You may be unsure of what type or color of flower is appropriate for each occasion. Nearly every flower has an attached and historical sentiment that conveys a message to the recipient or the guests at an event, such as a wedding. For example, a tansy flower, which is part of the daisy family, may have cheerful button-like heads, but to some, it suggests you’re offering a recipient “hostile thoughts,” while to others it means “health and immortality.” Pink carnations may mean “gratitude,” but striped carnations signify “refusal,” and yellow carnations mean rejection. These meanings are derived from several sources, from the Bible to the words of Shakespeare, and the symbology of flowers has evolved over centuries. Learn the language of flowers to feel more confident in your selections.
Wedding Flowers
Regardless of the size or location of the wedding, many couples consider flower arrangements and bouquets to be a critical element to consider during the planning process. Wedding flower trends change from year to year with colors and styles typically matching the trends in fashion and home decor. Many couples prefer to choose flowers based on the season of their nuptials. However, red roses (symbolizing passionate love) and peonies (symbolizing a happy marriage, prosperity, and good fortune) are always popular choices for wedding bouquets and arrangements. If you’d like to customize the message your flowers mean on your wedding day, here is the meaning behind some other wedding flower favorites:
Amaryllis: love and determinationCalla lilies: regal and elegantGardenias: joyHydrangeas: perseverance and heartfelt emotion
Valentine’s Day Flowers
Lovers have traditionally given flowers that speak of their special relationship on Valentine’s Day. The most popular flower for this day is still the rose, in all its beautiful hues.
Red roses: passionWhite roses: chaste loveYellow roses: friendshipCoral roses: desirePink roses: admirationPrimroses: new love, new beginnings
Special Occasion Flowers
Flowers are a colorful way to celebrate a special occasion such as a job promotion, prom corsage, wedding anniversary, or graduation. Almost any type of flower is appropriate, but you can make it even more special by taking into consideration the symbolism of certain varieties:
Camellia: excellence and finesseDaffodils: truth and forgivenessDaisies: innocence and playfulnessDahlias: change and excitementIris: a traditional 25th-anniversary flower symbolizing faith, valor, and wisdomOrchids: love, luxury, beauty, charm, and strength
Birthday Blooms
A thoughtful floral bouquet makes the perfect birthday gift. Yellow roses (friendship) are popular to include in a birthday bouquet. The best birthday bouquets are chosen based on the recipient’s favorite blossoms or those that symbolize an aspect of your relationship with the person. In addition to yellow roses, here are a few ideal flowers to include in a birthday bouquet:
Pink carnations: gratitudeRed chrysanthemums: sharing and “I love you"Forget-me-nots: remember me foreverGeraniums: comfort and true friendshipJasmine: grace and elegance
Mother’s Day
Choosing a flower for Mother’s Day is simple since all you need to do is pick her favorite. Popular Mother’s Day bouquets are made up of roses, lilies, and orchids. If she likes all types, consider giving her a spring bouquet with mixed blooms. Here are some thoughts for Mom:
Gerbera daisies: cheerfulnessWhite lilacs: the joy of youth and innocence of childhoodDaylilies: motherLily-of-the-valley: sweetness, pure loveDwarf sunflowers: adorationRed tulips: declaration of loveYellow tulips: a smile with sunshine
Christmas and Winter Holiday Flowers
A plant or floral arrangement is a perfect gift to bring the host for a holiday party. Poinsettias are most popular, and you’ll find them in a variety of colors including red, white, yellow, or green. Amaryllis (love and determination) is also a favored holiday bloom. Besides the poinsettia and amaryllis, there are additional meaningful ideas for holiday florals:
Red poinsettia: the blood of Christ, Star of Bethlehem Christmas roses: a gift for Christ Holly: everlasting life Winter jasmine: gift from God, purity, and modesty Narcissus: rebirth, renewal
Sympathy and Funeral Flowers
You can send floral arrangements to the family of the deceased for use in the home or for presentation during a funeral or service. If the family of the deceased is accepting flowers for the funeral, select something appropriate that can be viewed during the service, taken home afterward, or placed on the grave later. Floral funeral displays are presented in several ways, including funeral baskets, standing sprays, or in the shape of wreaths, crosses, and hearts. Here are flowers and their specific meanings when sent as sympathy arrangements:
Lilies: restored innocence to the departed soulGladioli: strength of character, moral integrity and sincerityRed carnations: admirationPink carnations: remembranceChrysanthemums: honoring a full lifeWhite roses: reverenceRed roses: respect, love, and courageCrimson roses: grief and sorrowOrchids: sympathy and eternal love
