Ultimate Guide to Flower Symbolism

FlowerSymbolism / MeaningCommon ColorsOccasions / Usage
RoseLove, passion, purity, secrecy (sub rosa)Red, white, yellow, pinkRomance, sympathy, weddings, anniversaries
LilyPurity, rebirth, motherhood, transienceWhite, pink, orangeFunerals, Easter, Mother’s Day
TulipPerfect love, charity, eleganceRed, yellow, purple, whiteSpring celebrations, romantic gestures
DaisyInnocence, new beginnings, loyaltyWhite, pink, yellowBirthdays, baby showers, get well
SunflowerAdoration, loyalty, positivityBright yellowGratitude, summer events, encouragement
CarnationFascination, distinction, motherly lovePink, red, whiteMother’s Day, weddings, memorials
ChrysanthemumLongevity, fidelity, grief (varies by culture)Red, white, yellow, purpleSympathy (Asia), celebration (Europe)
OrchidExotic beauty, strength, luxury, fertilityPurple, pink, whiteRomantic occasions, appreciation, tropical arrangements
IrisWisdom, courage, royalty, hopeBlue, purple, whiteSympathy, graduation, admiration
PeonyRomance, prosperity, good fortunePink, white, redWeddings, spring gifts, apologies
LavenderSerenity, devotion, calm, healingPurple, lilacWellness, aromatherapy, relaxation gifts
HydrangeaGratitude, understanding, apologyBlue, pink, whiteThank-you bouquets, reconciliation
GardeniaPurity, secret love, joyWhiteWeddings, romantic gestures
MarigoldPassion, creativity, remembrance (Day of the Dead)Orange, yellowMemorials, cultural festivals
Forget-Me-NotRemembrance, true love, loyaltyBlueMemorials, anniversaries
DaffodilRenewal, hope, new beginningsYellow, whiteSpring, birthdays, cancer awareness
PoppyRemembrance (WWI), sleep, consolationRed, white, orangeMemorial Day, remembrance ceremonies
CamelliaAdmiration, perfection, longingPink, red, whiteRomantic or platonic love gifts
AnemoneProtection, anticipation, fading hopeRed, blue, whiteSympathy, personal growth symbolism
ZinniaEndurance, lasting affection, friendshipRed, orange, pink, yellowLong-distance relationships, appreciation
HibiscusDelicate beauty, femininity, fleeting momentsRed, pink, white, yellowTropical decorations, admiration
LotusSpiritual awakening, purity, rebirthPink, white, blueEastern spiritual practices, meditation
AsterWisdom, valor, afterthoughtPurple, white, blueFarewell, reflection, intellectual admiration
BluebellHumility, gratitude, everlasting loveBlueTokens of appreciation, remembrance
RanunculusRadiant charm, attractivenessPink, red, yellowFlirtation, dating, celebration bouquets