60 Flowers Name in Kannada with Pictures & Meanings | Karnataka’s Complete Floral Guide 

Karnataka, a land of cultural traditions and natural beauty, is also home to an incredible range of flowers. From sacred blooms used in religious rituals to rare species found only in the Western Ghats flowers, the state’s flora tells a story of beauty, faith, and biodiversity. Learning flowers name in Kannada with pictures and meanings is not only useful for travelers and students but also an enriching way to explore Karnataka’s culture. 

In this complete guide, you will discover more than sixty flowers with their Kannada names of flowers, English translations, and scientific names of flowers. Along with the Karnataka flowers list, we will explore their role in festivals, traditions, Ayurveda, gardening, industries, and tourism. Whether you are in India or living in the USA, this Kannada flower guide connects you to a rich and colorful world of Karnataka floral heritage. 

Why Learn Flower Names in Kannada? 

Learning flower names in Kannada helps you appreciate the deep cultural significance that these blooms hold. In Karnataka, flowers are not just ornaments; they are part of prayers, home décor, weddings, and seasonal festivals. Knowing the Kannada flower names helps you connect more closely with locals, understand stories in Kannada literature, and recognize the spiritual importance of certain species. 

For travelers and learners in the USA or elsewhere, mastering the flowers in Kannada with English translations is also practical. It helps when visiting botanical gardens in Karnataka, buying flowers in markets, or reading texts about medicinal plants. More importantly, it preserves a fading connection to the natural environment by linking language with biodiversity. 

Complete List of Flowers in Kannada (With English & Scientific Names) 

Here is the most detailed flower table in Kannada with more than 60 entries. Each row shows the local flowers of Karnataka, their English names, and their scientific names of flowers. 

No.	Kannada Name	English Name	Scientific Name
1	ದಾಸವಾಳ (Daasavaala)	Hibiscus	Hibiscus rosa-sinensis
2	ಕಮಲ (Kamala)	Lotus	Nelumbo nucifera
3	ಮಲ್ಲಿಗೆ (Mallige)	Jasmine	Jasminum sambac
4	ಗುಲಾಬಿ (Gulaabi)	Rose	Rosa indica
5	ಕಣಗಿಲೆ (Kanagile)	Marigold	Tagetes erecta
6	ಚಂಪಕ (Champaka)	Champak	Magnolia champaca
7	ಕದಂಬ (Kadamba)	Kadamba	Neolamarckia cadamba
8	ತುಳಸಿ (Tulasi)	Holy Basil	Ocimum tenuiflorum
9	ಶಂಖಪುಷ್ಪಿ (Shankhapushpi)	Butterfly Pea	Clitoria ternatea
10	ಕೇತುಕಿ (Ketuki)	Screw Pine	Pandanus odorifer
11	ನಂದಿಬಟ್ಟಲು (Nandibattalu)	Crepe Jasmine	Tabernaemontana divaricata
12	ಅಂಬುಜ (Ambuja)	Water Lily	Nymphaea nouchali
13	ಕಣಕಾಂಬರ (Kanakaambara)	Firecracker Flower	Crossandra infundibuliformis
14	ಶೇವುಂತಿಗೆ (Shevanti)	Chrysanthemum	Chrysanthemum indicum
15	ಸೂರ್ಯಕಾಂತಿ (Sooryakaanti)	Sunflower	Helianthus annuus
16	ಪರಿಜಾತ (Parijaata)	Night Jasmine	Nyctanthes arbor-tristis
17	ಕಮಲಾತ್ಮ (Kamalaatma)	Red Lotus	Nelumbo nucifera rubra
18	ದೇವಕಾಂತ (Devakaanta)	Oleander	Nerium oleander
19	ಬಿಲ್ವ (Bilva)	Bael Flower	Aegle marmelos
20	ಹರಿಹರಪುಷ್ಪ (Hariharapushpa)	Globe Amaranth	Gomphrena globosa
21	ನಾಗಲಿಂಗ (Naagalinga)	Cannonball Flower	Couroupita guianensis
22	ಅಶ್ವತ್ಥ (Ashvattha)	Peepal Flower	Ficus religiosa
23	ಅರಣ್ಯಪುಷ್ಪ (Aranyapushpa)	Forest Flower	Various species
24	ಹೂವಿನಹಾಲು (Hoovina Haalu)	Milkweed	Calotropis gigantea
25	ತಾಳೆಹೂ (Taalehoo)	Palm Flower	Borassus flabellifer
26	ಹೂವಿನಗಿಡ (Hoovinagida)	Bougainvillea	Bougainvillea glabra
27	ಮಂದಾರ (Mandara)	Coral Tree Flower	Erythrina variegata
28	ತಗರೆ (Tagare)	Oleander Jasmine	Wrightia tinctoria
29	ಶಂಕು (Shanku)	Conch Flower	Turbinella pyrum
30	ಅಲರ (Alara)	Scarlet Ixora	Ixora coccinea
31	ಕರುಮಲ್ಲಿಗೆ (Karumallige)	Arabian Jasmine	Jasminum auriculatum
32	ಬೆಳ್ಳಿಪರಿಜಾತ (Belli Parijaata)	White Night Jasmine	Nyctanthes arbor-tristis alba
33	ಗುಡುಗುಮಲ್ಲಿಗೆ (Gudugumallige)	Double Jasmine	Jasminum sambac var.
34	ಕೇಸರಿ (Kesari)	Saffron Flower	Crocus sativus
35	ಹೂವಿನಬೆಳ್ಳಿ (Hoovinabelli)	Morning Glory	Ipomoea purpurea
36	ಕರ್ಪೂರ (Karpoora)	Camphor Flower	Cinnamomum camphora
37	ಗಂಧರಾಜ (Gandharaaja)	Gardenia	Gardenia jasminoides
38	ಶರನ್ನವಿಲ (Sharannavila)	Dahlia	Dahlia pinnata
39	ಮಲ್ಲಾರ್ಪಣ (Mallaarpana)	Frangipani	Plumeria rubra
40	ಬಾಳೆಹೂ (Baalehoo)	Banana Flower	Musa paradisiaca
41	ಕಮಲಾಕ್ಷಿ (Kamalakshi)	Blue Water Lily	Nymphaea caerulea
42	ಹೂವಿನಬೆವು (Hoovinabevu)	Neem Flower	Azadirachta indica
43	ಹೂವಿನಸಪ್ಪಿಗೆ (Hoovinasappige)	Magnolia	Magnolia champaca var.
44	ಗಂಧಪುಷ್ಪ (Gandhapushpa)	Lavender	Lavandula angustifolia
45	ಜಪಾಕುಸುಮ (Japaakusuma)	Red Hibiscus	Hibiscus rosa-sinensis var.
46	ದೂರ್ವ (Doorva)	Sacred Grass Flower	Cynodon dactylon
47	ಬಾಳೆಪೂ (Baale Poo)	Plantain Flower	Musa balbisiana
48	ಹೂವಿನಜಮೂನು (Hoovinajamoonu)	Starflower	Borago officinalis
49	ಕುಂಕುಮ (Kunkuma)	Safflower	Carthamus tinctorius
50	ಹೂವಿನಮರ (Hoovinamara)	Silk Cotton Flower	Bombax ceiba
51	ಕದಳಿ (Kadali)	Banana Blossom	Musa acuminata
52	ಪಾದ್ಮಿನಿ (Padmini)	Lotus Variety	Nelumbo lutea
53	ಹೂವಿನಮಲ್ಲಿಗೆ (Hoovinamallige)	Spanish Jasmine	Jasminum grandiflorum
54	ಶಂಖಮಲ್ಲಿಗೆ (Shankhamallige)	Creeper Jasmine	Jasminum multiflorum
55	ಸರ್ವಾಂಗ (Sarvaanga)	Clerodendrum Flower	Clerodendrum inerme
56	ಸೀತಾಫಲಪುಷ್ಪ (Seetaphala Pushpa)	Custard Apple Flower	Annona squamosa
57	ಗೂಡಿಹೂ (Goodihoo)	Ixora Cluster Flower	Ixora pavetta
58	ಮುಲ್ಲುಹೂ (Mulluhuu)	Thistle Flower	Cirsium arvense
59	ಅರಣ್ಯಮಲ್ಲಿಗೆ (Aranyamallige)	Wild Jasmine	Jasminum angustifolium
60	ಗಗನಮಲ್ಲಿಗೆ (Gaganamallige)	Sky Jasmine	Nyctanthes arbor-tristis var.

Seasonal Flowers of Karnataka 

The climate of Karnataka makes it possible to enjoy flowers in every season. Spring brings colorful blooms like Gulmohar, Tabebuia, and Jacaranda, turning roadsides into bright landscapes. Summer highlights Plumeria and Kanakambara, often used in garlands and home decoration.

Monsoon is special for Karnataka wildflowers like orchids and the rare Neelakurinji, which blossoms only once in twelve years. Winter is known for Chrysanthemums, Marigolds, and Dahlias, which are seen in flower markets across cities. 

Gardeners and travelers can use this seasonal knowledge to plan their visits to botanical gardens in Karnataka or to grow flowers in their own backyards. Many USA-based gardeners also plant Kannada names of flowers like Hibiscus and Jasmine in their tropical-themed gardens. This seasonal cycle highlights the link between weather and Karnataka floral heritage. 

Popular Flowers in Karnataka Festivals & Traditions 

Every festival in Karnataka has a special flower that carries deep cultural significance. During Ugadi, homes are decorated with Neem and Mango leaves, and Jasmine garlands are worn by women. In the grand Dasara festival in Mysuru, palaces and streets are decorated with Marigolds, Chrysanthemums, and Roses, making it one of the most colorful events in India. During Varalakshmi Vratham, sacred flowers like Sampige, Lotus, and Tulsi are offered in temples as part of religious rituals. 

Flowers are also used in weddings, where Mallige garlands are symbols of purity and blessings. In folk traditions, poems and songs often compare beauty to sacred flowers like Kadamba. Knowing the Kannada names of flowers used in traditions helps outsiders appreciate Karnataka’s unique way of linking nature with faith. 

Medicinal & Ayurvedic Uses of Flowers 

In Ayurveda, many flowers are considered powerful medicinal plants. Hibiscus is famous for hair health and is often mixed into oils. Neem flowers are known for detox properties and are used in Ugadi pachadi, a traditional dish. Jasmine is used in aromatherapy to reduce stress, while Tulsi flowers help with respiratory problems. Champak flowers are sources of essential oils (jasmine, rose, champak) used in perfumes and skincare. 

The list of Ayurveda / medicinal uses continues with Lotus, which cools the body, and Calendula, which heals wounds. Traditional healers in villages still rely on these blooms, showing the blend of science and culture. By learning the flowers in Kannada with English, you also discover centuries-old remedies that form the heart of India’s wellness systems. 

Gardening with Native Kannada Flowers 

Gardening in Karnataka often starts with planting local flowers of Karnataka like Jasmine, Hibiscus, and Marigolds. These plants are hardy, suited to the tropical climate, and attract pollinators like butterflies and bees. Simple gardening tips such as using compost, watering early in the morning, and choosing well-drained soil can make a big difference. 

In urban areas like Bengaluru, terrace gardening has become popular. Families grow native flowers of Karnataka in pots alongside herbs and vegetables. In the USA too, enthusiasts plant Hibiscus and Oleander to create tropical corners. The charm of Karnataka flora is that it thrives with minimal effort, making it ideal for eco-friendly gardens. 

Flower Tourism in Karnataka 

Tourism in Karnataka is enriched by its flowers. The Lalbagh Botanical Garden in Bengaluru is world-famous for its annual flower shows, where rare orchids and roses are displayed. The Brindavan Gardens Mysuru attract thousands of visitors each year for their musical fountains and colorful flowerbeds. 

The Western Ghats flowers are another attraction. Tourists come from around the world to see orchids and the Neelakurinji bloom. Such experiences combine travel with eco-tourism, making Karnataka one of the best floral destinations in India. For readers in the USA, visiting these places offers a chance to see the real beauty of Karnataka floral heritage. 

Photography Tips for Karnataka’s Flowers 

Taking good pictures of flowers requires patience and technique. The best time for flower photography is during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, when the light is soft and natural. Macro shots bring out the details of orchids in Western Ghats or the texture of sacred flowers like Lotus and Kadamba. 

Photographers often prefer rainy seasons, when Karnataka wildflowers appear fresh and vibrant. In places like botanical gardens in Karnataka, framing shots with traditional backdrops such as temples and palaces adds cultural context. Whether in India or abroad, capturing Kannada flower names in pictures helps preserve both memory and identity. 

Flower-Based Industries in Karnataka 

Karnataka has a strong floriculture industry. Cities like Bengaluru export roses, chrysanthemums, and jasmine to the Middle East, Europe, and the USA. This has made the state a hub for international flower trade. Alongside this, the essential oils (jasmine, rose) industry is also important. Many perfumes, soaps, and oils are produced using flowers from Karnataka. 

Local flower markets such as KR Market in Bengaluru and Devaraja Market in Mysuru are cultural hotspots. They display heaps of local flowers of Karnataka every morning, creating colorful scenes. These industries support farmers, traders, and artisans, linking Karnataka flora with livelihoods. 

Future of Karnataka’s Floral Diversity 

The future of Karnataka floral heritage depends on conservation efforts. Climate change threatens Karnataka wildflowers, especially orchids and mountain species. To protect them, researchers are storing seeds in seed banks and creating sanctuaries. Botanical gardens in Karnataka also play a role by educating the public about biodiversity. 

Eco-friendly farming, urban gardening, and eco-tourism can help preserve this floral wealth. By learning Kannada flower names, people can feel closer to the land and become motivated to conserve it. The future depends on a balance between development and nature, making conservation everyone’s responsibility. 

Wildflowers of the Western Ghats 

The Western Ghats flowers are some of the most spectacular in the world. Unique orchids, wild lilies, and the famous Neelakurinji bloom in these mountains, attracting scientists and photographers. Many of these species are endangered, making conservation even more urgent. 

For travelers, walking through the forests during monsoon feels like stepping into a painting. The fragrance, colors, and diversity of these Karnataka wildflowers show why the Western Ghats is a UNESCO World Heritage site. They are living treasures that add richness to Karnataka floral heritage. 

Sacred Flowers in Temples and Rituals 

In Karnataka, certain flowers are considered sacred flowers (Lotus, Sampige, Kadamba, Tulsi). They are used in daily religious rituals, temple offerings, and major ceremonies. For example, Lotus is linked to purity, Tulsi is worshipped as holy, and Sampige is offered to deities like Shiva. 

These flowers are also symbols in literature and sculpture. In carvings of Hoysala temples, Kadamba flowers appear in decorative motifs. Learning the Kannada names of flowers used in temples helps outsiders understand the deep link between nature and spirituality in Karnataka’s culture. 

Kannada Flowers in Ayurveda and Modern Medicine 

Traditional healers and modern doctors both recognize the value of medicinal plants. Hibiscus extracts are used in shampoos, while Neem flowers are part of detox diets. Jasmine oil is studied for anti-stress effects, and Lotus seeds are rich in antioxidants. 

Modern research has confirmed many of these Ayurveda / medicinal uses, showing that Karnataka’s ancient wisdom remains relevant. By preserving the Kannada names of flowers, we also preserve valuable knowledge for future medicine. 

Flower Exports and Global Reach of Karnataka Floriculture Industry 

The floriculture industry in Karnataka is not limited to India. The state exports cut flowers to more than 20 countries. Roses from Bengaluru are especially popular in Europe during Valentine’s Day. Chrysanthemums and jasmine are exported to Gulf countries for weddings and cultural events. 

This global demand shows the power of Karnataka flora in the world market. For farmers, it creates income and job opportunities. For the world, it spreads the fragrance and beauty of Kannada names of flowers far beyond India’s borders. 

Urban Gardening Trends in Bengaluru & Mysuru 

Cities like Bengaluru are known as the “Garden City” of India, and urban families are now reviving terrace and balcony gardening. People grow native flowers of Karnataka like Hibiscus, Jasmine, and Marigold in pots. Many residents also join workshops on gardening tips and eco-friendly practices. 

In Mysuru, citizens create flower-based home decorations and compete in garden shows. These urban trends bring Kannada flower guide knowledge into modern homes while improving air quality and wellness. Even readers in the USA can follow these practices by planting tropical flowers in indoor or greenhouse settings. 

Case Study: Mysuru Dasara Flower Show 

The Mysuru Dasara festival is famous not just for its parades but also for its flower show. Thousands of local flowers of Karnataka are arranged in creative designs inside Mysuru Palace grounds. Sculptures of gods, animals, and even monuments are built entirely with blooms. 

This case study highlights the link between festivals (Ugadi, Dasara, Varalakshmi Vratham) and flowers. The show attracts international tourists, promotes eco-tourism, and keeps alive the traditions of Karnataka floral heritage. For USA travelers, it offers an unforgettable cultural experience. 

Quotes from Kannada Literature on Flowers 

Kannada poets have long celebrated flowers in their verses. Kuvempu, the famous poet, once wrote, “A flower is the smile of the earth, pure as devotion.” Such quotes show the cultural significance of flowers beyond rituals. 

By reading literature with Kannada flower names, one discovers how beauty, love, and spirituality are often compared to blossoms. These quotes connect language, art, and Karnataka flora in timeless ways. 

Future Challenges: Climate Change and Loss of Floral Diversity 

Karnataka’s flowers face threats from urbanization, pollution, and changing weather. Orchids in the Western Ghats flowers are especially vulnerable to deforestation. Without strong conservation efforts, many species could vanish forever. 

However, seed banks, eco-gardens, and community projects are helping to protect them. Educating youth about Karnataka wildflowers and promoting eco-tourism are key solutions. The challenge is great, but with awareness and action, the biodiversity of Karnataka can still thrive. 

Role of Flowers in Kannada Literature and Folklore 

Flowers have always inspired Kannada writers and poets. In classical works, blossoms often appear as metaphors for beauty, devotion, and the shortness of life. For example, the Mallige (jasmine) is described as soft and innocent, while the Lotus (kamala) symbolizes spiritual purity. Many Kannada flower names are found in folk tales and ballads sung in villages. In stories, heroes compare their beloved’s eyes to sacred flowers or poets describe the fragrance of Karnataka wildflowers during monsoon nights. Proverbs also carry floral imagery, such as “a garland without jasmine is incomplete,” reflecting the cultural respect for this bloom. These references preserve the cultural significance of flowers in Kannada heritage. 

Flowers in Karnataka’s Culinary Traditions 

Flowers are not just for decoration in Karnataka; some are part of traditional food. The banana blossom (kadali hoovu) is used in curries, while drumstick flowers are cooked with lentils. In village homes, people make hibiscus chutney, a tangy side dish with medicinal value. Herbal teas often use Tulsi and rose petals, which are believed to improve health. During festivals like Ugadi, sweets are sometimes flavored with flower extracts. These dishes connect everyday life with Ayurveda / medicinal uses, as many flowers double as medicinal plants. For modern readers, this shows how local flowers of Karnataka are valued not only for rituals but also for their taste and healing power. 

Karnataka’s Endangered and Rare Floral Species 

Not all flowers are easily found today. Some native flowers of Karnataka face threats from deforestation and urban growth. A famous example is the Neelakurinji, a rare flower that blooms once every 12 years in the Western Ghats flowers belt. Orchids from Coorg and Chikkamagaluru are also under pressure due to habitat loss.

Traditional medicinal plants like Yashtimadhu and Punarnava are collected heavily, reducing their numbers in the wild. To protect them, scientists are working with seed banks, botanical gardens in Karnataka, and conservation efforts in national parks. Learning about these species reminds us why preserving Karnataka floral heritage is essential for future generations. 

Spiritual Symbolism of Colors in Kannada Flowers 

In Karnataka’s culture, the color of a flower often carries deep meaning. White flowers like jasmine are linked to purity and devotion in religious rituals. Red flowers, such as hibiscus, symbolize energy and are offered to Goddess Durga. Yellow blooms like marigold represent prosperity and joy, often used in festivals (Ugadi, Dasara, Varalakshmi Vratham).

Blue flowers such as the rare Blue Lotus carry mystical associations, symbolizing depth and spirituality. This color symbolism shows how Karnataka flora is not only admired for beauty but also woven into spiritual life. Every offering at a temple reflects both color and meaning, creating a rich language of devotion through flowers. 

Flowers and Women’s Traditions in Karnataka 

For women in Karnataka, flowers are part of daily beauty and tradition. It is common to see women wearing Mallige garlands in their hair, especially during festivals and weddings. In rural homes, courtyards are decorated with rangoli patterns surrounded by local flowers of Karnataka. At weddings, brides often wear elaborate garlands of roses, jasmines, and chrysanthemums. During special occasions like Varalakshmi Vratham, women exchange flower strings as a sign of friendship and blessings. These customs highlight the cultural significance of blossoms as more than ornaments; they symbolize love, respect, and prosperity. Through these practices, flowers remain a living part of Karnataka’s floral heritage, connecting generations of women to tradition. 

Conclusion 

From sacred flowers (Lotus, Sampige, Kadamba, Tulsi) in temples to exotic orchids in Western Ghats, Karnataka is a floral paradise. This guide to flowers name in Kannada with pictures and meanings shows the depth of Karnataka’s culture, nature, and wisdom. For readers in the USA and beyond, learning Kannada flower names is a way to connect with Indian traditions 

FAQS 

What is the famous flower of Karnataka? 

The Mallige (jasmine) is considered the most famous flower of Karnataka, known for its fragrance and cultural importance.

Which is the most beautiful flower in Karnataka? 

The Lotus and the Sampige (champak) are often called the most beautiful flowers in  Karnataka for their elegance and spiritual symbolism. 

Which flowers are used in Karnataka festivals? 

Marigold, jasmine, and hibiscus are widely used in Karnataka festivals like Ugadi, Dasara, and Varalakshmi Vratham. 

Are there medicinal flowers in Karnataka? 

Yes, flowers like hibiscus, tulsi, and rose are used in Ayurveda / medicinal uses for hair, skin, and overall health. .