The hidden meaning behind classic Mother’s Day flowers

For over a century, flowers have been the centrepiece of Mother’s Day celebrations, symbolising love, gratitude, and the enduring bond between mothers and their children. But beyond their beauty lies a rich tapestry of history and symbolism, with each bloom carrying a unique message. Understanding the hidden meanings behind classic Mother’s Day flowers adds depth to your gift, transforming a simple bouquet into a heartfelt narrative.

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Carnations: The original Mother’s Day bloom

Carnations hold a special place in Mother’s Day history. In 1908, Anna Jarvis, the founder of the US holiday, chose white carnations to honour her late mother, calling them “the emblem of a mother’s eternal love”. Today, carnations remain synonymous with maternal devotion, with colours adding nuanced meanings:

Pink carnations: Symbolise gratitude and admiration, making them ideal for living mothers.

White carnations: Represent purity and remembrance, often used to honour mothers who have passed.

Red carnations: Convey deep love and affection, a bold tribute to a mother’s unwavering strength.

Jarvis’s choice cemented carnations as the holiday’s official flower, but their appeal also lies in their longevity—a metaphor for a mother’s enduring influence.

Roses: A timeless symbol of love and gratitude

Roses, universally cherished for their elegance, carry layered meanings for Mother’s Day. While red roses typically symbolise romantic love, softer hues like pink, peach, and yellow are perfect for maternal bonds:

Pink roses: Express appreciation and grace.

Peach roses: Signify sincerity and gratitude.

Yellow roses: Celebrate joy and friendship, reflecting a mother’s role as a confidant.

Historically, roses were linked to goddesses of motherhood in Greek and Roman mythology, such as Hera and Venus. Gifting roses today bridges ancient reverence with modern appreciation, honouring mothers as everyday heroes.

Lilies: Embodying purity and renewal

With their trumpet-shaped blooms, lilies symbolise purity and renewal—qualities often associated with motherhood. White stargazer lilies, in particular, represent rebirth and the hope mothers instill in their children.

In Christianity, lilies are tied to the Virgin Mary, embodying maternal virtue. For Mother’s Day, they’re a poignant choice for new mothers or those navigating challenges, symbolising resilience and new beginnings.

Pro tip: Avoid lilies if the recipient has cats, as they’re toxic to pets. Opt for hypoallergenic alternatives like orchids instead.

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Tulips: Declarations of perfect love

Tulips, with their vibrant hues and elegant stems, symbolise “perfect love” and are deeply rooted in Turkish and Persian traditions. During the 17th-century “Tulip Mania” in Europe, these blooms became a luxury item, reflecting their timeless allure.

Pink tulips: Express caring and good wishes.

Purple tulips: Convey royalty and admiration.

Yellow tulips: Once linked to unrequited love, they now symbolise cheerful memories.

Tulips’ brief but brilliant blooming period mirrors the fleeting yet profound moments of childhood, making them a nostalgic Mother’s Day pick.

Chrysanthemums: Global tributes to maternal strength

Known as “mums”, chrysanthemums are revered worldwide. In Asia, they symbolise longevity and joy, often gifted during festivals. In Australia, their fall bloom aligns with Mother’s Day in May, making them a seasonal favourite.

Red mums: Represent deep love.

White mums: Signify loyalty and honesty.

In Victorian floriography, mums conveyed support during challenges, echoing a mother’s role as a steadfast pillar.

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Choosing the right blooms: A meaningful conclusion

Selecting Mother’s Day flowers isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about storytelling. Whether you choose carnations for tradition, roses for timeless love, or lilies for renewal, each petal carries intention. For a personalised touch, mix blooms: pair pink carnations (gratitude) with yellow roses (joy) to celebrate her multifaceted role.

This Mother’s Day, let your bouquet speak the words you hold dear. By embracing the hidden language of flowers, you honor not just her presence, but the legacy of love she cultivates every day.

Final tip: Pair your flowers with a handwritten note explaining their meanings—a small gesture that magnifies your gratitude.

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