As winter’s chill recedes and the sun begins to linger a bit longer here in Springfield, Missouri, nature begins treating us to a lively display of color and fragrance.
There’s no better word for it than “madness,” as gardens and landscapes across the Ozarks burst into bloom in March, signaling the official start of spring.
At Linda’s Flowers, we adore this time of year—watching new life unfold and helping our community fill their homes and celebrations with vibrantly colored flower petals.
Here’s a spotlight on some of the most enchanting local blooms you may spot this month.
1. Daffodils
One of the first signs that spring has truly arrived in the Ozarks is the bright yellow glow of daffodils.
These trumpet-shaped blooms thrive in our region’s mild March temperatures, often popping up in clusters along roadsides or tucked beneath budding trees. Their cheerful color and easy care make them popular for both home gardens and fresh-cut arrangements.
2. Crocuses
When you see patches of purple, white, or golden crocuses peeking through the grass, you know winter’s exit is official.
These low-growing beauties love our cool spring weather and prefer spots with good drainage. Crocuses are a particularly joyful sight when planted en masse, creating pops of color in otherwise sleepy flower beds.
3. Hyacinths
Hyacinths offer not just visual appeal but also a glorious fragrance that can fill an entire yard. Blooming in shades of pink, blue, purple, and white, they add a striking vertical element to early-spring displays.
In Springfield’s climate, these spring bulbs flourish in full sun and well-drained soil, making them a favorite for planters or window boxes, too.
4. Forsythia
If you’ve driven around town and noticed explosive sprays of bright yellow branches, that’s forsythia in all its glory.
A common sight in March, forsythia shrubs are heralds of the warmer days ahead. Many gardeners use these show-stopping branches in vases—just snip a few, bring them indoors, and enjoy the simple beauty of bright yellow blossoms in a rustic arrangement.
5. Lenten Rose (Hellebore)
Sometimes called the “Christmas Rose,” hellebores can bloom amazingly early—even through late-winter frosts.
Their nodding, cup-shaped flowers appear in pastel shades like pale green, pink, or cream, making them a subtle yet elegant addition to shade gardens. These perennials are quite hearty, perfect for those less predictable March weather swings we see in the Ozarks.
6. Pansies & Violas
Pansies and violas are beloved bedding plants for early spring color.
These small but mighty blooms can handle cool nights, which we still get plenty of in March around Springfield. Their cheery “faces” come in an array of hues—purple, yellow, orange, pink, and more—and they’re a great pick for hanging baskets or container gardens.
7. Magnolias
Throughout the Ozarks, you’ll find magnolia trees boasting large, fragrant blossoms in shades of white or pink.
Though these saucer magnolias typically bloom a bit later in spring, an unseasonably warm March can coax them out sooner. With their dramatic petals and sweet perfume, magnolias are true southern show-stoppers.
8. Grape Hyacinths
Not to be confused with standard hyacinths, grape hyacinths have clusters of tiny, bell-shaped blooms that resemble miniature bunches of grapes.
They’re a lovely accent in rock gardens or along borders. Their petite stature and vivid color add a whimsical touch to any spring landscape.
9. Wild Ozark Beauties
If you venture into local parks or hiking trails, keep an eye out for native wildflowers like Spring Beauties or Trout Lilies.
These delicate blossoms thrive in woodland settings, hinting that the great outdoors of the Ozarks is waking up. While you won’t find them in every floral shop, they’re worth knowing about and admiring on your next nature walk.
10. Early Tulips
Some tulip varieties simply can’t wait for late spring. Early-blooming tulips come alive in March, showing off shades of red, yellow, and pink.
Their iconic cup-shaped petals stand tall in flower beds, signaling that the garden is officially open for business.
Celebrate March Madness with Linda’s Flowers
From bright daffodils to the serene beauty of hellebores, March in the Ozarks showcases a kaleidoscope of blooms that perfectly capture the essence of spring.
If you’re bursting to bring a bit of that March madness magic indoors—or lend it to a loved one—stop by Linda’s Flowers in Springfield.
We’ll help you arrange a bouquet that highlights the very best of the season, fresh from our local growers. Let’s celebrate the arrival of spring together, one bloom at a time!