A Guide to Flowers Used to Mark Mother's Day Around the World
Flowers have always been a symbol of love, beauty, and appreciation, making them a perfect gift for Mother's Day. Different cultures and countries have specific flowers associated with this day, each carrying unique meanings and symbolism. Here’s a florist guide to the flowers commonly used to mark Mother's Day around the world:
1. Carnations - United States, United Kingdom, and Many Other Countries
In many countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada, carnations are the traditional flower for Mother's Day. They are often associated with love and admiration, which makes them ideal for honoring mothers.
Red carnations represent deep love and admiration, while white carnations are often given in memory of a mother who has passed away.
The tradition of wearing carnations on Mother's Day is said to have started with Anna Jarvis, the founder of Mother's Day in the U.S., who chose carnations as a symbol because of their meaning and beauty.
2. Roses - Global
Roses are another widely popular flower on Mother's Day, especially in countries such as the United States, Canada, and Australia. Roses are classic symbols of love and beauty, making them an excellent choice to express gratitude and affection toward mothers.
Red roses symbolize love and respect.
Pink roses represent gratitude, admiration, and appreciation.
White roses are often used to honor mothers who have passed away or to symbolize purity.
3. Lilies - Mexico
In Mexico, lilies are often given to mothers on Día de las Madres (Mother's Day). These flowers symbolize purity, motherhood, and rebirth, making them an ideal flower to honor mothers and the role they play in nurturing life.
White lilies symbolize purity and motherhood, while orange lilies symbolize passion and energy, often representing a mother's vibrant and nurturing qualities.
4. Tulips - Netherlands
In the Netherlands, tulips are one of the most popular flowers to celebrate Mother's Day. Tulips symbolize perfect love and are associated with the beauty and grace that mothers bring to the world.
Red tulips represent true love, making them a classic choice for Mother’s Day bouquets.
Pink tulips are often given as a gesture of caring and admiration.
5. Orchids - Japan
In Japan, orchids are often used to celebrate Mother's Day due to their elegance and symbolic meaning of love, strength, and beauty. Orchids are considered a luxurious flower and are often given to show deep appreciation.
Pink orchids are especially popular and symbolize grace, femininity, and admiration, making them a perfect choice for honoring mothers.
6. Jasmine - Thailand
In Thailand, jasmine flowers are commonly given on Mother’s Day, especially on the birthday of Queen Sirikit, who is considered the "Mother of all Thai people." Jasmine symbolizes purity, sweetness, and motherhood, making it the ideal flower to present to mothers on this special day.
Jasmine garlands are often presented to mothers as a symbol of love, respect, and devotion.
7. Chrysanthemums - Japan, Korea, and China
In countries like Japan, Korea, and China, chrysanthemums are associated with honoring mothers. The chrysanthemum is seen as a symbol of longevity, rebirth, and maternal love.
In Japan, chrysanthemum displays are often featured on Mother’s Day, as the flower symbolizes a mother’s eternal love and the beauty of life.
8. Lily of the Valley - France
In France, lily of the valley (called Muguet) is a traditional flower for Mother's Day. It is believed to bring happiness and good luck. The delicate white flowers symbolize purity, sweetness, and the return of spring, making them a beautiful gift for mothers.
Traditionally, people in France give these flowers as a sign of appreciation and to celebrate the fresh beginnings brought by mothers.
9. Sunflowers - Russia
In Russia, sunflowers are a popular choice for Mother's Day. They represent warmth, positivity, and the unconditional love that a mother provides. The bright yellow color of the sunflower is a symbol of happiness, joy, and a mother's radiant energy.
Sunflowers are often given to mothers as a way to brighten their day and show gratitude for their nurturing and loving nature.
10. Gerbera Daisies - South Africa
In South Africa, gerbera daisies are a common flower given on Mother’s Day. Known for their bright, cheerful colors, gerbera daisies represent beauty, innocence, and the joy that mothers bring to the world.
Pink gerbera daisies are often chosen to express admiration and love, while yellow gerberas symbolize happiness and appreciation.
11. Magnolias - United States (Southern States)
In the Southern United States, magnolias are commonly given on Mother’s Day. Magnolias are a symbol of dignity, nobility, and perseverance, making them an appropriate flower for honoring mothers.
White magnolias symbolize purity and are often used to celebrate a mother’s strength and grace.
12. Cineraria - New Zealand
In New Zealand, cineraria is a popular flower for Mother’s Day. These vibrant, colorful flowers symbolize remembrance and appreciation. They are often used to convey love and admiration for a mother’s role in the family.
Purple cineraria is often chosen for its beauty and as a way to show respect and appreciation.
13. Camellias - China
In China, camellias are associated with admiration and respect, making them a fitting flower for Mother’s Day. These flowers are a symbol of deep affection and long-lasting love, perfect for expressing gratitude toward mothers.
Red camellias symbolize love, while white camellias represent purity and innocence, ideal for honoring a mother’s nurturing nature.
Flowers are a universal symbol of love, and many cultures have adopted specific flowers to celebrate Mother's Day, each with its own significance. From the carnations of the United States to the jasmine of Thailand, flowers help express deep admiration, gratitude, and respect for mothers everywhere. No matter the flower, the sentiment remains the same—Mother's Day is a time to honor and appreciate the mothers who enrich our lives with their love, care, and devotion.
