Flowers have long been cherished for their beauty and their ability to convey emotions and messages. Each variety carries unique symbolism, shaped by culture, history, and tradition. Here’s a flower delivery guide to the meaning behind 30 of the most popular cut flower varieties.
1. Rose
- Symbolism: Love, passion, friendship (varies by color).
- Notable Colors:
- Red: Romance and desire.
- White: Purity and new beginnings.
- Yellow: Friendship and joy.
2. Tulip
- Symbolism: Perfect love, abundance, and hope.
- Notable Colors:
- Red: Passionate love.
- Yellow: Cheerfulness.
3. Lily
- Symbolism: Purity, renewal, and devotion.
- Notable Varieties:
- White Lily: Innocence and spirituality.
- Stargazer Lily: Ambition and aspiration.
4. Sunflower
- Symbolism: Adoration, loyalty, and longevity.
- Characteristics: Symbolizes the sun and optimism.
5. Orchid
- Symbolism: Elegance, beauty, and exotic love.
- Notable Colors:
- Pink: Grace and joy.
- Purple: Admiration and royalty.
6. Daisy
- Symbolism: Innocence, purity, and true love.
- Varieties:
- Gerbera Daisy: Cheerfulness and vibrancy.
7. Peony
- Symbolism: Prosperity, romance, and good fortune.
- Colors: Pink peonies are especially romantic.
8. Carnation
- Symbolism: Fascination, love, and distinction.
- Notable Colors:
- Red: Deep admiration.
- White: Pure love.
9. Chrysanthemum
- Symbolism: Loyalty, friendship, and joy.
- Notable Colors:
- Yellow: Neglected love or sorrow (in some traditions).
- White: Truth and honesty.
10. Iris
- Symbolism: Wisdom, valor, and faith.
- Colors: Commonly associated with royal blue and purple tones.
11. Hydrangea
- Symbolism: Gratitude, heartfelt emotions, and grace.
- Colors: Pink for love, blue for apologies.
12. Ranunculus
- Symbolism: Radiant charm and attractiveness.
- Variety: Often gifted to express admiration.
13. Alstroemeria
- Symbolism: Friendship, prosperity, and devotion.
- Characteristics: Resembling miniature lilies, these blooms embody connection.
14. Freesia
- Symbolism: Innocence, friendship, and trust.
- Fragrance: Renowned for their sweet, delicate scent.
15. Gladiolus
- Symbolism: Strength, integrity, and remembrance.
- Characteristics: Named after the Latin word for “sword” due to its sharp leaves.
16. Anemone
- Symbolism: Anticipation and protection.
- Colors: Red anemones symbolize forsaken love, while white represents sincerity.
17. Sweet Pea
- Symbolism: Blissful pleasure and goodbyes.
- Fragrance: Known for its enchanting scent.
18. Delphinium
- Symbolism: Positivity, grace, and an open heart.
- Colors: Shades of blue and purple dominate.
19. Stock
- Symbolism: Lasting beauty and happy life.
- Fragrance: A spicy-sweet scent adds warmth to any bouquet.
20. Lisianthus
- Symbolism: Gratitude, elegance, and charisma.
- Colors: A versatile flower found in whites, pinks, and purples.
21. Baby’s Breath (Gypsophila)
- Symbolism: Purity, innocence, and everlasting love.
- Use: Often used as a filler in bouquets to signify unity.
22. Poppy
- Symbolism: Remembrance, peace, and imagination.
- Colors:
- Red: Commemoration and sacrifice.
- White: Peace.
23. Calla Lily
- Symbolism: Elegance, rebirth, and purity.
- Notable Use: Popular at weddings and funerals.
24. Camellia
- Symbolism: Admiration, perfection, and gratitude.
- Colors:
- Pink: Longing.
- White: Purity.
25. Zinnia
- Symbolism: Endurance, remembrance, and affection.
- Characteristics: Bright and cheerful blooms.
26. Bluebell
- Symbolism: Humility, gratitude, and everlasting love.
- Traits: Known for its bell-shaped flowers.
27. Dahlia
- Symbolism: Elegance, creativity, and inner strength.
- Colors:
- Pink: Kindness.
- Red: Power.
28. Heather
- Symbolism: Good luck, admiration, and solitude.
- Colors: Often purple or white.
29. Lavender
- Symbolism: Serenity, calmness, and devotion.
- Traits: Famed for its calming fragrance.
30. Magnolia
- Symbolism: Dignity, perseverance, and purity.
- Characteristics: Large, bold blooms often seen as a statement flower.