85 Surprising Flower Meanings Behind Some of the Most Popular Blooms
Learn the language of flowers before you gift your next bouquet.
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Flowers are thoughtful gifts for just about anyone in your life — family, friends, coworkers and, of course, your significant other. But just as various rose colors have different meanings, so do many other blooms. That's why it's important to know the wide range of flower meanings so you pick the right one for any occasion.
This helpful roundup features more than 70 flowers and what they represent (think pink lilies for prosperity and blue asters for strength). For a special family affair, like Mother's Day or Father's Day, show your appreciation with pink tulips and begonias. Some flowers, such as bleeding hearts, snapdragons and red camellias, specifically cater to Valentine's Day, as they symbolize a deep love or desire for your partner (try adding these perfectly arranged bouquets to your Valentine's Day list, too!).
While most of the flowers on this list are associated with a positive message, a few do have a negative connotation. Take yellow roses and marigolds, for example, which can both symbolize jealousy. Even common bouquet additions, tansies, can denote a secret declaration of war!
So, before you go shopping at your local flower shop (or have blooms delivered), check out our guide for pointers. We've included details from A Victorian Flower Dictionary, The Farmer's Almanac and more, so any floral arrangement you choose shows exactly how you feel.
Pink Delphiniums
Similar to their white and light blue counterparts, pink delphiniums embody youth and renewal. Don't forget to include them in a bouquet for someone who is renewing their vows. They're also a great pick for those searching for love on their life's journey.
Orange Tulips
Is there someone you've connected with spiritually and physically? If so, orange tulips are a thoughtful gift, as they symbolize understanding and appreciation.
Red Camellias
Passion, love and romance are the meanings behind these gorgeous blooms. Personally hand your significant other a single red camellia or a pretty bouquet to let them know how you feel.
Pink Tulips
Send good wishes to family and friends with a delightful arrangement of pink tulips. While they're not as passionate as red blooms, they also symbolize love.
White Camellia
Like other white flowers you might consider gifting, white camellias stand for purity and innocence. Other meanings include admiration and respect.
Yellow Tulips
Bring cheer to anyone's day with yellow tulips. Victorians even gave them the literal meaning, “there's sunshine in your smile," making them the perfect flower to convey happiness.
Two-Toned Carnations
Think twice before gifting anyone a two-toned carnation. They're a symbol of parting, so it's not the best choice if you'd like to keep your relationship intact.
White Lily
Often chosen as sympathy flowers, you'll typically find white lilies at funerals. Don't worry, though, they're also used at weddings to represent purity and rebirth.
Red Lily
Red is a passionate color on its own, so it's no coincidence that red lilies have the same meaning. That's why these deep-colored blossoms make a romantic gift for your partner.
Yellow Carnations
If you come across yellow carnations at the flower shop, don't be fooled by their beauty. They represent rejection and disappointment, making them far from a loving gesture or ideal for a happy occasion.
Blazing Star
Also commonly known as Liatris and Gayfeather, these blooms symbolize joy, happiness and blissfulness. Gift them during special occasions and celebratory moments.
Blue Star
Add these florals to your bouquet to show a loved one that you recognize and admire their strength, determination and endurance.
Blanket Flower
Also known as Gaillardia, these rich-colored blooms symbolize joy and modesty — perfect for the charming figure in your life.
Scotch Brooms
These brilliant flowers were known for regulating the heart and circulatory system, leading them to represent strength and abundance.
Begonias
Give these to a family member or friend for their anniversary or as a way to say "thank you." They symbolize gratitude, uniqueness, and at times, caution.
Bee Balms
As members of the mint family, Bee Balms have been used to combat sore throats, bloating and nausea. So it's no wonder their meaning is protection and prosperity.
Bleeding Hearts
These heart-shaped blooms have a strong meaning of passionate love and romance, which makes them gorgeous bouquet additions for Valentine's Day.
Balloon Flowers
If there's someone you'll never stop loving, gift them these star-like flowers. They also represent the desire for a friend to re-enter your life.
Pink Azalea
Along with a meaning of wealth, these striking blossoms represent family and familial duty.
Alyssum
In the Victorian language of flowers, Alyssums are known to mean "worth beyond beauty." Many wear them to repel negative emotions such as anger.
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