Blooms of Spring: Top 7 British Flowers You Can Spot This Season

Nothing says spring more than cheerful daffodils. These bright, trumpet-shaped flowers come in a variety of shades including white, cream, orange, and even pink and are amongst the first flowers to bloom in the UK. They typically first appear between February and May, and last for up to six weeks. These well-adored flowers are a staple feature in UK homes and gardens every year. While often associated with rebirth and happiness, folklore warns against giving someone a single daffodil, as it’s said to bring bad luck!

Dianthus caryophyllus, or carnations as we know it, are a universally known and loved flower. Beloved in ancient Rome and the renaissance period, carnations boast a rich history of 2000 years. These herbaceous perennials are a delight to any garden and their wide spectrum of hues and extensive vase life makes carnations an indispensable addition to any flower arrangement. 

Flowering typically begins in late spring and continues until autumn. The defining characteristic of carnations are their fringed petals. Unlike the smooth, rounded petals of many flowers, carnations display blooms with delicately notched or frilled edges and like freesias, can grow as single or double blooms. Beyond their visual appeal and captivating scent, carnations are known for their resilience. They are relatively low-maintenance flowers and can last up to two weeks when properly cared for, making them a popular choice for bouquets.

Next, we have the English bluebell, Hyacinthoides non-scripta — a quintessential symbol of spring in the UK. With almost half the world’s bluebells found in the UK, you will often see these wildflowers blanketing forest floors with a mesmerising sea of sapphire blue. Reaching up to 40 cm tall (15 inches), their slender green stems boast delicate, nodding heads that resemble miniature bells. These sweet-scented flowers typically bloom from late March to early May and appear first in the South of England.

Before you decide to find a magical woodland to take a bluebell home with you, it’s worth noting that it's against the law to intentionally pick, uproot or destroy bluebells.

Freesias, sometimes deemed the prettiest flowers in the world, are a great choice for those looking for fragrant and long-lasting cut flowers that will bless your homes from spring to summer. Bringing a touch of vibrancy and a delightful scent into your homes, these trumpet-shaped beauties come in a stunning array of pastel hues, from soft pinks and blues to cheerful yellows, pure whites, and delicate lilacs. Growing up to a height of up to 46cm (18 inches), freesias can grow as single or double flowered blossoms and often bloom during the early months of spring and last until late August.

Although both single and double freesias offer the same intoxicating fragrance, double flowered varieties boast an extra layer of petals; which creates a fuller, more textured appearance and often extends their blooming period compared to single blooms. If you would like to know more about how to care for fresh-cut freesias, check out our guide here.

The primrose, Primula vulgaris, is a cheerful marker of spring. As one of the first woodland blooms you can spot in Spring, and a crucial source of nectar for butterflies and bees, look out for these friendly colourful perennials in woodland clearings or gardens. Ranging in an array of colours, you will be spoiled for choice if you would like these beauties to feature in your back gardens. From vibrant pinks to delicate blues these delightful blooms often last throughout summer and particularly thrive in damp, woodland-like conditions. 

It’s important to note that primroses can be toxic to both cats and dogs — so if you do feel like displaying these in your homes, keep your pets as far away as possible.

Symbolic of new beginnings, every year we see the eruption of the iconic cherry blossoms all over the UK as a way to remind us that the new season is here. Belonging to the ornamental Japanese cherry trees, Prunus serrulata, from March to May cherry blossom will line the streets with cascades of pink and white petals from fully-bloomed cherry blossom trees. But unlike other spring flowers, their beauty is short-lived — lasting only a week or two — so make sure to cherish their moment when you can. 

Want to add a flowering cherry tree to your garden? Take a look at the different types of cherry blossoms here. Or perhaps you’re after a break from the city. If so, we recommend taking a visit to Greenwich Park, which hosts one of the best collections of cherry trees in the capital.

Alstroemeria, also known as the Peruvian lily and Lily of the Incas, is a herbaceous perennial that brings bursts of colours and long-lasting blooms to gardens and bouquets alike. Native to South America, these exotic flowers have become a popular choice due to their captivating appearance and easy upkeep. Alstroemeria varieties begin to flower from May to November but are generally at their best in July or August.

Unlike the single, trumpet-shaped blooms of many lilies, alstroemeria boasts clusters of six-petalled blossoms that resemble miniature orchids. These petals come in an array of colours, from classic reds, yellows, and oranges to more vibrant shades of pinks, purples, and even bi-colored varieties with speckles or stripes. This remarkable colour range allows alstroemeria to adapt to any desired aesthetic, and marks them as a true chameleon of the flower world. They are also a popular choice for those with allergies, particularly hay fever, as they carry a gentle and pleasant fragrance. Moreover, their long-lasting nature is something to keep in mind if you are looking for a fresh-cut bouquet, as their blooms can last up to two weeks when placed in a vase and given proper care.

While early spring flowers can bring you joy for a season, here at Eflorist, we can offer you happiness all year round. Celebrating the best of British blooms, you can find an array of delightful bouquets that offer both spring flowers and other varieties. Take a look at our collection here.