Flowers have always held a unique allure when it comes to choosing names for your newborns. In fact, a staggering ten percent of last year’s most favored baby names drew their inspiration directly from the world of flowers or had some botanical connection. Our team of experts, with an undying passion for all things floral, has meticulously curated a list of the most adored flower-inspired baby names from the previous year, and we are eagerly anticipating the unveiling of the 2023 selection. The trend of floral-inspired names continues to flourish as charming names like Ivy, Lily, and Willow gracefully ascended into the top echelons. This year, industry prognosticators are foreseeing a surge in botanical names for boys, with monikers like Sage, Cedar, and Basil poised to make their mark in the top 100. And it’s not just everyday folks embracing these floral monikers; renowned personalities such as Beyoncé, Jay-Z, Will Smith, and Jada Pinkett have also opted for these blooming names for their own bundles of joy.
The Reign of Ivy
Ivy (5)
Securing a well-deserved fifth place on the list of girls’ names, Ivy reigns as the most popular flower-inspired name. This elegant yet understated name boasts a special association with the festive season, making it a delightful choice for babies born in December. Ivy’s popularity soared after Beyoncé and Jay-Z bestowed the name “Blue Ivy” upon their daughter in 2012. Since then, Ivy has been on a steady ascent, breaking into the top ten names in 2020.
The Timeless Elegance of Lily
Lily (7)
Hot on Ivy’s heels at number seven is the timeless classic, Lily. This floral gem offers several delightful variations, including Lilly (also featured at number 96) and Lilian. Lily serves as a charming diminutive for the ever-popular name Elizabeth. Experts are speculating that Lilibet, the affectionate nickname of the former Queen of England, might secure a place in the top 100 names for 2023. Lily’s enduring appeal can be attributed to its versatility. White lilies symbolize purity and rebirth, while orange lilies exude confidence and energy.
The Ascension of Willow
Willow (10)
Making an impressive entry at number ten, Willow has captured hearts as another plant-inspired name. Derived from the Old English word “welig,” this name boasts an ancient history steeped in British traditions. Willow has seen a meteoric rise in popularity, climbing from twelfth place in 2020 to the top ten. Celebrity parents such as Will Smith, Jada Pinkett, and Pink have all chosen this name for their daughters, further enhancing its allure.
The Enduring Charm of Rosie
Rosie (11)
Although Rosie slipped out of the top ten last year, it retained a strong presence at number 11. This endearing name often serves as an abbreviation for Rose, which secures its place at number 68. Rosie has been a beloved floral name among girls since 1996. Roses are not solely associated with love and romance; they also symbolize gratitude, admiration, mystery, and enchantment.
The Blossoming of Daisy
Daisy (15)
Daisy has been blossoming in popularity and achieved its highest ranking since 2010 in the previous year. Renowned figures like Katy Perry and Orlando Bloom chose this delightful name for their daughter, Daisy Dove. True to its name, Daisy beautifully captures the essence of the flower, as it opens during the day and closes at night. Daisy emanates a charming and radiant aura.
The Significance of Poppy
Poppy (17)
Poppies, known as poignant symbols of fallen soldiers’ sacrifice during World War I, continue to hold deep meaning. The name Poppy has gained popularity through various popular TV series and movies. Poppies bloom in an array of captivating colors, including shades of purple and white, with blossoms that can span up to six inches in diameter.
The Vibrancy of Violet
Violet (45)
Vibrant and abundant, violets grow wild across the UK from spring to summer. These striking perennials are even edible and impart a delightful flavor reminiscent of the beloved “parma violet” sweets. Celebrities like Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner chose Violet as the name for their eldest daughter.
The Joy of Holly
Holly (95)
Much like Ivy, Holly is associated with the joyous holiday season, making it a popular choice for December-born babies. Just making the cut at number 96 in the top 100 names, Holly has witnessed a remarkable surge in Google searches over the past decade, indicating a growing interest.
By delving into the enchanting realm of flower-inspired baby names, you can discover the perfect name for your little one, infused with natural beauty and profound meaning.