7 Wildflowers To Spot This Spring

Spring may not have sprung just yet, but we’re getting there. Did you know that more than 1,600 wildflower species come into bloom every spring in the UK? From classic daffodils to Instagram-favourite cherry blossoms, we’ve teamed up with Eflorist’s floral expert David Denyer to share the top wildflowers to see in the UK in spring.

Spring Wildflowers To Spot In The UK

Daffodils

‘Few flowers announce the arrival of spring as boldly as daffodils,’ says David. ‘Blooming from February to May, these bright, trumpet-shaped flowers appear in a variety of shades, including white, cream, orange, and pink. They are among the first flowers to bloom in the UK, often spotted in parks, woodlands, and along roadsides.

‘Some of the most breathtaking displays can be found in the Lake District and St. David’s in Wales, where daffodils are celebrated as the national flower,’ David adds. ‘While they symbolise new beginnings and prosperity, folklore warns against giving someone a single daffodil, as it’s said to bring bad luck.

‘In gardens, daffodils are easy to grow, thriving in well-drained soil and full sun,’ David adds. ‘They make a cheerful addition to bouquets, though it’s best to keep them in a separate vase at first, as their sap can shorten the lifespan of other flowers. Changing the water regularly will help them stay fresh for longer.’

Bluebells

‘Often spotted on the floors of woodlands, bluebells are one of Britain’s most enchanting spring sights,’ David explains. ‘With nearly half the world’s bluebell population found in the UK, these wildflowers create a mesmerising blue colour across forests.

‘Blooming between late March and early May, bluebells appear first in the South of England, where places like Kew Gardens and Ashridge Estate offer spectacular displays,’ David says. ‘Bluebells have long been linked with faerie magic, and legends claim they ring to summon fairies or even serve as a warning of enchantment.

‘Reaching up to 40cm tall but nevertheless delicate, bluebells do not last well when cut and are legally protected, so they are best enjoyed where they grow naturally,’ David says. ‘If you’d like to bring their charm into your garden, they thrive in shady, moist areas and will spread naturally over time.’

Cherry blossom in Greenwich Park

Cherry Blossoms

‘Cherry blossoms burst into bloom from March to May, lining streets and parks with cascades of delicate pink and white petals,’ David says. ‘These ornamental Japanese cherry trees are a stunning reminder that spring has arrived. Some of the most beautiful displays can be found in Greenwich Park in London, and The Meadows in Edinburgh. In Japanese culture, cherry blossoms symbolise the beauty and transience of life, inspiring centuries of poetry and art.’

But be quick if you’re hoping to spot cherry blossom this season: ‘Unlike many other spring flowers, cherry blossoms are fleeting, lasting only a week or two, so be sure to cherish their moment when you can,’ David says. ‘If you’re looking to add a flowering cherry tree to your garden, they thrive in sunny spots with well-drained soil. Though their blooms don’t last long when cut, fall petals can be preserved by pressing them for decorative keepsakes.’

Freesias

‘Famed for their sweet scent and elegant trumpet-shaped blooms, freesias bring vibrancy and fragrance to homes from early spring to late summer,’ David says. ‘Often considered one of the prettiest flowers, they come in a stunning array of pastel hues, including soft pinks, blues, cheerful yellows, pure whites, and delicate lilacs.

‘Available as both single and double-flowered varieties, freesias can grow up to 46 cm tall,’ David says. ‘While both types carry the same intoxicating fragrance, double-flowered varieties boast an extra layer of petals and often extend beyond their blooming period.

‘Symbolising friendship and trust, freesias are a popular choice for wedding bouquets and gifts,’ David adds. ‘They grow best in full sun with well-drained soil, making them a great addition to borders or pots. In floral arrangements, they have an excellent vase life: simply trim their stems at an angle, change the water frequently, and remove any fading blooms to keep them looking fresh.’

Carnations

‘Carnations are among the most enduringly popular flowers, valued for their beauty, fragrance, and exceptional longevity,’ says David. ‘With a history spanning over 2,000 years, these herbaceous perennials have been cherished since ancient Roman and Renaissance times. Found in British gardens and florists throughout the year, they naturally bloom from late spring to autumn. Like freesias, carnations can grow as single or double blooms.

‘Beyond their visual appeal and captivating scent, carnations are known for their resilience,’ David says. ‘They’re easy to grow and prefer full sun and well-drained soil. In bouquets, they can last up to two weeks with proper care; recut the stems every few days and ensure they remain in fresh, clean water. With deep symbolic meaning, red carnations represent love and admiration, while white ones symbolise purity and good luck.’

Primroses

‘One of the first wildflowers to bloom in spring, primroses are a delightful sight in hedgerows, gardens, and woodlands from February to May,’ David says. ‘These cheerful perennials are a crucial source of nectar for butterflies and bees. Devon’s woodlands and the Yorkshire Dales are particularly well known for their beautiful primrose displays. Ranging in an array of colours from vibrant pinks to delicate blues, they offer endless choices for those looking to add them to their gardens.

‘Primroses are rich in folklore,’ David adds, ‘often associated with fairies, and are believed to bring luck when placed on doorsteps. Thriving in damp, woodland-like conditions, primroses make a wonderful addition to shaded garden borders. While their delicate petals make them challenging to use in bouquets, they can be floated in bowls of water for a charming decorative touch. However, they should be kept out of reach of pets, as they can be toxic to cats and dogs.’

Alstroemeria

‘Also known as Peruvian lilies, alstroemeria is loved for its vibrant colours and long-lasting blooms,’ David says. ‘Native to South America, this exotic flower has become a favourite in gardens and bouquets due to its striking appearance and easy upkeep. Flowering from May to November, it is at its best in midsummer, though florists carry it year-round.

‘Unlike single, trumpet-shaped lilies, alstroemeria features clusters of six-petaled blossoms that resemble miniature orchids,’ David says. ‘Available in a vast spectrum of colours, from classic reds, yellows, and oranges to bi-colored varieties with speckles or stripes, alstroemeria is the chameleon of the flower world.

‘Representing devotion and friendship, their twisting stems are said to symbolise the journey of relationships,’ David adds. ‘Alstroemeria is an excellent garden plant, thriving in sunny locations with well-drained soil and producing a stunning display throughout the summer. It also makes an ideal cut flower and lasts up to two weeks in a vase. To prolong its freshness, remove any leaves that sit below the waterline and change the water regularly. Additionally, its gentle fragrance makes it a great choice for those sensitive to strong floral scents.’