From light lime green to deep forest green, there are dozens of distinct shades of green in the world. Discover what real things match each shade – perfect for art, design, school, and nature lovers!
Each shade of green has its own personality, name, and set of real-world examples in nature and everyday life.
Lime green is a bright, vivid yellow-green that jumps out at you. It's the colour of energy, freshness, and tropical fruits. In nature, it appears on young plant shoots, tennis balls, and certain insects. It's one of the most visually striking shades of green.
Sage green is a soft, muted, grey-green – calm and sophisticated. It takes its name from the herb sage, which has dusty silver-green leaves. It's very popular in home décor and interior design because of its soothing quality. In nature, it appears on many drought-tolerant plants.
Mint green is a pale, light green with a hint of blue. It's fresh, clean, and airy – like the inside of a mint leaf or sea glass washed up on a beach. It's popular in fashion, baby products, and retro design. In nature, it appears in pale aquatic environments and some sea creatures.
Olive green is a dark, warm yellow-green – earthy and a bit murky. It takes its name from the colour of unprocessed green olives. It's widely used in military uniforms and outdoor gear because it blends well with dry, dusty landscapes. In nature, it appears in many habitats.
Emerald green is a pure, vivid, jewel-toned green – rich and saturated. It takes its name from the precious emerald gemstone. This is the most classic, iconic shade of green – the colour people think of first when they imagine 'green'. It's associated with Ireland, lush forests, and luxury.
Forest green is a deep, dark green – the colour of dense woodland in the middle of summer. It's rich, complex, and feels natural and grounded. This shade appears in deep jungle canopies, dark moss, pine forests, and shadowy fern groves. It's popular in outdoor gear and clothing.
Dark green is a deep, shadowy green – almost approaching black in its darkest forms. It's the colour of deep water, old growth forests, and the darkest vegetables. Dark green things often feel mysterious, mature, and serious. In nature it appears on the darkest leaves and in shaded water.
Light green is a soft, pale, fresh green – the colour of spring buds and young leaves just emerging from their buds. It feels hopeful and gentle. In nature, it appears on new growth, pale vegetables, and many spring flowers. It's also popular in baby products and health branding.
A visual guide to every named shade of green, with hex codes for designers and artists.
Bright, vivid, energetic
Electric yellow-green
Pale, fresh, airy
Muted, grey-green
Jewel-toned classic
Ocean-influenced
Earthy, warm, murky
Rich, cool blue-green
Deep woodland
Deep, shadowy, rich
Soft, pale, spring-like
Very deep green
Classic pastel green
Neon bright
Natural, leafy
Balanced, natural