Since antiquity, flower symbolism has been a significant part of cultures around the world. Flowers accompany us in every major event in life--birth, marriage, holidays, graduations, illness, and finally death.
Flower symbolism began with many ancient religions, continued in the symbolic religious art of the Middle Ages and Renaissance, and reached the highest level of development in the flower symbolism of the Victorian era. (See article on the language of flowers in the Victorian era.)
Many flowers were originally linked to ancient deities including Venus, Diana, Jupiter and Apollo. During the Renaissance, nature was viewed as a reflection of the divine. Flower symbolism was included in much of the religious art of the day and medieval gardens were often created with both the symbolic meaning of flowers and spiritual symbolism in mind. (See article on Mary Gardens.)
Flowers are the reproductive part of angiosperms or flowering plants. Flowers consist of the exterior petals, the central pistil and the surrounding stamen. Some flowers are self-pollinating, while others require insects, wind or other means of cross-pollination. Flowers are sources of food for both animals and insects.
The incredible beauty of many flowers have given them added importance as decorative objects. Flowers are also an almost endless source of inspiration for poetry, stories and myths. Flower symbolism has existed almost as long as flowers themselves.
Artwork can be chosen with flower symbolism in mind. In addition, some flowers are associated with particular artists. Monet is famous for his water lilies, Georgia O’Keefe is best known for her sensuous calla lilies and Vincent Van Gogh is associated with his portraits of sunflowers. Choose an image or gift based on flower symbolism for yourself or someone you love that encapsulates the values or feelings that you want to convey! (See article on the history of flower paintings.)
The flower symbolism for many flowers has been obscured by time and may remain only as a few key phrases or words. Flower symbolism and other fascinating facts about many flowers and plants from around the world are included in the following illustrated list of flower names:
The flower symbolism associated with asters is daintiness, love, from Greek word for "star." Asters are believed to have healing properties. Asters were laid on the graves of French soldiers to to symbolize the wish that things had turned out differently.
Azalea Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with azaleas is temperance, passion, womanhood (China), take care of yourself for me and fragile passion. Azaleas are members of the rhododendron family (see more below). Azaleas grow as shrubs and small trees with large, showy flowers and are popular as ornamental plants in landscaping.
Baby's Breath Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with baby's breath is purity of heart, innocence, the breath of the Holy Spirit. Baby's breath is white with dense, delicate clusters of flowers. They are native to Europe, but have been naturalized throughout the eastern United States. Baby's breath is a traditional filler flower for bouquets, boutonnieres and corsages.
Bachelor Button Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with bachelor buttons is celibacy, single, blessedness, hope in love, delicacy. The bachelor's button is also known as the cornflower, basket flower and boutonniere flower. Bachelor buttons are blue and have been prized historically for their pigment. According to folklore, a young man would wear a bachelor button flower to indicate his love for a young woman, If the love was unrequited, the flower would fade quickly. The bachelor button, or blue cornflower, is the national flower of Poland.
Begonia Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with begonias is fanciful nature and beware. Begonias are large shrubs which grow in subtropical and tropical moist climates, in South and Central America, Africa and southern Asia. Because of their showy flowers of white, pink, scarlet or yellow color and often attractively marked leaves, many species and innumerable hybrids of begonias are cultivated.
Bird of Paradise Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with the bird of paradise flower is freedom, good perspective, faithfulness (when given from a woman to a man). The bird of paradise flower is so-named because of a resemblance to the actual bird of paradise. In South Africa it is commonly known as a "crane" flower. The leaves are large, 30-200 cm long and 10-80 cm broad, similar to a banana leaf but with a longer petiole, and arranged to form a fan-like crown of evergreen foliage.
Bluebell Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with bluebells is humility, constancy and gratitude. Bluebells are closely linked to the realm of fairies and are sometimes referred to as "fairy thimbles." To call fairies to a convention, the bluebells would be rung. Read more about bluebells.
Buttercup Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with buttercups is humility, neatness, childishness. Buttercups are part of a large genus of 400 species. Buttercups usually flower in April or May but flowers may be found throughout the summer. In the Pacific Northwest (USA) the buttercup is called ‘Coyote’s eyes.’ In the original legend, a coyote was tossing his eyes up in the air and catching them again when an eagle snatched them. Unable to see, coyote made eyes from the buttercup.
Cactus Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with the cactus flower is endurance, my heart burns with love, maternal love. Cacti are distinctive and unusual plants, adapted to extremely arid and hot climates, with a wide range of features which conserve water. Their stems have expanded into green succulent structures containing the chlorophyll necessary for life and growth, while the leaves have become the spines for which cacti are so well known.
Calendula Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with the calendula is grief, despair and sorrow. Calendula blossoms in wine are said to ease indigestion. Calendula petals are used in ointments to cure skin irritations, jaundice, sore eyes and toothaches.
Calla Lily Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with the calla lily is magnificent beauty. Calla lilies are native to southern Africa. The calla lily is visible in many of Diego Rivera's works of art. Georgia OKeefe's sensual flowers redefined the flower as a pure, almost geometric form. Her painting "Calla Lilies with Red Anemone" (1928) recently was sold for $6.2 million at a Christie's auction in New York. For more about the history of the flower in art, see Flower Paintings Through the Ages on this site. See our notecards and gifts featuring calla lilies.
Camellia Flowers
The symbolic meaning of camelia flowers is admiration, perfection, good luck gift for a man, gratitutde, nobility of reasoning. The colors have specific symbolic meanings including innate worth, adoration, perfection and loveliness (white); longing, longing for a man (pink);and you're a flame in my heart or excellence (red). See our artwork and gifts featuring camellia.
Carnation Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with the carnation is fascination, impulsiveness, fascination, capriciousness, joy, devoted love; disdain, refusal (white only). Carnations were used in Greek ceremonial crowns. The name carnation may come from the Greek carnis (flesh) and refer to the incarnation of God made flesh.
Cattail Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with the cattail is peace and prosperity. Cattails or bulrushes are wetland plants with spongy, strap-like leaves and starchy, creeping stems. The thick root can be ground to make a flour substitute. The spread of cattails is an important part of the process of open water bodies being converted to vegetated marshland and eventually to dry land.
Chamomile Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with the chamomile flower is energy in action. The extract of German chamomile is taken as a strong tea. It has been used in herbal medicine as a a digestive aid and has anti-inflammatory properties. It is also used in ointments and lotions, and as a mouthwash against infections of mouth and gums.
Cherry Blossom Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with the cherry blossom is education. In China, the cherry blossom is also a symbol of feminine beauty. It also represents the feminine principle and love. In Japan, cherry blossoms symbolize the transience of life because of their short blooming times. Falling blossoms are metaphors for fallen warriors who died bravely in battle. This connotation links them with the samarai.
Christmas Rose Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with the Christmas rose is that it is purported to have flowered on Christmas Day, and is therefore associated with the infant Jesus. The Christmas Rose is a member of the genus Helleborus and is not related to the rose bush. The Christmas Rose is frost-resistant and many species are evergreens. The Christmas Rose of Mary Gardens bears pure white or pink flowers and are sometimes known as the Lenten Rose.
Chrysanthemum Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with the chrysanthemum is abundance, wealth, cheerfulness, optimism, truth (white), hope, rest and wonderful friendship, I love (red), slighted love (yellow).. The Japanese put a single chrysanthemum petal on the bottom of a wine glass to sustain a long and healthy life. Japanese emperors sat on the Chrysanthemum throne. In Italy, chrysanthemums are associated with death.
Crocus Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with the crocus is cheerfulness and gladness. The genus crocus is placed botanically in the iris family. The plants grow from corms and are mainly perennials. They are found a wide range of habitats including woodland and meadows.
Cyclamen Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with cyclamen flowers is resignation and goodbye. Cyclamen are native in the Mediterranean and Africa. Cyclamen grow in dry forest or scrub areas. See our notecards and gifts featuring cyclamen.
The flower symbolism associated with the daffodil is regard, unrequited love, chivalry, sunshine, respect and the sun shines when I'm with you. Though the traditional daffodil of folklore, poetry, and field may have a yellow to golden-yellow color all over, both in the wild species and due to breeding, the daffodil may be variously colored. Breeders have developed some daffodils with double, triple, or ambiguously multiple rows of petals, and several wild species also have known double variants.
Dahlia Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with the dahlia is dignity, elegance, forever thine. The Aztecs used dahlias as a treatment for epilepsy. European scientists considered the dahlia as a source of food when disease destroyed the French potato crop in the 1840s.
Daisy Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with the daisy is purity, innocence, loyal love, beauty, patience and simplicity. Daisies are often depicted in meadows in Medieval paintings, also known as a "flowery mead." Daisies are believed to be more than 4,000 years old and hairpins decorated with daisies were found during the excavation of the Minoan Palace on the Island of Crete. Even further back, Egyptian ceramics were decorated with daisies. Daisies were used in Mary Gardens.
DandelionFlower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with the dandelion is love me, affection returned, desire, sympathy, faithfulness, happiness and love's oracle. The dandelion is native to Europe and Asia, and has been introduced to many other places. In northern areas and places where the dandelion is not native, it has become a weed, exploiting disturbed ground in human environments.
Day Lily Flowers
The symbolic meaning of the day lily is forgetting worries. As an omen for expectant mothers who wish for baby boys, the flower means "Suited for A Boy." The Chinese also venerate the day lily as a symbol of filial devotion to one's mother. See our artwork and gifts featuring day lily flowers.
Delphinium Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with the delphinium is big-hearted, fun, lightness, levity, ardent attachment. The name delphinium comes from the Greek word delphis, a reference to the flower's resemblance to the bottle-like nose of the dolphin. Delphiniums were used by Native Americans to make blue dye. European settlers used delphinium for making ink. Delphiniums were also once thought to drive away scorpions.
Edelweiss Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with the edelweiss flower is daring, courage and noble purity. The flowers are felted and woolly with white hairs, with characteristic bloom consisting of five to six small yellow flower heads surrounded by leaflets in star form.
Fern Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with ferns is magic, fascination, confidence, shelter, discretion, reverie and a secret bond of love. A great many ferns are grown as landscape plants, for foliage for cut bouquets and as houseplants.
Forget-Me-Not Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with the forget-me-not is true love and memories. In 15th century Germany, it was supposed that the wearers of the flower would not be forgotten by their lovers. Legend has it that in medieval times, a knight and his lady were walking along the side of a river. He picked a posy of flowers, but because of the weight of his armour he fell into the river. As he was drowning he threw the posy to his loved one and shouted "Forget-me-not". It is also told in pious legend that the Christ child was sitting on Mary's lap one day and said that he wished that future generations could see them. He touched her eyes and then waved his hand over the ground and blue forget-me-nots appeared.
Foxglove Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with the foxglove is stateliness and youth. Foxglove flowers have both positive and negative symbolic meanings. They are said to sometimes hurt and sometimes heal. The scientific name is digitalis, a reference to the presence of powerful chemicals that can heal heart conditions if taken correctly but can kill if taken in large amounts. Thus, foxglove is symbolic of both healing and harm. Read more about foxgloves.
Fuchsia Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with the fuchsia is confiding love. Fuchsia flowers are a very decorative pendulous "eardrop" shape, borne in profusion throughout the summer and autumn, and all year in tropical species. In many species, the sepals are bright red and the petals purple, a combination of colors that attract hummingbirds.
The flower symbolism associated with the gardenia is you're lovely, secret love, purity and refinement. Gardenia plants are prized for the strong sweet scent of their flowers, which can be very large in some species.
Geranium Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with the geranium is a true friend, stupidity, folly and meeting. The genus name is derived from the Greek word geranos, meaning "crane". The name derives from the appearance of the seed-heads, which have the same shape as the bill of a crane.
Gladiolus Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with the gladiolus is preparedness, strength, splendid beauty and love at first sight. The gladiolus is named for the shape of its leaves, "gladius" or sword. The gladiolus is said to have symbolized the Roman gladiators. The British used the stem base (corms) as a poultice for thorns and splinters.
Globe Amaranth Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with the globe amaranth is unfading love. The globe amaranth is an annual plant that grows up to 24 inches in height. The true species has magenta flowers, and garden varieties have additional colors such as purple, red, white, pink, and lilac.
Holly Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with the holly is defense, domestic happiness and forecast. The Romans decorated their hallways with holly garlands for their mid-winter celebration, Saturnalia. Medieval monks called the holly the Holy Tree and believed holly would keep away evil spirits and protects their homes from lightening. In Christianity, the pointed leaves represented the crown of thorns worn by Jesus, and the red berries symbolized drops of his blood.
Honeysuckle Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with the honeysuckle is bond of love and I love you. Wood cuttings from honeysuckle are sold as cat toys. The wood contains nepetalactone, the active ingredient found in catnip.
Huckleberry Symbolism
The symbolism associated with the huckleberry is faith and simple pleasures. The tiny size of huckleberries led to their frequent use as a way of referring to something small, often in an affectionate way. The phrase "a huckleberry over my persimmon" was used to mean "a bit beyond my abilities". "I'll be your huckleberry" is a way of saying that one is just the right person for a given job.
Hyacinth Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with the hyacinth is games, sports, rashness, and playful joy. Hyacinths are named after Hyacinth, a figure in Greek mythology. Hyacinths are sometimes associated with rebirth. The hyacinth flower is used in the Haftseen table setting for the Persian New Year celebration. The prophet Mohammad is reported to have said “If I had but two loaves of bread, I would sell one and buy hyacinths, for they would feed my soul.”
Impatiens Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with impatiens flowers is motherly love. Impatiens flowers come in a wide variety of forms including flat flowers and orchid-like shapes. In the medieval Mary gardens devoted to the Virgin Mary, impatiens plants were called "Our Lady's earrings." Read more about impatiens.
Iris Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with the iris is faith, wisdom, cherished friendship, hope, valor, my compliments, promise in love, wisdom. Irises were used in Mary Gardens. The blade-shaped foliage denotes the sorrows which 'pierced her heart.' The iris is the emblem of both France and Florence, Italy. See our artwork and gifts featuring iris flowers.
Ivy Symbolism
The symbolism associated with ivy is wedded love, fidelity, friendship and affection. Ivy walls are considered idyllic and charming. A soundly mortared wall is impenetrable to the climbing roots of ivy and will not be damaged, and is also protected from further weathering by the ivy. However, walls with already weak or loose mortar may be badly damaged, as the ivy is able to root into the weak mortar and further break up the wall.
Jasmine Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with the jasmine flower is attachment, sensuality, modesty, grace and elegance. Jasmines are widely cultivated for their flowers, enjoyed in the garden, as house plants, and as cut flowers. The flowers are worn by women in their hair in southern and southeast Asia. Some claim that the daily consumption of Jasmine tea is effective in preventing certain cancers.
The symbolism associated with Lady's Mantle is that of a cloak for for the Blessed Virgin. Lady's mantle was grown in Mary Gardens. The name alchemilla ("little magical one") derives from the dew which collects on the lady's mantle. Dew is often associated with magic. The dew was used as a beauty lotion, while pillows stuffed with it were reputed to bring on a good sleep.
Lilac Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with the lilac is beauty, pride, youthful innocence and youth. A pale purple co lour is generally known as lilac after the flower. Lilacs are known for their strong, perfume-like scent and are the state flower of New Hampshire.
Lily Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with the lily is chastity, virtue, fleur-de-lis, Holy Trinity, faith, wisdom, chivalry, royalty; beauty (calla), mother (China), hatred (orange), wealth, pride (tiger); sweetness, virginity, purity, majesty, it's heavenly to be with you (white); gaiety, gratitude, I'm walking on air (yellow). The flower symbolism of lilies is associated with the annunciation of the birth of Jesus by the angel Gabriel. Lilies were used in the flower symbolism of Mary Gardens. In both Christian and pagan traditions, lilies symbolize fertility. In Greek marriage ceremonies, the bride wears a crown of lilies.
Lotus Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with the lotus is estranged love and forgetfulness of the past. The lotus is the national flower of India. The blue or Indian lotus, also known as the bean of India and the sacred water-lily of Hinduism and Buddhism. Lotus roots are also used widely in Asian cooking.
Lupine Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with Lupines are symbolic of imagination. The name "lupinus" actually means "of wolves" due to the mistaken belief that ancient peoples had that lupines robbed the soil of nutrients. The fact is that lupines add nitrogen to the soil. Lupines are the only food for the Karner blue butterfly's caterpillar. The scent from lupine blossoms is like that of honey, a nice addition to any garden. Read more about lupines. See gifts featuring lupines.
Magnolia Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with nobility, perseverance and love of nature. Magnolia is the official state state flower of both Mississippi and Louisiana. The flower's abundance in Mississippi is reflected in its state nickname, the "Magnolia State". The magnolia is also the official state tree of Mississippi. One of the oldest nicknames for Houston, Texas Is "The Magnolia City" due to the abundance of Magnolia Trees growing along Buffalo Bayou.
Marigold Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with marigolds is indicated in the name: Mary's Gold. Marigold flowers were "golden gifts" offered to the Virgin by the poor who could not afford to give actual gold. Marigolds were used in Mary Gardens. Marigolds are symbolic of passion and creativity. Marigolds are also known as the "Herb of the Sun." Marigolds have been used as love charms and incorporated into wedding garlands. In some cultures, marigold flowers have been added to pillows to encourage prophetic or psychic dreams. Read more about marigolds.
Marjoram Symbolism
The symbolism associated with marjoram is joy and happiness. Marjoram is a somewhat cold-sensitive under shrub with sweet pine and citrus flavors. It is also called sweet marjoram. Marjoram is cultivated for its aromatic leaves, either green or dry, for culinary purposes. The tops are cut as the plants begin to flower and are dried slowly in the shade.
Morning Glory Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with the morning glory is affection. As the name implies, morning glory flowers, which are funnel-shaped, open in the morning, allowing them to be pollinated by hummingbirds, butterflies, bees, other daytime insects and birds. The flower typically lasts for a single morning and dies in the afternoon. New flowers bloom each day. See our artwork and gifts featuring morning glory flowers.
Narcissus Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with the narcissus is normality, stay sweet, self-esteem and vanity. The name narcissus is derived from that of the youth of Greek mythology called Narcissus, who became so obsessed with his own reflection as he kneeled and gazed into a pool of water that he fell into the water and drowned. The legend continues that the narcissus plant first sprang from where he died.
Nasturtium Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with the nasturtium is victory in battle and conquest. Nasturtium literally means "nose-twister" or "nose-tweaker" and refers to a genus of roughly 80 species of annual and perennial flowering plants.Naturtium have showy, often intensely bright flowers and rounded, shield-shaped leaves with the petiole in the center.
The flower symbolism associated with the orange blossom is innocence, eternal love, marriage and fruitfulness. The orange blossom, which is the state flower of Florida, is traditionally associated with good fortune, and was popular in bridal bouquets and head wreaths for weddings. The petals of orange blossom can also be made into a delicately citrus-scented version of rosewater. Orange blossom water is a common part of Middle Eastern cuisine.
OrchidFlower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with the orchid is love, beauty, refinement, many children, thoughtfulness and mature charm. Orchids have become a major market throughout the world. Buyers now bid hundreds of dollars on new hybrids or improved ones. Orchids are one of the most popular cut-flowers on the market. See our artwork and gifts featuring orchid flowers.
Pansy Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with the pansy is merriment and you occupy my thoughts. The pansy is also called the heartsease or Johnny Jump Up. The name pansy is derived from the French word pensée meaning "thought", and was so named because the flower resembles a human face. In August the pansy is thought to nod forward as if deep in thought.
Peony Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with the peony is happy marriage, compassion and bashfulness. Peonies are extensively grown as ornamental plants for their very large, often scented flowers. Peonies tend to attract ants to the flower buds due to the nectar that forms.
Petunia Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with the petunia is your presence soothes me. Dixon, Illinois is the Petunia Capital of the world. Every year, the Petunia Festival draws thousands of visitors to the city. The streets are lined in petunias. The parade mascot is Pinky Petunia.
Poinsettia Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with the poinsettia has an ancient history. The ancient Aztecs considered the poinsettia to be a symbol of purity. Today, poinsettias are the most easily recognized flower symbolic of Christmas. Poinsettias are also known as the "Christmas flower" and "Mexican flame leaf." Poinsettias originally came from Mexico and Central America. According to legend, one day near Christmas a child who was too poor to buy a present for the Christ child picked a weed from the side of the road. When he reached the church, the plant blossomed in red and green flowers. See our artwork and gifts featuring poinsettias.
Poppy Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with poppies is beauty, magic, consolation, fertility and eternal life. The Egyptians included poppies at funerals and in burial tombs. The Greeks used poppies in the shrines of Demeter, goddess of fertility, and Diana, goddess of the hunt. Poppies denote sleep, rest and repose. In modern times, poppies have been associated with Flanders fields as an emblem of those who died in World War I. See our artwork and gifts featuring poppies.
Pussy Willow Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with pussy willows is motherhood. When grown commercially, pussy willow shoots are picked just as the buds expand in spring, and can last indefinitely once dried. The branches can be put in vases or the buds can be used for table decoration.
Rhododendron Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with the rhododendron is beware and caution. Rhododendron means "rose tree." Some spices are toxic to animals and may have a hallucinogenic and laxative effect on humans, thus the symbolism related to warning and danger. Rhododendrons were originally found in Nepal. Today there are over 1,000 species of rhododendrons. Rhododendrons are the national flower of Nepal, the state flower of Sikkim in India, and the state flower of West Virginia and Washington in the United States. See our original art featuring rhododendrons.
RoseFlower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with roses is love, remembrance, passion (red); purity (white); happiness (pink); infidelity (yellow); unconscious beauty, I love you. Roses were first cultivated 5,000 years ago in Asian gardens. Confucius wrote that the emperor of China owned over 600 books on the cultivation of roses. Roses were introduced to Europe during the Roman Empire and were thereafter used for ornamental purposes. Roses are emblems of England and New York City. See our artwork and gifts featuring roses.
The symbolism associated with shamrocks is lightheartedness, good fortune and good luck. The shamrock is a symbol of Ireland and a registered trademark of the Republic of Ireland. The shamrock was traditionally used for its medicinal properties and was a popular decorative motif in Victorian times. The shamrock is also symbolic of St. Patrick's Day, celebrated on March 17th.
Snapdragon Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with snapdragons is graciousness and strength. The snapdragon is important as a model organism in botanical research. Its genome has been studied in detail.
Sunflower Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with sunflowers is adoration. Sunflowers turn their heads to the sun, which is the origin of their common name. Sunflowers belong to the genus helianthus, a reference to Helios, the sun god. Sunflowers are native to the Americas and are the state flower of Kansas. See our artwork and gifts featuring sunflowers.
Sweet Pea Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with sweet peas is bliss, delicate pleasure, good-bye, departure, adieu and thank you for a lovely time. Sweet peas were very popular in the late 1800s and are often considered the floral emblem for Edwardian England. Sweet peas are the flowers most closely connected to the month of April. Read more about sweet peas.
Tulip Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with tulips is fame and perfect love. The symbolic meanings also change with the color of the tulips. Red tulips mean "believe me" and are a declaration of love. Variegated tulips mean "you have beautiful eyes." Yellow tulips mean "there's sunshine in your smile." And cream colored tulips mean "I will love you forever." Tulips are the foremost national symbol of Holland, rivaling wooden shoes and windmills! See our artwork and gifts featuring tulips.
Verbena Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with the verbena flower is pray for me and sensibility. Verbena has longstanding use in herbalism and folk medicine, usually as a tea. Verbena is grown as a honey plant to supply bees with nectar.
Violet Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with violets is modesty, virtue, affection, watchfulness, faithfulness, love and let's take a chance on happiness. When newly opened, viola or violet flowers may be used to decorate salads or in stuffing for poultry or fish. Soufflés, cream and similar desserts can be flavored with essence of violet flowers.
Wisteria Flowers
The symbolic meaning of wisteria flowers is welcome and playful spontaneity. The wisteria is called "Purple Vine" in China. In one cluster, the petals shade harmoniously from the strong, dark purple tip to the soft, light pink at the open base. See our artwork and gifts featuring wisteria flowers.
Zinnia Flower Symbolism
The flower symbolism associated with zinnias are thoughts of absent friends, lasting affection, constancy, goodness and daily remembrance. Zinnias are the state flower of Indiana. The original zinnias were found in the early 1500s in the wilds of Mexico. They were so dull and unattractive that the Aztec name for them meant "eyesore." The common name, garden Cinderella, indicates the level of the zinnia's later transformation. See our original art featuring zinnias.
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RESOURCES:
Books
Jone, Julia. Country Diary of Garden Lore. NY: Summit Books, 1968.
Lehner, Ernst. Folklore and Symbolism of Flowers, Plants and Trees. NY: Tudor Publishing C., 1960.
Since antiquity, flower symbolism has been a significant part of cultures around the world. Flowers accompany us in every major event in life--birth, marriage, holidays, graduations, illness, and finally death. 
Flowers are the reproductive part of angiosperms or flowering plants. Flowers consist of the exterior petals, the central pistil and the surrounding stamen. Some flowers are self-pollinating, while others require insects, wind or other means of cross-pollination. Flowers are sources of food for both animals and insects. 
The flower symbolism associated with asters is daintiness, love, from Greek word for "star." Asters are believed to have healing properties. Asters were laid on the graves of French soldiers to to symbolize the wish that things had turned out differently. 
The flower symbolism associated with azaleas is temperance, passion, womanhood (China), take care of yourself for me and fragile passion. Azaleas are members of the rhododendron family (see more below). Azaleas grow as shrubs and small trees with large, showy flowers and are popular as ornamental plants in landscaping.
The flower symbolism associated with baby's breath is purity of heart, innocence, the breath of the Holy Spirit. Baby's breath is white with dense, delicate clusters of flowers. They are native to Europe, but have been naturalized throughout the eastern United States. Baby's breath is a traditional filler flower for bouquets, boutonnieres and corsages.
The flower symbolism associated with bachelor buttons is celibacy, single, blessedness, hope in love, delicacy. The bachelor's button is also known as the cornflower, basket flower and boutonniere flower. Bachelor buttons are blue and have been prized historically for their pigment. According to folklore, a young man would wear a bachelor button flower to indicate his love for a young woman, If the love was unrequited, the flower would fade quickly. The bachelor button, or blue cornflower, is the national flower of Poland. 
The flower symbolism associated with begonias is fanciful nature and beware. Begonias are large shrubs which grow in subtropical and tropical moist climates, in South and Central America, Africa and southern Asia. Because of their showy flowers of white, pink, scarlet or yellow color and often attractively marked leaves, many species and innumerable hybrids of begonias are cultivated. 
The flower symbolism associated with the bird of paradise flower is freedom, good perspective, faithfulness (when given from a woman to a man). The bird of paradise flower is so-named because of a resemblance to the actual bird of paradise. In South Africa it is commonly known as a "crane" flower. The leaves are large, 30-200 cm long and 10-80 cm broad, similar to a banana leaf but with a longer petiole, and arranged to form a fan-like crown of evergreen foliage.
The flower symbolism associated with bluebells is humility, constancy and gratitude. Bluebells are closely linked to the realm of fairies and are sometimes referred to as "fairy thimbles." To call fairies to a convention, the bluebells would be rung. 
The flower symbolism associated with buttercups is humility, neatness, childishness. Buttercups are part of a large genus of 400 species. Buttercups usually flower in April or May but flowers may be found throughout the summer. In the Pacific Northwest (USA) the buttercup is called ‘Coyote’s eyes.’ In the original legend, a coyote was tossing his eyes up in the air and catching them again when an eagle snatched them. Unable to see, coyote made eyes from the buttercup.
The flower symbolism associated with the cactus flower is endurance, my heart burns with love, maternal love. Cacti are distinctive and unusual plants, adapted to extremely arid and hot climates, with a wide range of features which conserve water. Their stems have expanded into green succulent structures containing the chlorophyll necessary for life and growth, while the leaves have become the spines for which cacti are so well known.
The flower symbolism associated with the calendula is grief, despair and sorrow. Calendula blossoms in wine are said to ease indigestion. Calendula petals are used in ointments to cure skin irritations, jaundice, sore eyes and toothaches. 
The flower symbolism associated with the calla lily is magnificent beauty. Calla lilies are native to southern Africa. The calla lily is visible in many of Diego Rivera's works of art. Georgia OKeefe's sensual flowers redefined the flower as a pure, almost geometric form. Her painting "Calla Lilies with Red Anemone" (1928) recently was sold for $6.2 million at a Christie's auction in New York. For more about the history of the flower in art, see 
The symbolic meaning of camelia flowers is admiration, perfection, good luck gift for a man, gratitut
The flower symbolism associated with the carnation is fascination, impulsiveness, fascination, capriciousness, joy, devoted love; disdain, refusal (white only). Carnations were used in Greek ceremonial crowns. The name carnation may come from the Greek carnis (flesh) and refer to the incarnation of God made flesh.
The flower symbolism associated with the cattail is peace and prosperity. Cattails or bulrushes are wetland plants with spongy, strap-like leaves and starchy, creeping stems. The thick root can be ground to make a flour substitute. The spread of cattails is an important part of the process of open water bodies being converted to vegetated marshland and eventually to dry land.
The flower symbolism associated with the chamomile flower is energy in action. The extract of German chamomile is taken as a strong tea. It has been used in herbal medicine as a a digestive aid and has anti-inflammatory properties. It is also used in ointments and lotions, and as a mouthwash against infections of mouth and gums.
The flower symbolism associated with the cherry blossom is education. In China, the cherry blossom is also a symbol of feminine beauty. It also represents the feminine principle and love. In Japan, cherry blossoms symbolize the transience of life because of their short blooming times. Falling blossoms are metaphors for fallen warriors who died bravely in battle. This connotation links them with the samarai. 
The flower symbolism associated with the Christmas rose is that it is purported to have flowered on Christmas Day, and is therefore associated with the infant Jesus. The Christmas Rose is a member of the genus Helleborus and is not related to the rose bush. The Christmas Rose is frost-resistant and many species are evergreens. The Christmas Rose of Mary Gardens bears pure white or pink flowers and are sometimes known as the Lenten Rose. 
The flower symbolism associated with the chrysanthemum is abundance, wealth, cheerfulness, optimism, truth (white), hope, rest and wonderful friendship, I love (red), slighted love (yellow).. The Japanese put a single chrysanthemum petal on the bottom of a wine glass to sustain a long and healthy life. Japanese emperors sat on the Chrysanthemum throne. In Italy, chrysanthemums are associated with death.
The flower symbolism associated with the crocus is cheerfulness and gladness. The genus crocus is placed botanically in the iris family. The plants grow from corms and are mainly perennials. They are found a wide range of habitats including woodland and meadows.
The flower symbolism associated with cyclamen flowers is resignation and goodbye. Cyclamen are native in the Mediterranean and Africa. Cyclamen grow in dry forest or scrub areas. 
The flower symbolism associated with the daffodil is regard, unrequited love, chivalry, sunshine, respect and the sun shines when I'm with you. Though the traditional daffodil of folklore, poetry, and field may have a yellow to golden-yellow color all over, both in the wild species and due to breeding, the daffodil may be variously colored. Breeders have developed some daffodils with double, triple, or ambiguously multiple rows of petals, and several wild species also have known double variants.
The flower symbolism associated with the dahlia is dignity, elegance, forever thine. The Aztecs used dahlias as a treatment for epilepsy. European scientists considered the dahlia as a source of food when disease destroyed the French potato crop in the 1840s. 
The flower symbolism associated with the daisy is purity, innocence, loyal love, beauty, patience and simplicity. Daisies are often depicted in meadows in Medieval paintings, also known as a "flowery mead." Daisies are believed to be more than 4,000 years old and hairpins decorated with daisies were found during the excavation of the Minoan Palace on the Island of Crete. Even further back, Egyptian ceramics were decorated with daisies. Daisies were used in Mary Gardens. 
The flower symbolism associated with the dandelion is love me, affection returned, desire, sympathy, faithfulness, happiness and love's oracle. The dandelion is native to Europe and Asia, and has been introduced to many other places. In northern areas and places where the dandelion is not native, it has become a weed, exploiting disturbed ground in human environments.
The symbolic meaning of the day lily is forgetting worries. As an omen for expectant mothers who wish for baby boys, the flower means "Suited for A Boy." The Chinese also venerate the day lily as a symbol of filial devotion to one's mother. 
The flower symbolism associated with the delphinium is big-hearted, fun, lightness, levity, ardent attachment. The name delphinium comes from the Greek word delphis, a reference to the flower's resemblance to the bottle-like nose of the dolphin. Delphiniums were used by Native Americans to make blue dye. European settlers used delphinium for making ink. Delphiniums were also once thought to drive away scorpions. 
The flower symbolism associated with the edelweiss flower is daring, courage and noble purity. The flowers are felted and woolly with white hairs, with characteristic bloom consisting of five to six small yellow flower heads surrounded by leaflets in star form. 
The flower symbolism associated with ferns is magic, fascination, confidence, shelter, discretion, reverie and a secret bond of love. A great many ferns are grown as landscape plants, for foliage for cut bouquets and as houseplants.
The flower symbolism associated with the forget-me-not is true love and memories. In 15th century Germany, it was supposed that the wearers of the flower would not be forgotten by their lovers. Legend has it that in medieval times, a knight and his lady were walking along the side of a river. He picked a posy of flowers, but because of the weight of his armour he fell into the river. As he was drowning he threw the posy to his loved one and shouted "Forget-me-not". It is also told in pious legend that the Christ child was sitting on Mary's lap one day and said that he wished that future generations could see them. He touched her eyes and then waved his hand over the ground and blue forget-me-nots appeared.
The flower symbolism associated with the foxglove is stateliness and youth. Foxglove flowers have both positive and negative symbolic meanings. They are said to sometimes hurt and sometimes heal. The scientific name is digitalis, a reference to the presence of powerful chemicals that can heal heart conditions if taken correctly but can kill if taken in large amounts. Thus, foxglove is symbolic of both healing and harm. 
The flower symbolism associated with the fuchsia is confiding love. Fuchsia flowers are a very decorative pendulous "eardrop" shape, borne in profusion throughout the summer and autumn, and all year in tropical species. In many species, the sepals are bright red and the petals purple, a combination of colors that attract hummingbirds.
The flower symbolism associated with the gardenia is you're lovely, secret love, purity and refinement. Gardenia plants are prized for the strong sweet scent of their flowers, which can be very large in some species.
The flower symbolism associated with the geranium is a true friend, stupidity, folly and meeting. The genus name is derived from the Greek word geranos, meaning "crane". The name derives from the appearance of the seed-heads, which have the same shape as the bill of a crane. 
The flower symbolism associated with the gladiolus is preparedness, strength, splendid beauty and love at first sight. The gladiolus is named for the shape of its leaves, "gladius" or sword. The gladiolus is said to have symbolized the Roman gladiators. The British used the stem base (corms) as a poultice for thorns and splinters. 
The flower symbolism associated with the globe amaranth is unfading love. The globe amaranth is an annual plant that grows up to 24 inches in height. The true species has magenta flowers, and garden varieties have additional colors such as purple, red, white, pink, and lilac.
The flower symbolism associated with the holly is defense, domestic happiness and forecast. The Romans decorated their hallways with holly garlands for their mid-winter celebration, Saturnalia. Medieval monks called the holly the Holy Tree and believed holly would keep away evil spirits and protects their homes from lightening. In Christianity, the pointed leaves represented the crown of thorns worn by Jesus, and the red berries symbolized drops of his blood.
The flower symbolism associated with the honeysuckle is bond of love and I love you. Wood cuttings from honeysuckle are sold as cat toys. The wood contains nepetalactone, the active ingredient found in catnip. 
The symbolism associated with the huckleberry is faith and simple pleasures. The tiny size of huckleberries led to their frequent use as a way of referring to something small, often in an affectionate way. The phrase "a huckleberry over my persimmon" was used to mean "a bit beyond my abilities". "I'll be your huckleberry" is a way of saying that one is just the right person for a given job.
The flower symbolism associated with the hyacinth is games, sports, rashness, and playful joy. Hyacinths are named after Hyacinth, a figure in Greek mythology. Hyacinths are sometimes associated with rebirth. The hyacinth flower is used in the Haftseen table setting for the Persian New Year celebration. The prophet Mohammad is reported to have said “If I had but two loaves of bread, I would sell one and buy hyacinths, for they would feed my soul.”
The flower symbolism associated with impatiens flowers is motherly love. Impatiens flowers come in a wide variety of forms including flat flowers and orchid-like shapes. In the medieval Mary gardens devoted to the Virgin Mary, impatiens plants were called "Our Lady's earrings." 
The flower symbolism associated with the iris is faith, wisdom, cherished friendship, hope, valor, my compliments, promise in love, wisdom. Irises were used in Mary Gardens. The blade-shaped foliage denotes the sorrows which 'pierced her heart.' The iris is the emblem of both France and Florence, Italy. 
The symbolism associated with ivy is wedded love, fidelity, friendship and affection. Ivy walls are considered idyllic and charming. A soundly mortared wall is impenetrable to the climbing roots of ivy and will not be damaged, and is also protected from further weathering by the ivy. However, walls with already weak or loose mortar may be badly damaged, as the ivy is able to root into the weak mortar and further break up the wall.
The flower symbolism associated with the jasmine flower is attachment, sensuality, modesty, grace and elegance. Jasmines are widely cultivated for their flowers, enjoyed in the garden, as house plants, and as cut flowers. The flowers are worn by women in their hair in southern and southeast Asia. Some claim that the daily consumption of Jasmine tea is effective in preventing certain cancers.
The symbolism associated with Lady's Mantle is that of a cloak for for the Blessed Virgin. Lady's mantle was grown in Mary Gardens. The name alchemilla ("little magical one") derives from the dew which collects on the lady's mantle. Dew is often associated with magic. The dew was used as a beauty lotion, while pillows stuffed with it were reputed to bring on a good sleep. 
The flower symbolism associated with the lilac is beauty, pride, youthful innocence and youth. A pale purple co lour is generally known as lilac after the flower. Lilacs are known for their strong, perfume-like scent and are the state flower of New Hampshire. 
The flower symbolism associated with the lily is chastity, virtue, fleur-de-lis, Holy Trinity, faith, wisdom, chivalry, royalty; beauty (calla), mother (China), hatred (orange), wealth, pride (tiger); sweetness, virginity, purity, majesty, it's heavenly to be with you (white); gaiety, gratitude, I'm walking on air (yellow). The flower symbolism of lilies is associated with the annunciation of the birth of Jesus by the angel Gabriel. Lilies were used in the flower symbolism of Mary Gardens. In both Christian and pagan traditions, lilies symbolize fertility. In Greek marriage ceremonies, the bride wears a crown of lilies. 
The flower symbolism associated with the lotus is estranged love and forgetfulness of the past. The lotus is the national flower of India. The blue or Indian lotus, also known as the bean of India and the sacred water-lily of Hinduism and Buddhism. Lotus roots are also used widely in Asian cooking. 
The flower symbolism associated with Lupines are symbolic of imagination. The name "lupinus" actually means "of wolves" due to the mistaken belief that ancient peoples had that lupines robbed the soil of nutrients. The fact is that lupines add nitrogen to the soil. Lupines are the only food for the Karner blue butterfly's caterpillar. The scent from lupine blossoms is like that of honey, a nice addition to any garden. 
The flower symbolism associated with nobility, perseverance and love of nature. Magnolia is the official state state flower of both Mississippi and Louisiana. The flower's abundance in Mississippi is reflected in its state nickname, the "Magnolia State". The magnolia is also the official state tree of Mississippi. One of the oldest nicknames for Houston, Texas Is "The Magnolia City" due to the abundance of Magnolia Trees growing along Buffalo Bayou.
The flower symbolism associated with marigolds is indicated in the name: Mary's Gold. Marigold flowers were "golden gifts" offered to the Virgin by the poor who could not afford to give actual gold. Marigolds were used in Mary Gardens. Marigolds are symbolic of passion and creativity. Marigolds are also known as the "Herb of the Sun." Marigolds have been used as love charms and incorporated into wedding garlands. In some cultures, marigold flowers have been added to pillows to encourage prophetic or psychic dreams. 
The symbolism associated with marjoram is joy and happiness. Marjoram is a somewhat cold-sensitive under shrub with sweet pine and citrus flavors. It is also called sweet marjoram. Marjoram is cultivated for its aromatic leaves, either green or dry, for culinary purposes. The tops are cut as the plants begin to flower and are dried slowly in the shade.
The flower symbolism associated with the morning glory is affection. As the name implies, morning glory flowers, which are funnel-shaped, open in the morning, allowing them to be pollinated by hummingbirds, butterflies, bees, other daytime insects and birds. The flower typically lasts for a single morning and dies in the afternoon. New flowers bloom each day. 
The flower symbolism associated with the narcissus is normality, stay sweet, self-esteem and vanity. The name narcissus is derived from that of the youth of Greek mythology called Narcissus, who became so obsessed with his own reflection as he kneeled and gazed into a pool of water that he fell into the water and drowned. The legend continues that the narcissus plant first sprang from where he died.
The flower symbolism associated with the nasturtium is victory in battle and conquest. Nasturtium literally means "nose-twister" or "nose-tweaker" and refers to a genus of roughly 80 species of annual and perennial flowering plants.Naturtium have showy, often intensely bright flowers and rounded, shield-shaped leaves with the petiole in the center. 
The flower symbolism associated with the orange blossom is innocence, eternal love, marriage and fruitfulness. The orange blossom, which is the state flower of Florida, is traditionally associated with good fortune, and was popular in bridal bouquets and head wreaths for weddings. The petals of orange blossom can also be made into a delicately citrus-scented version of rosewater. Orange blossom water is a common part of Middle Eastern cuisine.
The flower symbolism associated with the orchid is love, beauty, refinement, many children, thoughtfulness and mature charm. Orchids have become a major market throughout the world. Buyers now bid hundreds of dollars on new hybrids or improved ones. Orchids are one of the most popular cut-flowers on the market. 
The flower symbolism associated with the pansy is merriment and you occupy my thoughts. The pansy is also called the heartsease or Johnny Jump Up. The name pansy is derived from the French word pensée meaning "thought", and was so named because the flower resembles a human face. In August the pansy is thought to nod forward as if deep in thought. 
The flower symbolism associated with the peony is happy marriage, compassion and bashfulness. Peonies are extensively grown as ornamental plants for their very large, often scented flowers. Peonies tend to attract ants to the flower buds due to the nectar that forms. 
The flower symbolism associated with the petunia is your presence soothes me. Dixon, Illinois is the Petunia Capital of the world. Every year, the Petunia Festival draws thousands of visitors to the city. The streets are lined in petunias. The parade mascot is Pinky Petunia.
The flower symbolism associated with the poinsettia has an ancient history. The ancient Aztecs considered the poinsettia to be a symbol of purity. Today, poinsettias are the most easily recognized flower symbolic of Christmas. Poinsettias are also known as the "Christmas flower" and "Mexican flame leaf." Poinsettias originally came from Mexico and Central America. According to legend, one day near Christmas a child who was too poor to buy a present for the Christ child picked a weed from the side of the road. When he reached the church, the plant blossomed in red and green flowers. 
The flower symbolism associated with poppies is beauty, magic, consolation, fertility and eternal life. The Egyptians included poppies at funerals and in burial tombs. The Greeks used poppies in the shrines of Demeter, goddess of fertility, and Diana, goddess of the hunt. Poppies denote sleep, rest and repose. In modern times, poppies have been associated with Flanders fields as an emblem of those who died in World War I. 
The flower symbolism associated with pussy willows is motherhood. When grown commercially, pussy willow shoots are picked just as the buds expand in spring, and can last indefinitely once dried. The branches can be put in vases or the buds can be used for table decoration.
The flower symbolism associated with the rhododendron is beware and caution. Rhododendron means "rose tree." Some spices are toxic to animals and may have a hallucinogenic and laxative effect on humans, thus the symbolism related to warning and danger. Rhododendrons were originally found in Nepal. Today there are over 1,000 species of rhododendrons. Rhododendrons are the national flower of Nepal, the state flower of Sikkim in India, and the state flower of West Virginia and Washington in the United States. See our 
The flower symbolism associated with roses is love, remembrance, passion (red); purity (white); happiness (pink); infidelity (yellow); unconscious beauty, I love you. Roses were first cultivated 5,000 years ago in Asian gardens. Confucius wrote that the emperor of China owned over 600 books on the cultivation of roses. Roses were introduced to Europe during the Roman Empire and were thereafter used for ornamental purposes. Roses are emblems of England and New York City. 
The symbolism associated with shamrocks is lightheartedness, good fortune and good luck. The shamrock is a symbol of Ireland and a registered trademark of the Republic of Ireland. The shamrock was traditionally used for its medicinal properties and was a popular decorative motif in Victorian times. The shamrock is also symbolic of St. Patrick's Day, celebrated on March 17th. 
The flower symbolism associated with snapdragons is graciousness and strength. The snapdragon is important as a model organism in botanical research. Its genome has been studied in detail.
The flower symbolism associated with sunflowers is adoration. Sunflowers turn their heads to the sun, which is the origin of their common name. Sunflowers belong to the genus helianthus, a reference to Helios, the sun god. Sunflowers are native to the Americas and are the state flower of Kansas. 
The flower symbolism associated with sweet peas is bliss, delicate pleasure, good-bye, departure, adieu and thank you for a lovely time. Sweet peas were very popular in the late 1800s and are often considered the floral emblem for Edwardian England. Sweet peas are the flowers most closely connected to the month of April. 
The flower symbolism associated with tulips is fame and perfect love. The symbolic meanings also change with the color of the tulips. Red tulips mean "believe me" and are a declaration of love. Variegated tulips mean "you have beautiful eyes." Yellow tulips mean "there's sunshine in your smile." And cream colored tulips mean "I will love you forever." Tulips are the foremost national symbol of Holland, rivaling wooden shoes and windmills! 
The flower symbolism associated with the verbena flower is pray for me and sensibility. Verbena has longstanding use in herbalism and folk medicine, usually as a tea. Verbena is grown as a honey plant to supply bees with nectar.
The flower symbolism associated with violets is modesty, virtue, affection, watchfulness, faithfulness, love and let's take a chance on happiness. When newly opened, viola or violet flowers may be used to decorate salads or in stuffing for poultry or fish. Soufflés, cream and similar desserts can be flavored with essence of violet flowers.
The symbolic meaning of wisteria flowers is welcome and playful spontaneity. 
The flower symbolism associated with zinnias are thoughts of absent friends, lasting affection, constancy, goodness and daily remembrance. Zinnias are the state flower of Indiana. The original zinnias were found in the early 1500s in the wilds of Mexico. They were so dull and unattractive that the Aztec name for them meant "eyesore." The common name, garden Cinderella, indicates the level of the zinnia's later transformation. See our