Last Updated on February 21, 2023 by John Power
Have you ever seen a flower and thought it looked like a pom pom? There are many flowers that have ball-shaped flowers, similar to the popular decoration. In fact, some flowers look so much like pom poms that they have been given the nickname “pom-pom flowers.” So what plants have these beautiful blooms? Keep reading to find out!
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Pom-pom flowers real name
If you’re curious about the real name of “pom pom flowers,” the answer may surprise you: there isn’t actually a specific flower that goes by that name of “pom pom flowers”! In fact, the term “pom pom” is often used to describe the shape and appearance of certain types of blooms, rather than a particular species.
So why is this the case? Well, it turns out that the term “pom pom” generally refers to a round, fluffy shape that resembles a cheerleader’s accessory. Many flowers can have this shape, such as chrysanthemums and dahlias, which are often called “pompom flowers” because of their appearance. However, there’s no one flower that is officially designated as the “pompom flower.”
While it might be a bit disappointing to learn that there’s no specific flower with this name, it’s important to remember that the term “pom pom” is more of a descriptor than a distinct classification. So the next time you see a round, fluffy bloom, you can appreciate its “pom pom” qualities, even if it doesn’t have an official name to match.
Why do flowers take this unique shape?
Flowers come in all shapes and sizes, from the tiniest of blooms to flowers that are several feet in diameter. The form of a flower is determined by its function – specifically, flowers exist to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. To do this, flowers have evolved to be brightly colored and often have interesting patterns or scents. Some flowers have even evolved to mimic the appearance of other animals!
So why do some flowers look like pom poms? Well, it’s all about attracting pollinators. Flowers that are shaped like balls or pom poms often have brightly colored petals that stand out against the green leaves and stems. This makes them very easy for pollinators to spot. In addition, pom-pom flowers often have a sweet scent that attracts bees and butterflies from far away.
Flowers that look like pom-poms.
If you’re looking for flowers that look like pom poms, here are a few of our favorites:
Pompon dahlias
Pompon dahlias are a type of flower that gets its name from its resemblance to pom-pom flowers. These flowers are typically very small, with dense petals that make them look like a ball of fluff. The most common colors for pompon dahlias are white and pink, but they can also be found in shades of purple and blue.
If you’re interested in growing pompon dahlias, there are a few things you can do to encourage healthy growth and vibrant flowers. First, make sure to plant your dahlias in an area that gets plenty of sunlight. They also require well-drained soil, so be sure to amend your soil with organic matter before planting. Once your dahlias are in the ground, water them regularly and fertilize them every few weeks. With proper care, your pompon dahlias will thrive and produce beautiful flowers all season long!
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Dahlia |
| Species | Dahlia pinnata |
| Common Name | Pompon dahlia |
| Plant Height | 30-60 cm |
| Flower diameter | 5-7 cm |
| Flower color | Various, including white, yellow, pink, red, orange, and purple |
| Bloom time | Summer to fall |
| Leaf type | Compound |
| Leaf color | Green |
| Sunlight | Full to partial sun |
| Soil type | Well-drained, fertile |
| Watering | Regular |
Globe amaranth
The Globe Amaranth flower, also known as Gomphrena Globosa, is a unique blooming plant that gets its name from its round, pom-pom-like flowers. These beautiful flowers come in a variety of colors including pink, purple, red, white, and even yellow.
One reason why the Globe Amaranth flower looks like a pom-pom is because of how the petals are arranged. The petals are clustered together in a tight group, which gives the flower its distinct shape. Another reason for the Globe Amaranth’s resemblance to a pom-pom is its size; these flowers are typically smaller than other blooming plants.
There are several ways to grow Globe Amaranth flowers so that they will be healthy and have better blooms. One way is to deadhead the spent flowers regularly. This means removing the wilted or dying flowers from the plant so that the plant can put its energy into producing new ones.
Another way to encourage better blooms is to give the plants plenty of sun and water. Globe Amaranths prefer to be in sunny locations and need to be watered regularly, especially during periods of drought. With proper care, Globe Amaranth flowers can provide any garden with a splash of color and beauty.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Scientific name | Gomphrena globosa |
| Common name | Globe Amaranth |
| Family | Amaranthaceae |
| Native range | Central and South America |
| Plant type | Herbaceous perennial |
| Height | 6 inches to 2 feet (15 to 60 cm) |
| Spread | 6 inches to 1.5 feet (15 to 45 cm) |
| Flower color | Pink, purple, white, red, orange |
| Flower diameter | 0.75 to 1.5 inches (2 to 4 cm) |
| Blooming period | Summer through fall |
| Light requirement | Full sun to part shade |
| Soil requirement | Well-drained soil |
| Water requirement | Moderate |
| Propagation | Seeds or cuttings |
Balls of Fire Craspedia
Our next Flowers That Look Like Pom Pom is Ball of fire Craspedia. You can get from the name that this type of flower is taking a ball-like or pompom flower-like shape.
Craspedia, commonly known as Billy Balls or Woollyheads, is a genus of flowering plants in the daisy family. The genus is native to Australia, New Zealand, and Tasmania. Craspedia flowers are small and usually yellow or white.
However, the Balls of Fire Craspedia flower is a bright red color. The reason for this is that the red color is actually an optical illusion. When you look at the flower from the side, the petals appear to be red. However, when you look at the flower from the front, you can see that the petals are actually yellow. This illusion is created by the way light reflects off of the petals. The result is a beautiful and unique flower that is sure to catch your eye.
If you’re interested in growing your own Ball of Fire Craspedia, it’s important to start with good-quality seedlings. Once your seedlings have germinated, transplant them into individual pots filled with a well-draining potting mix. Water regularly, but be sure not to over-water, as this can lead to root rot.
When planting out your Ball of Fire Craspedia, choose a sunny spot in your garden with well-drained soil. Provide support for the stems by tying them to stakes or trellis. With a little care and attention, you’ll soon be enjoying beautiful blooms all summer long.
| Biological Features | Balls of Fire Craspedia |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Craspedia globosa |
| Common Name | Balls of Fire |
| Plant Type | Perennial |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Height | 30-40 cm |
| Spread | 20-30 cm |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun |
| Soil Type | Well-drained, fertile |
| Flower Color | Bright yellow |
| Bloom Time | Summer to fall |
| Watering Needs | Moderate |
| Special Features | Drought-tolerant, long-lasting cut flower |
Crysanthemum morifolium
Chrysanthemum morifolium, also known as the florist’s chrysanthemum or Hardwick mums, is a species of chrysanthemum native to East Asia. These flowers are often used in bouquets and floral arrangements, and they are available in a wide range of colors, including white, yellow, pink, purple, and red.
One of the most distinctive features of C. morifolium flowers is their pom-pom-like shape. This shape is created by the flower’s numerous petals, which are arranged in a tight spiral around the center of the flower.
To get the best-looking flowers, it is important to grow C. morifolium in well-drained soil and full sun. The plants should be pruned regularly to promote new growth, and the flowers should be deadheaded to encourage more blooms. With proper care, Chrysanthemum morifolium can be a beautiful addition to any garden.
| Biological Features | Description |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Chrysanthemum |
| Scientific Name | Chrysanthemum morifolium |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Chrysanthemum |
| Height | Up to 3 feet |
| Flower Size | 1-4 inches in diameter |
| Flower Color | Wide range of colors including white, yellow, pink, red, and purple |
| Blooming Season | Late summer to early winter |
| Native Range | Asia |
| Hardiness | USDA zones 5-9 |
| Light | Full sun |
| Soil | Well-draining soil with pH range of 6.0-7.5 |
| Water | Regular watering, but avoid over-watering |
| Fertilizer | Regular fertilization during growing season |
| Propagation | Cuttings or division |
| Common Uses | Ornamental plant in gardens, cut flowers, and traditional medicine in some cultures |
Ornamental Onion
Ornamental onions, also known as alliums, are a type of flowering bulb that includes many popular garden plants, such as chives, garlic, and leeks. Alliums are known for their round, pom-pom-like flowers, which range in color from white to purple.
The flowers are produced on slender stalks that emerge from the bulbs in late spring or early summer. Alliums are relatively low-maintenance plants that will thrive in most garden soils. However, for the best results, it is important to plant the bulbs in a sunny location and to water them regularly during the growing season. With proper care, alliums will produce an abundance of beautiful pom-pom flowers year after year.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Family | Amaryllidaceae |
| Genus | Allium |
| Species | Allium hollandicum |
| Common Name | Ornamental Onion |
| Growth Habit | Herbaceous perennial |
| Flower Color | Purple, pink, white, or yellow |
| Flower Structure | Inflorescence of many small flowers arranged in a round head |
| Bloom Time | Late spring to early summer |
| Leaf Shape | Linear and grass-like |
| Leaf Color | Green |
| Height | 1-3 feet |
| Width | 6-12 inches |
| Soil pH | 6.0 to 8.0 |
| Soil Type | Well-drained, fertile soil |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun |
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 4-8 |
Daisy
Daisy especially a sub-variant of Chrysanthemum indicium falls into the category of poms flowers look-alike.
The flower known as Daisy looks like a pom-pom because of its round shape and the way the petals are arranged. The colors of Daisy flowers can vary, but they are usually white with a yellow center. To get the best results when growing Daisy, plant the seeds in well-drained soil in full sun.
Once the plants are established, they will need to be watered regularly and fertilized every few weeks. With proper care, Daisy plants will produce an abundance of beautiful flowers that will brighten up any garden or landscape.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Bellis or Leucanthemum |
| Species | Bellis perennis or Leucanthemum vulgare |
| Common Name | Daisy |
| Growth Habit | Herbaceous perennial or annual |
| Flower Color | White or yellow petals with a yellow center disk |
| Flower Structure | Ray flowers (petals) surrounding a central disk of tubular flowers |
| Bloom Time | Late spring to fall, depending on variety |
| Leaf Shape | Lanceolate or spatulate |
| Leaf Color | Dark green |
| Height | 6-24 inches |
| Width | 12-18 inches |
| Soil pH | 6.0 to 7.5 |
| Soil Type | Well-drained, fertile soil |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun to partial shade |
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 4-9 |
Marigold
The marigold flower is a plant that is easy to grow and is known for its vibrant colors. The most common colors are orange and yellow, although there are also marigolds that are red, white, or bicolored. It is an annual flower that can add stand-out color to any garden.
Marigolds usually have a strong smell that can be used to repel insects. The blooms of the marigold flower are round and full, often giving them the appearance of pom-poms. To get the best results when growing marigolds, it is important to plant them in rich soil that drains well. They should also be given ample sunlight and water. With proper care, marigolds will bloom from early summer until the first frost of winter.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Tagetes |
| Species | Tagetes erecta or Tagetes patula |
| Common Name | Marigold |
| Growth Habit | Annual or perennial herb |
| Flower Color | Yellow, orange, or red |
| Flower Structure | Double or single flower heads with ray and disk flowers |
| Bloom Time | Summer to fall |
| Leaf Shape | Fern-like |
| Leaf Color | Dark green |
| Height | 6-36 inches |
| Width | 6-24 inches |
| Soil pH | 6.0 to 7.5 |
| Soil Type | Well-drained, fertile soil |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun |
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 9-11 for Tagetes erecta, 2-11 for Tagetes patula |
Zinnia
Zinnias are native to Mexico and Central America, and they were first introduced to Europe in the 16th century. The flowers are named after Johann Gottfried Zinn, a German botanist. Zinnias come in a wide range of colors, including yellow, orange, pink, red, and purple. They can also be white or bi-colored.
The flowers are typically 2-4 inches in diameter and have a fluffy, pom-pom-like appearance. Zinnias are relatively easy to grow and require full sun and well-drained soil. For best results, deadhead spent flowers regularly and water at the base of the plant rather than overhead to prevent moisture from damaging the flowers. With a little care, you can enjoy a colorful display of zinnias all summer long!
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Zinnia |
| Species | Zinnia elegans |
| Common Name | Zinnia |
| Growth Habit | Annual herb |
| Flower Color | Wide range of colors including red, pink, yellow, orange, purple, white |
| Flower Structure | Single or double flower heads with ray and disk flowers |
| Bloom Time | Summer to fall |
| Leaf Shape | Lanceolate or ovate |
| Leaf Color | Dark green |
| Height | 6 inches to 4 feet |
| Width | 6-24 inches |
| Soil pH | 6.0 to 7.5 |
| Soil Type | Well-drained, fertile soil |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun |
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 2-11 |
Is it better to grow pom-pom-like flowers in the garden or indoors?
Pom-pom-like flowers add a touch of whimsy to any garden, and they are relatively easy to grow. These flowers come in a variety of colors, and they make a great addition to any indoor or outdoor space.
While pom-pom flowers can be grown in the garden, they may fare better in a pot indoors. This is because pom-pom flowers need relatively high levels of humidity, and they may not receive enough moisture if they are grown outdoors in a dry climate. When growing pom-pom flowers indoors, be sure to place the pot in a spot that receives indirect sunlight. With proper care, your pom-pom flowers will thrive and bring a touch of beauty to your home.
FAQ
Q: What are pom pom flowers?
A: Pom pom flowers are a type of ornamental flower that resemble fluffy pom poms. They are often used in flower arrangements and bouquets for their unique texture and appearance.
Q: What is the real name of pom pom flowers?
A: There is no single flower that is known as “pom pom flower.” The term is a general descriptor used for any flower that has a rounded, ball-like appearance.
Q: What colors do pompom flowers come in?
A: Pom pom flowers come in a variety of colors, including white, pink, red, orange, yellow, purple, and blue.
Q: Can pom pom flowers be grown in a garden?
A: Yes, many varieties of pompom flowers can be grown in a garden. They are typically planted as annuals and prefer full sun and well-draining soil.
Q: Are poms flowers easy to care for?
A: The care requirements for pom pom flowers vary depending on the specific variety, but most require regular watering and deadheading to promote healthy growth and blooming. Some varieties may also require pruning or staking.
Q: What are some popular varieties of pom pom flowers?
A: Some popular varieties of pom pom flowers include chrysanthemums, dahlias, and carnations. Other varieties include zinnias, marigolds, and asters.
Q: Can poms flowers be grown indoors?
A: Yes, some varieties of pom pom flowers can be grown indoors, as long as they have enough light and proper care.
Q: Do pom pom flowers have a strong scent?
A: It depends on the variety of poms flower. Some have a very strong and pleasant scent, while others have little to no scent at all.
Q: Are pompom flowers edible?
A: While some flowers are edible, not all pom pom flowers are safe to eat. It is best to do your research and make sure you know which ones are safe to consume.
Q: How long do pom pom flowers typically last?
A: The lifespan of pompom flowers varies depending on the species and growing conditions. However, they typically last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks.
Q: Can pom pom flowers be used in floral arrangements?
A: Absolutely! Pom pom flowers are a popular choice for floral arrangements due to their unique shape and vibrant colors.
Q: Can pom pom flowers be grown in a home garden?
A: Yes, many varieties of pom pom flowers can be grown in a home garden with proper care and attention to their specific growing needs.
Q: What is the best season to plant pom pom flowers?
A: The best time to plant pom pom flowers depends on the specific variety of flower, but generally they are best planted in the spring or early summer.
Q: How do you care for pom pom flowers?
A: Care for pom pom flowers varies depending on the specific variety, but generally they require regular watering, fertilization, and occasional pruning to maintain their shape and promote healthy growth.
Q: Are pom pom flowers toxic to pets?
A: Some varieties of pom pom flowers can be toxic to pets if ingested, so it’s important to research the specific variety of flower and take appropriate precautions if you have pets in your home or garden.
Gardening is my passion and growing plants indoors has always been a stress relief for me. Grow a banana tree in my apartment once (although failed to produce bananas).
