Flowers and their Meanings

Our history and relationship with flowers stems so deep into our ancestry that every flower has a meaning, a purpose and story to share. Flowers have played a significant role in almost every culture for centuries. They have been used to symbolise love, beauty, devotion, new beginnings, purity and fertility. Certain flowers have been used in weddings, engagements and funerals. Here are some of our favourite flowers and their meanings…

Jasmine 

Jasmine’s meaning varies depending on the place and culture it is in. Traditionally jasmine has been used to symbolise love, beauty or sensuality.

Known for its white highly scented blossoms, Jasmine symbolises purity when used in religious ceremonies. The small, modest white flowers that bloom at night have such a powerful scent. Jasmine is known to represent the value of modesty and humility.

Jasmine belongs to the genus ‘Jasminum’ that includes over 200 species of plants, most of which originated in tropical and sub-tropical areas around the world. Its name comes from the Persian word ‘Yasmin’ meaning gift from God.

Tulips

Tulips are perfectly symmetrical and come in all colours and sizes. Tulips have long been considered to symbolise a perfect and enduring love between partners. They represent an undying passionate love, whether the passion is rejected or welcomed.

Tulips have been associated with the 11th wedding anniversary, as the traditional gift that should be given or received on the day of this event. Due to their abundance, they have also been symbols for charitable causes and helping those that are less fortunate.

Orchids 

Orchids are the largest family of blooming flowers with over 25,000 species and over 100,000 varieties. An ancient flower that has always symbolised love, beauty, fertility, refinement, thoughtfulness and charm.

Orchids are almost unreal in their perfection with each one having its own unique qualities. Available in bright bold colours, they have the ability to add a touch of luxury to any arrangement.

Daisies 

There are many varieties of wild daisies and it can be hard to attribute them to one symbolism. Traditionally, wild daisies have been thought to symbolise new beginnings, innocence, purity and true love. That is why you will often find daisy in bouquets for new mothers or as gifts for young children.

Often found growing in the wild, daisies offer a bright and natural style to a bouquet with their perfect delicate white petals and yellow centres.

Sunflowers

One of the most iconic flowers, so much so that the sunflowers meaning across cultures is shared even to this day. Sunflowers are strong flowers and symbolise long life, loyalty and strong bonds between people.

In Chinese culture, sunflowers are thought of as good luck and represent everlasting happiness to those that receive them. It is of no surprise that sunflowers are associated with warmth, positivity, strength, and happiness since it bears such a strong resemblance to our Sun. 

Lavender

Lavender is known for its calming fragrance. For many years the natural oils produced by the plants have been used for relaxation and calm. Grown mainly across Europe the sight of fields of Lavender is known as a sign of mid-summer, evoking memories of warm summer evenings.

Lavender has long symbolised silence, devotion, caution, serenity, grace and calmness. Not only does the fragrance create calm, the natural oils produced by lavender have long been used as a natural antiseptic.

Hydrangea 

Has there ever been a flower that bursts with more color than Hydrangeas? Hydrangeas have earned many symbols over the years, from representing honesty and heartfelt kindness to boasting about false accomplishments.

A flower that is both compassionate and arrogant, its large bold blooms can be easy to fall for when taking in its natural beauty. Hydrangeas are often given as a gift on the fourth wedding anniversary.   

Lily

Lilies have a long intertwined history with royalty. During the heights of the Greek and Roman empires the lily held a close connection to various religious ceremonies. In Europe and the USA the lily symbolises life and rebirth, which is why it is often used at weddings and funerals. In Chinese culture they were given as a gift as they were thought to relieve headaches during difficult times.

Lilies can also represent passion and drive and can be given to couples with ambition or to a woman who is soon to be a mother.

Roses

Arguably the most iconic flowers of all time, roses have been one of our favourites for many years . A first choice for many, roses are often given in relationships as an expression of connection, devotion and passion.

Roses and their connection to love can be found far back in our history. The Greek goddess of love, Aphrodite was regularly depicted surrounded by roses. Not many flowers have captured our hearts like roses, so much so that Valentine’s Day would not be what it is today without the classic graceful red rose.  

With over 100 different species of roses they are one of the most grown flowers around the world. Read our blog about the history & meaning of roses »