Flowers in Chinese Culture

In Chinese culture flowers are seen as a means of soundless communication. Different flowers have different meanings based on their delicacy and color. Being able to give and receive the appropriate flowers and understand their meaning is a sign that a person has knowledge of, and respects, Chinese traditions and culture.

Popular Flowers
In Chinese culture many flowers have positive symbolic meanings and are often given as gifts at special occasions.

Orchids symbolize love and fertility and are a common gift for newlyweds and expectant mothers.
Peonies are often found in traditional Chinese paintings. They are a symbol of wealth and honor.
The plum blossom, which appears in the depths of winter, represents solidity and firmness. The blossom also symbolizes five blessings (fu), making the flower a symbol of luck. Lilies represent unity of spirit and are popular gifts between close friends and at weddings. Narcissus are believed to have supernatural powers and so are used the ward off evil spirits and for exorcism. Some believe they can bring the dead back to life.

Medicinal Flowers
In traditional Chinese medicine, many flowers are thought to have healing powers. For example, the plum flower is thought to cure coughs, heat stroke and diarrhoea, the Chinese rose can remove bruises and the chrysanthemum is believed to cure a cold.

Religious Flowers
The lotus, and to a lesser extent, the chrysanthemum are associated with religion in China. The lotus, known as “lianhua” and “shuizhi” in Chinese, stands for the four virtues in the Buddhist religion. Consequently, Buddhist literature is often referred to as “lotus literature” and Buddhist houses “lotus dwellings.” This flower also symbolizes purity and holiness as, despite growing in muddy pond water, it produces a beautiful flower. This is seen as a sign that people can be successful regardless of their background. It is also revered as most parts of it can be used, the roots can be eaten and the seeds can be used for medicine. Chrysanthemums are often given as an offering at altars as they represent a good and strong life. They are also given as a gift to the elderly for the same reason.

Negative Flowers
Although most flowers are positive symbols, some should be avoided. Poplar trees can be easily broken and blown away, and so they represent an unfaithful lover. Duckweed, as a floating flower with no roots, contradicts the Chinese cultural values of unity and harmony. Flowers with thorns or thistles should be avoided as these symbolize unhappiness and pain.

Colors of Flowers
The color of flowers is very important. Different colors have different meanings. In general, red, yellow and lilac are all positive colors. Red symbolizes luck and prosperity, yellow (particularly a yellow rose) is the color of victory, and lilac represents modesty, which is a highly valued Chinese virtue. White flowers should be avoided as they are a sign of death.