50 Beautiful Flower Meanings That Will Surprise You


BY LIZZ SCHUMER AND AMANDA GARRITY

 Jan 6, 2021


Everyone knows the phrase, "A rose by any other name would smell as sweet." And sure, the name of a flower may not carry a whole lot of symbolism — but the meaning behind your favorite blooms can have a significant impact on the Valentine's day gift. You probably choose bouquets based on the types of flowers your recipient likes best, or whichever ones look or smell prettiest. Tulips, for example, are a quick impulse buy at your local grocery store. And roses, obviously, are a romantic gesture for special occasions. But both of these gifts are heavy with meaning.

Turns out, a rose is not simply a rose — it carries a powerful message to its recipient that can turn a regular old bunch of blooms into a beautiful expression of love, gratitude, or friendship. And as you probably know, there are different meanings for different colored roses. While many flowers are linked to romance and passion, you may be shocked to learn that some of the most popular ones actually symbolize negativity, anger, or loss. Before you buy delivery flowers for a family member or your S.O. with accidental funereal connotations, check out these flower meanings from A Victorian Flower Dictionary and The Farmer's Almanac.



1 of 50

Lotus

These flowers grow in the mud. Each night, they return to the mud, and then miraculously re-bloom in the morning. In many Eastern cultures, they signify rebirth, self-regeneration, purity, and enlightenment.



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Lily

Lily bouquets are some of the cheeriest ones available — and they have a bright symbolism too. Keep in mind that different colored lilies have different meanings. White ones signify purity, pink ones signify prosperity, red ones signify passion, orange ones signify pride, and yellow ones signify gratitude.



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Carnation

These ruffly flowers may be the stuff of high school secret admirers, but they work for a lover on a budget. If you pick up one of these blooms, choose white ("sweet and lovely") or pink ("I will never forget you"). But stay away from other colors. The two-toned version means "I cannot be...