Classic UK baby name claims top spot in new full list

New statistics show that nearly 60% of parents now favour giving their child a name that feels 'uncommon' as they move away from overused options. Specialists examined official birth data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) to discover both the most popular and most distinctive floral-inspired baby names across the UK.

Lily, long recognised as a British classic, continues to reign as the most favoured floral name in 2024, with 2,280 babies throughout the UK receiving the name. Although there was a 13.3% drop from 2023 - when 2,629 babies were called Lily - it remains the leading floral-inspired choice.

Elise Harlock, floral expert at Prestige Flowers, said: "Lilies have an effortless beauty, historically symbolising purity, innocence and renewal across many cultures. Choosing the name Lily is a powerful gesture as it bestows not only elegance and timeless charm, but also a sense of grace and fresh beginnings."

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Taking second place is Ivy, with 2,185 babies nationwide named after the evergreen plant in 2024, reports Plymouth Live. Whilst this represents a modest 2.3% decline from 2023, Ivy continues to be amongst Britain's most cherished botanical names.

Elise Harlock at Prestige Flowers said: "This plant evokes strength, connection, and enduring growth, especially in seasons when other plants fade. It's a symbol of resilience and determination. Its enduring popularity lies in its soft, graceful sound paired with its rich symbolism."

Florence remains firm in third place with 1,956 babies named this in 2024. The name originates from the Latin 'florens', meaning 'blossoming' or 'flourishing' and is historically associated with Flora, the Roman goddess of flowers.

With its perfect mix of classical allure and botanical lineage, Florence continues to charm parents seeking a name that feels both timeless and significant. Poppy and Willow complete the top five most popular floral names in the UK. Poppy was selected for 1,925 babies in 2024 - a vibrant, joyful name that also carries deeper symbolism, representing remembrance, peace, and imagination.

Willow, named after the elegant and flexible tree, was given to 1,626 babies this year. Although down from nearly 2,000 in 2023, the name maintains its appeal.

The willow tree is renowned for its ability to flourish in harsh conditions and adapt to its surroundings. Naming a child Willow reflects qualities such as quiet strength, resilience, and emotional intelligence.

Top 10 most popular floral names in the UK

Lily

Ivy

Florence

Poppy

Willow

Daisy

Oakley

Rowan

Rosy

Violet

UK's rarest floral baby names

Hyacinth

Dahlia-Rose

Petal

Watson

Tansy

Magnolia

Peony

Zahara

Aster

Posey

Camelia

Calla

Lila

Zinnia

Cory

Lavender

Marigold

Basil

Bluebell

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