The iris is a plant that grows well in Paris. Known for its showy purple and yellow blooms, the bearded flower, known as the fleur-de-lis, is also the national symbol of France, according to The Flower Expert. Irises grow best in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 10 and require full to partial sunlight. Irises are often seen growing together in flower beds in parks like the Luxembourg in Paris.
Another flower that can be seen growing successfully in Paris is the lily. Often used in floral arrangements, lilies bloom in many of Paris' gardens during the spring. Lilies grow best in USDA hardiness zones 8 to 12 and thrive in Paris' moist soil. Lilies exude a sweet perfume, and come in numerous colors from white to red, with many color and shading variations.
The fragrant rosemary bush also grows in France. This shrub is evergreen and produces blue flowers in the spring and summer. Rosemary grows best in USDA hardiness zones 8 to 10 and can be found growing on many Parisian properties where people harvest and use its leaves as an important seasoning ingredient throughout French cuisine.
According to The Flower Expert, numerous other species of plants grow in Paris. Gourdon flowers are small, native purple wildflowers found in the city's park and surrounding countryside. Gardeners use Gourdon flowers much like ornamental ivy, growing on and around walls. Other plants that thrive in Paris include the Cacti Cours Saleya, and the rose.