Did you have any idea the month of March has been designated as National Foreign Language month? Here at Jolly Florist we take our holiday celebrations very seriously. To celebrate, we have put together the significance of giving flowers to every country (or at least 8 countries).
The role of flowers has been played throughout the history of mankind. While their meaning and values may change depending on where you are but they remain a fundamental aspect of human connections.
Why do we give flowers as gifts?
Mankind has used flowers for communication for a long time. The earliest Greek, Roman, Egyptian and Chinese myths and legends have a connection to flowers, however it was actually the English’s Victorian Era (1837-1901) that led to the development of a distinct floral language.
Floriography, also known as the language of flowers, was invented as a means of communicating at a time when it was not considered appropriate manners, manners or appropriate for a person to completely convey their feelings with one another. Particularly, it was used to express emotions of sympathy, love regret, sorrow and gratitude. The strong emotions can be considered uneasy to be expressed in public.
Although 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 main motive behind giving flowers is to express our feelings and strengthen our connections with each other.
Let’s use this opportunity to celebrate National Foreign Language month, to explore the traditions of gift-giving and their different floral meanings across different cultures and countries around the globe.
Japan
Giving gifts and flowers In Japan is a major part of Japanese traditions. The gift-giving tradition is not limited to for social occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries graduations, housewarmings and graduations but also to fulfill social obligations like the return of the trip. If a person is returning from a vacation is expected to bring items and Omiyage (souvenirs) for them to present to their family, friends and colleagues.
The gifting of flowers isn’t always easy as the color and type of the flowers can significantly influence its significance. For instance, flowers are an accepted present in Japan for those who are suffering. It is very common to gift flowers to someone who is in a hospital also, however in this instance potted plants can be infuriating since they could indicate that the illness is likely to get worse becoming “deeper roots.”
While red flowers also have an important meaning and are extremely well-known within Japanese culture.
To ensure you don’t give the wrong flower, read these helpful tips about Japanese flowers and the meanings they carry. We’ve provided the basics as well.
With Jolly Florist you can send flowers to Australia quickly and easily.
How to Decide:
Red roses for love
Carnations red for love and affection between families or to mothers
Flowers of white for mourning
Bluebells to show gratitude
Iris for happy news and good to hear good news and glad
Sunflowers for love and devotion
China
In China it is customary to give gifts in order to express appreciation, respect as well as friendship, love and warmth. It’s also an important element of maintaining a positive connection within China. The gift-giving protocol has been handed down for generations. Some examples is to bring gifts to the host to express gratitude and then declining the gift two to three times prior to accepting in order to avoid appearing excessive and ensuring that all gifts are wrapped.
Flowers also hold a particular significance In China. Flowers in white and chrysanthemum for instance are often used to mark the occasion of mourning , and are usually used in funerals or funerals or when visiting graves. However flowers are extremely special for numerous occasions in Chinese tradition.
To ensure that you do not have any issues with floral arrangements in Chinese customs, follow these easy steps.
How to Decide:
Carnations or sunflowers for a gesture of respect, and show gratitude
Roses to express deep romantic love
Tulips to express love or to be awed by someone’s intelligence
Dahlias or peonies for the elderly to celebrate honor and bring luck
The bamboo is used to express a wish to a person financial success
Flowers of white or chrysanthemums pay tribute to the deceased
Egypt
Giving gifts in Egypt dates back to the time of the Pharaohs, pyramids, and idols and was a common practice for kings to gift gifts to win their loyalty or to gain personal honor. Nowadays, traditions of giving gifts live in the local community (while they may not be as extravagant as they were in the past) and are able to be used in a specific location and time when they’re appropriate.
For instance, it is customary to bring the gift of a present when invited to a house party, presents should be wrapped in all instances and then opened later except if the present is an edible dessert or other food item.
Although roses are frequently referenced in Egyptian cultural and historical contexts, such as these Egyptian proverb that states that when we cherish someone with such passion it is important to be able for them to be “unsavory” people or acquaintances.
Flowers should only be given to those who are unwell, for funerals or wedding present.
If you encounter a situation in which you have to pick gifts to be given at an Egyptian funeral or wedding the arrangements and flowers are typical.
How to Decide:
In the event of a funeral, a flower basket arrangement suitable for any occasion is appropriate. Bright colors that reflect the character of the loved one who has passed away is not uncommon.
Sending a flower arrangement as a whole or a week after the funeral can be an extremely special gesture, as it lets them know that you care about the person who died and your sorrow
Weddings such as water lilies and orchids, roses, chrysanthemum and cornflowers are popular wedding gifts since they are the most the most popular flowers that are found in Egypt
Ghana
Giving gifts in Ghana is pretty casual. The intention behind giving a gift can be more significant than the monetary worth and you’re not required to bring gifts to a dinner event. In addition that gifts must be wrapped in a box and should not be opened directly in front of the gift giver which is very similar to Western culture. In terms of the influences of other cultures because of colonization and mixing pots of the people living in Ghana the country, the national language is English
Flowers are always welcomed as gifts, and this is due to the fact that Ghana society is deeply linked to Mother earth. This Ghanaian saying can be compared to the phrase “don’t take a bite from the person who feeds you” in Western culture. It is a way to not be rude to the individual or the institution they rely on for their survival. This shows how important nature is in Ghanaian society.
While flowers are always welcomed as gifts, some types are associated with certain meanings, therefore make sure you choose the appropriate one. Here are some examples of the kinds that you can present.
Which is the best option?
Daffodils symbolize rebirth and are ideal for seeking to make a lifestyle change
Red roses to express love and affection
Pink roses to celebrate joy
Daisies that symbolize innocence and happiness.
Calla lilies are a symbol of beauty (great present for a partner or spouse)
Sunflowers are a symbol of loyalty and long-term longevity.
Russia
Traditional gender roles hold been a part of Russian culture . What might appear as old-fashioned or traditional customs are widely practiced. Flowers are a frequent gift, and Russian people are awed by flowers. Like the Russian saying below describes the way to tell if your heart is as beautiful as a rose, then you should be kind and gentle when you speak to someone.
Flowers are connected to the love of a person, therefore they have a major role to play in the dating habits. A perfect partner is expected to present flowers at dates and other special occasions. While it is impossible to be wrong with a lot of flowers, ensure that you choose a bouquet that isn’t odd since even-numbered flowers are usually reserved to be used in funerals.
However the type of flowers you choose will have distinct significance. Here are some suggestions on the kinds of flowers you can give:
Which is the best option?
Send a single rose or a large daisy when you first meet
Simple floral colors such as white, pink , or light blue are suitable for women who are young.
White, yellow and orange flowers are appropriate for anyone (but do not present yellow flowers to someone in a romantic relationship since they may symbolize a breakup or separation)
Flowers in red are a sign of love. They can be gifted to family or friends
Potted plants are a good option for women who are older
Flower buds for little girls only
France
In contrast to many other nations, France does not have any customs or manner of gifts, except for the typical birthday and Christmas celebrations, as well as christenings and wedding gifts or hostess gifts.
Presents are typically opened once they arrive. Don’t think about whether the present is expensive or too cheap 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 significance and importance in French cultural.
Be sure to send the correct message, and follow the tips listed below to determine the best flowers to give and when to gift them.
How to Decide:
Pick roses in pink as an appropriate hostess gift
A random amount of flowers in the bouquet (except 13 since it’s bad luck)
Do not give red carnations as a gift because they convey the message of bad will
Red roses for the one you’re in love with
Beware of all floral arrangements that are yellow since they signify infidelity
Offer chrysanthemums and lilies to funerals only.
Weddings with white flowers should be white.
Mexico
Gift-giving in Mexican culture is a sign of affection and appreciation. However, not offering a gift in certain situations can be considered offensive. For instance when it comes to business offering a small amount of money is considered a token of goodwill. When you are invited to the home, it is considered appropriate to bring a present.
In the end, don’t give sterling silver (as Mexico is very proud of its silver-based products) and only give things that are from your home country. It is a sign that you have taken the time to gift someone something that they may 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 circumstances. Flowers play an important role in celebrations as well as in vibrant Mexican rituals. Flowers often play an important role in the traditional sayings and proverbs.
If you’re looking to present an arrangement or bouquet take these useful suggestions to make the perfect impression.
Which is the best option?
White flowers are the ideal to give because they are believed to be inspiring
Red roses to express love and love and
Do not use yellow flowers unless it is during 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 symbolizes the beauty, elegance, and sophistication of Mexico.
USA
It is said that the United States of America is likely to be the most laid-back when it comes to giving gifts and receiving gifts. The act of giving a gift is considerate and meaningful, however it’s not expected. Likewise, if you do gift, don’t anticipate a response immediately. The majority of business gifts are given following a transaction has been concluded and taking someone out for a meal dine is a popular present.
Flowers can be used for just about any 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, once said “Be honest, be kind and act like a flower instead of an invasive flower.” It is the reason why flowers are perfect for parties and other occasions that require an extra touch of love.
If you are planning to gift bouquets of flowers to someone, arrange flowers in advance using services like JollyFlorist or give them to them personally.
Make sure you select the flowers that best fit the message you wish to convey. Check out a few examples below.
Which is the best option?
Daisies that symbolize purity and innocence
Peonies for love and luck
Pink roses to celebrate friendship and joy
Sunflowers to show love and love
Orchids for admiration and power
Tulips to brighten your thoughts with confidence, love and confidence
Flowers have been utilized as a means of communication for a long time which, you observe, this has not changed even in modern times. What is changing is the significance between countries This is the reason when you are dealing with floral gifting the proper manner is to be aware.