Flowers are loved around the world and they take pride of place at all different events – from weddings to funerals, religious festivals to family gatherings. Whatever your nationality or culture, there is a flower to suit.
From the simplest, smallest flowers like Gypsophila to the extravagant and exotic like Bird of Paradise, each flower has different meanings and connotations and a place in the heart of a country.
As we celebrate the multicultural community at the Market, we explore some of the origins and common occasions where we see our favourite flowers.
“When people celebrate different national holidays, we definitely see a buying trend with particular flowers,” says Celica at Flawless Flowers.
“For example, in the run-up to Chinese New Year, there were many requests to order red orchids. Orchids represent wealth and good fortune, with red flowers symbolising good luck and happiness”
During Easter and Christmas, white lilies are a favourite. With their large, simple trumpet bloom, they are thought to represent purity and hope to grace your home. They are also an ancient representation of resurrection. Though white lilies are not always a good choice to buy as a gift for someone as they are also seen as synonymous with death!
“St Patrick’s Day is always interesting with customers asking for green flowers!” continues Celica.
“Green is identified with the celebration as it is thought that if you are wearing green you are invisible to leprechauns, fairy creatures who would pinch anyone they could see (anyone not wearing green). There are more green flowers than you first think but our favourites are Green Chrysanthemums, Hellebore and Gladioli, which are all beautiful.”
Though originating from Mexico and commonly seen at Day of the Dead events, the Marigold is now also often identified with India – taking pride of place at festivals from Diwali to Dussehra. Its vibrant orange bloom represents passion and creativity.
“Jewish celebrations such as Passover and Rosh Hashana (Jewish New Year) see a demand for flowers with honey tones. It is less about the actual flower, though Phalaenopsis Orchids, Lillies and Dried Wheat are popular, and more about the colour. Dining tables at this time of year have sweet foods, nothing sour or bitter, so sweet coloured flowers are desired,” Silika concluded.
With each flower having its own beauty and meaning, you can create a bouquet perfect for your occasion.
Which flowers are synonymous with which country? Here are just a few:
Rose – England & USA
Golden Wattle – Australia
Tulip – Holland & Hungary
Marigold – India
Iris – France
Thistle – Scotland
Jasmine – Pakistan
Sunflower – Ukraine
Cherry Blossom – Japan
Birds of Paradise – South Africa
Gypsophila – Turkey
Orchid – Hong Kong & Venezuela
Peony – China
