The old adage “say it with flowers” is not just a saying, it is a suggestion. Flowers have a meaning and this meaning is conveyed through the type and colour of the flower, and in some instances, the culture.
Flowers have become an important part of our lives and you will see them in every major occasion such as weddings, funerals, graduations and parties. Even if we have never thought about it, we all know a little about the meaning of flowers. For example, it is common knowledge that a red rose is a sign of love. So, what do yellow flowers say to us?
Ancient Meaning
Floriology, or the meaning of flowers has been in existence for many years. In the late 19th century during the height of floriology, yellow flowers had a different meaning from what they have today. They had a negative meaning.
For example, if you were given some red roses as a sign of love, if you did not want to reciprocate the love, all you had to do was send the person who had sent the roses some yellow flowers. The yellow flowers conveyed a polite “no”.
Sunshine, Warmth & Joy
Today, yellow flowers are happy flowers and they remind us of the sun, warmth and joy so it is not surprising that they are mostly associated with happy ideas.
In general, yellow flowers are a sign of friendship, happiness, joy, pride, clarity and truth. They also symbolize platonic love, respect and compassion. By having yellow flowers delivered to your friend during their graduation, they will convey hope and pride. You can even get a florist who offers same day delivery service should you need the flowers on short notice, after all, we are all guilty of making last minute orders.
That is just the general meaning of yellow flowers. A deeper meaning of those beautiful bright coloured yellow flowers is also conveyed by the type of flower.
Sunflower
In ancient Chinese culture, the sunflower is used to represent long life, good luck and lasting happiness. You can use the sunflower to express loyalty, admiration and non-romantic love to friends, family and acquaintances.
Ranunculus
Even if you may never have heard of this flower, you would definitely love to get a bunch of them. The ranunculus flower sends a very simply yet heartfelt compliment. It says “you are charming” or “you are attractive”.
Roses
Yellow roses are a sign of friendship, joy and good health. The flowers can be used to express affection to loved ones. It is said that the King of Sweden sent a dozen yellow roses to his wife every day for 4 years. What a sign of love!
Calla Lily
The calla lily comes in a variety of colours and each one has a different meaning. The presence of the elegant yellow calla lily is a sign of joy, growth, change and gratitude.
Orchids
The orchid is a very elegant flower and is a favourite of many people. Orchids convey friendship and well wishes. It can also be sent to say quick recovery to a sick friend, or good luck to a colleague going for an interview. It is such a versatile flower that you can give it as a present and be safe, regardless of the occasion.
Iris
It is no coincidence that most bridal bouquets have some iris flowers. This is a flower that suggests purity, hope and wisdom, all the things you would like to wish the bride-to-be.
Daffodils
The daffodil is used to portray hope and healing, which is why the American Cancer Association has chosen it as their symbol. You can send daffodils to a friend or family member who is ailing, to wish them healing.
Hellebores
No article would be complete without a mention of this not-very-well-known flower. This is a flower of peace. Sending it to someone is wishing them a beautiful year ahead.
Negative Messages
Yellow flowers do not always have a positive meaning. The marigold is a good example. In most cases the marigold is used to portray happiness, but in Mexico it means death.
Chrysanthemums are normally used to convey good and caring messages, but the yellow chrysanthemum speaks of rejection and disappointment. One way you can use yellow chrysanthemums is to send them to a social group whose ideologies you do not agree with.
From these two examples, we see clearly why it is important to research the meaning of flowers before we send them, and to also know the culture of the recipient.
On the whole, yellow flowers are all about platonic love, appreciation and good wishes. So, the next time you get some yellow flowers, you will now be able to decipher the message the sender wanted you to receive.
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