An Expat's Guide to the Symbolism and Fables Behind Chinese New Year Flowers
Chinese New Year (CNY) is a time of renewal, celebration, and cultural symbolism, and flowers play an integral role in its traditions. In homes, markets, and temples, you'll see an abundance of blooms, each carrying its own auspicious meaning and story. For expats, understanding these flowers can deepen your appreciation of the festival and make your celebrations more meaningful.
Here’s a HK flower shop guide to the most popular Chinese New Year flowers, their symbolism, and the fables that make them so special.
1. Plum Blossom (梅花 - Méi Huā)
Symbolism
Resilience, perseverance, and hope.
The plum blossom blooms in the harshness of winter, representing strength in adversity and renewal.
Fable
In ancient Chinese folklore, the plum blossom was said to emerge from snow-covered mountains as a beacon of spring, signaling the triumph of life over winter. It became a favorite motif for poets and painters as a reminder to stay steadfast through hardships.
Use During CNY
Plum blossoms are displayed to bring luck, courage, and success for the coming year.
2. Orchids (兰花 - Lán Huā)
Symbolism
Elegance, nobility, and friendship.
Orchids are considered a symbol of refined beauty and strong family ties.
Fable
The orchid is celebrated in the ancient Chinese text The Book of Songs, where it is praised as the "gentleman of flowers." Legends also tell of an emperor who rewarded a poor farmer with gold for presenting him with an orchid that symbolized his family’s unity.
Use During CNY
Orchids are often gifted to friends and family to wish for harmonious relationships and enduring prosperity.
3. Peony (牡丹 - Mǔ Dān)
Symbolism
Wealth, prosperity, and honor.
Known as the "King of Flowers," peonies are associated with high status and romantic luck.
Fable
A popular tale involves the Tang Dynasty Empress Wu Zetian, who ordered all flowers to bloom in winter. The peony refused, standing by its natural cycle, and for its defiance, it was banished to a remote province. However, its beauty in bloom later redeemed it, cementing its reputation for dignity and grace.
Use During CNY
Peonies are displayed to attract fortune and luck, particularly for career advancement and love.
4. Chrysanthemums (菊花 - Jú Huā)
Symbolism
Longevity, vitality, and simplicity.
Chrysanthemums bloom in late autumn, symbolizing a long and fulfilling life.
Fable
A legend tells of a poor boy who discovered a chrysanthemum near a mystical spring that granted immortality. Since then, the flower has been associated with enduring health and happiness.
Use During CNY
Chrysanthemums are used to wish elders health and long life during the festive season.
5. Narcissus (水仙 - Shuǐ Xiān)
Symbolism
Prosperity, talent, and purity.
The narcissus is believed to bring good fortune and career success.
Fable
A myth tells of a fisherman who found a single narcissus blooming in the middle of a barren winter. It was said to be a gift from the gods, promising him a bountiful year ahead.
Use During CNY
Narcissus bulbs are often grown to bloom during the New Year, with their fragrance believed to attract wealth and opportunity.
6. Kumquat Tree (金橘 - Jīn Jú)
Symbolism
Wealth, abundance, and good fortune.
The name “kumquat” sounds like “gold” (金 - jīn), making it a popular symbol of wealth.
Fable
In one fable, a poor man planted a kumquat tree by his home, and the fruits turned to gold overnight. Sharing the golden fruit brought him lifelong prosperity and happiness.
Use During CNY
Kumquat trees are displayed in homes and offices to symbolize a fruitful and prosperous year.
7. Peach Blossoms (桃花 - Táo Huā)
Symbolism
Love, romance, and vitality.
In Chinese culture, peach blossoms signify youthful energy and the promise of a fresh start.
Fable
According to legend, two deities planted a magical peach tree at the edge of the human world. Its blossoms protected the land from evil spirits, and its presence was seen as a blessing of love and happiness.
Use During CNY
Peach blossoms are favored by singles seeking love and are often displayed to attract romantic opportunities.
8. Bamboo (竹 - Zhú)
Symbolism
Flexibility, growth, and endurance.
Bamboo is a symbol of resilience and steady growth.
Fable
Bamboo features in countless tales, including one about a farmer who stumbled upon a bamboo grove hiding treasures from a benevolent spirit. Its hollow nature was seen as a lesson in humility and openness.
Use During CNY
Bamboo arrangements are used to wish for stability and growth in the new year.
9. Lotus (莲花 - Lián Huā)
Symbolism
Purity, enlightenment, and perfection.
The lotus rises from muddy waters, representing spiritual awakening and resilience.
Fable
In Buddhist lore, the lotus is said to have sprung from the footsteps of divine beings, marking it as a sacred flower. Its journey from mud to bloom is an allegory for personal growth.
Use During CNY
Lotus flowers and seeds are included in decorations and dishes to represent harmony and prosperity.
10. Pussy Willows (银柳 - Yín Liǔ)
Symbolism
Growth, renewal, and abundance.
The budding willow branches herald the arrival of spring.
Fable
Pussy willows are tied to stories of resilience, such as the tale of a humble farmer who found solace and prosperity after planting willows on his barren land.
Use During CNY
Pussy willow branches are popular in homes and markets, symbolizing fresh opportunities and family growth.
How Expats Can Embrace CNY Flower Traditions
Visit Flower Markets
In cities like Hong Kong, Beijing, or Singapore, flower markets are a vibrant part of CNY festivities. Stroll through stalls to pick auspicious flowers for your home.Incorporate Symbolic Arrangements
Use a mix of flowers that resonate with your personal goals—such as peonies for prosperity, narcissus for success, or orchids for harmonious relationships.Understand Local Customs
Flowers are common gifts during CNY, but it’s good to know local etiquette. For example, avoid gifting white flowers, which symbolize mourning.Learn the Stories
Sharing these tales and meanings with local friends can demonstrate your interest in their culture and deepen connections.
Best florist tips and recommendations
Chinese New Year flowers are more than decorations—they are a vibrant part of the festival’s symbolism, embodying wishes for health, happiness, and prosperity. By learning the meanings and fables behind each bloom, expats can fully immerse themselves in this beautiful aspect of Chinese culture.
