Nature Names for Boys

An evocative, windswept choice that is part of the third generation of western-influenced names, picking up where first Jesse and then Dakota left off, though with a slight feminine edge.

Nature names are often associated with Spring and Summer, but Glacier is ideal for a winter baby.

A handsome nature name – and an intriguing alternative to Willow – that is also found as a rare English surname.

Mountain names such as Everest and Denali are being used more frequently, but Mountain itself was unknown until Hunger Games star Jena Malone used it as a middle name for her son Ode Mountain. And really, why not? It's one of the most unique baby names in the hot nature category.

An edible plant used in seed and spice form.

Clove is one of a whole tantalizing genre of spice names that might work for a boy. Clovis could be considered a long form.

Shell has been used as a short form of Shelley for all genders and Sheldon for boys. That was then: Now, Shell can be a beachy nature name and word name turned baby name.

Shady, leafy nature-boy name.

Projects the sleek and playful image of the aquatic mammal, plus that of the striking British-born Brazilian/Nigerian/Afro-Caribbean singer (born Sealhenry).

As a name, it's linked to Sir Mulberry Hawk, a character in Charles Dicken's Nicholas Nickleby.

This tree name could be one of those fresh, cool nature names for winter babies, though we can only imagine the kind of jokes that will fly in junior high.

In botany, a catkin is a long, thin flower cluster found on trees such as willow, hazel, oak and birch. The word derives from Middle Dutch katteken "kitten", due to the resemblance to a kitten's furry tail.

The kind of nickname name you wouldn't want your own child to get stuck with.

One of the more unusual nature names, Maize is given to a dozen or so boys and girls each year and is almost completely unisex in terms of usage. Disclaimer: potential for "corny" jokes.

A slow and sultry southern choice that's definitely cool for babies of either gender.

Seagrass plays an important role in the aquatic ecosystem. They are the only plants that can flower underwater and provide food and shelter to many organisms. Seagrasses also improve water quality, slowing down pollution, and help prevent coastal erosion. Those passionate about marine conservation may find Seagrass a meaningful name — probably as a middle, unless you're particularly brave.

Layke is one of the names of the Waldrop sextuplets: Layke Bryars. Though this Layke happens to be a boy, the nature name works equally well for girls.

This name has two distinctive associations: the Southwestern natural formation of a gully or stream, and the Cincinnati Reds starting pitcher Bronson Arroyo.

Highly unusual water name -- and actor Colin surname -- with a Scottish burr. Firth derives from the Old Norse word fjord.