There are 61 nature words that start with the letter H. From Hackberry to Hydrangea. Nature words encompass a vast array of terms that describe the natural world, including flora, fauna, geological formations, weather phenomena, and ecosystems. These words are essential in both scientific and everyday language, allowing for effective communication about the various elements and processes that shape our environment. The richness of natural vocabulary reflects the diversity and complexity of nature itself, ranging from common terms that anyone can understand to specialized terminology used by scientists and environmentalists. Understanding and utilizing nature words can enhance appreciation for the interconnectedness of life on Earth and the importance of preserving our natural resources.

An interesting fun fact about nature words is that many of them have etymological roots in ancient languages, such as Greek and Latin. For instance, the word “ecosystem” is derived from the Greek word “oikos,” meaning “house,” and “system,” indicating an organized whole. This etymology highlights how human language has evolved to describe nature and its intricate relationships over millennia, reflecting humanity’s enduring curiosity and connection to the environment.

Here’s what each of the columns in the table means:

Field: This column represents the specific area of study or interest related to the nature word, indicating whether it pertains to ecology, biology, geology, or another branch of natural sciences.

Definition: This column provides a concise and clear explanation of the term, giving users a straightforward understanding of what the word means in the context of nature.

Description: This column offers additional context or elaboration about the term, which may include examples, usage, relevance in scientific research, or significance in ecological discussions, providing a more comprehensive understanding of the word’s application and importance.

Nature words That Start With H

Nature words field definition
Hackberry Plant A deciduous tree with rough, warty bark and small, sweet berries.
Hagweed Plant A flowering plant in the daisy family, also known as ‘bitter fleabane’.
Hairball Animal A compressed mass of animal hair that is vomited or regurgitated.
Hairgrass Nature A genus of grasses
Hairy Woodpecker animal a species of woodpecker found in North America
Halberd Plant A leaf shape resembling the medieval weapon, with a triangular base and two basal lobes.
Halberd-Leaved Tearthumb plant a species of plant in the buckwheat family
Halbrecht’s Porina Lichen Hale’s Pingo Hapalopilus nidulans
Halidom Biology A sacred place or shrine dedicated to a particular saint or deity.
Haliotis Animal A genus of sea snails, known as abalones, with a flattened spiral shell.
Halo Astronomy A ring of light or colored light around a celestial body.
Halophyte Biology A plant that is adapted to grow in high-saline environments.
Hamadryad Mythology A mythological Greek nymph or spirit that is said to be born with a particular tree and to die when it is destroyed.
Hardbake Plant A type of lichen that grows on rocks and tree bark, known for its hard, crusty appearance.
Hardhead Plant A type of thistle-like plant with spiny, dense flower heads.
Harebell Flower A delicate, bell-shaped flower that blooms in the summer.
Harebells Nature A species of bellflower
Harlequin Duck animal a species of sea duck found in North America and Europe
Harpy Mythology A mythical creature that is part woman and part bird of prey.
Harpy Eagle animal a large and powerful species of eagle found in Central and South America
Harvestman Nature A type of arachnid
Haw plant a small, thorny tree or shrub in the rose family
Hawk Moth Animal A type of moth with a rapid, hovering flight and the ability to hover in front of flowers.
Hawkweed Nature A genus of flowering plants
Hawthorn Tree A thorny shrub or small tree with clusters of white flowers and small red fruits.
Hazel Plant Genus of deciduous shrubs in the birch family
Hazel Grouse animal a small species of grouse found in Europe and Asia
Hazelnut Food The edible nut of the hazelnut tree.
Hazelnuts Nature The edible nuts of the hazel tree
Headwater water the source or origin of a stream or river
Heartleaf Nature A genus of flowering plants
Heartwood Botany The inner, dense wood of a tree that is no longer living.
Heath Botany A type of evergreen shrub or small tree that grows in acidic, nutrient-poor soils.
Heather Nature A genus of flowering plants
Hedge Mustard Plant Annual or biennial herb in the mustard family
Hedge Nettle Plant A perennial herb with square stems and clusters of small, pink or purple flowers.
Hedgehog Animal Small, spiny mammal
Hedgehog Mushroom Nature A species of edible mushroom
Heliconia Plant A tropical plant with large, colorful, banana-like leaves and distinctive, brightly colored flowers.
Hellebore Plant Genus of perennial flowering plants in the buttercup family
Hemiptara Animal An order of insects that includes true bugs, such as aphids, cicadas, and stink bugs.
Hemiptera Nature An order of insects
Hemlock Tree A large, evergreen tree with feathery, lacy foliage.
Hepatica Flower A small, early-blooming wildflower with lobed leaves and delicate flowers.
Heron Zoology A large, wading bird with long legs and a long, sharp beak.
Herpetology Biology The study of reptiles and amphibians.
Hickory Tree A tall, deciduous tree with edible nuts and valuable wood.
High Bush Cranberry Plant A deciduous shrub with white flower clusters and red, edible berries.
Hogweed Plant A large, invasive plant with broad, umbrella-like flower heads and sap that can cause skin irritation.
Holly Botany An evergreen shrub or tree with spiny, glossy leaves and red berries.
Honeycomb Animal The wax structure created by honeybees to store honey and pollen.
Honeysuckle Vine A climbing vine with fragrant, tubular flowers.
Hops Plant A climbing vine with cone-like flowers that are used to flavor and preserve beer.
Hornbeam Tree A small, deciduous tree with distinctive, ridged bark.
Horsetail Plant A primitive, spore-bearing plant with segmented, hollow stems.
Huckleberry Shrub A low-growing, berry-producing shrub found in mountainous regions.
Hummingbird Zoology A small, brightly-colored bird that is able to hover and fly backwards.
Humus Soil Science The dark, organic matter in soil that is formed from the decomposition of plant and animal matter.
Hurricane Meteorology A powerful, rotating storm system that forms over warm ocean waters.
Hyacinth Botany A bulbous, spring-flowering plant with clusters of fragrant, bell-shaped flowers.
Hydrangea Shrub A flowering shrub with large, clustered blooms.

Descriptions

Hackberry
The hackberry is a medium-sized tree native to North America. It has distinctive rough, warty bark and small, sweet berries that are a food source for wildlife. The hackberry is a hardy, drought-tolerant tree often used in landscaping and urban environments.
Hagweed
Hagweed is a perennial flowering plant in the daisy family. It has small, yellow daisy-like flowers and a distinctive bitter taste, which is where it gets the common name ‘bitter fleabane’. Hagweed is often found in grasslands and disturbed areas.
Hairball
Hairballs are a common occurrence in many animals, especially cats, as they groom themselves and inadvertently ingest their own fur. The fur then accumulates in the digestive tract and is eventually expelled through vomiting or regurgitation.
Hairgrass
Hairgrass is a genus of grasses that are found in various habitats, including meadows, prairies, and open woodlands. They are known for their delicate, hair-like leaves and airy inflorescences.
Hairy Woodpecker
The Hairy Woodpecker is a medium-sized woodpecker known for its distinctive black and white plumage. It is found in various forest habitats across North America and is known for its ability to cling to tree trunks and extract insects from the bark.
Halberd
The halberd leaf shape is characterized by a triangular base with two distinct lobes at the base, resembling the medieval halberd weapon. This leaf shape is seen in various plant species, such as certain asters and daisies.
Halberd-Leaved Tearthumb
Halberd-Leaved Tearthumb is a trailing or climbing annual plant with distinctive halberd-shaped leaves and small white or pink flowers. It is often found in moist, disturbed areas and along the edges of forests and wetlands.
Halbrecht’s Porina Lichen
Harbinger-of-Spring
Halidom
A halidom is a sacred place or religious shrine that is dedicated to a specific saint, deity, or spiritual entity. These locations are considered holy ground and may be used for worship, pilgrimage, or other religious activities.
Haliotis
Haliotis is a genus of sea snails, commonly known as abalones, that have a flattened, spiral shell with a row of respiratory pores along the outer edge. Abalones are known for their iridescent, pearly shells and are a popular food source in many coastal regions.
Halo
A halo is an optical phenomenon that appears as a ring or arc of light around a celestial body, such as the Sun or Moon. These halos are caused by the refraction and reflection of light through ice crystals in the atmosphere, creating colorful displays in the sky.
Halophyte
Halophytes are plants that are specially adapted to thrive in high-salinity environments, such as coastal areas, salt marshes, or saline deserts. These plants have evolved mechanisms to tolerate and even utilize the high levels of salt in the soil or water around them.
Hamadryad
In Greek mythology, a hamadryad is a type of nymph or minor female nature deity that is believed to be born with a particular tree and to die when that tree is destroyed or cut down. These nymphs were closely associated with and dependent on the life of their particular tree.
Hardbake
Hardbake is a type of crustose lichen that forms a hard, crusty growth on rocks, tree bark, and other surfaces. These lichens are known for their tough, inflexible texture and are often found in dry, exposed habitats.
Hardhead
Hardhead is a type of thistle-like plant that has spiny, dense flower heads. It is known for its prickly, persistent nature and is often found in disturbed or waste areas. Hardhead can be a problematic weed, but some species are also cultivated as ornamental plants.
Harebell
The harebell is a small, wildflower with a delicate, bell-shaped bloom that ranges in color from blue to purple. It is commonly found in meadows, grasslands, and rocky areas.
Harebells
Harebells are a species of bellflower known for their delicate, bell-shaped flowers that range in color from blue to purple. They are often found growing in rocky, mountainous areas and are a common sight in alpine meadows.
Harlequin Duck
The Harlequin Duck is a striking seabird with a distinctive multi-colored plumage. It is found in coastal areas and fast-moving streams, where it feeds on aquatic invertebrates. The male Harlequin Duck is particularly known for its vibrant blue, white, and chestnut coloration.
Harpy
In Greek mythology, a harpy is a mythical creature that is depicted as having the head, chest, and arms of a woman, and the body, wings, and claws of a bird of prey, such as an eagle or vulture. Harpies were known for their cruel and violent nature, as well as their ability to carry off and torment their victims.
Harpy Eagle
The Harpy Eagle is one of the largest and most impressive birds of prey in the world. It is known for its massive talons, which it uses to hunt a variety of prey, including monkeys, sloths, and small deer. The Harpy Eagle is an apex predator in the rainforests of Central and South America.
Harvestman
Harvestmen, also known as ‘daddy longlegs,’ are a type of arachnid that are not true spiders. They are recognized by their long, thin legs and rounded bodies, and are known to feed on a variety of small invertebrates.
Haw
The Haw is a small, deciduous tree or shrub in the rose family, known for its thorny branches and small, red berries. It is found in various habitats, including forests, thickets, and along roadsides, and its fruits are an important food source for many wildlife species.
Hawk Moth
Hawk moths, also known as sphinx moths, are a group of large moths that have a rapid, hovering flight pattern. They are known for their ability to hover in front of flowers while feeding on nectar, much like hummingbirds. Hawk moths play an important role in pollination for certain plant species.
Hawkweed
Hawkweeds are a genus of flowering plants that are known for their bright, daisy-like flowers. They are often found in grasslands, meadows, and open forest areas, and are known to be important food sources for various pollinators.
Hawthorn
Hawthorns are small, thorny trees or shrubs that produce clusters of white flowers in the spring and small red fruits in the fall. They are commonly used in landscaping and as hedges.
Hazel
Hazels are multi-stemmed shrubs that produce edible nuts. They are often grown for their nuts, as well as for their ornamental value and use in hedgerows and wildlife habitats.
Hazel Grouse
The Hazel Grouse is a small, ground-dwelling bird found in the forests of Europe and Asia. It is known for its distinctive plumage, which includes a brown and grey mottled pattern that helps it blend in with its forest habitat. The Hazel Grouse is an important game bird in some regions.
Hazelnut
Hazelnuts are the edible nuts that come from the hazelnut tree, which is a species of small, multi-trunked tree or shrub. Hazelnuts have a distinctive, rich flavor and are commonly used in a variety of foods, such as baked goods, chocolate, and spreads.
Hazelnuts
Hazelnuts are the edible nuts produced by the hazel tree. They are a popular ingredient in many desserts and baked goods, and are also a valuable food source for various wildlife species.
Headwater
Headwaters refer to the point where a stream or river originates, often in the upper reaches of a watershed or mountainous region. Headwaters are important for maintaining the overall health and flow of a river system, as they provide the initial source of water and nutrients.
Heartleaf
Heartleaf is a genus of flowering plants that are known for their distinctive, heart-shaped leaves. They are often found in moist, wooded areas and are valued for their ornamental and medicinal properties.
Heartwood
Heartwood is the inner, dense core of a tree’s trunk that is composed of dead, non-living cells. This central wood is typically darker in color and harder than the surrounding sapwood and is the primary structural component of the tree trunk.
Heath
Heaths are a type of evergreen shrub or small tree that typically grow in acidic, nutrient-poor soils, such as moorlands, heathlands, and bogs. They are known for their small, needle-like leaves and clusters of small, bell-shaped flowers that bloom in a variety of colors, including pink, purple, and white.
Heather
Heather is a genus of flowering plants that are known for their small, bell-shaped flowers that range in color from purple to white. They are often found growing in rocky, acidic soils and are an important component of many heathland and moorland ecosystems.
Hedge Mustard
Hedge mustard is a common weed found in waste areas, roadsides, and disturbed habitats. It has small, yellow flowers and produces long, slender seed pods. The leaves and seeds are sometimes used as a mild flavoring or in traditional medicine.
Hedge Nettle
Hedge nettle is a perennial herb in the mint family with square stems and clusters of small, pink or purple flowers. Despite its name, it is not closely related to stinging nettles. Hedge nettle is often found in moist, wooded areas and can be used medicinally or as a culinary herb.
Hedgehog
Hedgehogs are small, insectivorous mammals known for their distinctive spiny coats. They are found in various habitats, including forests, grasslands, and urban areas, and are known for their ability to roll up into a ball when threatened.
Hedgehog Mushroom
The hedgehog mushroom, also known as the sweet tooth mushroom, is a species of edible mushroom that is known for its distinctive, spiny cap and sweet, nutty flavor. It is often found growing in coniferous and deciduous forests.
Heliconia
Heliconias, also known as ‘bird of paradise flowers,’ are a genus of tropical plants native to the Americas. They are known for their large, banana-like leaves and their distinctive, brightly colored flower bracts that resemble the shape of a bird in flight. Heliconias are popular ornamental plants in tropical and subtropical gardens.
Hellebore
Hellebores, also known as ‘Christmas roses’ or ‘Lenten roses,’ are evergreen or semi-evergreen perennial plants with large, showy flowers that bloom in late winter or early spring. They are commonly grown in gardens and naturalized landscapes.
Hemiptara
Hemiptera is an order of insects that includes true bugs, such as aphids, cicadas, and stink bugs. These insects are characterized by their piercing-sucking mouthparts and the presence of two pairs of wings, with the front pair being partially thickened. Hemipterans play important ecological roles, both as pests and as beneficial insects.
Hemiptera
Hemiptera is an order of insects that includes true bugs, cicadas, aphids, and leafhoppers, among others. They are known for their piercing-sucking mouthparts and their diverse range of habitats and feeding strategies.
Hemlock
Hemlock is a large, evergreen tree with delicate, lacy foliage. It is a common sight in many North American forests and is an important part of the local ecosystem, providing food and shelter for various wildlife species.
Hepatica
Hepatica is a small, woodland wildflower that blooms in early spring, often before other flowers. It has lobed leaves and delicate, cup-shaped flowers that range in color from white to pink to purple.
Heron
Herons are a family of large, long-legged wading birds that are characterized by their long, sharp beaks and their ability to stand motionless in shallow water while hunting for fish, frogs, and other aquatic prey. Herons are found on every continent except Antarctica and are known for their graceful, slow-moving flight.
Herpetology
Herpetology is the scientific study of reptiles and amphibians, including their biology, ecology, taxonomy, and behavior. Herpetologists investigate a wide range of topics, such as the evolution, physiology, and conservation of these often overlooked but fascinating creatures.
Hickory
Hickory trees are large, deciduous trees known for their edible nuts and valuable, durable wood. They are an important part of many North American forests and are often used in furniture and other woodworking projects.
High Bush Cranberry
The high bush cranberry is a deciduous shrub native to northern regions of North America and Eurasia. It is known for its white, lace-cap-like flower clusters and its red, tart berries that are edible and can be used in jams, jellies, and other culinary preparations. The high bush cranberry is a popular ornamental and wildlife-friendly shrub.
Hogweed
Giant hogweed is an invasive, non-native plant that can grow up to 15 feet tall. It has large, broad, umbrella-like flower heads and sap that can cause severe skin irritation and blistering when exposed to sunlight. Giant hogweed is considered a noxious weed in many regions and can displace native plants and pose a threat to human health.
Holly
Holly is a genus of evergreen shrubs or trees that are characterized by their distinctive, spiny leaves and their clusters of red berries. Holly is often associated with the holiday season, as its evergreen foliage and bright red berries are commonly used in Christmas decorations and celebrations.
Honeycomb
The honeycomb is the wax structure built by honeybees to store honey, pollen, and to raise their young. Honeycomb is composed of hexagonal cells arranged in a repeating pattern, which allows bees to maximize the efficient use of space and resources within the hive. The honeycomb is an essential part of the honeybee colony’s biology and is vital for the production of honey.
Honeysuckle
Honeysuckle is a climbing vine with sweet-smelling, tubular flowers that bloom in the spring and summer. It is a common sight in gardens and natural areas, often used as an ornamental plant or for its nectar, which attracts hummingbirds and other pollinators.
Hops
Hops are the cone-like flowers of the hop plant, a climbing vine in the hemp family. Hops are an essential ingredient in beer, providing bitterness, flavor, and preservative properties. The hop plant is cultivated commercially for use in the brewing industry, and it is also grown ornamentally for its attractive vines and flowers.
Hornbeam
Hornbeam is a small, deciduous tree with a distinctive, ridged bark pattern. It is often used in landscaping and as a street tree due to its compact size and tolerance of urban conditions.
Horsetail
Horsetail is a primitive, spore-bearing plant with segmented, hollow stems that resemble a horse’s tail. It is one of the oldest plant species on Earth and is found in damp, wetland habitats.
Huckleberry
Huckleberry is a small, berry-producing shrub that is native to mountainous regions of North America. Its small, dark-colored berries are a popular food source for wildlife and are also harvested by humans for their tart, sweet flavor.
Hummingbird
Hummingbirds are a family of small, brightly-colored birds that are known for their unique ability to hover in place and fly backwards. These tiny birds are found primarily in the Americas and are known for their rapid wing-beats, which can reach up to 80 beats per second, and their ability to feed on nectar from flowers using their long, slender beaks.
Humus
Humus is the dark, organic material in soil that is formed through the decomposition of plant and animal matter. Humus is an important component of healthy, fertile soil, as it helps to improve soil structure, water-holding capacity, and nutrient availability for plants.
Hurricane
A hurricane is a powerful, rotating storm system that forms over warm ocean waters and is characterized by strong winds, heavy rainfall, and the potential for significant damage. Hurricanes are typically classified by their wind speed, with the most intense hurricanes reaching wind speeds of over 157 mph (252 km/h).
Hyacinth
Hyacinths are a genus of bulbous, spring-flowering plants that are known for their clusters of fragrant, bell-shaped flowers that come in a variety of colors, including blue, purple, pink, and white. These plants are often grown in gardens and are also commonly used in floral arrangements and bouquets.
Hydrangea
Hydrangeas are flowering shrubs known for their large, showy flower clusters that can range in color from white to pink to blue, depending on the soil pH. They are a popular ornamental plant in gardens and landscaping.

If you think there is a missing term, let us know using the contact form.