27 Common Types Of Mississippi Wildflowers Including Photos

Head out into the wilds of Mississippi and you will see hundreds of different types of wildflowers. You don’t have to go that far into the wilderness to see wildflowers, either.

You know those uncultivated little flowers that you see growing alongside the road, in forests, fields, and in meadows? Yep, they are all wildflowers!

27 Common Types Of Mississippi Wildflowers Including Photos

There are a vast array of plant types that grow naturally in Mississippi, such as sturdy perennials, reseeding annuals that flower, ferns, grasses native to the region, various vines, and shrubs.

Although they are “wild,” many of these plants can be used in home backyards and landscapes to make the space come to life with color and aromas. This is because the majority of Mississippi wildflowers adapt well to the climate and soils of the region.

The only issue we have is identifying what wildflower is what. With such a huge variety of wildflower species, it can be challenging to identify what wildflower you are looking at.

Some may even be hybrids that originated in local garden centers, so are not exactly “natural” to Mississippi.

To help you learn more about Mississippi wildflowers, we have created this useful, enlightening guide. The truth is that we would be here all day if we were to discuss every type of wildflower in Mississippi.

Instead, we have chosen 27 kinds of Mississippi wildflowers for you to look out for on your nature walks. If you like the look of some, you may be able to plant them in your yard and enjoy your wildflowers for many years to come.

1. Purple Loosestrife (Lythrum Salicaria)

Our first beautiful wildflower is the Purple Loosestrife, a tall perennial plant that is native to Europe and Asia, but has been introduced to many other parts of the world, such as the U.S.

It is known for its showy spikes of magenta-pink flowers, which bloom in mid to late summer and attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.

This wildflower is often grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and yards, but it has also become an invasive species in many wetland areas, where it can outcompete native plants and disrupt the ecosystem.

2. Common Mullein (Verbascum Thapsus)

The Common Mullein also goes by the names Big taper, Flannel Plant, and Velvet Dock. It is native to Europe, Africa, and Asia, but is now regarded as a naturalized species in the Mississippi area. 

This wildflower grows very well and can often be seen alongside roadsides, in meadows, and fields. You can identify the Common Mullein by its yellow small blooms that are grouped together on a tall, slim stem.

The leaves are dense and velvety whilst the stems grow up from the base of these large leaves. If you see a flower that resembles corn, it is probably the Common Mullein. 

3. Creeping Charlie (Glechoma Hederacea)

Most wildflowers go by different names and the humorously named Creeping Charlie is no exception, also known as Ground Ivy, Field Balm, Tunhoof, Catsfoot, Gill-over-Ground, Alehoof, Hedgemaids, and Run-Away-Robin. 

Growing in very large clusters in semi-shaded moist areas, this wildflower tolerates sunlight extremely well. One big fan of Creeping Charlie is the Bee as it collects pollen from the flowers.

Although rather pretty, this wildflower is considered a weed by many in Mississippi as it commonly grows on lawns. But, because it has such an extensive root system, it is hard to remove completely.

4. Common Blue Violet (Viola Sororia)

This charming little wildflower may look harmless but to many in Mississippi it is the bane of their gardening lives. The Common Blue Violet loves to grow in the middle of yards and lawns seemingly out of nowhere, but if you can live with it, leave it be.

It attracts all walks of nature, including caterpillars, bees, doves, rabbits, and even deer. However, its coating of protein also attracts ants, so you may not want it around after all. 

This small herbaceous perennial plant, also known as the Common Meadow Violet, typically grows in moist or shady areas, and is known for its distinctive heart-shaped leaves and delicate blue-purple flowers.

Interestingly, it can self-fertilize inside the plant without needing to open with the seeds capable of shooting as far as none feet from the plant! 

5. Spiny Sow-Thistle (Sonchus Asper)

Another invasive wildflower found throughout Mississippi, the Spiny Sow-thistle typically grows on construction sites, grasslands, in pastures, at waste areas, and on roadsides. 

Native to Europe, Asia, and North America, this wildflower should be stopped in its tracks if found in your yard. It can easily overrun native plants and overwhelm your yard completely.

It also hosts certain diseases that can negatively impact other crops and plants. Look for spiky leaves and yellow flowers, like dandelions, perched upon tall stems to identify this unwelcome weed. 

6. Heal-All (Prunella Vulgaris)

Heal-All wildflowers are herbaceous perennial plants that are native to Europe and Asia, but have been introduced to many parts of North America, including Mississippi.

Commonly found in lawns, fields, and along roadsides, this delicate flower is known for its small purple flowers and medicinal properties.

In Mississippi, and other areas where it grows, Heal-All is often used as a traditional herbal remedy for a wide range of ailments, including skin irritations, digestive issues, and sore throats.

7. Buttercups (Ranunculus)

Ever placed one of these under your chin to see if you like butter or not? They say that if there is a reflection off your chin, you’re a butter fan! Okay, that may be nonsense, but the beloved buttercup is one of the most recognizable wildflowers in Mississippi.

A genus of flowers with around 600 unique species across the planet, buttercups are easily distinguishable thanks to their small, yellow flowers. However, they can also be pink, red, orange, cream, and purple.

Thriving in moist habitats, the Buttercup grows in meadows, fields, and on roadsides, blooming from spring to summer. 

8. Teasel (Dipsacus Fullonum)

It may not be one of the more eye-catching wildflowers on our list but this biennial plant native to Europe and Asia is a common sight in Mississippi. 

The Teasel wildflower sports distinctive spiny flower heads that attract various pollinators, including butterflies and bees and its seeds are an important source of food for other wildlife.

These flowers, however, do not bloom until the plant’s second year of growth. Teasel also has medicinal properties and promotes the healing of broken bones or damaged connective tissues. 

9. Whorled Milkweed (Asclepias Verticillata)

Also known as Eastern Whorled Milkweed and Horsetail Milkweed, Whorled Milkweed is a perennial wildflower with a single stem and top clusters of 7 to 20 small, attractive white flowers.

This wildflower is commonly found in open woods, dry prairies, on roadsides, and fields and attracts all kinds of wildlife from bees and wasps to beetles, flies, skippers, and hummingbirds. It is particularly important as a food source of Monarch butterflies.

Best of all, Whorled Milkweed works great in gardens and tolerates most types of soil. 

10. Cardinal Flower (Lobelia Cardinalis)

The Cardinal Flower is known for its beautiful dark red leaves and purple undersides. The blooms cluster on the end of long stalks and the nectar found inside these tubular flowers attract many types of insects that hummingbirds love to feast on. 

These wildflowers grow very well in yard settings, so if you decide you like the look of it, plant the Cardinal Flower in a space with partial sun. Its pop of red will be sure to attract hummingbirds to your yard, too! 

11. Blue Vervain (Verbena Hastata)

Known for its slender spikes of tiny purple flowers, which bloom in mid-summer and attract pollinators such as butterflies and bees, the Blue Vervain wildflower is a perennial herbaceous plant native to North America. 

Hard and drought-resistant, this wildflower has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to treat a variety of ailments, including fever, anxiety, and digestive issues.

It attracts a whole host of native honeybees, small butterflies, and moths, with many loving to feast on its leaves. 

12. Chicory (Cichorium Intybus)

Only blooming for one day, the Chicory wildflower is non-native but found throughout Mississippi. It is generally found in sunny and dry areas, such as open fields and roadsides. 

Did you know you can eat Chicory? Well, you can! Its leaves can be enjoyed in salads and are bursting with vitamins and minerals.

But, they can be very bitter, so watch out. Its roots can also be boiled and enjoyed with butter or used as an alternative to coffee. 

13. Common Sunflower (Helianthus Annuus)

It may be called the Common Sunflower but we will never get sick of seeing these beautiful wildflowers across Mississippi. One of the most recognizable and popular flowers worldwide, the Common Sunflower boasts large yellow petals with eye-like dark centers.

Commonly seen during late summer and early fall, these flowers grow on grasslands, roadsides, edges of forests and prairies, but more often than not, sit proudly in many yards.

Bees, butterflies, and various insect pollinators benefit from Common Sunflowers, as well as mammals and birds who enjoy their seeds. That’s right, you can enjoy the seeds of this wildflower yourself! 

14. Boneset (Eupatorium Perfoliatum)

You may know the Boneset wildflower as a Feverwort, Sweating-plant, or Thoroughwort, and for its dense foliage beneath a cluster of small, white fuzzy flowers.

Blooming from summer through to fall, Boneset is actually listed as poisonous by the Poisonous Plants Database of the US Food and Drug Administration.

Although poisonous, this wildflower has been used medicinally to induce heavy sweating, hence its “Sweating-plant” namesake. So, if you notice any Boneset ingredients in your medicine, just be extra cautious. 

15. Trumpet Honeysuckle (Lonicera Sempervirens)

One quick glance at this wildflower and you will see where it gets its name.

The Trumpet Honeysuckle, also known as Scarlet Honeysuckle, Woodbine, Coral Honeysuckle, and plain old Honeysuckle is a perennial wildflower that attracts hummingbirds and many pollinators.

Its iconic red, trumpet-shaped flowers are a feast for the eyes and its red berries are devoured by birds, such as American Robins, and Goldfinches, every year throughout Mississippi.

It is also a critical nectar source for different butterfly species in Mississippi, and grows mainly in wet areas, like marshes, bogs, and floodplain forests. 

16. Bee Balm (Monarda Fistulosa)

A native perennial herbaceous plant found throughout much of North America, Bee Balm is identifiable through its showy clusters of pink or lavender flowers, which bloom in mid to late summer and are a favorite of bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

Bee Balm has a long history of medicinal use, and is believed to have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. In addition to its medicinal uses, Bee Balm is also a popular ornamental plant in many backyards.

You can even use it to make a fragrant tea with a citrusy, slightly spicy flavor. Talk about being versatile! 

17. Joe Pye Weed (Eutrochium)

The Joe Pye Weed is a wildflower native to Mississippi and a popular choice for yards in the area. Joe Pye Weed is in fact a common name for plants in the genus Eutrochium, so you’ve probably come across the name before.

This wildflower is known for its large clusters of pink flowers atop long, thin stems. These attract a myriad of pollinators from bees to wasps. The weed naturally grows in wet meadows and the edges of woodlands and grows best in partial shade. 

18. Common Periwinkle (Vinca Minor)

Beautifully cute, the Common Periwinkle may not be a native to North America, but this perennial has taken to the region like a duck to water. 

Also known as Dwarf periwinkle and Lesser Periwinkle, this wildflower attracts Mason bees, bee flies, bumblebees, and Anthophoridae Bees, Mason Bees, playing an important role in nature.

It is frequently grown as ground cover in Mississippi and is popular due to its resistance to deer, an animal that loves to eat certain plants throughout the state.

19. Everlasting Pea (Lathyrus Latifolius)

Next up we have this vine that is frost-hardy and does not need much care if you ever decide to grow in your yard. But, you’ll have to keep on top of it as it grows like a weed and can take over if not controlled properly.

Native to Europe, the Everlasting Pea has taken up residence in North America since the eighteenth century and can be found on Mississippi banks under full sunlight.

The plant has purplish pink flowers and long, slender tendrils that look elegant on fences and trellises. Bees and butterflies love the pea-shaped blooms and keep an eye out for its fading color as it gradually turns white over time. 

20. Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia Hirta)

The Black-eyed Susan is a native North American wildflower that is widely cultivated for its bright yellow petals and dark brown centers.

It belongs to the sunflower family and is a popular choice for gardens and landscaping due to its hardiness, low maintenance, and attractive blooms.

This attractive wildflower is also a favorite of pollinators like bees and butterflies, making it a great choice for gardeners interested in supporting local wildlife.

It can grow in shades of yellow, orange, brown, and red and is distinguishable from other similar plants thanks to its striking eye in its center.

21. Fleabane (Erigeron Annuus)

A common sight in Mississippi and other parts of the southeastern United States, Fleabane can be Annual, Biennial, or Perennial.

It typically grows in fields, meadows, and along roadsides, and is characterized by its daisy-like white or pink flowers with yellow centers.

The Fleabane wildflower is another important source of nectar and pollen for many species of butterflies, bees, and other pollinators and are identifiable through their slender, delicate petals that grow out from a yellow disc in the center. 

22. Alfalfa (Medicago Sativa)

Blooming in spring, summer, and fall, Alfalfa is often grown as a food crop by farmers for their livestock and other animals. Science lovers find this plant especially interesting as it has the capability to fix nitrogen from the air into soil via its roots. 

This purple wildflower originated in warmer climates and attracts many pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, as well as different bird species. 

23. Smooth Blue Aster (Symphyotrichum Laeve)

Smooth Blue Aster is a happy-looking wildflower found in many parts of North America. It generally grows in open fields, meadows, and along roadsides, and is characterized by its clusters of small, blue or purple flowers with yellow centers.

Smooth Blue Aster blooms in late summer to early fall and plays an important role in supplying nectar and pollen to many species of bees, butterflies, and various other pollinators.

24. Indian Hemp (Apocynum Cannabinum)

You may know Indian Hemp by one of its many other names, including Prairie Dogbane, Hemp Dogbane, Dogbane, Amy Root, Wild Cotton, and Rheumatism Root.

A native of North America, this wildflower is not as welcome as you may think as it is considered an aggressive type of weed by many in Mississippi. 

Growing in meadows, prairies, and dry, rocky woodlands, Indian Hemp also overruns farmland. This can be disastrous for many farmers as the plant is known to reduce crop yields.

If you come across this wildflower, avoid its milky sap, too, as this can cause skin blisters. But, its small white flowers are bursting with nectar that moths and butterflies adore. 

25. English Plantain (Plantago Lanceolata)

Native to Asia and Europe, the English Plantain wildflower was introduced to Mississippi a few hundred years ago. Since, it has become one of the most recognizable weeds growing on lawns in the area with its hairy, flowering long spikes. 

The spikes themselves sport small white flowers and you will probably see this plant growing in grazing pastures, on roadsides, and in disturbed habitats. Beetles and flies pollinate its flowers, whilst songbirds consume its seeds. 

26. Queen Anne’s Lace (Daucus Carota)

This elegant wildflower has called North America home ever since it was introduced to the region by early European settlers.

Queen Anne’s Lace may look delicate and floral but it is regarded as an aggressive weed by many as it invades meadows, grasslands, lawns, roadsides, and some prairies. 

It may not look like it, but this wildflower is an ancestor of domesticated carrots that are enjoyed worldwide today, hence its other name of Wild Carrot. Its young roots are edible but become more fibrous and woody as they age.

Characteristics of Queen Anne’s Lace include umbels that grow to around two feet in height and feature small white flowers. It also has hairy stems and adapts well to most soil types. 

27. Yarrow (Achillea Millefolium)

The Yarrow wildflower tends to naturally occur in grasslands, disturbed areas of land, roadies, and forests.

That being said, it can be grown in your yard and grows a great cluster of flowers with feathery, small leaves, somewhat like ferns. If you like the aroma of chrysanthemums, then you’ll love Yarrow.

Many Yarrow plants were introduced to North America during the colonial era but Mississippi has a range of its own native Yarrow wildflowers.

When combined, bees, beetles, wasps, moths, and butterflies can enjoy colorful hybrids, even in drought conditions. 

In Summary 

Mississippi has some of the country’s most scenic landscapes with an orchestra of wildlife to keep you engrossed on your country walks.

But, you won’t have to look too far for wildflowers in the region as different types tend to grow just about anywhere in the state. Look out for the wildflowers we have discussed above and let us know which ones you may like to add to your yard. 

Diane Peirce
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