A handy list of plants starting with M can be a valuable resource for gardeners, plant enthusiasts, and anyone looking to beautify their space.
This diverse group includes well-known favorites like Marigolds and Magnolias, as well as unique finds such as Mandevilla and Monstera.
Each plant offers distinct colors, shapes, and benefits, whether for ornamental or practical uses.
In this blog, we will explore 15 common plants that many people love and 30 additional varieties that might be new to you.
You’ll learn about their origins, blooming seasons, and how to incorporate them into your garden. This guide aims to inspire and inform, helping you create a vibrant and diverse landscape.
15 Most Common Plants that Start with M
1. Marigold
Marigolds are vibrant annual flowers known for their bright orange and yellow hues. They are popular in gardens due to their ability to attract pollinators and repel pests, making them a great companion plant.
| Common Name | Marigold |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Tagetes spp. |
| Origin | Americas |
| Blooming Season | Summer to Fall |
| Uses | Garden beds, pest control, borders |
2. Magnolia
Magnolias are renowned for their large, fragrant flowers that bloom in early spring. With their striking appearance, these trees or shrubs add elegance to any landscape and are cherished for their beauty.
| Common Name | Magnolia |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Magnolia spp. |
| Origin | North America, Asia |
| Blooming Season | Spring |
| Uses | Ornamental, landscaping, fragrant gardens |
3. Maple (Acer)
Maples are versatile trees known for their stunning fall foliage and distinctive leaf shapes. They are commonly used in landscaping and are also valued for their sap, which is harvested for maple syrup.
| Common Name | Maple |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Acer spp. |
| Origin | Northern Hemisphere |
| Blooming Season | Spring |
| Uses | Shade trees, ornamental, maple syrup production |
4. Mint (Mentha)
Mint is a fragrant herb popular for its culinary uses and refreshing flavor. Its leaves are commonly used in teas, cocktails, and salads, making it a favorite among gardeners and cooks alike.
| Common Name | Mint |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Mentha spp. |
| Origin | Europe, Asia |
| Blooming Season | Summer |
| Uses | Culinary, herbal remedies, teas |
5. Monstera (Swiss Cheese Plant)
Monstera is a tropical plant known for its unique, perforated leaves that add a striking visual element to any indoor space. It is low-maintenance and can thrive in various light conditions.
| Common Name | Swiss Cheese Plant |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Monstera deliciosa |
| Origin | Central America |
| Blooming Season | Rarely blooms indoors |
| Uses | Indoor houseplant, decorative foliage |
6. Mandevilla
Mandevilla is a climbing vine with large, trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom in vibrant colors. It’s ideal for trellises and arbors, providing a tropical look to gardens and patios.
| Common Name | Mandevilla |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Mandevilla spp. |
| Origin | Central and South America |
| Blooming Season | Summer to Fall |
| Uses | Climbing plant, container gardening |
7. Morning Glory
Morning Glories are known for their stunning, trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom in the morning and close in the afternoon. They are fast-growing vines that can quickly cover fences and trellises.
| Common Name | Morning Glory |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Ipomoea spp. |
| Origin | Americas |
| Blooming Season | Summer |
| Uses | Vining plant, ornamental, ground cover |
8. Mulberry
Mulberries are deciduous trees that produce sweet, edible fruits resembling blackberries. They are often planted for their fruit, shade, and ability to attract birds.
| Common Name | Mulberry |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Morus spp. |
| Origin | Asia, North America |
| Blooming Season | Spring |
| Uses | Edible fruit, shade tree, wildlife attractant |
9. Myrtle (Myrtus)
Myrtle is a fragrant evergreen shrub with glossy leaves and white or pink flowers. It’s often used in gardens for its aromatic foliage and decorative appeal.
| Common Name | Myrtle |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Myrtus communis |
| Origin | Mediterranean |
| Blooming Season | Summer |
| Uses | Ornamental, fragrance, traditional uses |
10. Milkweed
Milkweed is a crucial plant for pollinators, especially monarch butterflies. Its unique flowers are not only attractive but also serve as a host plant for caterpillars.
| Common Name | Milkweed |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Asclepias spp. |
| Origin | North America |
| Blooming Season | Summer |
| Uses | Pollinator gardens, wildlife habitats |
11. Maranta (Prayer Plant)
Maranta, or the Prayer Plant, is known for its striking leaf patterns and unique habit of folding its leaves at night. It thrives in low-light conditions, making it perfect for indoor spaces.
| Common Name | Prayer Plant |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Maranta leuconeura |
| Origin | Brazil |
| Blooming Season | Rarely blooms indoors |
| Uses | Houseplant, ornamental foliage |
12. Mums (Chrysanthemum)
Chrysanthemums, commonly known as mums, are popular fall-blooming flowers that come in various colors and shapes. They are often used in autumn gardens and arrangements.
| Common Name | Mums |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Chrysanthemum spp. |
| Origin | Asia, Europe |
| Blooming Season | Fall |
| Uses | Ornamental, floral arrangements |
13. Myosotis (Forget-Me-Not)
Myosotis, or Forget-Me-Not, features small blue flowers that symbolize love and remembrance. These perennial plants are often found in cottage gardens and along borders.
| Common Name | Forget-Me-Not |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Myosotis spp. |
| Origin | Europe, Asia |
| Blooming Season | Spring to Summer |
| Uses | Ground cover, ornamental, sentimental gardens |
14. Mosquito Plant (Citronella)
The Mosquito Plant, or Citronella, is known for its mosquito-repelling properties. This aromatic plant is often used in gardens and patios to keep pests at bay.
| Common Name | Mosquito Plant |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Pelargonium spp. |
| Origin | South Africa |
| Blooming Season | Summer |
| Uses | Pest control, ornamental |
15. Medlar (Mespilus)
Medlar is a fruit-bearing tree known for its unique, brown, apple-like fruit. It thrives in temperate regions and is valued for its culinary uses, particularly in jams and desserts.
| Common Name | Medlar |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Mespilus germanica |
| Origin | Southwestern Asia, Europe |
| Blooming Season | Spring |
| Uses | Edible fruit, ornamental |
30 Additional Plants that Start with M
- Mistletoe
- Malva (Mallow)
- Mucuna (Velvet Bean)
- Malus (Apple Tree)
- Mirabilis (Four O’Clock)
- Medinilla
- Mock Orange (Philadelphus)
- Mahonia (Oregon Grape)
- Moringa (Drumstick Tree)
- Meconopsis (Himalayan Poppy)
- Muscari (Grape Hyacinth)
- Mandrake
- Mimosa (Mimosa pudica)
- Matricaria (Chamomile)
- Molucella (Bells of Ireland)
- Maclura (Osage Orange)
- Mallow (Malva sylvestris)
- Miscanthus (Miscanthus sinensis)
- Microseris (Native Dandelion)
- Mentha piperita (Peppermint)
- Mimulus (Monkey Flower)
- Myrtus communis (Common Myrtle)
- Muhlenbergia (Muhly Grass)
- Melaleuca (Tea Tree)
- Moringa oleifera
- Myrsine (Myrsine australis)
- Myoporum (Myoporum laetum)
- Macadamia (Macadamia nut tree)
- Mentha spicata (Spearmint)
- Mandevilla sanderi
Summing Up
This list of plants starts with M and offers various options for any garden or indoor space.
From the bright blooms of Marigolds to the stunning foliage of Monstera, each plant brings unique charm and benefits.
Whether you’re looking to attract pollinators, add color to your landscape, or grow delicious herbs, there’s something here for everyone.
Exploring these 45 plants allows you to discover new favorites and enhance your gardening experience.
Remember to consider factors like blooming seasons and growing conditions to ensure success.
With this guide, you can make informed choices and create a beautiful, diverse environment that reflects your style and preferences.
