What Do Flowers Symbolize?
“What do flowers symbolize” is a question asked throughout history, sometimes explicitly but more often implicitly through works of art and literature. Cultures throughout the world have wondered at the mystery of flowers, from their beauty and their brevity to their annual ability to grow anew.
Flowers are looked at as a symbol of death because they remain alive for only a short time, and as a symbol of renewal due to their yearly re-blooming. They are given as gifts during funerals and during weddings. Flowers can demonstrate an act of love and devotion, or one of sorrow and regret.
These delicate plants are used across cultures, languages, and nations as forms of expression for which words are simply inadequate. If you’ve wondered what do flowers symbolize, you’re not alone—history is full of individuals who have wondered the same thing. Here are a few things that flowers may symbolize, and an explanation of why flowers are such a versatile symbol.
What Are the Meanings of Different Flowers?
Every flower has been ascribed a different meaning, which may vary from culture to culture. In western culture, these meanings have been synthesized into commonly-recognized patterns.
For example, very few people in western culture would disagree that a rose usually symbolizes love, desire, or passion. The rose is a symbol of the joyous experiences of life. A lily, often seen during Easter, is a symbol of great beauty, such as the death and resurrection of Christ.
However, flowers may also symbolize less common themes. Aloe, a healing balm used in many medicines, may be used to symbolize grief or sadness. A periwinkle represents friendship and fidelity. Carnations may be chosen to symbolize deep love or affection in the place of a rose, which is why carnations are often used in corsages and boutonnières.
Flowers often represent “flowery” emotions. On the other hand, flowers can also be used to represent darker emotions. A red columbine represents anxiousness. Black roses are symbols for death or hatred. The rue demonstrates regret. Lavender can be a symbol of distrust. Each flower means something dramatically different, and a range of emotions can be expressed through flowers.
Why Do Flowers Carry Different Messages?
Because flowers can be viewed in different ways, and since everyone looks at flowers differently, they can represent far more than love or passion. While they are often looked at as a symbol of growth and renewal, flowers only remain alive for a short time before they become brown and the petals fall off. Therefore they may actually represent the opposite of what is commonly accepted.
In many cultures, flowers are a symbol of death and pain instead of a symbol of life and vigor. During the Elizabethan Age, flowers were ascribed various meanings in the Western world, which is where many of the symbols attached to flowers were first derived.
The colors and shapes of flowers expressed that which could not be spoken in words, and using flowers to relay a message was a common practice. Today, not many people know the once-common symbols of flowers, but until fairly recently, most people knew exactly what a flower symbolized when it was received.
How to Choose a Flower as a Symbol
If you would like to answer “what do flowers symbolize” by giving a gift of flowers yourself, you’ll have a few things to consider. The person to whom you are sending a gift of flowers will likely not know the reasons for which you are sending them.
Include a card with your flowers explaining what your gift of flowers represents, followed by a personal note that explains why they are receiving them. For a wedding or a funeral, doing so is especially important to impart your best wishes to the recipient.
Consider the significance of the flowers you choose, not only to yourself but to those who will see the particular flowers you have chosen. You will be able to make a real impression that lasts with the simple gift of a bouquet.