Top 20 Most Common Flowering Plants in Panama

Img leaf left

Img leaf right

Top 20 Most Common Flowering Plants in Panama

Panama's tropical climate and rich soil provide an ideal environment for a diverse array of native flowers. Among them, Madagascar periwinkle, Flame of the woods, and Flame violet stand out as the most characteristic blossoms in the region. These flowers not only contribute to the visual beauty of Panama but also hold symbolic and ecological significance. With precise information from trusted sources, we can explore the captivating world of these flowers and appreciate their essence in the Panamanian environment.

Most Common Flower Plants

Madagascar periwinkle

1. Madagascar periwinkle

The madagascar periwinkle (Catharanthus roseus) is an evergreen subshrub or herbaceous plant. It has a long history of cultivation. Over the years, many cultivars have been developed, most commonly with the aim of incorporating new colors or making the plant more tolerant to cold.

Flame of the woods

2. Flame of the woods

The flame of the woods is a popular warm-weather garden shrub due to its versatility and unique, bright red leaves. It can be used as a hedge, in flower beds, or even grown as a small tree. The flame of the woods is also popular as a standalone patio plant because of its hardiness and distinctive appearance. The genus name, Ixora, was derived from a poorly transliterated rendition of the Hindu god, Shiva's name.

Red ginger

Red ginger (Alpinia purpurata) is a flowering perennial plant native to Malaysia. Red ginger is often cultivated as an ornamental houseplant. This plant is also called the "ostrich plume" and the "pink cone ginger." red ginger is the national flower of Samoa.

Mid spring, Late spring, Summer, Early fall, Mid fall

Your Essential Companion for Global Plant Exploration

From American natives to Philippine tropics, discover plants worldwide with our app.

Download the App for Free

Flame violet

4. Flame violet

A flame violet (Episcia cupreata) plant is widely cultivated and desired for its cheerful-looking flowers and variegated green and coppery leaves. The genus name, Episcia, comes from the Greek word that means ‘shaded’; referring to its usual habitat. This plant crawls and trails and is ideal for a hanging basket, container, and ground cover.

Crown of thorns

5. Crown of thorns

The Euphorbia milii is commonly known as the crown of thorns or Christ thorn, as it is believed to the plant associated with the crown of thorns that was worn by Christ. It needs to stay above 10 ℃ with full sun.

Parrot's beak

6. Parrot's beak

Parrot's beak (Heliconia psittacorum) is a perennial herb species native to the Caribbean and South America. The parrot's beak self-pollinates without additional pollination from insects pollinators. This species is often planted in tropical gardens.

Mid spring, Late spring, Summer, Fall

Common lantana

7. Common lantana

The common lantana is a flowering plant that grows best in tropical environments. It spread outside the Americas when the Dutch brought it to Europe. The plant is generally regarded as an unwanted weed that reduces biodiversity. Additionally, it is toxic to livestock and harms the output of farmland.

Mexican petunia

8. Mexican petunia

Mexican petunia (Ruellia simplex) is an evergreen herbaceous perennial recognized by its wrinkly, trumpet-shaped purple flowers. It is commonly cultivated as an ornamental plant. Due to its vigorous spreading ability, Ruellia simplex has become widely naturalized outside Mexico. It is considered an invasive species in many countries.

Late spring, Summer, Fall

Golden dewdrops

9. Golden dewdrops

Golden dewdrops (Duranta erecta) is an ornamental sprawling shrub commonly found in subtropical and tropical gardens all over the world. Its gentle purple blossoms are often visited by butterflies and hummingbirds. Golden dewdrops is considered a weed in Australia, South Africa and certain parts of East Asia.

Mid spring, Late spring, Summer, Early fall, Mid fall

Expanded lobsterclaw

10. Expanded lobsterclaw

Heliconia latispatha (expanded lobsterclaw) is a plant species native to southern Mexico (Tabasco, Oaxaca, Chiapas, Campeche), Central America and northern South America (Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador and Peru) and naturalized in Florida and Jamaica. It is an herbaceous perennial up to 4 m tall, with leaves resembling those of bananas. The inflorescence is erect, up to 45 cm long, with red or orange bracts subtending green, yellow or orange flowers.

Wishbone flower

11. Wishbone flower

Wishbone flower (Torenia fournieri) is an ornamental flowering plant often found in gardens. Wishbone flower is native to tropical Asia and Africa. Gardeners often grow this species in hanging baskets because it is easy to grow from seeds or from small cuttings.

Mother of thousands

12. Mother of thousands

The mother of thousands is a succulent plant native to Madagascar. Its unusually-shaped leaves have granted it other monikers like "alligator plant" and "devil's backbone." It reproduces via the "plantlets" that grow along the periphery of its leaves. Though enjoyed for its decorative value, mother of thousands can be invasive in arid environments.

Late summer, Fall, Early winter, Mid winter

Perfumed passionflower

13. Perfumed passionflower

Perfumed passionflower (Passiflora vitifolia) produces striking red flowers that make it a valued showy garden plant, much loved by butterflies and hummingbirds. Several hybrids like 'Scarlet Flame' have been bred to accentuate some of the colors and features of the parent plant.

Common zinnia

14. Common zinnia

The common zinnia is a popular garden plant that has usually been hybridized from different wild varieties. It thrives in relatively dry conditions with good airflow and comes in many colors.

Peace lily

The peace lily gets its scientific name Spathiphyllum wallisii from a combination of the two Greek words ‘spath’ and ‘phyl’, which means spoon and leaves, respectively. The large graceful white spathe of the peace lily resembles a white flag, which is an international symbol of truce or peace.

Chinese hibiscus

16. Chinese hibiscus

Chinese hibiscus is a small flowering tree. Its fragrant flowers are well known the world over, leading to many cultivated variants. Chinese hibiscus is the national flower of Malaysia and is featured on Malaysian coins. Although the Latin name, Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, means “the rose of China,” it is not related to true roses.

Spring, Summer, Fall

Golden trumpet

17. Golden trumpet

Golden trumpet (Allamanda cathartica) is a plant species native to Brazil. Golden trumpet is mentioned in Flora Brasiliensis. It is the official flower of Canovanas, Puerto Rico. If this plant is not pruned, it can grow to a height of 6 m.

Late spring, Summer, Early fall, Mid fall

Florist kalanchoe

18. Florist kalanchoe

Florist kalanchoe (Kalanchoe blossfeldiana) originates from Madagascar and has been a popular houseplant since the 1930s. Unlike most other succulents that are grown for their interesting leaves, Kalanchoe blossfeldiana is valued for the colorful flowerheads it produces in autumn and winter. This is the reason it is commonly gifted during holidays, earning it another name - Christmas kalanchoe. It is toxic to pets.

Spring, Late fall, Winter

Crepe ginger

19. Crepe ginger

Crepe ginger (Hellenia speciosa) is a plant species that is not drought tolerant. For optimal growth, this plant species must be watered regularly when cultivated as a houseplant. Crepe ginger grows best in partial to full shade.

Peacock flower

20. Peacock flower

The peacock flower, Barbados' national flower, is a striking ornamental plant commonly grown in public and private gardens. Although the seeds of this flower are toxic if consumed, the fruits are edible. Some parts of this plant are used as medicine by Indonesians and West Indians. This plant is toxic to dogs and cats but provides food for butterflies and bees.

Mid spring, Late spring, Summer, Fall

Discover 4 Exciting Reasons to Choose PictureThis

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Identify toxic plants around you

Easily find your perfect green friends

Get full care tips and tricks for your plants

Download the App for Free

North America > Panama

A Botanist in Your Pocket

Scan QR code to download

More Plants in Panama

Mask group

Most Common Toxic Plants

Panama's humid tropical climate, rich biodiversity, and dense rainforest ecosystems create a fertile breeding ground for a variety of flora, including toxic plants. The country's ample rainfall, temperature range, and well-drained soils allow species like , , and to thrive. The prevalence of such toxic plants poses potential risks to humans and animals inhabiting or exploring these regions.

Mask group

Most Common Flowers of Spring

With Spring's balmy breezes gracing Panama, a transformation unfolds, awakening a floral tapestry. Among this vivid display, , , and emerge as nature's beacons of rebirth. Their blossoms not only paint the landscape with color but also symbolize the cycle of life and the vibrant energy that defines the season.

Mask group

Most Common Spring Fruits

Spring in Panama unfurls under a canopy of vitality, with warm sunshine and nourishing rains stirring the soil to life. It's a season where , , and reach their peak, providing a burst of fresh flavors. These fruits, emblematic of the region's lush biodiversity, not only satiate the local palate but also play a pivotal role in Panama's agrarian tapestry, marking springtime with a celebration of growth and renewal.

Mask group

Most Common Fruits

Panama's tropical climate and fertile volcanic soil create an ideal environment for a diversity of fruit plants. Renowned for both its humidity and rainfall, the country provides plenty of water to sustain vigorous growth. Among the myriad fruits, , , and stand out not only for their flavors but also for their cultural resonance locally. These fruit plants are deep-rooted in the country's culinary and export traditions, reflecting Panama's rich agricultural tapestry.

Mask group

Most Common Trees

Panama's tropical climate and rich soil make it a haven for diverse native trees. Among the emblematic species are , , and . These trees play a significant role in the region's culture and ecology. provides valuable timber, while is known for its medicinal properties. is revered for its environmental benefits, such as providing habitat for wildlife. Together, these trees contribute to the unique and vibrant ecosystem of Panama.

Mask group

Most Common Weeds

Panama's humid tropical climate with abundant rainfall creates a lush environment conducive to a variety of garden weeds. Among the most common, , , and persistently spring up in gardens, often outcompeting desired flora. They pose a significant challenge for gardeners and landscapers who strive to maintain pristine green spaces, requiring continual vigilance and management to curb their invasive growth.

Mask group

Most Common Tall Trees

Panama, cradled between the Caribbean and the Pacific, is a hotbed for growth with its tropical climate and rich, varied terrain. Here, colossal trees such as , , and punctuate the landscape, surging skyward as emblems of the area’s verdant biodiversity. They stand as living monuments, vital to both the ecological harmony and the historical tapestry that nestle within the country’s lush rainforests.

Mask group

Most Common Flowers of Winter

Winter in 'Panama' may be known for its serene cold, but it is also a haven for certain flower plants. Despite the chill, the , , and brightly bloom, defying the frosty environment. These resilient and beautiful flowers add a touch of color and give hope during the winter months, symbolizing strength and perseverance.

Mask group

Most Common Plants

In Panama, you can find Madagascar periwinkle, Heart of jesus, Flame of the woods, Garden croton, Snake plant, and more! There are 50 types of plants in total. Be sure to look out for these common plants when you’re walking on the streets, in parks, or public gardens.

Copyright © Glority LLC Limited. All Rights Reserved.