You probably know that people give flowers for a number of reasons. They might send them for a birthday, an anniversary. Or, as a congratulations. You can even send them ‘just because.’ What you might not know, though, is that the color of flowers also has symbolic meaning.
Whether it is blue, red, yellow, or orange, each color has its own meaning. So, what are you saying with your flowers? Do you think you have it right?
We have created this guide to help you choose the right colors to express your feelings and emotions towards someone else.
We discuss the meanings of the following:
- Red Flowers
- Orange Flowers
- Yellow Flowers
- Green Flowers
- Blue Flowers
- Indigo Flowers
- Purple Flowers
- Pink Flowers
- White Flowers
This one is probably pretty easy to figure out. It is probably no surprise that red flowers mean romance, love, and desire. It can also be a sign of passion. The color red is also associated with the heart, which is where we portray love from. There is more to it than that, though. Red also can represent courage and strength.
Meaning – Love, Desire, Romance, Courage, Strength
Flower Suggestions – Tulips, Roses, Carnations
Orange Flowers
The color orange is known for being cheerful and upbeat, and in the world of flowers, that is no different. In fact, giving orange flowers to a family who is grieving is very common. Why? Because the color orange can bring cheer and brightness.
The color orange also promotes an upbeat feeling and extra enthusiasm. It also brings joy to people who are feeling down or facing hardship. Orange also promotes playfulness. Are you are looking to bring an energetic, warm, cheerful, and joyous feeling to your recipient? Orange flowers are an excellent choice.
Meaning – Happiness, Joy, Warmth, Cheer
Flower Suggestions – Daisies, Lilies, Poppies, Dahlias
Yellow Flowers
Most people immediately see yellow flowers and think that it is the symbol of friendship. But it is much more than that. Yellow flowers aren’t necessarily the most romantic of flower color choices. However, they certainly convey compassion and lightheartedness.
Yes, yellow flowers are perfect to give to your friends. They are also a great choice to give to someone who is having a bad week. Yellow flowers symbolize respect, too. So, if you are looking for a flower to show someone that you appreciate them, yellow is a perfect choice.
And, about the romance? Yellow is often used to symbolize understanding in situations. They are also given as a sign that you are willing to work on a failing relationship…even a romantic one.
Meaning – Health, Respect, Friendship, Understanding
Flower Suggestions – Daffodils, Sunflowers, Ranunculus, Daisies
Green Flowers
Those who live in cold climates love the first sight of green after a long winter. We also look at it as a promise of good things to come in the spring. Most of us see the spring as a new beginning or a new life, and this is exactly what green flowers represent.
Besides symbolizing a beginning or new venture, green flowers also represent renewal and good fortune. This is why people will often give others ivy or vines when they buy a new home. Green also gives a sense of harmony, balance, and freshness to any situation.
Meaning – Wellness, Newness, Harmony, Good Fortune, Youthfulness
Suggested Flowers – Mums, Hydrangeas, Orchids
Blue Flowers
As you now know, red is the color of romance and passion, but often that fades in relationships. This is where blue steps in. Blue flowers are a symbol of peace and commitment. They are also a great choice for someone who wants to convey trust to another.
Additionally, blue is a very calming color. So, people often give blue flowers as a sign of their support for another. You can even help to calm yourself with the color blue by placing a stunning blue bouquet on your desk. This helps if you are stressed at work or with life in general.
Meaning – Commitment, Peace, Calm, Intimacy, Serenity, Openness
Flower Suggestions – Morning Glory, Irises, Hyacinth
Indigo Flowers
When most people think of indigo, they think of the blackest blues. This includes visions of the deep sea, and the darkest night. The color has a calming affect for many. But it also can convey feelings of mystery, balance, intuitions, or structure.
When you give an indigo colored flower, you show the recipient to listen to their gut and to slow down their life a bit. These flowers are meant to show wisdom and strength.
Meaning – Balance, Integrity, Wisdom, Sincerity
Flower Suggestions – Pansies, Baptisia, Daisies
Purple Flowers
The color purple is generally associated with royalty. So, it is no surprise that purple flowers are also associated with elegance and wealth. Purple is also a great mood booster when someone you care for is facing a challenge. They are also great for promoting creativity, pride, and success.
On top of this, purple flowers are also given to people who are going through an important change in their life. This might be a new job, a big move, or even an engagement.
Meaning – Success, Wealthy, Elegance, Pride, Refinement
Flower Suggestions – Asters, Lilacs, Calla Lilies
Pink Flowers
What do you do when you don’t want to be too friendly, but you don’t want to portray strong romance? You choose pink flowers! Pink is a great alternative to yellow or red flowers. Why? They are a great balance between an intense love and a good friendship. Pink flowers can also convey innocence and grace.
Pink is feminine and delicate, but also playful. It can show that you are open to the possibilities of your life and relationship. Pink can also represent caring and spontaneity. It is a great color to choose when you want to surprise a friend or relative.
Meaning – Grace, Innocence, Playfulness, Caring, Spontaneity
Suggested Flowers – Dahlias, Azaleas, Roses
White Flowers
White flowers are associated with fidelity, innocence, purity, and thoughtfulness. This makes them an ideal choice for a ceremonial display or for a bride’s bouquet. White flowers are gorgeous on their own. They pair well with romantic colors such as pink or red. This is ideal when you want to show someone that you are totally devoted to them.
People will also add white flowers to a bouquet. This shows that they are authentic and honest in their meanings and actions.
Meaning – Honesty, Authenticity, Purity, Innocence, Devotion, Thoughtfulness
Flower Suggestions – Lilies, Roses, Orchids
