Did you know that each shade of flower has its own symbolism, meaning, and psychological impact, especially when used in home décor? Join Ashlee as she decodes the secret language of flower colours
One of my favourite things about flowers is that they’re so much more than a beautiful addition to your home décor or a gift for a loved one. They have their own secret language; each stem has its own meaning and some even have the power to change your mood.
Different flower colours also come with their own symbolism, meaning, and psychology. Even so, it’s important to remember to remember that these meanings can change depending on where you are in the world; every culture has its own traditions when it comes to colourful florals. In Western culture, for example, red is closely linked with love, but in Asian societies, it’s seen as a symbol of good fortune and prosperity.
I’m especially fascinated by the way flower colours can change the feel of a room. Certain colours, like blue, white, and green, can make a space calm and soothing, while others like yellow, orange, and pink can fill your home with a vibrant, positive energy.
I’m especially fascinated by the way the secret language of flower colours changes the mood of a room. Certain colours help to create a space that’s calm and soothing like blue, white, and green, while others can fill your home with a vibrant, positive energy like yellow, orange, and pink.
Read on for a more detailed look at the meaning behind the most popular flower colours:
White
It’s no secret that I love white flowers; you’ll see many of our arrangements featuring stunning stems like classic white roses, wild waxflower, or intricate white ranunculus. No matter which variety you choose, you can trust white flowers to infuse any space with a sense of calm, balance, and serenity.
White flowers symbolise purity and innocence. White is also often associated with fresh starts making this flower colour the perfect choice for anyone celebrating a new beginning like a new job or house move. If you’re looking for a bloom to convey sympathy or remember someone special, white flowers are the traditional choice.
Pink
If you prefer flowers with a pop of pink, you’re certainly not alone: pink florals are enduringly popular. There are so many different varieties to choose from, ranging from the abundant petals of a pink peony to the delicate beauty of powder pink lilacs.
Pink flowers can have several different meanings. They’re most frequently associated with grace, sweetness, and young love but, as a symbol of gratitude, they’re a go-to gift choice for showing someone your affection or admiration.
Purple
The colour purple has historically been linked to royalty and, today, it’s still a colour that conveys a sense of luxury. Depending on your preference, you could opt for a deep purple flower like an iris, a soft shade like lavender, or an even more subtle variety like a mauve hydrangea.
Purple flowers also have an air of mystery about them, an enchanting quality that makes blooms in this colour feel extra-special. It’s these traits that make purple flowers an ideal option when you want to congratulate someone on a success like graduating from university or securing a promotion.
Green
Green flowers can be a little harder to find but this flower colour is one of the most powerful when it comes to psychological impact. Greenery in all forms, including foliage, has been scientifically proven to boost mental wellbeing while creating harmony and balance in a room. These blooms also symbolise renewal, growth, and health.
When looking to include greenery in my arrangements, I love the unique appearance of green hydrangea and you can’t go wrong with any variation of eucalyptus or fern. For something a little more unusual, consider a green artichoke stem or green berry branch.
Yellow
Yellow, the shade of sunshine, is a naturally cheerful colour and yellow flowers are no exception. Traditionally, these blooms are said to represent joy, positivity, and optimism. Yellow flowers can also convey feelings of warmth and friendship, making them an ideal gift. There are several different fresh yellow flower varieties to explore; depending on the season, you could choose spring primroses or a summer daffodil.
Red
Red is one of the most dramatic colours to use in your home, a true statement shade whether you use it to decorate an entire room or in bold accent accessories. Red flowers are equally intense and often used to communicate strong emotions like love, passion, and desire.
Red roses are the quintessential symbol of romance but red flowers as a category are also associated with courage and bravery. Poppies, geraniums, and dahlias are all popular red flowers, available in vivid tones, but you could choose a less intense pigment such as a mulberry hydrangea or burgundy-toned maple samaras spray.
Orange
A bold and punchy colour choice, orange flowers symbolise energy, excitement, and an irresistible zest for life. It’s a colour connected to enthusiasm and creativity making it an ideal gift for someone artistic or someone celebrating. Popular orange flowers in different shades include California poppies, bird of paradise, marigolds, and chrysanthemums.
Blue
Blue is known as a calming and tranquil colour, lending itself to creating relaxing living rooms or bedrooms when used in home decor. Blue flowers are also associated with serenity, peace, stability, and quiet contemplation. When offered as a gift, they are said to signal trust and dependability. If you’re looking for a blue bloom to mark a milestone, consider blue hydrangeas, alliums, or bluebells.