Flowers have always been more than just something pretty to look at. For centuries, they’ve been used to express emotions, celebrate milestones, and send heartfelt messages. Whether you’re buying blooms for a loved one or planning a meaningful arrangement, understanding the symbolism behind different flowers can help you choose something that says exactly what you mean—without saying a word.
Roses: Love in Full Bloom
Roses are the most iconic flower when it comes to expressing love. A red rose, in particular, is universally recognised as a symbol of deep passion and romance, which makes it a go-to for anniversaries and Valentine’s Day. But there’s more to roses than just red. White roses represent purity and new beginnings, while pink roses are often associated with admiration and gratitude. Mixing rose colours in a bouquet can tell a more layered story—like combining love and friendship in one gift.
Sunflowers: Pure Positivity
Sunflowers, with their large golden faces and tall stems, are all about warmth, joy, and positivity. They’re a fantastic choice when you want to lift someone’s spirits or celebrate something happy, like a new home, birthday, or recovery from illness. Their bold presence makes them hard to miss and even harder not to smile at.
Lilies: Grace and Remembrance
When words are difficult, especially in times of loss, lilies are a common choice for sympathy and remembrance. White lilies in particular are associated with peace, purity, and spiritual renewal. They’re elegant, understated, and often used to express condolences with grace and respect. Lilies are also a popular choice for religious ceremonies, symbolising the soul’s return to peace.
Peonies: Romance and Good Fortune
Peonies are the flower of good fortune, prosperity, and romance. Their lush, full petals and delicate scent make them a favourite for weddings and anniversary celebrations. In many cultures, peonies are seen as an omen of a happy marriage, and they’re often included in bridal bouquets or used as centrepieces during engagement parties and receptions.
Tulips: Simple, Sincere Emotions
Tulips may be simple in appearance, but they carry a wealth of meaning. They’re known to represent perfect love, with red tulips symbolising deep affection. Yellow tulips, on the other hand, bring a message of cheerfulness and positivity. Because of their seasonal availability in spring, tulips are also closely tied to new beginnings and make great gifts for Mother’s Day, new babies, or fresh starts in life.
Daisies: Innocence and Joy
Daisies round out the list with their easy-going, carefree beauty. These flowers are often linked to innocence, purity, and childlike joy. They’re a lovely option for young recipients, new parents, or anyone going through a major life change who could use a bit of hope and encouragement.
Say It with Flowers
Every flower tells a story, and the beauty of giving flowers is in the thought behind the gift. Choosing blooms that hold meaning can elevate your gesture into something memorable and heartfelt. Whether you’re saying thank you, celebrating love, or offering support, the right bouquet can speak volumes.
At eFloral, we create arrangements that aren’t just visually stunning—they’re meaningful too. Explore our curated collections and find the perfect bouquet to match your message at efloral.co.uk