From the Pacific shores of British Columbia to the Atlantic coastlines of Nova Scotia, each Canadian province has its unique floral ambassadors that herald the arrival of spring. Here’s a look at some of the most beautiful spring blooms across Canada, including when you can expect to see these flowers at their best.

1. Cherry Blossoms in British Columbia

A signature of spring in British Columbia, particularly around Vancouver, is the enchanting bloom of cherry blossoms. Originating from Japan, these delicate pink and white flowers start to make their appearance in early April. The Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival, typically held in April, celebrates the season with a series of events that bring together communities to appreciate the beauty of these flowers.

2. Tulips in Ontario

Thanks to the Canadian Tulip Festival held in Ottawa, Ontario has become synonymous with the vibrant bloom of tulips in spring. This festival, the largest of its kind in the world, was born from a gift of tulips from the Dutch royal family after World War II as a token of gratitude. By May, the city is awash with over a million tulips in a rainbow of colours, creating breathtaking views in public parks and along the Rideau Canal.

3. Wildflowers in Alberta

As the snow melts in the Rocky Mountains, Alberta’s landscape is transformed by the emergence of wildflowers. From the yellow glacier lilies to the purple mountain irises, these wild beauties begin their display in late May and continue through June. The alpine meadows of Banff and Jasper National Parks offer some of the best spots to witness this natural spectacle.

4. Lilacs in Manitoba

Come late May and early June, the air in Manitoba becomes fragrant with the sweet scent of lilacs. These bushy blooms, ranging in colour from white to deep purple, are a common sight in Winnipeg, often lining the city’s streets and filling parks with their perfume. The Assiniboine Park is a popular spot for lilac viewing, where the blooms create a picturesque setting.

5. Peonies in Quebec

By late spring, specifically in June, Quebec’s botanical gardens and parks are adorned with the lush, full blossoms of peonies. Montreal’s Botanical Garden, in particular, has an extensive collection of peonies that showcases a wide variety of species and hybrids, drawing visitors with their vibrant colours and large, ruffled blooms.

6. Lupines in Nova Scotia

Nova Scotia’s countryside and coastal areas are painted with the vivid hues of lupines during June. These tall spikes of pink, purple, and blue flowers are a common sight along highways and coastal paths, adding a wild and whimsical touch to the landscape. The Annapolis Valley, with its fertile soil, provides a particularly stunning backdrop for these blooms.

7. Pitcher Plants in Newfoundland and Labrador

The provincial flower of Newfoundland and Labrador, the pitcher plant, is a fascinating carnivorous plant that blooms in late spring to early summer. Its deep red flowers and distinctive pitcher-shaped leaves that trap insects make it a unique sight in the bogs and wetlands.

From the earliest daffodils in March to the last roses in June, Canada’s spring flowers provide a continuous display of nature at its best, inviting everyone to stop, look, and appreciate the fleeting beauty of spring blooms.