Flower Meanings – The Meaning of Different Flowers

From incredible wedding bouquets and beautiful Valentine’s Day arrangements to blooms we offer in the hope of soothing hurt feelings, there are many occasions and reasons for why we give flowers. Next time you give the gift of flowers, take a moment to consider their meaning before you buy. Flowers can be a wonderfully personal gift when you choose one whose meaning most closely matches the message you’re trying to convey. Here are a few of the most popular floral choices and the meaning they carry.

Carnations

As one of the most popular flowers in the world, the carnation is widely appreciated and enjoyed. Carnations are available in a variety of colors and are generally symbolic of love and fascination.
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Chrysanthemums

Chrysanthemums, commonly referred to as mums, reference friendship, love and joy. They have become the go-to flower for front porch decor during the summer and fall season. You can see them adorning doorways and front steps across America. They are hardy, colorful flowers that are easy to care for.
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Gerbera Daisies

Distinguished by their large, beautiful blooms and wide assortment of vibrant colors, gerbera daisies have become a favorite flower choice for expressing cheerful sentiments. The traditional flower meanings for the gerbera daisy, however, are beauty and innocence.
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Gladioluses

The tall, striking spike of gladiolus is one of the most eye-catching flowers. With the meaning of strength, honor and infatuation they are great to give to a significant other. Just as popular as garden plants and cut flowers, these slender beauties can grow up to five feet tall! They also come in nearly every color from bright red to pastel pink.
Read More – Meanings of Gladioluses

Hydrangeas

The big, beautiful blooms of hydrangea bush have contrasting meanings. They are very popular both as cut flowers and plants for the garden because of their big, beautiful blooms. Plus, they smell fantastic! Just as popular in bridal bouquets as a country garden, these flowers are loved for their versatility.
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Iris Flowers

Few other flowers can match the elegant beauty of the iris. Representing faith, hope, and wisdom, the iris is a flower that can be used for many different occasions. While it is most known for its distinctive blue varieties, the iris can also be found in other colors such as yellow and white.
Read More – Meanings of Iris Flowers

Orchids

With an exotic appearance, orchids have come to represent rare and delicate beauty. Those seeking to make a lasting impression with a unique flower have found the orchid to be a perfect choice. As both potted plants and cut flower arrangements, these tropical flowers have an undeniable appeal.
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Peruvian Lilies

While they resemble smaller versions of many lily varieties, Peruvian lilies, also known as alstroemeria, have many distinctive qualities of their own. If you’re looking for flower meanings like friendship and devotion, Peruvian lilies are the choice for you. Available in a variety of colors, these exquisite flowers can create a striking arrangement.
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Roses

There is no flower that has been revered and celebrated as much as the rose. As a source of inspiration to people throughout history, roses are the definitive symbol for love and appreciation. For the meanings of each rose color, please reference our Rose Guide.
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Stargazer Lilies

Known for the stunning appearance of their star-shaped blooms and their distinctly sweet fragrance, stargazer lilies are a majestic masterpiece. The flower meanings traditionally associated with Stargazer Lilies are innocence and purity, but the more modern connotations are honor and aspiration.
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Sunflowers

With their bright yellow petals spreading from their center, sunflowers not only resemble the sun, they will also turn to face the sun as the day progresses. Sunflowers’ meanings are warmth and adoration, and they are also thought to be a sign of longevity.
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Tulips

With their flower meaning being perfect love, tulips can impart a sense of grace and elegance wherever they are displayed. The tulip is recognized throughout the world as one of the most popular cultivated flowers, but they are particularly associated with the Netherlands. Dutch tulips are among the leading tulip varieties within the floral community.
Read More – Meanings of Tulips

This is just a sampling of the many flower options possible. For more detailed information on the History and Meaning of Flowers on this page, please click the link under the corresponding flower to find many interesting and insightful facts about you or your loved one’s favorites! If you want to learn how to plant these flowers in your garden, check out our guide on 151 Types of Flowers Common in the U.S.