From hibiscus to hollyhocks, this plant list showcases a variety of structural and flowering plants that start with the letter ‘H’. Offering you insight into their different care needs, variations, and characteristics.
Read on to learn more about these amazing plants and how to best care for them in your own garden.
Hellebore
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(Helleborus spp.)
Hellebore (Helleborus spp.) is an evergreen plant that is popular for its showy blooms. It is hardy in USDA climate zones 4 to 9 and performs well in partial sun to dappled shade locations.
They prefer well-drained soil, with excessive moisture potentially causing root rot. They are drought tolerant once established, though they will appreciate some additional watering during dry periods.
The typical height of a hellebore ranges from 6 inches to 3 feet tall with a spread of 1 – 2 feet wide. Their showy blooms come in varieties of white, yellow, purple, pink, and black and appear on the plant between December and April.
Common problems with pests include aphids or slugs and snails which can be controlled with insecticides or traps. Hellebores also can suffer from bacterial diseases such as leaf spots or crown rots if the drainage isn’t adequate enough. With the right care, hellebores can provide a beautiful display all winter long!
Hibiscus
The Hibiscus is an eye-catching perennial shrub that enjoys warm climates. It will grow happily in a sunny spot in USDA Hardiness Zones 8 to 11
This vibrant plant prefers moist, well-drained soil and thrives with plenty of light, bright, indirect light will retain the flower’s vivid color. Height can depend on the variety; some reach up to 15 feet tall while most reach between 3-5 feet.
When grown outdoors check the plant regularly for aphids, mealybugs, and mites. Potential diseases include powdery mildew or black sooty mold, which can be prevented by keeping the area around the plant clean, and simply removing dead leaves or stems.
Water at the base of the plant to avoid fungal diseases caused by wet foliage and make sure it gets enough nutrients throughout its growth cycle. With proper care and maintenance, this beautiful flowering shrub will add vibrancy to your garden for many years!
Heather
(Calluna vulgaris)
Heather is an attractive evergreen shrub that adds color and texture to any garden. Highly tolerant of cold temperatures, Heather is suitable for growing in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 6. It prefers a sunny position in the garden with well-drained soil, but it will also tolerate some shade.
It has a moderate water requirement and should be watered regularly during dry spells. Heather typically grows up to one meter in height with a spreading habit. On mature plants, the purple flowers bloom from mid-summer to early autumn and the foliage then turns yellow in autumn.
Common problems include powdery mildew and rust. As well as aphids and mites which can cause damage to leaves and stems. With proper care, however, this low-maintenance shrub will bring seasonal color into your garden.
Heliotrope
(Heliotropium arborescens)
Heliotrope is an upright, bushy shrub that can reach up to 3 feet in height. It is hardy in USDA Zones 9b-11 and prefers full sun to light shade and moist, well-drained soils.
To achieve show-stopping flower displays, Heliotrope requires plenty of sunlight so it’s important to select a location that receives several hours of direct sunlight each day.
The showy flowers come in shades of deep purple, blue, pink, and white on long stems that last throughout the summer months. Whilst the leaves are finely toothed and fragrant when crushed.
It’s relatively disease free, but can be susceptible to aphids or spider mites if not properly maintained. Water deeply but infrequently and apply a slow-release fertilizer every few months.
With proper care and regular maintenance, heliotrope makes an attractive addition to sunny borders or as part of a dramatic container display.
Hollyhock
(Alcea Rosea)
Hollyhock is a beautiful plant that can reach heights of up to six feet tall. It produces large, bright flowers in shades of red, pink, purple, yellow, and white.
This is a hardy perennial that can survive in USDA zones 3-7, thriving in full sun, but it will also tolerate partial shade. Hollyhock prefers moist soil that is free draining, with a slightly acidic to alkaline pH.
This is a relatively low-maintenance plant; however, it can be susceptible to common fungal diseases like rust or powdery mildew and various pests such as aphids or slugs. The problem can be easily prevented with adequate air circulation and watering at the base of the stem near the ground, avoiding contact with foliage.
Hosta
(Hosta spp.)
Hosta is one of the most popular and versatile perennials for any garden. With a wide range of color patterns, shapes, and sizes, the Hosta is the perfect addition to any partially shaded garden. The foliage ranges from almost solid green to heavily variegated, and the plant height can range from 2-3 inches up to 3 feet or more depending on the variety.
It grows well in USDA hardiness zones 3 to 8 and prefers partial sun to light shade and enjoys moist soil conditions, however tolerant of dryer soils.
Common pests include slugs and snails both of which can devour a plant over a short period. They are also prone to fungal diseases such as leaf spot, mildew, and rust. When planted in the right conditions with plenty of light, adequate water, and a good care routine to protect them against slugs, hostas will provide years of lush architectural foliage.
Hot Poker
(Kniphofia)
Kniphofia, or Hot Poker as it is more commonly known, is a unique and striking plant that adds flair to any garden. The foliage of this herbaceous perennial consists of long green leaves which form a clump at the base. During mid to late summer, tall stems emerge and are adorned with tubular flowers in shades of orange, yellow, and red.
Hot Poker grows best in USDA climate zones 5-9, reaching heights of 1-3 feet depending on the variety. This species thrives in sunny positions with well-draining soil but does require regular watering during dry periods.
Common pests include aphids and slugs while rust may appear when conditions are wet. An impressive sight, Kniphofia will make a welcome addition to any outdoor space with its vibrant and eye-catching blooms throughout the warmer months.
Hypericum
Hypericum is a stunning perennial plant with large, bright yellow flowers and abundant foliage. Its delicate leaves are shaped like stars and have a glossy sheen. Growing up to 1-2 feet in height, it can easily be grown in USDA hardiness zones 5 through 9, thriving in partial sunlight and moist soil.
Water requirements are moderate, but make sure to water deeply during dry spells. For best results, add organic matter to the soil when planting and prune occasionally to keep it looking tidy.
Hypericum isn’t prone to any serious pests or diseases, however, overly humid conditions may cause mildew on the leaves so pay attention to humidity levels. With its eye-catching blooms, Hypericum is sure to add an amazing splash of color to any garden!
Helenium
Helenium is a vibrant garden plant with daisy-like flowers that come in numerous shades of yellow, orange, and red. This perennial grows well in USDA zones 3 through 8, reaching heights of up to 5 feet tall.
It prefers full sun to achieve the best results during flowering but will tolerate partial shade. Give it a regular watering but avoid overly wet ground. Once established Helenium will also tolerate dry soil.
Common problems include aphids, powdery mildew, rust, and aster yellows virus. You can prevent these issues, with adequate air circulation by leaving plenty of space between plants for good airflow. With its vibrant colors and the long blooming period from summer through fall, Helenium is an excellent choice for adding bright spots of color to any garden!
Heuchera
Heuchera, also known as coralbells, is an evergreen perennial with a multitude of uses in the garden. It is a low-maintenance plant that grows from 0.3 to 1 m tall and requires minimal care or effort.
Heuchera thrives in USDA Hardiness Zones 3-9, in full sun or partial shade, and prefers moist but well-drained soil. Its foliage comes in many colors including green, purple, yellow, and bronze, adding texture and color to gardens all year round. The delicate flowers bloom in late spring and summer.
Deer-resistant, Heuchera is generally free of pests and diseases but may occasionally be afflicted by rust or aphids – if this occurs they can be treated with an appropriate insecticide or fungicide. Heuchera is an easy-care perennial that adds beauty and interest to any landscape setting!
Honeysuckle
(Lonicera spp.)
Honeysuckle is a captivating climbing shrub that can reach heights of up to 25 feet tall, depending on species and variety. Its cascading vine-like stems bear fragrant tubular-shaped flowers which range from pinkish or yellowish white to deep red and orange.
It prefers sunny locations with moist, well-drained soil in USDA Hardiness Zones 4 through 8. It appreciates an occasional deep soaking around the base of the plant, to overcome long dry spells.
Aphids are a common problem with Honeysuckle, but they can be controlled by washing them off with a strong jet of water. The plant may also suffer from bacterial blight or root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly drained soils. With its vibrant blooms, lush foliage, and sweet fragrance, it’s no wonder why Honeysuckle has been cultivated for centuries as an ornamental landscape plant.
Hydrangea
(Hydrangea species)
Hydrangea is a popular and attractive shrub featuring large, showy blooms of white, pink, or blue. It typically grows 1-3 meters in height and thrives in USDA hardiness zones 4-9.
For best results, position Hydrangeas in a sheltered, sunny location with shade from the afternoon sun, ideally plant a well-draining soil enriched with compost or aged manure. Water regularly during periods of growth and mulch lightly to keep retain soil moisture.
Pests and diseases are not common, however fungal diseases may occur in humid, warm conditions if plants are left too wet for prolonged periods. Pruning should be carried out after flowering to shape plants and remove dead wood.
Hemerocallis (Daylily)
(Hemerocallis spp)
The Daylily is a fantastic plant with a diverse range of cultivars to offer an array of different colors and forms. They add interest and structure to beds, borders, or patio containers due to their tall stems reaching up to 70cm in height.
Hemerocallis are hardy, easy-to-grow plants and can thrive in USDA climate zones 3-10 depending on the variety. They prefer sunny positions but will tolerate partial shade. However, they do need fertile, well-drained soil and regular watering during dry spells.
Daylilies can be susceptible to rust fungus or powdery mildew so it’s best to water the plant around the base at the roots and try to avoid getting foliage wet. Deadheading spent flower stems will encourage further blooms later in the season.
Hypoxis
(Star-grass)
Hypoxis is an evergreen perennial with a flat rosette of glossy, pointed leaves that grows up to a height of 8-10 inches. Hardy to USDA climate zones 4-9 and thrives in full sun to partial shade locations with moist, well-drained soil.
Hypoxis prefers regular watering, but take care not to overwater or allowed it to sit in standing water. Common problems include mildew and root rot if the soil does not drain properly. Aphids, slugs, and snails may also attack it if not controlled early on.
This lovely little plant produces bright yellow star-shaped flowers in the summer and fall months. For best growth results, keep the area around the crown of Hypoxis tidy and free from weeds that might compete for water and nutrients.
Flowers That Start With The Letter H
Hibiscus, the quintessential summer flower, is a stunning addition to any garden. With its large and colorful blooms, it provides a burst of beauty on even the dreariest of days.
Hellebores often referred to as the Christmas flower, are also known for their unique beauty and ability to withstand cold temperatures. The hearty plant will bloom in late winter, adding a festive and cheerful touch to any outdoor space.
Finally, heuchera the evergreen perennial boasts bright foliage in a variety of hues – perfect for those looking for something special throughout the year. With so many gorgeous flowers beginning with “H”, there’s something for everyone!
Reference
Valdosta State University – Heather