Flowers Meaning

What does your favorite flower represent?

While flowers have arguably immense importance in the survival of our ecosystem, these pretty-to-look-at blooms are also being used to communicate our feelings in a subtle and sweet way. Whether you want to express love, friendship, or even apology, you can always find the perfect flower to do the job.

The language of flowers, also known as floriography, is a system of assigning meanings to different flowers and has been used for centuries to communicate secret messages. So, not only do flowers have beauty and aesthetic value, they hold a deeper meaning and significance in human cultures.

Have you ever wondered what your favorite flower represents, and where it came from? Check out as we have laid them out here:

Roses

Perhaps the most famous flower there is, roses have long been revered for centuries due to its beautiful expansive blooms as well as an intoxicating fragrance.

What do roses symbolize?

They perfectly represent romance, love, beauty, and bravery, a reason they are a favorite for events such as Valentine’s Day, weddings, anniversaries, etc.

Red roses – Beauty, romance, and love at first sight (if the red rose is thornless)
Yellow roses – Friendship, joy, and new beginnings
Orange roses – Sexual desire and sensuality
White roses – Purity
Pink roses – Gratitude, grace, and admiration
Peach roses – Gratitude and sincerity
Purple roses – Enchantment, royalty, and love at first sight

What is the origin of roses?

Roses are believed to have originated in Asia and have been cultivated for around 5,000 years. The earliest known cultivation of roses occurred in China, where they were grown for medicinal purposes and as a symbol of love and beauty. From there, they spread to ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome. During the Middle Ages, roses also were brought to Europe by the Moors and were highly cultivated by the wealthy and nobility.

What are the Myths and legends of roses?

It is believed that the Greek goddess of love, Aphrodite, was responsible for the cultivation of roses. According to the legend, Adonis, the Greek god of plants and rebirth, was born from the deception of King Theias and his daughter Myrrha. When the King discovered his daughter’s trickery, he chased her with his sword, but Aphrodite intervened and turned Myrrha into a tree to protect her. In another version of the story, Aphrodite was rushing to Adonis’ aid when she accidentally cut her feet on the thorns of the roses, which turned them red.

Lilies

Lilies have become the favorite blooms at celebrations like weddings as they represent commitment. It’s also said that they represent 100 years of love in Chinese culture—bringing luck to couples tying the knot.

What does lily symbolize?

They perfectly represent purity and fertility, as well as fresh life and rebirth.

White lilies – Purity and rebirth
Pink lilies – Love, femininity, and admiration
Red lilies – Love and passion
Orange lilies – Energy, confidence, and honor
Yellow lilies – Gratitude, joy, and friendship
Purple lilies – Success, dignity, admiration, and accomplishment

What is the origin of lily flowers?

The origin of lilies is believed to be in the northern hemisphere, specifically in Asia and Europe. They have been cultivated for thousands of years, with the ancient Greeks and Romans using them for medicinal and ornamental purposes. Lilies have significant meaning in many cultures and religions, such as the ancient Egyptians, who used them in burial rituals.

Do lilies mean love?

Lilies are linked with history and mythology. For one, it is linked to the Virgin Mary as it represents her qualities such as purity and innocence. It is also linked with Greek goddesses Hera and Aphrodite. According to legend, when Zeus seduced the mortal woman Io, lilies sprung from the spot where she had been tethered, thus the lily was seen as a symbol of divine lineage.

In Christianity, the lily is often linked with the Virgin Mary and purity.

Known as the flower of the gods, Carnation is the ideal bloom to give to showcase love in general. Whether it’s mother’s devotion, a person’s passion for his/her partner, or affection for a friend, this flower represents fascination when it comes to these kinds of warmth.

It’s also known to symbolize parents’ love. In South Korea, children give carnations to parents on Parents’ Day, while students give them to teachers—their parent figures at school.

What carnations represent?

They symbolize love (mainly familial love, or motherly love), fascination, and distinction.

Pale red carnations – Admiration, love, affection
Dark red carnations – Deep love and affection
Pink carnations – Gratitude, and the concept of never forgetting someone
Yellow carnations – Rejection and disappointment
White carnations – Purity, luck, and sweetness
Purple carnations – Capriciousness
Green carnations – Gratitude to mentors, often reserved for St. Patrick’s Day

What is the origin of carnation flower?

Carnations are believed to be from the Mediterranean region, specifically in Greece and the Middle East. They have been cultivated for thousands of years and were highly prized by the ancient Greeks and Romans for their beauty and medicinal properties. Today, carnations are grown all over the world and are popular for their long-lasting blooms and wide range of colors.

Why is carnation called the flower of God?

According to one popular legend, the carnation flower originated from the tears of the Virgin Mary. When Mary was crying at the foot of the cross, her tears fell to the ground and turned into carnations. That’s why carnations often represent motherly love. According to another legend, the carnation is said to have first grown from the ashes of the Greek god, Dionysus, who died and was resurrected by Zeus.

Tulips

Tulips are the ideal to show your affection for your partner or family. They became extremely famous since the 16^th century that it has caused markets to crash! It is considered the most famous flower in the Netherlands, while Turkey has dedicated a festival solely to them.

What do tulips symbolize?

They represent perfect, deep, and unconventional love, as well as the season of spring and a clean slate.

White tulips – Forgiveness, respect, purity, and honor
Yellow tulips – Putting a smile on the face
Red tulips – Romance and eternal love
Pink tulips – Affection, well wishes, and caring
Purple tulips – Royalty and elegance

What are some facts about tulips?

The origin of tulips is believed to be in Central Asia, specifically in the area that is now present-day Turkey and Iran. They were first cultivated by the Ottoman Empire and were highly prized for their unique and vibrant colors. Tulips were then introduced to Europe in the 16th century, becoming a popular ornamental plant and symbolizing love and perfection.

What is the story of tulips?

It has been linked to the Persian myth of Khosrow and Shirin. The two fell in love, and when Shirin died tragically, Khosrow rode his horse off a cliff in desperation—and red tulips sprouted where his blood touched the ground.

Daffodils

Daffodils, also known as jonquils or narcissus, are the ultimate sign that spring has arrived! These cheerful yellow flowers are known for their bright, trumpet-shaped blooms and their ability to push through the last winter snow.

What daffodils represents?

Daffodils are known to symbolize the arrival of spring and new beginnings. They often represent hope and renewal and can be used to express a sense of optimism and positivity.

Yellow daffodils – Happiness, cheerfulness, and friendship
White daffodils – Purity and innocence
Orange daffodils -Passion and desire
Pink daffodils – Playfulness and a carefree attitude
Red daffodils – Love, passion and desire

Why are daffodils so famous?

Daffodils are believed to originate from in the Mediterranean region, specifically Greece, Spain and North Africa. They have been cultivated for thousands of years and have been used for medicinal and ornamental purposes. Also the national flower of the Welsh, daffodils were introduced to the United Kingdom and other parts of Europe and became a popular ornamental plant.

What do the daffodils symbolize?

According to one popular legend, Greek god Narcissus, who was so enamored with his own reflection, fell into a pool of water and drowned. Where his body fell, a daffodil sprang up as a reminder of his vanity. This is why daffodils often symbolize of self-love and vanity.

Daisy

These cheerful flowers are known for their bright, white petals and yellow centers, and their ability to make you feel like a kid again! They are commonly found in fields, meadows, and gardens.

What does daisy symbolize?

Daisies are considered to be a symbol of innocence, loyal love, and purity.

White daisies – Innocence, purity and simplicity
Yellow daisies – Friendship and optimism
Pink daisies – Grace and gentleness
Red daisies – Love and passion
Purple daisies – Elegance and charm

What is the origin of daisy flower?

Daises are believed to be from Europe and North Africa, where they are considered a wildflower—growing in fields, meadows, and gardens for centuries. For hundreds of years, these blooms have been used for medicinal and ornamental purposes, and are also popular in literature and art.

What is the story behind daisy flower?

According to one popular legend, Aphrodite was so moved by the sight of a young girl, that she wept tears of milk. From these tears, the daisy was born. The daisy, therefore, is often used as a symbol of unrequited love and innocence.

Sunflowers

Sunflowers the ultimate symbol of happiness and positivity! These giant flowers are known for their bright, yellow petals and their ability to turn their heads to follow the sun. They come in a variety of colors, including yellow, red and orange, but the most common is yellow. And also let’s not forget about the sunflowers seed… my favorite!

What sunflowers symbolize?

Sunflowers are the perfect representation of a sunny and happy day; they are known for their ability to bring cheer to any room or garden. They are also a symbol of loyalty and adoration, making them the perfect gift for a loved one or a dear friend.

Yellow sunflowers – Happiness, positivity, and optimism
Red sunflowers – Passion and love
Orange sunflowers – Enthusiasm and energy
Brown sunflowers – Autumn and harvest time

Where sunflowers originate from?

The origin of sunflowers is believed to be in North and South America, specifically in Mexico and Peru. They have been cultivated for thousands of years by the indigenous people for medicinal, culinary, and decorative purposes. They were brought to Europe by the Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century, and since then, they have been widely cultivated all over the world.

What is the story of sunflowers?

According to Greek mythology, sunflowers originated when water nymph Clytie fell deeply in love with Apollo, the sun god. Apollo did not return her love and Clytie became sad and wistful. She sat on the riverbank, watching him in the sky, and eventually turned into a sunflower, forever facing the sun. This is why the sunflower is often used as a symbol of unrequited love and loyalty.

Orchids

These mesmerizing flowers come in a rainbow of colors and a wide variety of shapes and sizes, making them a favorite among gardeners and flower enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re a seasoned green thumb or just starting out, these fascinating flowers are easy to care for and will provide a lifetime of enjoyment.

What orchid symbolizes?

They are known to represent luxury, beauty, refinement, love, fertility, and strength.

White orchids – Purity, innocence, and elegance
Pink orchids – Grace, femininity, and joy
Purple orchids – Royalty, respect, and admiration
Red orchids – Love, passion, and desire
Yellow orchids – Friendship and a clean slate
Orange orchids – Pride and boldness

What is the origin of orchid?

As one of the largest plant families in the world—with over 25,000 species and more than 100,000 hybrids—orchids are native to nearly every part of the world, growing on every continent except Antarctica. It was first discovered back in 500 BC in China, Greece, and Rome, after which world explorers carried its various varieties back to their home countries.

Myths and legends

In Greek mythology, the connection between Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty, and orchids is said to stem from the story of Aphrodite mourning the death of her lover Adonis. Aphrodite was so overcome with grief that her tears fell to the ground, giving birth to the first orchids. Since Aphrodite is the Greek goddess of sexual love and beauty, the orchid was believed to have the power to confer fertility and sexual attractiveness.

Iris

Irises are known for their delicate petals and unique beauty, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to any room or garden.

What do iris flowers symbolize?

Irises are often linked with faith, hope, and wisdom, although its various flowers also carry their own distinct symbolisms.

Blue irises – Faith, hope, and wisdom
Purple irises – Wisdom, respect, and compliments
White irises – Purity, innocence, and hope
Yellow irises – Passion and love
Orange irises – Energy, enthusiasm, and passion
Black irises – Mystery and elegance

What is the origin of iris flower?

Irises are a genus of around 300 species native to Europe, Asia, and North America. The name “Iris” comes from the Greek word for “rainbow,” referring to the wide variety of colors found in the flowers. They have been revered for centuries, with ancient Egyptians, Greeks and Romans cultivating them for their beauty and medicinal properties. Iris flowers have been used in traditional medicine, perfumery, and as a source of food. Today, they are widely grown around the world and are popular in gardens, floral arrangements, and as a symbol of spring.

What is the myths and legends of iris flower?

In Greek mythology, the goddess Hera is closely connected with the iris flower. In one of the ancient stories, the goddess was so pleased with the beauty of the iris that she placed it in the sky as the rainbow, which was thought to be the path that the goddess would walk on from her home on Mount Olympus to visit the earth. The iris is also considered to be a symbol of the goddess’s power and authority, as well as her role as the protector of marriage and the queen of the gods. Additionally, Hera is said to have used the iris as