Plants That Start With ‘A’: A Gardener’s Guide

Explore plants starting with ‘A’. A curated list for garden enthusiasts with images and care tips.

Gardening enthusiasts and homeowners, if you’ve ever wondered about plants that start with the letter ‘A’, you’re in for a treat. From the well-known Aloe Vera to the lesser-known Arfaj, there’s a vast world of ‘A’ plants waiting to be explored. Let’s dive into some of the most intriguing ones, perfect for decorating your space.

1. Angel Trumpet (Brugmansia suaveolens)

Image showing Angel Trumpet plants growing in Florida.
Image showing Angel Trumpet plants growing in Florida.

Originating from South America, the Angel Trumpet is a perennial shrub with pendulous flowers that emit a sweet fragrance. It’s a sight to behold, especially during the evening when its scent is most potent.

2. African Lily (Agapanthus)

African Lily in a park in Washington.
African Lily in a park in Washington.

Also known as the Lily of the Nile or Flower of Love, the African Lily is a perennial that boasts bright-colored clusters. It’s a member of the Amaryllidaceae family and is most vibrant from September to December.

3. Aconite (Aconitum)

Aconitum variegatum, also known as Wolf's Bane in Germany.
Aconitum variegatum, also known as Wolf’s Bane in Germany.

With over 300 species, Aconite, commonly known as Wolf’s Bane, is a perennial that thrives in the cooler regions of the Northern Hemisphere. Beware, though; its blooms are poisonous.

4. Allium

Czosnek Allium in a village in Poland.
Czosnek Allium in a village in Poland.

A member of the Amaryllidaceae family, Allium includes over 800 species. These plants, native to the northern hemisphere, come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, making them a versatile choice for gardens.

5. Amaryllis

Amaryllis Hippeastrum in Greece.
Amaryllis Hippeastrum in Greece.

A bulbous plant with two primary species, Amaryllis paradisicola and Amaryllis belladonna, it’s renowned for its beauty. Its blooms can be seen from March to October.

6. Anemone

Anemones in Israel.
Anemones in Israel.

With around 100-120 species, Anemones are part of the Ranunculaceae family. Originating from regions like Japan, North America, and Europe, these flowers come with three leaflets underneath.

7. Aster

Image of Aster plants.
Image of Aster plants.

Aster flowers resemble daisies and are a combination of small tubular blooms. They have a yellow disk at the center surrounded by soft petals, blooming from March to September.

8. Angelonia (Summer Snapdragon)

Angelonia, also known as summer snapdragon in Mexico.
Angelonia, also known as summer snapdragon in Mexico.

Native to Mexico and Argentina, Angelonia or Summer Snapdragon is a perennial that thrives in semi-arid and arid habitats.

9. African Daisy (Dimorphotheca ecklonis)

African Daisy plant in Merrifield VA.
African Daisy plant in Merrifield VA.

This perennial plant offers vibrant shades of flowers within 1-2 months of planting. Its colors range from pink, yellow, purple, white, to orange.

10. Astilbe

Astilbe False Spirea in Hong Kong.
Astilbe False Spirea in Hong Kong.

Astilbe plants are low-maintenance and come with plume-like blooms atop lush green foliage. They’re perfect for cut flower bouquets, blooming from June to August.

11. Alchemilla (Lady’s Mantles)

Alchemilla alpina on a mountain.
Alchemilla alpina on a mountain.

Alchemilla, also known as Lady’s Mantles, is a perennial that blooms from June to September. Apart from its beauty, it’s also used for medicinal purposes, treating conditions like diabetes and mild diarrhea.

12. Aubrieta

Flower of the Greek blue cushion Aubrieta deltoidea.
Flower of the Greek blue cushion Aubrieta deltoidea.

Also known as Purple Rock Cress, Aubrieta is a perennial that blooms from April to May. It belongs to the mustard family and thrives in full sunlight.

13. Arum Lily

Image of a giant white Arum Lily.
Image of a giant white Arum Lily.

Arum Lily, also known as Calla Lily, is a tuberous perennial that blooms from March to May. Depending on the species, it can have either a sweet or unpleasant fragrance.

14. Alstroemeria (Peruvian Lily)

Alstroemeria also commonly known as Peruvian lily or lily of the Incas.
Alstroemeria also commonly known as Peruvian lily or lily of the Incas.

Native to South America, Alstroemeria, or the Peruvian Lily, is related to Grape Hyacinths and Hyacinths. It’s a favorite for long-lasting cut flowers, blooming from late spring to early autumn.

15. Aquilegia (Columbines)

Anp Aquilegia Columbine plant in Tasmania, Australia.
Anp Aquilegia Columbine plant in Tasmania, Australia.

Aquilegia, commonly known as Columbines, belongs to a genus with over 60 species. The name is derived from the Latin word ‘Aquila,’ meaning eagle, as its spurred petals resemble an eagle’s claw.

Conclusion

From the exotic Angel Trumpet to the vibrant African Daisy, plants that start with ‘A’ offer a diverse range of options for gardeners. Whether you’re looking to add a splash of color or a touch of the exotic, there’s an ‘A’ plant out there for you. So, the next time you’re planning your garden or looking for a new plant to add to your collection, consider one from this list. Happy gardening!