10 Types of Flowers and Their Meanings

If you are looking for the perfect bouquet for an occasion, knowing more about the symbolism of the flowers you select can make the gift even more meaningful. 

Keep reading our guide on some of our favorite types of flowers and their symbolism so that you can make a smart purchase today. 

1) Carnations 

These ruffly flowers are perfect for the romantic on a budget. White and pink carnations are popular amongst high schoolers during Valentine's Day for their low price and sweet sentiment. They stand for new love and have a cheerful blossom. 

When purchasing carnations, stick with solid pink and white colors, as mixed or yellow carnations symbolize disdain. 

2) Irises

Purple is the color of royalty, so it's no wonder that these flowers stand for faith and hope. While the most popular color of the Iris flower is blue, they also come in white and yellow.

The Iris is named after the Greek Goddess, Iris who was thought to link the heavens with the earth and was often personified as a rainbow. These flowers were placed next to graves to help the deceased pass on to the next life before becoming the flower of France, and the Fleur-de-lis. 

Irises grow naturally all over the world and are an excellent gift for someone you admire. 

3) Lavender

This sweet-smelling flower is given to others as a sign of devotion. The scent is calming and is also great for anyone who needs calming or stress relief. There is no surprise that these are a popular flower, with their unique look and therapeutic qualities. 

This is a great flower to plant in your garden and backyard so that you can enjoy the lovely aroma. 

4) Roses

Red roses are Valentine's Day and Anniversary celebration staples due to their symbol of love and beauty. They've symbolized such perfection since ancient times, as the Ancient Romans and Greeks associated roses with the goddesses of love, Venus and Aphrodite. These flowers are can also be pricey, which makes them feel even more special.  

While red roses are the most popular, other colors of roses have other associations. Yellow roses are a sign of friendship, white roses signify innocence, and pink roses are given to those as a form of admiration. 

5) Tulips 

Often associated with spring and Easter, these flowers reflect perfect love with their small, simple layered bloom. They originated in Persia and Turkey, where they were used in wedding ceremonies. The red tulips are most associated with this idea of perfect love and unity. 

Yellow tulips are usually given as gifts to those who need a little cheering up, while white tulips are given to ask for someone's forgiveness. 

6) Sunflowers

These bright flowers reflect warmth, loyalty, and happiness. These flowers grow towards the sun, getting nourishment from its warmth and light. These are a great gift for anyone who needs their day brightened, or to show someone how much they warm your life. 

Sunflowers were once harvested for food before European exploration, and although they love the sun, they have the ability to grow year-round. Sunflower oils and seeds are still used for cooking and skincare. With all of these warm associations, and it's recognizable appearance, it's no wonder they are still so popular. 

7) Gardenias 

These beautiful white and fragrant flowers signify purity and joy. They are a bit expensive but make a perfect gift for the Christmas Holidays. They are also very popular for wedding celebrations with their pure connotations. 

Gardenias also signify refinement and elegance with their delicate nature. Try a centerpiece with these flowers floating in water for a gorgeous appearance that will make a room smell amazing.  

8) Orchids

This exotic flower represents strength, luxury, and beauty. With over 20,000 different species, the orchid comes in many different types and colors. While the pink and purple orchid are the most popular, yellow orchards represent new beginnings and are a great gift for the beginning of a new romance. 

Orchids produce lovely fragrances. Vanilla extract, which is used in baking, is derived from the vanilla orchid. The orchid also has medicinal qualities and has been used as a natural remedy for decades for ailments such as coughing, and diseases of the lung and kidney. 

They are also believed to be a powerful natural aphrodisiac, and the bulbs are eaten in Greece and China for this reason. Therefore, the orchid also has many sexual connotations. 

9) Daisies

Daises are typically associated with youth, innocence, and purity. These flowers are often gifted to new mothers. Daisies can also be eaten, and are often made into daisy tea which can assist with respiratory issues. They can be made into oils or lotions and assist in healing irritated skin and wounds. 

10) Lilacs

Lilacs bloom in spring, often making them associated with the Easter holiday. For this reason, they symbolize rebirth and renewal. They also stand for confidence, making them a great gift for anyone starting a new job, or graduating.

They have inspired artists from Whitman to Monet with their beauty. Due to their delightful fragrance, they are often an ingredient in perfumes and essential oils.

Types of Flowers & Their Meanings

Now that you know the symbolism different types of flowers carry, you can make sure you get the perfect bouquet for someone special. Keep in mind the event you are celebrating when selecting flowers for your loved one so that your gifts are both beautiful and meaningful. 

To purchase the perfect bouquet, head to our site to place an order!