birth flower—like “Marigold” for October babies. It’s a subtle way to keep their name seasonally fresh without actually naming them “Pumpkin Spice.”

The time of year your baby is born could also guide your choice of name. Spring brings an array of names like “Tulip,” “Azalea,” or “Peony,” while winter inspires options like “Amaryllis” and “Heather.”

You might also look into the birth flower of your baby’s birth month or even consider flowers associated with their zodiac sign for a subtle, meaningful touch.

Think about the values you want to instil (worth a try, right?)

Floral names often reflect qualities and values that many parents wish to instil in their children.

For example, a name like “Violet” or “Calla” could symbolise innocence and intuition, while “Gladys” (inspired by Gladiolus) can imply resilience and strength of character.

Hope they turn out as sweet as they look? Try “Violet” for innocence. Just know that while flower names are beautiful, they’re not exactly a guarantee against rebellious teenage phases.

Final thoughts

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Most importantly, choose a name that you and your child will cherish forever. Whether inspired by flowers, family, or fiction, a name is a lifelong gift that should feel special and lasting. With thoughtfulness and care, your chosen floral name can bloom beautifully alongside your little one.