Did you not know the month of March has been designated as National Foreign Language month? We at Jolly Florist we take our holiday celebrations very seriously. In order to commemorate the holiday, we’ve compiled the meaning of giving flowers to each country (or at the very least, the eight nations).
Flowers have played an important role throughout the history of mankind. While their meaning and values may change depending on where you are however, they are a common aspect of human connections.
Why do we Give Flowers as gifts?
Mankind has used flowers for communication for centuries. The earliest Greek, Roman, Egyptian and Chinese stories and myths all have a connection to flowers, however it was actually the English’s Victorian Era (1837-1901) that led to the development of a distinct flower-related language.
The language of flowers, namely Floriography flowers, was invented as a means of communicating in a time when it was not considered appropriate manners, manners or appropriate for people to fully communicate their feelings to an individual. This is especially true for emotions of sympathy, love regret, sorrow and gratitude. The strong emotions can be considered to be uncomfortable expressed in public.
The Victorian Age gave way to “official” flower meanings, which were recorded in Floriography dictionary, flowers carry diverse meanings and meanings throughout the world. However the primary reason for giving flowers is to express our feelings and enhance our relationship with each other.
Let’s use this opportunity to commemorate National Foreign Language month, to explore gift-giving customs and the different meanings of flowers in nations and cultures across the world.
Did You Know? You can send flowers to Australia through our website.
Japan
Flower-giving and gift giving In Japan is strongly associated with the tradition. The gift-giving tradition is not limited to during social occasions like birthdays, anniversary celebrations or graduations, as well as for obligations to society like the return of an excursion. After returning from a vacation is expected to bring home items and Omiyage (souvenirs) in order to present to family, friends and colleagues.
The gifting of flowers can be a bit tricky because the kind and color of the flowers can significantly impact the meaning of the gift. For instance, floral gifts are an accepted present in Japan for those who are suffering. It is popular to present flowers when someone is hospitalized and also in this instance the plants in pots are considered infuriating since they could indicate that the disease will get worse by getting “deeper roots.”
In addition, red flowers carry positive connotations and are extremely well-known throughout Japanese culture.
To ensure you don’t give the wrong flowers, make sure you follow the tips below for helpful information regarding Japanese flowers and the meanings they carry. We’ve provided the basics as well.
How to Decide:
Red roses for love
Red carnations to show love for family or to honor mothers
Flowers of white for mourning
Bluebells in gratitude
Iris for positive news and happy to hear good news and glad
Sunflowers for love and love
China
In China it is customary to give gifts in order to express appreciation, respect as well as friendship, love and openness. It is also an essential aspect of maintaining positive relationships within China. It is true that the custom of giving gifts has been handed down for generations. Examples of this is to bring gifts to hostesses to thank them or to decline a gift up to three times prior to accepting so as not to appear excessive and ensuring that the gifts you present are wrapped.
Flowers also hold a particular significance In China. Flowers of white, like chrysanthemums and white flowers for instance are often used to mark the occasion of mourning , and are usually used to mark funerals or visits to graves. In any case flowers are a must for numerous occasions in Chinese customs and traditions.
To prevent any problems from occurring with floral arrangements in Chinese tradition, adhere to these easy steps.
How to Decide:
Carnations or sunflowers for a gesture of respect, and offer gratitude
Roses for romantic love that is deep
Tulips to show affection or be awed by someone’s intelligence
Dahlias or peonies for the elderly to honor their memory and encourage luck
The bamboo is used to express a wish to a person financial success
White flowers or chrysanthemums are used to pay tribute to the deceased
Egypt
The practice of gift giving in Egypt dates back to the times of pyramids, idols and pharaohs and was a common practice for kings to gift gifts to win their loyalty or to gain personal fame. Nowadays, traditions of giving gifts live in the local community (while perhaps not as lavish as they used to be) and they have a location and time when they’re appropriate.
It is, for instance, a customary to present gifts when you are invited to a family or friend’s home. gifts must be wrapped in all instances and opened at a later time except if the present is food or a perishable food item.
Although roses are frequently referenced in Egyptian cultural and historical contexts, such as the following Egyptian proverb, which states the fact that when we love one so deeply we have to be willing be able to tolerate their “unsavory” people or acquaintances.
Flowers should only be given to those who are infirm, as a funeral or wedding present.
If you encounter a situation in which you have to pick the right gift to be given at an Egyptian funeral or wedding the arrangements and flowers are standard.
Which is the best option?
A funeral floral arrangement that is suitable for all occasions is appropriate. Bright shades to show the character of the loved one who has passed away is not uncommon.
Sending a flower arrangement in a group or week following the funeral is significant because it shows that you care about the deceased and mourning their loss.
Weddings flowers, water lilies, flowers, chrysanthemum, roses and cornflowers are typical presents since they are common flowers in Egypt
Ghana
Giving gifts in Ghana is quite informal. The sentiment behind giving a gift can be more significant than its financial worth and you’re not required to bring a present for a dinner celebration. In addition the gift should be wrapped, and they should not be opened directly in front of the gift giver Similar to the customs of Western culture. Regarding the influences of other cultures because of colonization and mix of cultures living in Ghana the country, the official language in Ghana is English
Flowers are always welcomed as gifts, and this is due to the fact that the Ghana tradition is deeply linked to Mother earth. This Ghanaian saying can be compared to the expression “don’t take a bite from the person who feeds you” in Western culture. It is a way to not defame the individual or the institution they rely on to survive. This shows how important nature is in Ghanaian society.
Flowers are always appreciated as gifts, some types do have specific meanings, so make sure you pick the appropriate one. Here are some types that you could give.
How to Decide:
Daffodils represent rebirth, and are ideal for who are making a change in their lives.
Red roses to express love and romance
Pink roses to celebrate joy
Daisies that symbolize innocence and happiness.
Calla lilies are a symbol of beauty (great present for partner or spouse)
The sunflowers symbolize loyalty and endurance.
Russia
Traditional gender roles hold an enduring presence in Russian society and what may appear to be old-fashioned or traditional way of life is widely practiced. Flowers are a popular gift, and Russian people are awed by flowers. As the Russian saying below describes the way to tell if your heart is as beautiful as a rose, you must talk sweetly and gently.
Flowers are connected to the love of a person, therefore they are a key part of dating rituals. A perfect partner is expected to gift flowers to his date and on special occasions. While it is impossible to get it wrong with too many flowers, ensure that the quantity of them is odd , as even-numbered flowers are usually reserved to be used in funerals.
However the flowers you select have different significance. Here are some suggestions on the kinds of flowers to present:
Which is the best option?
Send a small or single daisy when you first meet
Soft floral colors such as white, pink , or light blue work well for young girls.
White, yellow and orange flowers are appropriate for anyone (but don’t give yellow flowers to those in a romantic partner as they could be a sign of separation or a break-up)
The red flowers symbolize of love. They can be gifted to family or friends
Potted plants are a good option for women who are older
Flower buds for girls in the tweens only
France
As opposed to other nations, France does not have any customs or rules for gift-giving , with the exception of the traditional birthday or Christmas, christening or wedding gift.
Presents are typically opened once they are opened. Don’t think about whether the present is costly or expensive It’s essential to give the person something they’ll love.
Flowers are a different story altogether and make the perfect hostess or host present, various kinds of flowers carry different meanings and significance in French the culture.
Be sure to convey the correct message, and follow the tips listed below to choose the appropriate flowers to give and when to gift them.
Which is the best option?
Send pink roses for an elegant hostess present
A random amount of flowers in the bouquet (except 13 since it’s bad luck)
Beware of red carnations for gifts because they convey an indication of displeasure
Red roses are only for the person you are in love with
Beware of all floral arrangements that are yellow because they suggest the absence of love for someone else.
Send lilies and chrysanthemums to funerals only.
White flowers are best for weddings.
Mexico
Gift-giving in Mexican culture signifies love and appreciation. However, not giving gifts in certain instances can be extremely offensive. For instance when it comes to business the giving of a small present is considered to be a sign of goodwill. Likewise, if you’re invited into a home, it is considered a good manner to bring a present.
In the end, don’t present the item in silver (as Mexico is very proud of its silver-based products) and limit your gifting to things that are from your home country. It is a sign that you cared enough to gift someone something special that they do not get access to on a an everyday basis.
If you are looking to give flowers, they are a popular presents and are suitable for a variety of occasions. Flowers play an important role in celebrations as well as in vibrant Mexican rituals. Flowers often play part in sayings and proverbs.
If you’re planning to send flowers or arrangements take these useful guidelines to create the right impression.
How to Decide:
White flowers are the ideal for giving since they are thought to be inspiring
Red roses to express love and love and
Do not use yellow flowers unless it is to be used for Day of the Dead celebrations because they represent death
Orchids for beauty and luxury
Daisies for family and love
Dahlias are the flower of national significance in Mexico and represent the beauty, elegance, and sophistication of Mexico.
USA
It is said that the United States of America is perhaps the most relaxed in the world of gift-giving and receiving gifts. The act of giving a gift is meaningful and thoughtful, but it is not expected. If you do present a present, don’t expect a return gift in a hurry. The majority of business gifts are given following a transaction has been completed and taking someone out for a meal take a bite to eat is a common present.
Flowers are suitable for almost every major occasion (Christmas, Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, etc) and can be a great way to show how much you appreciate someone. Aaron Neville, the American singer, has said “Be sincere, be pleasant and be a flower, not an invasive flower.” It is the reason why flowers are perfect for celebrations and other occasions that require the gentle touch.
If you are planning to gift gifts of flowers, it is possible to deliver flowers in advance using an online service such as JollyFlorist or give them to them personally.
Make sure you select the kind of flowers that have the message you wish to convey. Take a look at a few of the examples below.
How to Decide:
Daisies to symbolize purity and innocence
Peonies for love and luck
Pink roses to express joy and friendship
Sunflowers for love and devotion
Orchids for admiration and power
Tulips to brighten your thoughts Love, confidence and happiness
Flowers have been utilized as a means of communication for a long time which, you see, it hasn’t changed until the present. What changes is the significance of flowers between countries and that is why when you are dealing with floral gifting ethics, it is essential to be aware.