Which flower to gift to who? Guesswork be gone! Follow this easy guide to discover the perfect flower for any occasion.
CONGRATULATIONS
Amaryllis
These assertive blooms look like they’re just bursting with excitement, which may be why they signify pride. They look like they just accomplished something and can’t wait to share it.
Daffodil
Gift these cheery yellow blooms to someone celebrating a new job, a new home, or a new addition to their family. Daffodils symbolize “new beginnings,” so they couldn’t be more perfect for any of these occasions.
Dahlia (orange)
When you hear the name, you probably think of the Black Dahlia. Well, never fear. These ruffled flowers stand for dignity and pomp, so they would feel right at home at a momentous occasion like a graduation or new job.
ENCOURAGEMENT
Black-Eyed Susan
The name of the flower likely comes from an Old English poem by John Gay about a woman by that name. It probably came over during Colonial times, when the settlers sewed the wildflower on the plains where it’s now abundant today. The flowers stand for justice, which is a sentiment we can all get behind.
Cornflower
A cornflower (or “Bachelor’s button”) carries a fond single blessing with every blue bloom. Give these as a good-luck charm, because they’re especially linked to wealth and good fortune.
Delphiniums
Officially known as the birth flower for July, delphiniums are gifted for encouragement and joy. Different colors have different meanings— with the blue delphiniums symbolizing dignity and the white, pink and light blue blooms representing youth and renewal.
Edelweiss
The Sound of Music fans already know the song, but did you know the meaning behind it? Edelweiss stand for courage and devotion, probably because they thrive in harsh Alpine conditions.
Goldenrod
It might not be ideal for the allergy-prone, but this bloom represents “encouragement.” Maybe encourage your kids to leave this one out in the field, to avoid getting the sniffles.
Hollyhock
Don’t let its delicate appearance fool you — this flower means ambition, perhaps because the flowers bloom on tall stalks stretching toward the sky. Perhaps we should rename it the Lean In flower?
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.
Valerian
Though some of us know this herb for its calming properties, this bloom has a more active meaning: readiness. If you’ve got valerian in your wildflower bouquet, you’re prepared for anything.
White Roses
Do you know someone looking to make changes in their life? White roses represent a new beginning. They also symbolize purity and innocence.
ENEMY
Carnation (YELLOW)
These ruffly flowers may be the stuff of high school secret admirers, but the yellow ones signify “disdain.”
Marigold
Marigolds are beautiful gifts for someone in mourning or stricken by grief. They also have a hidden meaning of jealousy.
Rhododendron
The Victorians labeled this flower “beware,” — which is actually appropriate since they’re quite poisonous. If you don’t plan to eat them, they make a beautiful addition to your landscaping.
Snapdragons
Maybe it comes as no surprise, given the name, but the symbolism behind snapdragons isn’t exactly friendly. They stand for deception.
Sunflower
Legend has it that when Spanish explorers reached the Americas, they thought sunflowers were made of real gold. Can you blame them? Of course, they were wrong. That’s where the sunflower got its symbolism of “false riches.”
Tansy
Although tansies are common additions in bouquets, they at times can be a declaration of war.
Yellow Roses
Based on its meaning, you might second-guess gifting this rose color to a loved one. Yellow roses have a hidden symbolism of jealousy and infidelity. However, gifting them to a friend can mean warmth and affection.
FRIENDSHIP
Anemone
These blooms take their name from the Greek word for wind (anemos) since their lives are so short. In modern times, they symbolize fragility. Because they’re so short-lived, these pretty little flowers are best appreciated in the garden.
Aster
Based on Victorian culture, Asters embody daintiness and charm. Greek mythology lovers will also be interested to know that they can be a symbol of love (known for being placed on the altars for the Greek gods).
Bluebells
These bell-shaped blooms represent kindness. They’re also the perfect gift to show someone how grateful you are for their friendship, love, and support.
Calla Lily
Do you find someone beautiful (inside and out)? Give them a bouquet of calla lilies to represent your attraction. Unknown to some, the true flower is the spike on the inside, while the outer petal is a leaf.
Camellia (WHITE OR PINK)
These impressive, lush flowers were beloved by the Victorians who gave them the meaning “my destiny is in your hands.” Tailor the flower’s color to your relationship: White camellia should be given to someone you like, pink camellia is for someone you miss, and red camellia is best for a significant other.
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 with you,” and the yellow ones signify “disdain”. Not exactly a crush-worthy sentiment.
Chamomile
Though a symbol of rest and relaxation today (think: chamomile tea), this flower signified “energy in adversity” in the 19th century. These days, maybe you can combine the two while enjoying your morning cup of tea and getting ready to face the day.
Chrysanthemum
It may be tricky to spell, but the chrysanthemum has a simple message: honesty. They also look lovely as part of a fall bouquet and because they can withstand cool temperatures, often appear in autumn landscaping.
Coral Roses
Make sure you gift the right rose to the right person. Unlike red roses, coral roses represent friendship, modesty and sympathy.
Daisy
Daisies are the first level of Girl Scouts so it’s only fitting that they represent innocence. And with their cheery, sunny little faces, the symbolism definitely makes sense.
Forget-Me-Not
Yes, it’s all in the name! Forget-me-nots ask that you forget-me-not. A faraway friend would surely appreciate these delicate blossoms.
Freesia
Freesias are popular for their citrus fragrance and long-lasting vase life. Gifting someone a bouquet of freesias may symbolize friendship, along with innocence, purity and trust.
Hibiscus
Not only does hibiscus taste delicious in teas and desserts, it also symbolizes delicate beauty. They’re also commonly found in Hawaiian hula symbology, since they’re the state’s official flower.
Hyssop
This blue-purple bloom represents cleanliness and sacrifice. Anyone who struggles to declutter knows that these two concepts are completely intertwined. Besides, don’t they look just like a feather duster?
Iris
These regal blooms have long stood for royalty, but also for wisdom and respect. And their opulent-looking blooms sure suggest the same. That means it’s definitely a compliment if you receive a bouquet of irises.
Lavender
From their wonderful scent to their beautiful purple hue, a bouquet of lavender is a message of devotion. It also has calming aromatherapy properties, so a bouquet of lavender may make an excellent gift for a student or anyone in your life who needs some relaxation.
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.
Lily-of-the-Valley
These pretty little bell-shaped flowers carry a message that’s just as innocent as they look. They stand for purity, happiness, luck, and humility. Though they smell delicious, don’t be fooled: These flowers aren’t edible.
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.
Magnolia
These stunning blooms often festoon the trees as spring arrives, getting everyone who sees them excited for the season to come. That’s why it’s only logical that they signify a love of nature.
Morning Glory
These early risers greet the day with beauty, and they’ll take over your yard entirely if you aren’t careful. The clingers also represent affection. One look at their smiling faces and it’s not hard to see why.
Rosemary
Rosemary signifies remembrance, perhaps because it’s said to enhance memory. Folk medicine says to wear a sprig of rosemary in your hair to help your recall, or brew some rosemary tea to do the same. We’ll drink to that!
Salvia (BLUE)
Depending on its color, salvia can have several different meanings. Blue salvia (like this one) means “thinking of you,” but in red, it means “forever mine.” So if you’re adding salvia to a sweetheart’s bouquet, watch your colors!
Sweetpea
Delicate, intricate, and a little sensual, sweetpeas represent pleasure. They’ve also been used as a thank-you flower, or as a way to bid someone goodbye after a pleasant visit.
White Roses
White roses represent a new beginning. They also symbolize purity and innocence.
Yellow Roses
Based on its meaning, you might second-guess gifting this rose color to a loved one. Yellow roses have a hidden symbolism of jealousy and infidelity. However, gifting them to a friend can mean warmth and affection.
Zinnia
While they are one of the bolder blooms in a garden, these flowers are actually sentimental. In fact, they serve as a reminder to never forget absent friends. Send them to someone you love who lives far away, for a nice thinking-of-you gift.
GET WELL SOON
Chamomile
Though a symbol of rest and relaxation today (think: chamomile tea), this flower signified “energy in adversity” in the 19th century. These days, maybe you can combine the two while enjoying your morning cup of tea and getting ready to face the day.
KIDS
Aster
Based on Victorian culture, Asters embody daintiness and charm. Greek mythology lovers will also be interested to know that they can be a symbol of love (known for being placed on the altars for the Greek gods).
Daisy
Daisies are the first level of Girl Scouts so it’s only fitting that they represent innocence. And with their cheery, sunny little faces, the symbolism definitely makes sense.
Freesia
Freesias are popular for their citrus fragrance and long-lasting vase life. Gifting someone a bouquet of freesias may symbolize friendship, along with innocence, purity and trust.
Lily-of-the-Valley
These pretty little bell-shaped flowers carry a message that’s just as innocent as they look. They stand for purity, happiness, luck, and humility. Though they smell delicious, don’t be fooled: These flowers aren’t edible.
Purple Crocus
They’re the first signs of spring, so it makes sense that crocuses symbolize youthful happiness. It’s also the way we feel when we see them start peeking through the snow at the first bit of warmth.
LOVE
Calla Lily
Do you find someone beautiful (inside and out)? Give them a bouquet of calla lilies to represent your attraction. Unknown to some, the true flower is the spike on the inside, while the outer petal is a leaf.
Camellia (RED)
These impressive, lush flowers were beloved by the Victorians who gave them the meaning “my destiny is in your hands.” Tailor the flower’s color to your relationship: White camellia should be given to someone you like, pink camellia is for someone you miss, and red camellia is best for a significant other.
Gardenia
Have a crush on someone, but they aren’t aware of your feelings? Gardenias represent secret love or a way of saying “you’re lovely.” Gifting them is a sweet and romantic gesture, and a great way to tell someone how you truly feel.
Heliotrope
Roses aren’t the only passionate flower in your garden. Heliotrope represents eternal love, too. These also show up in perfume, thanks to their sweet smell.
Honeysuckle
These sweetly-scented flowers are another sign of devotion, representing strong bonds of love. And with their intoxicating scent, sweet center, and lusty tendrils, we can definitely see where the name comes from.
Lavender
From their wonderful scent to their beautiful purple hue, a bouquet of lavender is a message of devotion. It also has calming aromatherapy properties, so a bouquet of lavender may make an excellent gift for a student or anyone in your life who needs some relaxation.
Lilac
The meaning of these gorgeous flowers varies depending on the hue. Purple lilacs represent the first emotions of love while magenta lilacs symbolize love and passion, perfect for a more serious lover.
Lily (RED)
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.
Peony
Oddly enough, these sweet, many-petaled blooms represented “anger” to Victorians. Today, however, peonies are linked to romance, marriage, and even bashfulness.
Red Roses
This probably comes as news to exactly no one, but red roses are some of the most romantic flowers out there. These are the perfect bloom for Valentine’s Day, representing love and desire.
Red Tulips
Red roses aren’t the only flower with a romantic meaning, so you don’t have to totally splurge to show your dedication. Red tulips are also considered a declaration of love, and they’re especially gorgeous in the spring.
Salvia (RED)
Depending on its color, salvia can have several different meanings. Blue salvia (like this one) means “thinking of you,” but in red, it means “forever mine.” So if you’re adding salvia to a sweetheart’s bouquet, watch your colors!
Violet
Loyalty, devotion, faithfulness. What’s not to love about the lovely little violet? Those are sentiments just about everyone can appreciate.
White Jasmine
There’s a reason this fragrant flower often shows up in perfume. Its scent is as intoxicating as its message: sweet love.
Yarrow
Another quirky bloom with a traditional message that might surprise you: Yarrow symbolizes love. While the weedy look of this one might not look perfectly suited for a formal bouquet, remember the symbol next time your kid picks you some wildflowers.
MEN
Cornflower
A cornflower (or “Bachelor’s button“) carries a fond single blessing with every blue bloom. Give these as a good-luck charm, because they’re especially linked to wealth and good fortune.
MOTHER’S DAY
Pink Roses
Grace, happiness and gentleness are the meanings for these delicate blooms. If you know someone who represents these qualities — such as a motherly-figure in your life — gifting them pink roses is a thoughtful gift.
PATRIOTIC
Nasturtium (orange)
These unusual flowers carry a patriotic meaning, proving that pride can come in many shapes and colors. It can also represent conquest, perhaps because of its assertive celebratory color and leaves that look like shields.
Red Poppy
You probably already know this one because of Veterans Day: The red poppy represents “remembrance.” That’s why people wear poppies pinned to their lapels on that day.
RELIGION
Verbena
Due to their prominent place in religious ceremonies throughout history, these petite purple flowers mean “pray for me.” They can also represent protection against evil, which may be why they showed up in those ceremonies in the first place.
SORRY
Purple Hyacinth (PURPLE)
The purple version of this bloom means “please forgive me,” which originates from the myth of Apollo and Hyacinthus (the former accidentally killed the latter). The perfect “I’m sorry” flower, don’t ya think?
SPORTS
Gladiolus
Integrity, strength and victory are the meanings for these blooms (also known as one of the August birth flowers). Gift this “flower of the gladiators” to a recent graduate or game winner.
Hyacinth
This bloom is dedicated to the Greek sun god Apollo (also known for archery, truth and prophecy). They signify games, sports and play. You can give this flower to someone who loves to play sports as a way of encouragement for an upcoming game.
SYMPATHY
Coral Roses
Make sure you gift the right rose to the right person. Unlike red roses, coral roses represent friendship, modesty and sympathy.
Marigold
Marigolds are beautiful gifts for someone in mourning or stricken by grief. They also have a hidden meaning of jealousy.
Pansy
Derived from the French word “pansée,” this bloom means thoughtfulness and remembrance. That may be why you often see them planted at funeral plots. They’re also hardy little plants, so they work well for those of us who have, um, less-than-green thumbs.
THANK YOU
Lily (YELLOW)
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.
Sweetpea
Delicate, intricate, and a little sensual, sweetpeas represent pleasure.
TEACHERS
Camellia (WHITE)
These impressive, lush flowers were beloved by the Victorians who gave them the meaning “my destiny is in your hands.” Tailor the flower’s color to your relationship: White camellia should be given to someone you like, pink camellia is for someone you miss, and red camellia is best for a significant other.
Cosmos
With its orderly arrangement of petals, it’s only natural that cosmos be known for order and harmony. There are several colors to choose from, including different shades of pink, purple, red and orange.
Lily (YELLOW)
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.
Sweetpea
Delicate, intricate, and a little sensual, sweetpeas represent pleasure.
WEDDING
Myrtle
If you need the perfect bloom to add to a wedding bouquet, look no further than myrtle. It stands for good luck and love in a marriage, so there’s no better flower to carry down the aisle.