16 Flower Meanings That Will Transform Your Next Arrangement (2024)

16 Flower Meanings That Will Transform Your Next Arrangement (1)

Victoria Pearson

The violet symbolizes modesty, the snowdrop is for hope. White lily signifies purity and sweetness, and the cherry blossom spiritual beauty.

For centuries, flowers have held symbolic meaning for cultures across the world. Yet it was in the Victorian era in Europe, prompted by a strong passion for gardens and horticulture, that one of the most intricate languages of flowers truly developed. Called floriography, each flower and even color was assigned a different emotion or characteristic and, in a time when a strict code of etiquette dictated modesty and purity, became a cunning way to convey innermost messages and feelings. With this secret language in place, a small posey of white jasmine and periwinkle given to a friend became a symbol of amiability and good memories, a bouquet of purple lilac signaled to a suitor the very first emotions of love, and a pleasing red carnation in a gentleman's buttonhole revealed a deep admiration. Not only were flowers cherished for their beauty, but also for their ability to communicate.

Today, whether you are a modern-day romantic or a lover of all things floral, understanding the language of flowers will imbue your next arrangement with a whole new level of meaning. To study up on the art, we recommend The Language of Flowers by Odessa Begay, out this spring. A delightful compendium that traces the fascinating stories and symbolism behind a garden full of flowers, the book is complete with charming illustrations that really bring the blooms to life. And in the meantime, read on to discover the meanings behind some of our favorite varieties.

16 Flower Meanings That Will Transform Your Next Arrangement (2)

Jacky Parker PhotographyGetty Images

1 of 17

Dahlia

Indigenous to central Mexico, the dahlia is having a resurgence in popularity due to its variety in color, shape, and size. To the Victorians, dahlias meant forever thine and displayed a symbol of commitment and an everlasting bond.

16 Flower Meanings That Will Transform Your Next Arrangement (3)

David Klabisch / 500pxGetty Images

2 of 17

Hydrangea

Conjuring sun-kissed summers on Nantucket or Cape Cod, hydrangea, with its showy pom-pom blooms in shades that range from white and blue to purple and pink, signifies vanity and boastfulness.

16 Flower Meanings That Will Transform Your Next Arrangement (4)

Jennifer A SmithGetty Images

3 of 17

Peony

The ever-popular peony is a joyous harbinger of spring. While an ancient legend assigned the flower a meaning of bashfulness and shame, other interpretations include romance, romantic love, and beauty in all forms.

16 Flower Meanings That Will Transform Your Next Arrangement (5)

earleliasonGetty Images

4 of 17

Camellia

A winter flower, the camellia is prized for its exquisitely shaped petals and evergreen foliage. Red varieties convey my heart bleeds for you, whereas white indicates flawless beauty.

16 Flower Meanings That Will Transform Your Next Arrangement (6)

Renate Frost / EyeEmGetty Images

5 of 17

Daffodil

What better gift to give yourself than an arrangement of hardy spring daffodils, named for the Greek god Narcissus and aptly symbolizing self love.

16 Flower Meanings That Will Transform Your Next Arrangement (7)

Aungsumol Chuachai / EyeEmGetty Images

6 of 17

Carnation

An ancient flower that was one of the first to be hybridized in Europe, the carnation expresses many sentiments across its rainbow of hues. While red stands for deep love and white for talent, perhaps loveliest of all is the soft pink bloom that represents a mother's undying love.

16 Flower Meanings That Will Transform Your Next Arrangement (8)

Westend61Getty Images

7 of 17

Forget-Me-Not

The diminutive forget-me-not, with its charming sky blue flowers, suggests true love and is a lasting symbol of remembrance.

16 Flower Meanings That Will Transform Your Next Arrangement (9)

Steve SatushekGetty Images

8 of 17

Tulip

Considered a declaration of love, the tulip, treasured for its saturated color and variegated patterns, has a storied past that crisscrosses the globe from its native Central Asia to 15th-century Persia to the Golden Age of Holland.

16 Flower Meanings That Will Transform Your Next Arrangement (10)

Peter Greenway / EyeEmGetty Images

9 of 17

Foxglove

With its speckled bell-shaped flowers and stately form, the triumphant foxglove, meaning wishfulness, feels as at home in a wildflower meadow as it does in a border garden.

16 Flower Meanings That Will Transform Your Next Arrangement (11)

bironsabine73 / 500pxGetty Images

10 of 17

Honeysuckle

Admired for its sweet scent and trailing vines of pink and orange flowers, the honeysuckle symbolizes devoted and everlasting love.

16 Flower Meanings That Will Transform Your Next Arrangement (12)

Michael Hollestelle / EyeEmGetty Images

11 of 17

Pansy

The Victorians employed the charming pansy as a means for secret courting. A small bouquet, or nosegay, of the colorful blooms expressed the loving sentiment of "I'm thinking of you" to recipients.

16 Flower Meanings That Will Transform Your Next Arrangement (13)

YONCA60Getty Images

12 of 17

Geranium

Whether planted in a pot or hanging basket or as a cut flower in a bouquet, presenting geranium to a loved one announces that you're my preference.

16 Flower Meanings That Will Transform Your Next Arrangement (14)

YangYinGetty Images

13 of 17

Morning Glory

The trumpet-like morning glory signifies extinguished hopes and unrequited love. With flowers that open only in the mornings, not at night or during the rain, women of the Victorian era gave them to suitors as a sign that they had chosen someone else.

16 Flower Meanings That Will Transform Your Next Arrangement (15)

Johner ImagesGetty Images

14 of 17

Lily of the Valley

The lily of the valley, an early sign of spring, is cherished for its wonderful fragrance and delicate bell-shaped flowers. Representing a return to happiness, it rose to prominence across the world as an enduring symbol of May Day.

16 Flower Meanings That Will Transform Your Next Arrangement (16)

Abby LanesGetty Images

15 of 17

Ranunculus

Esteemed for their vibrant array of rich colors, the ruffle-petaled ranunculus, native to the Middle East, was a popular flower in the Victorian era and signals that "I am dazzled by your charms."

16 Flower Meanings That Will Transform Your Next Arrangement (17)

Enn Li PhotographyGetty Images

16 of 17

Rose

Perhaps no flower has more connotations than the iconic rose, one of the world's oldest-known flowers. Countless breathtaking varieties exist, from the decadent English garden rose to the humble rambling rose, and each color reveals a special meaning. Pink stands for engagement, burgundy for deep passion, and the heavenly white rose heralds new beginnings and innocence.

16 Flower Meanings That Will Transform Your Next Arrangement (18)

17 of 17

Amazon

The Language of Flowers: A Fully Illustrated Compendium of Meaning, Literature, and Lore for the Modern Romantic

Now 65% off

Be sure to pick up a copy ofThe Language of Flowersby Odessa Begay formore delightfulflower meanings!

16 Flower Meanings That Will Transform Your Next Arrangement (2024)

FAQs

What flower means transformation? ›

The dahlia had religious meaning in Europe during the Victorian era, but today it's more secular in its symbolism. Dahlia now represents change and transition and a departure from the norm. Dahlia is the perfect floral gift for someone with a bit of a wild side or someone who is going through a big life change.

What flowers represent the future? ›

To many, chrysanthemums mean hope for the future. The word literally means “gold flower” in Greek.

What does the flower symbolize answer? ›

Flower symbolizes friendship , beauty and love . Flowers are always regarded as a symbol for peace and harmony as well as a token of love and gratitude.

What flower means new beginnings? ›

The daffodil flower is known for its symbolism of new beginnings and rebirth and is, therefore, the perfect flower to give someone this New Year. Whilst it has often been associated with spring, it is more commonly given as a gift during the beginning of a new year.

What symbol means transformation? ›

3 Butterfly

All over the world, in both myth and art, the butterfly is seen as a symbol of transformation and change, thanks to its metamorphosis from a wormy caterpillar to a stunning insect with vividly colored wings.

What plant means new beginnings? ›

Calathea as a symbolic gift

The houseplant Calathea is a symbol of a new beginning. This meaning comes from the English saying 'to turn over a new leaf', which is what the plant does in the dark. This symbolism makes this an extra special gift.

What flower represents hope and new beginnings? ›

Petunia. Petunias are colorful flowers that have been associated with hope, healing, and well-being for a long time. Petunias represent empathy, affection, optimism, and new beginnings. These vibrant flowers are available in many shades like purple, pink, white, and blue.

What flower represents hope and life? ›

Iris. The iris (Iris xiphium) symbolizes hope, cherished friendship and valor and is the inspiration for the fleur-de-lis.

What flower represents strong will? ›

Gladiolus. Remembrance, faithfulness, and sincerity all are represented by the gladiolus. Their tall, strong stems symbolize a strength of character as well.

What flower represents yourself? ›

NARCISSUS: Egotism, conceit, self love, self admiration, formality, stay as sweet as you are.

What do butterflies represent? ›

Butterfly Symbolism

A powerful beacon of growth and new beginnings, the butterfly signifies the power of transformation and the incredible feats we can achieve when we trust ourselves.

What is the meaning of each flowers? ›

White rose: purity, innocence, reverence, a new beginning, a fresh start. Red rose: love, I love you. Deep, dark crimson rose: mourning. Pink rose: grace, happiness, gentleness. Yellow rose: jealousy, infidelity.

What does a sunflower symbolize? ›

Sunflowers symbolise loyalty, adoration thanks to the myth of Clytie and Apollo. And, because of their association with the sun, sunflowers are well-known for being a happy flower and the perfect bloom for a summer flower delivery to brighten someone's mood!

What does a daisy symbolize? ›

In Norse mythology, the daisy is known as the sacred flower for the goddess of love, beauty and fertility. Because of this, daisies symbolise childbirth, motherhood and new beginnings. So they're a great flower to give to welcome a new baby!

What does lavender symbolize? ›

Lavender flowers represent purity, silence, devotion, serenity, grace, and calmness. Purple is the color of royalty and speaks of elegance, refinement, and luxury, too. The color is also associated with the crown chakra, which is the energy center associated with higher purpose and spiritual connectivity.

What symbolizes growth and change? ›

The phoenix, the butterfly, the never-ending worm ouroboros, and the robin symbolize change and growth.

What symbolizes growth and new beginnings? ›

So, like the crocus, daffodil and narcissus symbolism includes rebirth and new beginnings. This is why these flowers are often given as gifts for those who are starting something new in their life, such as having a baby, buying a home, adopting a pet, or starting a new job.

What symbolizes moving forward? ›

Delta Symbol. Upper (arrow) means progress, moving forward; open delta means opennes to change.

What plant means hope? ›

Papaver rhoeas (common poppy)

As a symbol of hope, resilience, and remembrance this flower will be sure to bring something special.

What do tulips symbolize? ›

The most known meaning of tulips is perfect and deep love. As tulips are a classic flower that has been loved by many for centuries they have been attached with the meaning of love. They're ideal to give to someone who you have a deep, unconditional love for, whether it's your partner, children, parents or siblings.

What plant means healing? ›

Aloe Vera: Healing and Protection

Unsurprisingly, Aloe vera plants are usually associated with healing and protection. These plants have been used around the world for thousands of years, and their clear gel is still used today for soothing sunburns and other skin conditions.

What is a symbol of strength and healing? ›

A snake coiled around a staff is a widely recognized symbol of healing. A snake coiled around a staff is a widely recognized symbol of healing. The staff belongs to Asklepios, the mythical Greek god of medicine.

What flower means peace and happiness? ›

Lavender is believed to bring peace and harmony to the interactions between loved ones and is regarded as a symbol of love, happiness, devotion and protection. The pretty flower is also known to help bring relaxation to the mind and bring peace to it by inducing sleep.

What is the flower that stands for return of happiness? ›

In the language of flowers, lilies of the valley mean “return to happiness” and that's a nice thought for this month.

What flower means strength and power? ›

Gladiolus flower meaning

Both the fighter and the flower get their name from the Latin word gladius, which means sword. Symbolizing strength, victory, and power, the flowers come in long, pointy-shaped stalks that are reminiscent of a sword.

What flower represents strength and peace? ›

Lavender:

Number one on the list is the mesmerising lavender which is the ultimate peace flower. It has different hues of shades like blue, white, pink and purple. These flowers tend to bring peace and accord. The pretty flowers also symbolise serenity and strength along with ease.

Is there a flower that means faith? ›

So, along with purity and enlightenment, a lotus also represents faith.

Which flower gives positive energy? ›

Chrysanthemums. Chrysanthemums are said to carry strong positive energy currents that attract good luck into your home. They also represent longevity and harmony, too.

What flower represents true love? ›

Red tulips are most strongly associated with true love, while purple symbolizes royalty.

What flower means forever love? ›

Admired for its sweet scent and trailing vines of pink and orange flowers, the honeysuckle symbolizes devoted and everlasting love.

What flower means inner beauty? ›

Azalea (Rhododendron)

The azalea, a member of the rhododendron family, is a common symbol of feminine beauty and gentleness. The azalea is given in bouquets to remind someone of their inner beauty, and the look of an azalea shrub in full bloom is a delightful addition to a landscape.

What flower means thinking of you? ›

Salvia. Depending on its hue, salvia can have various different meanings. Blue salvia for example means 'thinking of you', whereas the red variant means 'forever mine'.

What does a purple butterfly mean? ›

The butterfly is present to celebrate the life of the patient's lost sibling and to bring awareness of the loss for staff and other families. The Story Behind the Purple Butterfly.

What does pink butterfly mean? ›

The Pink Butterfly: Your prayers have been heard and answered. By choosing this butterfly, the angels ask you to keep an open mind and be extra observant. Miraculous solutions, heavenly healings, and divine answers often arrive in unexpected ways.

What does a blue butterfly symbolize? ›

Blue butterflies are often considered a symbol of love. Blue is one of the fresh colors. Due to their colors, blue butterflies send us a vibration of joy and happiness. Looking at them or holding them can calm us down or help us meditate.

What does 12 flowers mean? ›

A Twelve Rose bouquet is one of the most popular number of roses meaning, telling your special someone “Be Mine.” Offering a dozen roses is like shouting out “I just won the lottery with you,” while at the same time being one of the simplest and most honest ways to ask the love of your life to be yours.

What is this flower called 🌺? ›

Hibiscus Hibiscus rosa-sinensis

What does 6 flowers mean? ›

6 ROSES. Signifies 'I want to be yours'; or the completion of the beginning. If you're dating someone and wish to take your relationship to the next level, gifting them with six roses is a perfect way express those feelings subtly.

What does a lily symbolize? ›

But the most common meaning is purity and fertility. The sweet and innocent beauty of the lily flower has given it the association of fresh life and rebirth.

What do daffodils symbolize? ›

The daffodil symbolises rebirth and new beginnings. It's one of the first flowers to bloom at the end of winter, announcing the beginning of spring and signifying the end of the cold, dark days. Less commonly, daffodils may also symbols of creativity, energy, resilience, forgiveness and vitality.

What is the lotus flower symbolize? ›

Lotus flower meaning across cultures

In general, however, the lotus commonly serves as a sacred for purity, rebirth, and strength. Because lotuses rise from the mud without stains, they are often viewed as a symbol of purity.

What do marigold symbolize? ›

Marigolds were often linked to the powerful strength of the sun and represent power, strength, and light that lives inside of a person. The marigold has also come to symbolize a feeling of despaired love. If someone has lost someone they love, whether it be by death or a broken relationship.

What do purple daisies mean? ›

Purple daisies represent thoughtfulness. If you send a bunch of purple daisies to a friend, it shows that you remember them in your prayers and you would like them to cheer up!

What do pink daisies mean? ›

Pink daisies are gentle blooms that represent love and romance. If you're looking for the perfect bouquet of flowers to give to a loved one, pink daisies are a great way to express your feelings and show how much you care.

What does Jasmine symbolize? ›

Jasmine's meaning varies by place and culture, but it often symbolizes love, beauty or sensuality. Its pure white blossoms can also symbolize purity. Because the small, unassuming white flowers bloom at night with such a powerful scent, jasmine sometimes symbolizes the value of modesty.

What does yellow symbolize? ›

Yellow is for happiness, hope and spontaneity

Yellow is a color that's happy and youthful color, and it grabs your attention with its hope and positivity. For that reason, it can also be used to signify caution, like red and orange. As a warm color, yellow can also feel upbeat and bright.

What orchid symbolizes? ›

While orchids mean thoughtfulness, refinement, fertility, beauty, charm, and love, they're the perfect bloom to celebrate all of life's precious moments. With a wide array of colors to choose from, the orchid is nothing short of special.

What flower means self growth? ›

Lilac. This plant symbolises growth, self growth and self development. The different colors of the lilac plant have slightly different connotations, with the purple ones being linked to spirituality. In ancient times, lilacs were linked with death and mourning.

What flower symbolizes growth and change? ›

Flowers that symbolize growth are: Allium, Goldenrod, Gladiolus, Horny Goat Weed (Epimedium), Echinacea, Blue Star, Potentilla and Valeriana.

What is the flower of rebirth? ›

Lily (Calla)

This breathtaking bloom has two meanings: one as a sign of purity and magnificent beauty, and the other as a symbol of rebirth or resurrection.

What flower represents healing and growth? ›

Petunias are colorful flowers that have been associated with hope, healing, and well-being for a long time. Petunias represent empathy, affection, optimism, and new beginnings. These vibrant flowers are available in many shades like purple, pink, white, and blue.

What flower means loving yourself? ›

NARCISSUS: Egotism, conceit, self love, self admiration, formality, stay as sweet as you are. Also known as the birthflower for December.

What flower means take care of yourself? ›

The Aster flower blooms in pink, red, white, lilac and mauve. This flower became a symbol of love when in Greek mythology it was placed on the altars for the gods. So now, when you send a bouquet featuring this vibrant bloom, the message of "Take Care Of Yourself For Me" is implied.

What flowers represent life and happiness? ›

Yellow flowers in general

That's why most yellow flowers symbolise happiness in some way. In addition to sunflowers, there are yellow lilies, yellow tulips, yellow daisies and yellow chrysanthemums—all of which are perfect choices if you want to send happiness to someone in your life.

What is the most magical flower? ›

Flowers That Symbolise Magic and Power
  • Lilac. Lilacs are pretty flowers that bloom during the late spring and early summer. ...
  • Lavender. Lavenders grow in a small shrub that reach up to about three feet tall. ...
  • Roses. Roses range in colour from white to yellow, pink to maroon and have a certain aroma. ...
  • Baby's-Breath.
Sep 19, 2019

What is the flower of God? ›

The flower of god is Dianthus caryophyllus or Carnation . The name is a fusion of the Greek words "dios" and "anthos." The Greek god Zeus is depicted by "dios," and "anthos" means flower. That's why the Carnation is recognized as “God's Flower.”

What is Lucifer's flower? ›

Crocosmia Lucifer blooms in summer with brilliant, hummingbird-attracting scarlet-red flowers on arching stems. Crocosmia Lucifer bulbs (corms) will do best in rich, moisture-retentive soils, in full or partial sun.
...
SKU.
SKUHC008679
Ships AsBulb, Rhizome, Tuber
Planting TimeSpring / Summer
Ships To CanadaNo
16 more rows

What flower means strong bond? ›

Alstroemeria. Also called Peruvian lily, Alstroemeria symbolizes the strong bond between two people that transcends romantic love. Send this elegant flower to a special friend to celebrate the strength and devotion of your friendship.

What flower means strength? ›

Gladiolus. Remembrance, faithfulness, and sincerity all are represented by the gladiolus. Their tall, strong stems symbolize a strength of character as well.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Catherine Tremblay

Last Updated:

Views: 6090

Rating: 4.7 / 5 (47 voted)

Reviews: 86% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Catherine Tremblay

Birthday: 1999-09-23

Address: Suite 461 73643 Sherril Loaf, Dickinsonland, AZ 47941-2379

Phone: +2678139151039

Job: International Administration Supervisor

Hobby: Dowsing, Snowboarding, Rowing, Beekeeping, Calligraphy, Shooting, Air sports

Introduction: My name is Catherine Tremblay, I am a precious, perfect, tasty, enthusiastic, inexpensive, vast, kind person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.