125+ Red Things in Nature: Wonders of This Wonderful Nature

Nature is full of vibrant hues, and red is one of the most striking colors in the natural world.

It may be found in the form of vibrant flowers and fruits and even sometimes on animals as markings which may indicate danger since there’s a saying that the brightest animals are most often the most dangerous ones and the red itself is a color indicative of danger. 

Fun Facts on the color red:

• Red is the first color seen by the human eye.
• In many cultures, red is considered a lucky color and is associated with good fortune and prosperity.
• Red is the most visible color from a distance, making it a popular choice for stop signs, emergency vehicles, and warning signs.
• Red is the color of passion and love and has been used in art and literature to symbolize these emotions for centuries.
• Red is the most popular color for lipstick and nail polish, as it is believed to enhance the wearer’s natural beauty.

List of Red Things in Nature

1. Poppies

Poppies (belonging to the Papveracege family) are delicate flowering plants that are present in nature in orange, pink, and white apart from being in red. The red poppy is also a symbol of sacrifice and remembrance. 

2. Rubies

Rubies as you might know are one of the most precious gemstones available on earth and usually comes in deep red. This red color is due to the presence of chromium oxide. Although, majorly red in color, rubies also in a wide range of hues ranging between pink to purple-red. 

3. Chilli Peppers

Fully grown peppers come in various colors but the red one stands out so much that most people think of a red when asked to do so

Chilli peppers are majorly used to add spice and flavor to food since they have a large amount of capsaicin. 

4. Rhubarb

Rhubarb is a vegetable with edible red stalks that is most commonly enjoyed with strawberries. Not to forget, the red color is a warning since the leaves of this plant are poisonous. It also has a long history of being used for medicinal purposes. 

5. Beetroot

Majorly found in red color, beetroot also comes in different hues ranging from red to purple-red color. It is a nutrient-rich veggie and is most commonly added to salads, juices, and other such dishes. It is very rich in iron and therefore is very commonly used to treat iron deficiency. 

6. Northern Red Snapper 

This species of snapper originated in the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean (scientific name – Lutjanus campechanus), has a distinctive red color, and can grow up to 50 pounds in weight and over 30 inches in length.

7. Lobster

Lobster, a popular seafood delicacy, is a type of crustacean that belongs to the Nephropidae family. Lobsters come in various colors, including green, brown, blue, and red, with the latter being the most valuable due to its sweet and tender meat. 

8. Northern Cardinals

The Northern Cardinal, also known as Cardinalis cardinalis, is a species of bird majorly found in North America. Their distinctive bright red color and crest make them easy to spot in gardens and woodlands.

9. Cranberries

Cranberries are deep red berries that are one of the best sources of natural antioxidants and vitamins, therefore making it a superfood that grows and is available throughout North America. Its scientific name is Vaccinium macrocarpon. 

10.  Red Admiral Butterfly

These are a species of butterfly that is not fully red but rather they have black wings that have distinctive red-orange splotches. It is the most common pollinator in the regions of North America and Eurasia. 

11.  Begonias

Begonias is one of the most famous species of flowering plants. Apart from its beautiful bright red color, it is also famous for its attractive leaves that come in different shapes and sizes. They are easy to care for and make great indoor plants. 

12.  Currants

Currants are also a type of red berries that grow in clusters. They also are available in nature in various colors but red is the most famous one with a bit of sweet and mostly tart flavor. 

13.  Red Elderberry

As the name suggests, it is another type of red berry that also grows in clusters. As mentioned earlier, the red color in it could be present to warn the onlooker because the unripe berries are poisonous. 

14.  Maple leaves

The maple leaves are sharp-edged leaves that turn a bright orange-red before falling off in the fall season. These leaves might be red only for a certain time of the year but are the most popular symbol of maple syrup products. 

15.  Summer Tanagers 

All tanagers are not red, only the adult males have a distinct red body while the females have a body consisting mostly of yellow color. Having said this, this is not the only species of bird in which males have a more noticeable body. 

16.  Strawberries

Available easily worldwide, they are juicy and delicious fruits packed with vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. It gets its bright red color from a pigment present in it called anthocyanin. 

17.  Crawfish 

These freshwater crustaceans resemble small lobsters and are known as crayfish instead of crawfish in many places around the world. Crawfish have a unique flavor, often described as a cross between shrimp and lobster, and are often boiled or steamed and served with traditional Cajun spices.

18.  Red King Crab

Native to the Bering sea and North Pacific Ocean, the Red King Crab is known for its bright red color and large size, with some individuals weighing up to 20 pounds. They dwell and are most commonly found on the bottom ocean floor. 

19.  Amantia Muscaria

The Amantia Muscaria, also known as fly agaric mushroom, is a popularized mushroom that is not supposed to be eaten. As mentioned earlier, the red color is nature’s natural way of making things indicative of danger. 

20. Corn Snake

Native to the Southeastern US, this non-venomous snake species gets its name from the distinctive red-colored corn-shaped patches on its skin. Corn Snakes are great for first-time snake owners and are a good choice for those who want a snake that is easy to care for but still has a unique and interesting appearance.

21.  Red imported Fire Ants

You would not want to get bitten by one of its kind because this brownish-red-looking ant can give one heck of a painful bite. These originated in South America and have spread worldwide due to human activities. 

22.  Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are bright and colorful flowering plants that belong to the Tropaeolum genus. They are also attractive to pollinators due to their bright colors, making them a great addition to any garden. It can be found in many colors including pink, yellow, orange, and of course red. 

23.  Ladybugs

Ladybugs, also known as ladybirds, are a type of beetle that belong to the family Coccinellidae.  The most commonly found ladybugs have red/yellow bodies with black distinctive black dots on the back. They feed on pests, making them valuable allies in the garden. 

24.  Blanket Flowers

These beautiful-looking flowers are native to North America and come in various colors including orange, yellow, and of course red. These gorgeous perennials are drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, making them a popular choice for gardeners.

25.  Red Ruffed Lemurs

Native to Madagascar, this animal is an endangered species meaning it is on the verge of extinction. They have a brownish-red color body, black tails, and black facial fur. They dwell on trees and help the plants pollinate. 

26.  Red Panda

Native to Eastern Himalayas, these tree dwellers are much smaller mammals than the black and white pandas. They have reddish-brown body fur, dark brown legs, and Cheshire Cat-like striped tails. 

27.  Red Squirrels

Native to the northern hemisphere, red squirrels are small, arboreal rodents. They are known for their bright red fur, bushy tails, and playful personalities. These squirrels are diurnal and are most active during the day.

28.  Red Algae

These are found almost everywhere in the world where there is water. They also come in a variety of colors where some include orange or pink tint and some include red or purple overtones, and some of them are also seen as a superfood. 

29.  Sargassum

Sargassum is a rust-colored seaweed that serves as an important food source for many marine animals. It is known for its distinctive golden brown color and for the unique ecosystem it supports, which includes a variety of plant and animal species.

30.  Octopus

As many of you might know, octopuses are eight-legged creatures that can camouflage(that is change their body color) to hide from predators. Some or perhaps most of the octopuses have a reddish brown body. 

31.  Humboldt Squid

Humboldt squid, also known as jumbo squid, is an aggressive creature native to the Pacific Ocean. Humboldt squid can rapidly change their body color and feed on a variety of prey, including fish, other squids, and crustaceans.

32. Tomatoes

Everyone reading this must have eaten a tomato in their life unless they are allergic to it. Did you know why it is considered a fruit? This is because it has seeds and grows from the flower of a plant. 

33.  Tomato Frog

Native to Madagascar, Tomato Frog is a tomato-colored amphibian, hence the name. Tomato frogs are primarily nocturnal and feed on a variety of insects, spiders, and other small invertebrates.

34.  Crimson Star

Native to the Mediterranean Sea is the Crimson Starflower. It is a type of perennial flower that is known for its bright red, star-shaped flowers that bloom in the summer months.

35.  Red Zinnias

Red Zinnias are highly detailed flowers with hundreds of petals stacked on top of one another to make this beautiful flower. It had a very long flowering time making it a popular choice among gardeners. 

36. Blood Orange

Oranges, as you might know, are citrus fruit meaning it contains citric acid, also known as vitamin C. The beautiful red color of this fruit comes from large amounts of a red pigment called anthocyanin. 

37.  Fig

Figs are a type of fruit that is widely enjoyed for their sweet, rich flavor and delicate texture. These pear-shaped fruits are native to the Mediterranean Sea but now are in places in the world. 

38.  Lily Leaf Beetle

The lily leaf beetle is a type of insect (beetle) that feeds on lilies and other lily family members, hence the name. They are native to Europe but now are found throughout North America. 

39. Watermelon

Native to Africa, watermelons are typically round or oblong and have a hard, green rind and a sweet, red, or pink interior (the portion which we enjoy). They are an excellent source of hydration and vitamins A and C.

40. Red Pears

Pear is also a fruit that comes in many varieties. The red pear is prized for its sweet, juicy flesh and distinctive red skin. Red pears are high in fiber and vitamins and are considered to be a healthy snack or ingredient in recipes.

41.  Raspberries

This juicy and sweet fruit belongs to the genus Rubus. They come in red and black varieties and are commonly used for baking and making jams, jellies, and sauces. Raspberries are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, manganese, and fiber.

42.  Red Salamander

Red salamanders are salamanders with a distinctive shiny red body and are primarily found in the eastern US. Red salamanders are nocturnal creatures and can often be found near streams and wet, damp areas.

43. Sumac

Sumac is a spice commonly used in Middle Eastern cuisine. It has a tangy, lemony flavor and is made from ground sumac berries. Sumac is also rich in antioxidants and has been used in traditional medicine for its health benefits.

44. Pomegranate

This red-colored fruit contains many ruby-shaped seeds inside it which have a sweet-tart flavor. The seeds, known as arils, can be eaten raw or used as a topping for salads and yogurt.

45.  Red Potatoes

We all have seen the white and gold version of potatoes but I’m pretty sure not everyone is familiar with the red variety of the same. They are versatile ingredients and can be boiled, roasted, mashed, or used in stews and soups.

46.  Navajo Sandstone

Navajo is nothing but the material that makes up the beautiful view of Glen Canyon. It is known for its vibrant red color and sandstone layers that have been carved and eroded into unique formations.

47.  Apple

Red apples are a type of apple that has a crisp, juicy flesh and sweet-tart flavor. Red apples are a good fiber and vitamin C source and have been linked to several health benefits, including improved heart health and reduced risk of certain cancers.

48. Tulip

It is often said that red is the most striking color and proving it right are these red tulips because there are many color variations of the same but people are drawn the most towards the red ones. 

49.  Rose

I highly doubt that not every one of you has once thought in your life of giving roses to your loved ones to express your love. Roses are arguably the most famous flowers in the world. 

50.  Strawberry Quartz

This quartz crystal is valued for its unique pink or reddish color, resembling the color of strawberries. It is believed to promote love and happiness and is often used in jewelry and home decor.

51.  Garnet

Hard to spot one, garnet is a deep red-colored mineral. This rich red color can be easily seen once polished and cut. It is widely recognized as a symbol of love and friendship and has been used for centuries in jewelry making.

52.  Precious Coral

Formed by the calcium carbonate released by corals, these red corals are a precious organic gemstone that is highly prized for their deep red color and intricate branching formations. The vibrant color of red coral is due to the presence of a pigment called phalloidin.

53.  Obsidian

Obsidian is a naturally occurring volcanic glass that is known for its dark, red glassy appearance. It is formed when lava cools rapidly and solidifies without the formation of crystals.

54.  Cardinal Beetle

Native to Britain, this 20 millimeter in length, Cardinal Beetle is a predatory insect that feeds on other insects, such as aphids, making it an important beneficial species for gardeners and farmers. It is appreciated for its striking red appearance. 

55. Red Deer

This species of deer dwell in woodland and are characterized by its large size and distinctive reddish-brown fur, which is lighter in color during summer.

56.  Strawberry Poison Dart Frog

This brightly colored species of frog is named for its striking red coloration and for the poison secreted by some individuals, which indigenous people historically used to poison the tips of blowgun darts.

57.  Red Veined Darter

The Red Veined Darter is a species of dragonfly found in various regions around the world. On one hand, males have a deep red colored body with red veined wings while females have yellow. 

58. Christmas Island Red Crabs

Christmas Island Red Crabs are a unique species of land crabs found only on Christmas Island, Australia. These bright red crustaceans are known for their annual migration to the sea for mating. 

59. Bottle Brush

Native to Australia, these spiky, bush-like plants with feathery red blooms are known for their distinctive shape and vibrant brush-like flowers. They come in a variety of colors, including red, pink, and yellow.

60.  Scarlet Monarda

Native to North America, Scarlet Monarda is a striking wildflower known for its vibrant red blooms and is a popular choice for butterfly gardens and meadows.

61.  Higanbana

Japanese natives use this red color flower to pay condolences by putting them on the grave at the funeral, hence this naturally occurring red flower is also known as the flower of the dead. 

62.  Goji Berries

Native to China, these berries, also known as wolfberries, have a sweet and slightly sour taste and are believed to have several health benefits, including boosting the immune system, improving vision, and promoting longevity.

63.  Circassian Seeds

These small, black seeds come from a type of cherry named Circassian cherry. They are used in traditional medicine for their numerous health benefits, including as a natural remedy for digestive issues and as a natural energy booster.

64.  Saffron

Derived from saffron crocus, it is the most expensive spice in the world. This red-colored spice is believed to have numerous health benefits, such as reducing inflammation and improving mood.

65.  Paprika Peppers

Popular in many cuisines, Paprika peppers are a chili pepper used to make paprika. Paprika is made by grinding dried paprika peppers into a fine powder.

66.  Red Burgundy Okra

Red Burgundy Okra is a type of okra that may not be very popular in the US but it sure is known for its vibrant red color and tender, edible pods in many places in the world. 

67.  Terracotta Clay

Widely used for pottery and making sculptures, terracotta clay is known for its warm, reddish-brown color and porous texture, and is prized for its durability and versatility. It gets its rust-like color from high quantities of iron oxide. 

68.  Red Diamond

While normal diamonds are relatively easy to find, this type of diamond is the rarest and most valuable type of diamond in the world. It gets its rich red color from impurities in it, such as nitrogen and hydrogen. 

69.  Japanese Blood Grass

Native to Japan, Japanese blood grass is known for its striking red color. It is low maintenance, beautiful looking, and easy to care for, making it a popular choice among gardeners.

70.  Bittersweet

Native to Europe and Asia, Bittersweet is a type of woody vine with berries with yellow shells that reveal the inner red portion. They are also popular for their use as a climbing vine, adding a pop of color to walls, trellises, and arbors.

71.  Chokeberries

Native to North America, Choke berries, also known as Aronia berries, are small, tart berries that grow on shrubs in the Rosaceae family.

72. Scotch Bonnet Peppers

Commonly found in Caribbean cuisine, these red-colored peppers are a type of chili that resembles the traditional Scottish bonnet hat, hence the name. 

73.  Dragon Fruit

Pitahaya, also known as Dragon Fruit, is a tropical fruit native to Mexico and Central America. It is a vibrant and exotic fruit with a tough exterior that reveals a sweet and juicy interior.

74.  Red Banana

Now I’m sure every one of you has eaten or seen a yellow or green banana but have you ever eaten a red banana? Yes, you read it right, there exists a purple-red color skin banana that is said to have hints of apple and berry in its flavor. 

75.  Ruby Ball Cactus

The Ruby Ball Cactus, also known as the “Moon Cactus,” is a unique and stunning cactus species. Its vibrant red coloration is due to a genetic mutation, which results in an absence of chlorophyll. As a result, it must be grafted onto a green cactus to survive and obtain its nutrients.

76.  Polysiphonia

Polysiphonia, reddish-brown colored algae, has been the subject of numerous studies to understand its ecology, physiology, and biochemistry. It is widely distributed in temperate and tropical waters. 

77. Ocean Perch

A popular choice for recreational anglers is Ocean Perch, a species of rockfish that is found in the North Pacific Ocean. It is known for its delicate, mild flavor and tender flesh. 

78.  Seahorse

Everyone who is an enthusiast in the field of marine life must know about Seahorses. These are unique and fascinating creatures that belong to the family Syngnathidae. They are distinguishable by their horse-like head and curled tails.

79.  Spider Mites

These tiny arachnids are known for causing damage to a wide variety of plants. They are usually found on plants but in some cases, you can spot one on top of an old dusty book. 

80.  Red Drum

Red Drum, also known as Redfish, is a distinguishable species of fish due to its copper color and a distinctive black spot near its tail. Red drums are slow-growing, long-lived, and highly valued for their delicious flavor and firm flesh.

81.  Red Eel

Native to fresh and brackish waters of Europe and North America, Red Eel, also known as European Eel, is a species of eel that is distinguishable due to its long, slender body and its distinctive red coloration during its spawning phase.

82. Cinnabar Moth

This striking species of moth is native to Europe and Asia and is known for its bright red and black markings, which serve as a warning to predators of its toxic nature. 

83. Scarlet Macaw

Found in the tropical rainforests of Central and South America, Scarlet Macaw is a stunning parrot species known for its bright red plumage, blue wings, and yellow tail feathers.

84.  Red Aphids

Distinctive by their bright red coloration, Red Aphids are small, sap-sucking insects that can be found on a variety of plants. They can cause significant damage to plants by feeding on their sap and transmitting diseases.

85.  Coral Snake

Native to the Americas, Coral Snake is a highly poisonous snake that is known for its brightly colored patterns of red, yellow, and black bands, which serve as a warning to potential predators.

86.  Cavendish Beach

Located on Prince Edward Island, Canada, Cavendish Beach is a popular tourist destination known for its soft red sand (caused due to the high content of iron oxide), clear waters, and breathtaking sunsets. 

87.  Redwood Trees

Found on the US West Coast, Redwood trees are massive, long-lived trees with distinctive reddish-brown bark and needle-like leaves, and are prized for their beauty, durability, and resistance to rot and decay.

88.  Brazilian Cherry

Native to Central and South America, the Brazilian cherry is a hardwood tree species. It is also known as Jatoba and is famous for its distinctive deep red color and fine, tight grain, which make it a popular choice for flooring, furniture, and cabinetry.

89.  Acer Palmatum (Japanese Maple)

Native to Japan and Eastern Asia, Acer Palmatum is a type of Deciduous tree that is famous for its delicate, lacy leaves which turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow in the fall, and its elegant, graceful form.

90.  Kidney Beans

This light or deep red shell legume is known for its rich, hearty flavor and tender texture, and is a staple ingredient in many traditional dishes, such as chili con carne and red beans and rice.

91.  Coffee Berries

Coffee berries, also known as coffee cherries, are the fruit of the coffee plant and are the source of coffee beans. Unlike the beverage coffee, the color of the coffee berries is deep red. 

92.  Red Grapes

Belonging to the species Vitis Vinifera,  red grapes are small, round, and juicy and are typically deep red when ripe. Red grapes are a popular fruit that can be eaten raw, used in cooking and baking, or processed into juice, wine, and raisins.

93.  Black Widow Spider

This venomous spider is no doubt black, hence the name but it is recognized by its shiny black body and red hourglass-shaped marking on its abdomen. They are not wanting to harm you, they are just shy and bite in self-defense. 

94.  Cherries

Growing on trees, Cherries are a juicy and sweet fruit that is loved by many. They also come in a variety of colors but red ones are the most known ones. 

95.  Poinsettia 

This ornamental plant is a popular plant used for Christmas decorations. Native to Mexico, this is known for its bright red and green leaves that make a breathtaking scene when used correctly for decorations. 

96.  Red Lily

This relatively common, yet stunning flower is known for its vibrant red petals and delicate beauty. The Red Lily is a unique and exquisite addition to any garden. 

97.  Scarlet Ibis

Native to South America, this migratory bird is a stunning bird that is known for its vibrant red feathers and long, slender beak. Its striking red-black appearance makes it a popular subject for bird-watching and nature photography.

98.  Red hair

While many people waste money to dye their hair red, some are just naturally born with it due to a gene mutation and there’s no denying that it looks stunning. 

99.  Flamingos

These graceful water-dwelling birds are known for their distinctive pink feathers, long necks, and stilt-like legs. These birds feed on algae and small crustaceans, and their distinctive coloration is due to the high levels of carotenoids in their diet.

100. Red Sheep

This subspecies of wild sheep is known for its reddish-brown coats and impressive horns, which are unique to each individual. It was created as a hybrid by Dr. Glenn Spurlock of Davis, California in the 1970s.

Conclusion :

In conclusion, there are a lot of naturally occurring things around us from kidney beans to red sheep. They have a stunning red appearance and add to the natural beauty of nature. And not to forget, each one of them is equally important for the ecosystem. 

FAQs on the color red: