If you’re struggling to come up with a name for a fantasy character, you could end up finding all the inspiration you need in the plant kingdom. Flowers evoke feelings of elegance and grace, which can make flower names most suitable for characters like elves and centaurs, or, if you’re making a character for a D&D campaign, these names could work well for a firbolg or druid as well. Really, any character associated with the fey or nature could be a good fit for names like these.
Although these names are best suited for fantasy characters, they could end up being meaningful for any character. Take a look, and you might find something you like!
Acacia
The word Acacia describes a genus of shrubs and trees. These plants have iconic seed pods and often bloom white or yellow flowers, though some species are red or purple. They are notoriously challenging to grow—often requiring someone to manually chip away at the seed coat—but they have been coveted throughout history for their medicinal and preservative properties.
As a name, Acacia has Greek origins, and means “thorny,” since many plants in the Acacia genus are covered in thorns. It would be well-suited to a character who has a lot of positive qualities, but holds themself back due to anxiety, past trauma, or some other personal obstacle.
Alcea
Alcea is the name of the genus of flowering plants commonly known as “hollyhocks.” These plants are coveted as ornamental plants due to their bright flowers and tendency to attract hummingbirds and butterflies.
Alcea is an uncommon name of Greek origin, and is understood to mean “foundation” or “strength, courage, and protection.” In the language of flowers, this flower symbolizes ambition. Naturally, this name would be well-suited for a character who is driven and passionate, with a tendency to care for and protect their friends.
Alyssum
Alyssum is the name for a genus of flowering plants that are iconic for having clusters of tiny bright white or yellow flowers, though some species can be pink or purple. They are often used as food for caterpillars, and they have been known to attract many moths and butterflies to a garden.
As a name, Alyssum can mean “shelter” and “protection,” and the Greek definition for the word is “without madness,” or “to cure madness.” It could be a good name for a doctor or a character with healing abilities, or simply someone who takes on the role of protecting their friends.
Amaranth
Amaranth derives from the genus Amaranthus, which includes species of plants used for food and ornamental gardens. It is known for its distinct flowers, which are small clusters that can grow in long tendrils, and range in color from striking fuchsia to deep maroon. Amaranth seeds are commonly used in cuisine, though all parts of the plant are technically edible.
The name Amaranth is of Greek origin, and means “unfading,” so it could be suited to a character who powers on regardless of their circumstances.
Anthurium
Anthurium is the name for a genus of plants that are most commonly known as “laceleafs,” “flamingo flowers,” and “tailflowers.” These plants have unique flowers called bracts, which feature a spiky cluster of flowers (called a spadix) that grows on the end of a stem and a specialized (often brightly colored) leaf that surrounds it (called a spathe). They often have large, heart-shaped leaves, and berries that are mildly toxic.
Although Anthurium has not historically been used as a name, and the Greek definition (“flower tail”) doesn’t offer much in terms of meaning, it could end up being a good name for a character who is flashy and bombastic—or anyone who is distinctly unusual.
Bryony
Bryony is a genus of plants known for being poisonous—often extremely so. The leaves, flowers, berries, and roots can all be fatally toxic if ingested. However, that is not the only way this plant has been known to be destructive. Its ability to climb and its dense foliage can overcome and shade out most other vegetation around it, which can disrupt gardens and ecosystems alike. That said, sometimes they are planted in gardens deliberately, for their soft green flowers and bold red, black, or green berries.
As a name, Bryony has Greek origins, and means “climbing plant.” Based on the destructive nature of the plant itself (and its common classification as an invasive weed), it could be best suited for a character who has their fair share of toxic traits as well. However, if you wanted a more positive spin, it could also work well for a character who is able to overcome adversity and rise above their peers.
Calla
Calla is a genus of plant that only contains one species: the Calla palustris, more commonly known as the “bog arum,” “water-arum,” or “marsh calla.” It looks quite like a peace lily, with a similar greenish-yellow spadix and a curved white leaf, called a spathe. It produces bright red berries and is highly poisonous.
As a name, Calla is of Greek origin, and means “beautiful.” It could end up being the perfect name for a character who uses their beauty or charm to trick or manipulate others.
Calliandra
Calliandra is a genus of plants that are delightfully nicknamed “powder-puff plants” or “fairy dusters.” This is because of their iconic flowers that resemble fuzzy pom-poms or feather dusters due to their many long stamens. In addition to that, they are known to bloom year-round, and are often red, pink, purple, or white.
Calliandra is also a name that is derived from the Greek name Calandra, which means “lovely one.” Given that meaning, and the adorable fuzzy flowers that are iconic to this plant, this name could be perfect for a delicate and graceful character, such as a nimble elf or some other fae creature.
Camellia
Camellia is a genus of flowering plants that are highly coveted for their gorgeous (and often very large) pink flowers. They are used most often in ornamental gardens and for making tea, but the seeds can also be pressed to make oil that is used in cooking, hair care, and cleaning and treating blades. However, these plants are extremely delicate and susceptible to many pests and parasites. Many of the most commonly cultivated species are rare in the wild due to their natural habitats being destroyed.
The name Camellia has Latin origins, and means “religious attendant” or “helper to the priest.” It could be a great choice for a cleric or paladin, or any character who deals with religious themes. It could also be a good fit for someone who has a wide range of skills and abilities.
Cassia
Cassia is a genus of flowering plants that, for a long time, was used as a label to classify plants that didn’t fit neatly into other categories. Additionally (and confusingly), many plants in the Cinnamomum genus are also commonly called “Cassias.” Because of the unconventional use of the label, it is unclear how many true cassias exist, and many have wildly different properties and uses from one another. Some are edible, some are toxic, some are shrubs, some are trees, and some are used in herbal medicine. Over the years, many Cassia plants have been moved to more appropriate genera.
Cassia is a Latin name that means “cinnamon,” because of its relation to the Cinnamomum cassia, a tree that produces a warm, cinnamon-like bark used as a spice (and, shockingly, it’s not in the Cassia genus). This name could be fitting for someone warm and inviting, or, alternatively, someone who is not who they say they are.
Celosia
Celosia is a genus of plants commonly known as “Woolflowers.” The flowers vary wildly in color, from common yellows and reds to the more unusual white, silver, and fuchsia. It is a popular food in many parts of the world, and it is said to have a delicate texture and a taste similar to spinach. It is hardy and grows well in conditions that would be inhospitable to many other kinds of crops, and it is highly successful at spreading its seeds without human intervention, making it extremely low-effort to grow.
The name Celosia derives from the Greek word for “burning” because of their bright pointed flower heads that look almost like flames. It would be a great name for a character with an unshakable will and an independent attitude.
Crocus
Crocus is the genus of plants that is famous for the Saffron Crocus, which is responsible for producing the most expensive spice in the world. The flowers are often purple, yellow, white, or orange, but the saffron it produces is used to make orange or red dye. In addition to that, saffron is a highly valued spice in the culinary world, and is widely considered to be luxurious.
Although Crocus is not generally used as a name, it could end up being just the right fit for a character who values the finer things in life and likes to live luxuriously.
Cyclamen
Cyclamen is the name for a genus of plants with an unusual appearance and an even more unusual way of growing. Unlike many similar ornamental plants, cyclamen flowers grow from a round tuber that resembles a potato. The flowers themselves face downward and have upswept petals, giving them the appearance of being inside-out. The leaves are large and heart-shaped, with purple undersides and a distinct “Christmas tree” pattern on the top.
Although Cyclamen is not generally used as a name, that’s a bit of a missed opportunity. Not only does it come with the convenient and suave nickname “Cy,” but it could also end up being a perfect fit for a truly unique character.
Cypress
Cypress vines (not to be confused with cypress trees) are little red star-shaped flowers that grow on vines. It is also known as “star glories,” “cypress vine morning glories,” and “hummingbird vines.” The plant grows quickly and can cover a wide area in a short span of time, earning it the unfortunate title of “invasive species,” though it thrives just as well in small spaces. Still, its beautiful flowers and tendency to attract hummingbirds keep it popular for ornamental gardens.
As a name, Cypress derives from the Greek name “Cyparissus” or “Kyparissos.” It is generally used in reference to the cypress tree, which is often seen as a symbol of mourning. This could work well for a character who thrives in any condition and makes the most of their circumstances.
Dianella
Dianella is a genus of flowers more commonly known as “flax lilies,” or, more specifically, “blue flax lilies.” They are known for their soft blue flowers and vibrant, shiny blue berries, and have long strap leaves that sprout up directly from the ground. Some of the berries are edible (and reportedly taste nutty and sweet), but some other species are highly poisonous.
The name Dianella is said to originate from the Roman Goddess Diana, and the diminutive suffix -ella. Although it is not often used as a name, it can be seen as a unique reimagining of more common similar names such as Danielle or Diane. It could work really well for a character who is full of surprises.
Dicentra
Dicentra is a genus of plants known by the common name “bleeding-hearts.” These plants are iconic, and some of the strangest-looking flowers in the world. Some flowers are heart-shaped, some look like teardrops, and some look entirely alien, with multiple layers of different lengthed petals contorting out like tentacles. The flowers can be a range of colors from pink and blue to cream and even brown.
Although Dicentra is not generally used as a name, it has a beautiful sound that could work wonderfully for a tragic villain or some creepy or wildly unusual personality.
Eglantine
Eglantine is a species of rose that is also known as “sweet briar.” It is coveted for its large, pink blooms that smell of sweet apples, and the large rosehips (the fruits) that are used to make a popular and nutritious tea. Uniquely, it is considered to be critically endangered in some parts of the world (like Portugal), and invasive in other parts (like Argentina). It is able to grow in almost all climates, barring the extreme north.
The name Eglantine generally means “sweet and prickly,” or similar variations of that. It would be a great fit for a character who uses a sweet persona to get people to trust them, only to later betray that trust.
Euphorbia
Euphorbia, also commonly called “spurge,” is the name of one of the largest genera of flowering plants, including roughly 2,000 different species. The eclectic mix of different plant species that fall under this classification includes succulents, trees, tiny shrubs, and even the classic poinsettias that pop up around Christmastime. One thing that makes them similar, however, is that all the species share the same poisonous, latex-like sap. In addition to that, all the species are known for having flowers that lack the common structures of traditional flowers—namely petals. The actual flower is more like a small bulb, and what looks like petals are actually leaves that have taken up the characteristics of petals in order to attract pollinators.
As a name, Euphorbia originates from the Greek name Euphorbus. Both the modern name and its original Greek form have a mystical sound to them and could be a good match for an eclectic scientist or wizard.
Flax
Flax, also known as “linseed,” is a plant cultivated primarily for its practical uses, like making linseed oil, textiles, or flax meal for cooking. Linseed oil has many uses, including in wood finishes and paints. However, these plants do have ornamental potential, since they are known to stand tall and bloom red, yellow, white, or violet, depending on the species.
As a name, Flax is short and bold, and that, coupled with the versatility of the flax plant, leads it to be a good fit for a pragmatic or resourceful character.
Forsythia
Forsythia is a genus of flowering shrubs that grow in the early spring, and are often referred to as “Easter Trees.” They produce bright yellow flowers with four distinct petals, and in autumn, the leaves turn a soft peachy color before the plant goes dormant for the winter. The fruits of this plant are actually dry pods containing several winged seeds, which allows the seeds to be carried on the wind to propagate in new locations.
The name Forsythia actually comes from William Forsyth, a famous Scottish botanist from the late 1700s and early 1800s. It means “man of peace,” so it could be a good fit for a character who is serene and even-tempered. Alternatively, you could lean more into the spring imagery, and apply it to a character who is young and spritely—and perhaps has wings, just like the seeds of the forsythia plant.
Freesia
Freesia is a genus of plants best known for their large, funnel-shaped flowers. They are sought after for ornamental gardens because of their large iconic blooms, and they are frequently included in wedding bouquets as well. Not only that, their strong fragrance is often utilized in the production of creams, perfumes, and other cosmetics.
The Freesia got its name from the German botanist and physician Friedrich Freese in the late 1700s and early 1800s. It is gaining popularity as a given name, and it is generally understood to simply mean “flower.” It is simple and elegant, and may be a good fit for a character who shares those traits.
Galax
Galax is a genus that only contains one species: Galax urceolata. The plant is referred to simply as “wandplant,” “wandflower,” or “beetleweed.” These nicknames come from the long tendrils of white flowers (called a “raceme”) that grow up above the rest of the plant, resembling a magic wand made of flowers. The leaves are known to be dense and leathery, and are heart-shaped with serrated edges.
As a name, Galax invokes that same sense of magical wonder as the plant itself. It could be a great name for any character who uses magic.
Gaura
Gaura, also known as “Lindheimer’s beeblossum,” “Lindheimer’s clockweed,” and “Indian feather,” is a gorgeous ornamental plant known for its unique shape and delicate blossoms. The flowers bloom in white or pink, and despite their fragile appearance, the plant itself is quite hardy and can survive a long period of time without water. The stem and leaves of the plant are covered in a fine, soft hair, and the edges of the leaves are slightly serrated.
The name Gaura comes from the Greek word for “superb,” for the plant’s impressive appearance. It could really suit a character who is full of surprises and is stronger than they look—or someone who really dresses to impress.
Heliconia
Heliconia is a genus of plants that are delightfully unique. They are often called “lobster-claws,” “toucan beak,” “wild plantain,” and “false bird-of-paradise.” The plant is closely related to bananas, and a lot of the main structure of the leaves resembles those plants, with large palm-like leaves on the end of long stems. However, Heliconia’s drooping flowers stand out by being bright red and resembling lobster claws—though some varieties are orange, pink, or yellow.
Although Heliconia is not often used as a name, it could work well for a character who is always doing something spontaneous or unexpected.
Ixora
Ixora is a genus of flowering plants most commonly known as “West Indian Jasmine,” though it has many other names. Ixora plants are highly coveted as bonsai because of their large, dark, leathery leaves and tendency to bloom year-round in the right conditions. The flowers themselves are tiny, but grow in large, round clusters. They are often red, white, yellow, and pink.
Ixora is a gorgeous name with impressive origins. It comes from a Portuguese translation of “Isvara,” which is Sanskrit for “lord.” Likewise, a character named Ixora could be imposing and impressive, commanding respect simply by being present.
Jonquil
Jonquil, also known as “rush daffodil,” is a flower very closely related to the common daffodil. There are many differences between them, from subtle differences in the shape of their leaves to the climate in which they grow, but the most striking difference is their scent. Daffodils are known to be subtle and sweet, but jonquil flowers have a strong, perfume-like scent. Despite these differences, many people assume that Jonquil and daffodils are the same.
The name Jonquil originates from the Latin “Juncus,” which means “reed.” It would work out well for a character who feels like they don’t totally fit in with their peers.
Junellia
Junellia is the name of a genus of plants in the Verbena/Vervain family. These plants are characterized by small flowers that grow in tight clusters, and are often a light pastel pink, lilac, or white. Like other plants in the Verbena family, these flowers are highly sought-after for ornamental gardens for their soft colors and flower coverage, as well as their tendency to attract many butterflies and hummingbirds.
Although Junellia is not traditionally used as a name, it bears resemblance to other names like Junia or Junellie, which simply means “born in June.” It could be a good name for a youthful and sunshiney character, or anyone with ties to nature, like druids or fae.
Kalmia
Kalmia is a genus of flowering shrubs with blooms that resemble tiny parasols. They are often a delicate pink, white, or red, and are so renowned for their beauty that when they were first discovered, they were incredibly expensive, and sought after by botanists like they were gold. However, despite its unparalleled beauty, the plant itself contains a lethal neurotoxin, and has earned itself titles like “lambkill” and “sheep poison” for its tendency to be accidentally eaten by sheep.
As a name, Kalmia is well suited to a character who deals in poisons, or someone who is known for having a pretty face and an abrasive personality.
Kennedia
Kennedia is a genus of peculiar-looking plants with flowers that somewhat resemble pea pods. The stem and leaves are hairy, and the blooms are so unusual it is hard to describe them in words. With multiple bracts, petals, and stamens, many species of Kennedia look more monstrous than beautiful. Additionally, these flowers can be bright blue, red, violet, and even black.
As a name, Kennedia comes from the name “Kennedy,” which hails from Ireland. Although it has a sweet sound and harkens to a more traditional name, the monstrous flower from which it derives makes it more suitable for someone hiding a dark curse, like a monster form or some kind of evil corruption.
Lantana
Lantana is a genus of flowering plants known for their iconic, bright flower clusters that come in almost any hue. These clusters grow out in a spiral shape and often change color as they age, resulting in mesmerizing patterns with two or three colors within a single cluster. Despite its gorgeous appearance, some species of Lantana plants have been known to wreak havoc on ecosystems by being lethally poisonous and aggressively invasive.
As a name, Lantana is as fiery as the blooms on a Lantana plant. It could be well suited to a character who is a skilled fighter or potion-maker, or simply someone with an attitude to match their namesake’s vibrant nature.
Larkspur
Larkspur is the common name for the genus Delphinium, which is well known for having spike-shaped clusters of flowers (called raceme). These blooms, which resemble spurs, are most commonly blue or purple, though some species can be pink or white. Because of the vibrancy of the color, some species are used to make brilliant blue ink. However, like many of the prettiest flowers, larkspur are toxic, and can result in a slow, painful death.
Because of their alluring appearance and slow toxin, Larkspur could be a name well-suited to a character who ends up betraying their friends, or one who uses their appearance to lure their foes into a false sense of security.
Linaria
Linaria, also known as “Toadflax,” is a genus of flowering plants that thrive so well it is often characterized as weeds. The flowers have a wide variety of shapes and colors, and many species are known for having unusual and oblong blooms. They are simple, alluring, and easy to grow—but they can get out of hand quickly if they are not often trimmed back.
As far as names go, Linaria is one of the more elegant ones. With repeating vowel sounds and no hard consonants, it is befitting for an elf or other species of graceful disposition.
Lonicera
Lonicera is the name of the genus of plants that contains the famed honeysuckle. These plants are named for their sweet, edible nectar, and are coveted for ornamental gardens because of their bright colors and tendency to attract hummingbirds. They grow best when they are able to climb up existing plants and structures, and because of this, they are often utilized to disguise unsightly walls or fences. However, if not trimmed back carefully, it can quickly grow out of control.
The name Lonicera comes from the Renaissance botanist, Adam Lonicer, and it adapts quite well to being a given name. Although it sounds graceful and dignified, it could also end up working well for a character who is attractive, but overbearing and high-maintenance.
Narcissus
Narcissus is the name for a genus of spring flowers containing species like the common daffodil and the jonquil. These flowers are known for their characteristic bell-shaped corolla in the center and six conspicuous petals beneath that, always white or yellow in color. These iconic flowers have been a popular choice for millennia, with records showing that they were cultivated in ancient Rome and Greece in 300 AD—and possibly even earlier than that.
The name Narcissus comes from an ancient Greek myth of a youth who fell in love with his own reflection and wasted his life gazing at himself. When he died, a narcissus flower sprouted up in his place. Naturally, this name would be well suited to a character who is rather grandiose and attention-seeking.
Nerine
Nerine is a genus of plants commonly known as “Jersey Lilies” or “Spider Lilies.” Their long and spindly petals resemble the legs of a spider or small octopus, and come in shades of pink, white, and red. Interestingly, despite their common names, they are not considered true lilies. Although these delicate flowers are gorgeous and unique, they are not often cultivated, and many species are threatened with extinction.
The name Nerine means “sea nymph,” so naturally, it would be well suited to any character associated with water or the sea, like a sea elf, mermaid, or pirate.
Nivale
Nivale comes from the flower “trillium nivale,” which is an iconic little flower also known as the “snow trillium” or “dwarf white trillium.” These flowers bloom while snow still blankets the ground, and rarely grow above 9 cm. Their flowers are small and white, bearing only three petals in a triangular shape. They have an indefinite lifespan and can live for many years, however, they bloom for only about three weeks before the entire plant drops its seeds and recedes back underground. Additionally, they are known to be extremely delicate plants, and simply plucking the flowers from them can damage the plant so significantly that it dies.
The name Nivale, predictably, means “white,” after the white flowers that grow from the trillium nivale plant. The name could work well for a character who is sensitive and has a tendency to withdraw, but has a lot of positive qualities they could share with the world if only they had the confidence to.
Nolana
Nolana, also known as “Chilean bell flower,” is a genus of flowers in the nightshade family. They are known for their trumpet shape and range of colors from white to blue, with a bright yellow center. It is a simple plant often used in commercial landscaping and home gardens, and it requires full sun to thrive.
As a name, Nolana (and the more masculine form “Nolan”) is of Gaelic origin, and means “champion.” It is a name that would be well-suited to a character who is charming and universally liked, with an uncanny ability to persuade others of anything.
Ophrys
Ophrys is the name of a genus of orchids with a peculiar set of attributes. Known as “bee orchids,” the flowers of this plant mimic the appearance and pheromones of female bugs (often bees), effectively fooling male bugs into trying to mate with the flower, thus pollinating it. Additionally, bee orchids are highly dependent on symbiotic fungi to absorb nutrients from the soil, so removing these plants from their native habitat is nearly impossible.
In another weird twist, Ophrys is the Greek word for “eyebrow,” since the plant is known to be fuzzy like the body of a bee—or, well, an eyebrow. The name could end up working really well for a deceptive character, or someone who relies on their appearance to elicit information from others.
Plumeria
Plumeria, also known as “frangipani,” is a genus of flowering plants with a delightful appearance. Each flower has five leaves that overlap each other in a spiral sort of shape, giving them the appearance of tiny pinwheels. They grow in clusters and are often white, orange, pink, or yellow. Fittingly, their seeds have little wings on them to be carried by the wind and propagated elsewhere.
The name Plumeria comes from the 17th-century French botanist Charles Plumier. It could be a good name for a character who is free-spirited and goes where the wind takes them.
Scilla
Scilla is a genus of flowering plants that are known for their iconic blue flowers and dark stamens, though pink, purple, and white variations exist. They are considered to be a valuable ornamental plant because of their vibrant color, but also because they bloom very early on in the spring season, and are often among the first flowers to appear after winter.
The name Scilla means “ancient,” and it works really well both as a standalone name and as a nickname for Priscilla. The name could also stem from the Greek name Skylla, which references a terrible sea monster. It could end up working well for a character who is associated with the sea.
Settia
The name Settia comes from the poinsettia plant, which is well known for its bright red and green foliage that often finds its way into traditional Christmas decorations. Although they are known for their red leaves (known as bracts), there are varieties that come in orange, cream, white, pink, or even multiple different colors at once. These leaves all start out green, however, and when the nights are long enough to leave the plants in darkness for 14 hours at a time, the bracts change colors into the iconic red that everyone knows and loves.
As a name, Settia (also spelled as Setia), means “faith” or “truth.” It could be a perfect name for a paladin or cleric, or any character associated with deities or festivities.
Sorrel
Sorrel, also known as “spinach dock,” is an herbaceous plant with green and crimson leaves. When it blooms, its flowers grow in large whorled spikes, though they aren’t exactly visually impressive. Although it has little to no value as an ornamental flower, it is coveted for use in cuisine for its sharp and sour flavor, despite being poisonous in large quantities. It is often puréed and added to soups or sauces.
As a name, Sorrel has French origins, and means “reddish brown.” It is a warm and gentle-sounding name, and would be a good fit for a character who is authentic and dependable.
Teasel
Teasel (or Teazel) is a common name for the genus Dipsacus, which includes some pretty unique flowers. Teasels are known for their prickly leaves and stems, and the large, spiky inflorescence (cluster of flowers) that can be purple, pink, or white. These tiny flowers grow close together, covering the entire seedhead and creating the illusion of one large, spherical flower.
The name Teasel means “to tease,” and the plant likely got that name from its use in textile processing, where the seedheads would be used like a comb to tease wool fabric to make it more textured or fuzzy. It would be a name well-suited to a character who likes to joke around, or perhaps a fae trickster.
Ursinia
Ursinia is a genus of flowering plants in the daisy family. They are known mostly for their iconic circular, bright orange or yellow flowers with striking, dark centers, though some species of Ursinia can also be red, white, or cream. It blooms often and for long periods of time, and is well-known for being easy to grow. Although they might sound unremarkable, they are often compared to a vibrant sunrise.
Ursinias get their name from the German scholar Johannes Heinrich Ursinus. Both Ursinia and Ursinus could make good names for fantasy characters, and may be a particularly good fit for a character who is reliable and upbeat.
Verbena
Verbena, also known as Vervain or Verveine, is a genus of semi-woody flowering plants, although the name is often used in reference to the species known as “common verbena.” Their flowers are tiny and grow in clusters, and are often a soft blue or purple color, though white, pink, and red varieties exist. They are highly valuable for their uncanny ability to attract many different kinds of butterflies, moths, and hummingbirds, so they are considered by many to be an indispensable part of butterfly gardens. Additionally, the common verbena is known for being a “honey plant,” which means the plant’s nectar is used by bees to make honey.
The names Verbena, Vervain, and Verveine all have great potential as fantasy names. The name Verbena means “sacred foliage” because the plant was believed to have spiritual significance to ancient Romans. It could be a good fit for a cleric or paladin character, or simply any character with connections to the divine or nature.
Vinca
Vinca is a genus of flowering plants commonly known as “periwinkles.” The flowers are violet (or occasionally white), and always have five petals. They tend to grow low to the ground and can spread across a landscape fairly rapidly, creating a dense ground cover. However, although they are beautiful, their ability to spread rapidly in many different climates has earned the plant the title of invasive species.
The name Vinca means “to bind or fetter” (in chains), or “to conquer.” It could be a good name for a villain, or someone with tragic elements to their past.
Wisteria
Wisteria is the name of a genus of twining vines that become woody at maturity. They are well-known and loved for their iconic, drooping clusters of purple flowers, and they have a long history of use in art, particularly in Japan. Although the lilac varieties are the most often cultivated, pink, white, and deep purple varieties exist.
Wisterias are known in the language of flowers as the flower of devotion, and they are often used to symbolize romance. The name Wisteria could fit a character who is sweet or suave, or perhaps a bit of a hopeless romantic. It may even be a good fit for a charming bard.
Zephyranthes
Zephyranthes is the name of a genus of ornamental flowers often referred to as “fairy lilies,” “Zephyr lilies,” “rainflowers,” and “rain lilies.” Their flowers are large and funnel-shaped with six petals, and they may face upward or tilt toward the ground. They bloom in a range of different hues of yellows and pinks, and though their flowers only last a few days, they grow in a sequence so there are always new blooms on the plant—particularly in rainy weather. They are particularly prone to blooming right after a lengthy rainstorm.
There is a lot of good symbolism you can draw from Zephyranthes. The name stems from the Greek god Zephyrus, the personification of the west wind, and the fact that the flowers bloom after rainstorms means the name could really suit a character who has flourished after getting through hard times.
Zinnia
Zinnia refers to a genus of plants with truly recognizable flowers. The thing that makes these flowers unique is that they appear to be a composite structure, with a cluster of small blooms in the center of a larger flower. In addition to that, each flower grows on the end of a tall, isolated stem, and can come in a huge variety of colors, including white, yellow, orange, red, purple, lilac, and even green. Even more interestingly, however, is that these flowers can be cultivated in zero-gravity conditions, and have bloomed aboard the International Space Station.
The name Zinnia comes from the German botanist Johann Gottfried Zinn. Though it starts with a sound that is often underutilized in common naming conventions, its short length and traditional -ia ending makes it feel like the perfect mix of unique and classic. Add to that the fact that it is currently blooming in space, and you have a ton of great inspiration for adding history to a character’s name. It could suit a character with some connection to the cosmos or the divine, or it could simply fit someone who stands alone and depends only on themself.
Some Final Notes
Names don’t always have to have some kind of special meaning! Sometimes, picking a name for a character is as simple as finding one that sounds cool. However, all names have some kind of history, and examining the origins of those names can not only help you decide which one fits the character best, but it can also give you inspiration for the character’s past and personality. Plus, it gives you a cool fact you can share about your character on a whim, which can be fun if you get to introduce them to people for group roleplay or tabletop gaming.
Regardless of your methodology, you can’t deny that names are important! They become the cornerstone of the character’s identity, and in most settings, they play a role in others’ first impressions of the character. Names can seriously impact how your characters are perceived—for better or for worse—so it’s best to take the process seriously.
I hope you liked this list, and if not, I wish you luck in your continued search! The perfect name is out there, I promise!
