Did you have any idea it is National Foreign Language month? We at Jolly Florist we take the holidays very seriously. In order to commemorate the holiday, we have put together the significance of giving flowers to every country (or at the very least, 8 countries).
Flowers have played an important role throughout the history of humanity. Even though 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 centuries. In the past, Greek, Roman, Egyptian and Chinese myths and legends have a connection to flowers, however it was the English’s Victorian Era (1837-1901) that created a unique 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 and polite for a person to completely communicate their feelings to an individual. Particularly, it was used to express emotions of sympathy, love regret, sorrow and gratitude. The strong emotions can be considered uneasy to be said out loud.
Although the Victorian Age gave way to “official” flower meanings, which were recorded in Floriography dictionary, flowers carry various meanings and symbols throughout the world. In the end the main reason for giving flowers is to convey meaning and enhance our relationship to one another.
Let’s use this moment to commemorate National Foreign Language month, to explore gift-giving customs and the different meanings of flowers in nations and cultures across the globe.
Japan
Giving gifts and flowers In Japan is a major part of Japanese the tradition. Presenting gifts is not just reserved for social occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries or graduations, as well as for obligations to society like the return of the trip. If a person is returning from a vacation they must bring items and Omiyage (souvenirs) for them to present to their family, friends and colleagues.
Gifting flowers, however, isn’t always easy as the kind and color of the bouquet can drastically influence its significance. For instance, flowers are an accepted present in Japan for those who are infirm. It is popular to gift flowers to someone who is in a hospital also, however in this situation potted plants can be unattractive since it could signify that the disease will get worse by getting “deeper roots.”
In addition, red flowers carry positive connotations and are extremely well-known within Japanese culture.
To ensure you don’t give the wrong flowers, make sure you follow these helpful tips regarding Japanese flowers and the meanings they carry. The basics are covered below as well.
Which is the best option?
Red roses for love
Carnations red for love and affection between families or to mothers
White flowers to mourn
Bluebells in gratitude
Iris for positive news and happy to hear good news and glad
Sunflowers to show love and devotion
China
In China the practice of giving gifts is used to express gratitude, respect love, friendship, and warmth. It’s also an important aspect of maintaining a positive connection within China. The gift-giving protocol is passed down through generations. Examples of this includes, giving gifts to hostesses to express gratitude or to decline a gift up to three times prior to accepting in order to avoid appearing excessive and ensuring that all gifts are wrapped.
Flowers also have a special significance also have a special significance in China. Flowers in white and chrysanthemum for instance are often used to mark the occasion of funerals and are used only in funerals or visits to graves. In any case flowers are extremely special for numerous occasions in Chinese customs and traditions.
To ensure that you do not have any issues when it comes to giving flowers in Chinese customs, follow these easy steps.
Which is the best option?
Carnations or sunflowers for a gesture of respect, and offer gratitude
Roses for romantic love that is deep
Tulips to show affection or applaud someone’s intellect
Dahlias or peonies for the elderly to celebrate honor and bring luck
A bamboo to wish a person financial success
Flowers of white or chrysanthemums remember the deceased
Egypt
Giving gifts in Egypt is a tradition that dates back to time of the Pharaohs, pyramids, and idols and was a common practice for kings to gift gifts to earn their respect or to gain personal honor. Presently, the tradition of gift giving lives on in the country (while they may not be as extravagant as they were in the past) and they have a 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 kept in a sealed container at all times and then opened later in the event that the present is not an edible dessert or other food item.
Roses are frequently mentioned in Egyptian cultural and historical contexts, such as these Egyptian proverb, which states the fact that when we love one so deeply it is important to be able be able to tolerate their “unsavory” acquaintances or even friends.
The gift of flowers should be given to those who are infirm, as a funeral or wedding present.
If you encounter a situation in which you have to pick gifts to be given at an Egyptian funeral or wedding or funeral, these arrangements and flowers are typical.
Which is the best option?
A funeral floral arrangement that is suitable for all occasions 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 significant because it shows that you care about the deceased and mourning their loss.
Weddings such as water lilies and flowers, chrysanthemum, roses and cornflowers are popular presents since they are common flowers in Egypt
Ghana
The gift giving process in Ghana is quite informal. 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. However that gifts must be wrapped, and they should not be opened immediately before the person who gave it to which is very similar to Western traditions. Regarding the influence of other cultures because of colonization and the mixing pots of the people 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 Ghana tradition is deeply linked to Mother earth. This Ghanaian phrase could be likened 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 people or institutions they depend 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 examples of the kinds that you could give.
Which is the best option?
Daffodils symbolize rebirth and are a great choice for people who are making a change in their lives.
Red roses to express love and affection
Pink roses to celebrate joy
Daisies that symbolize innocence and happiness.
Calla Lilies symbolize 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 to be old-fashioned or traditional way of life is widely practiced. Flowers are a frequent gift, and Russian people are awed by the idea of them. As the Russian saying below describes what happens when your heart is like a rose, you must talk sweetly and gently.
Flowers are connected to romance, so they are a key part of dating rituals. The ideal partner is expected to present flowers at dates and other special occasions. Although you cannot be wrong with a lot of flowers, ensure that the quantity of them is odd , as even-numbered bouquets are typically reserved to be used for funerals.
However the type of flowers you select have different significance. Here are some tips on the kinds of flowers you can give:
Which is the best option?
Send a single rose or a large daisy for a first date
Simple floral colors such as white, pink , or light blue are suitable for young girls.
White, yellow and orange flowers can be gifted to anyone (but don’t give yellow flowers to those 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 suitable for older women.
Flower buds for girls in the tweens only
France
As opposed to other nations, France does not have any specific rituals or manner of gift-giving , with the exception of the traditional birthday and Christmas celebrations, as well as christenings and wedding gifts or hostess gifts.
The gift is usually opened after they arrive. Don’t be concerned about gifts being costly or expensive It’s essential to present the recipient with something they’ll enjoy.
Flowers are a different story altogether as they can be an excellent hostess or host present, various kinds of flowers carry different significance and importance in French the culture.
Be sure to send the correct message and follow these tips to determine the best flowers to send and when to gift them.
How to Decide:
Pick roses in pink as an appropriate hostess gift
Unusual number of flowers included in an arrangement (except 13 because it’s bad luck)
Beware of red carnations for gifts because they convey the message of bad will
Red roses are only for the one you’re in love with
Avoid floral bouquets with yellow flowers because they suggest 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 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. When you’re invited into a home, it is considered a good manner to bring a present.
In the end, don’t present sterling silver (as Mexico is very proud of its silver-based products) and limit your gifting to things that are from your home country. This shows that you cared enough to gift someone something that they may not get access to on a the regular basis.
If you are looking to give flowers, they’re popular as gifts that are appropriate for most occasions. Flowers are a major element in celebrations as well as in vibrant Mexican customs. Florals are often an important role in the traditional sayings and proverbs.
If you’re looking to send an arrangement or bouquet take these useful suggestions to make the perfect impression.
How to Decide:
White flowers are ideal to give because they are believed to be positive
Red roses to express love and the fidelity of
Do not use yellow flowers unless it is to be used for Day of the Dead celebrations since they are a symbol of death
Orchids that are beautiful and luxurious
Daisies to show respect and family
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. Gifts are considerate and meaningful, however it’s not expected. If you do present a present, don’t anticipate a response in a hurry. The majority of business gifts are presented after a contract has been concluded and going out for dine is a popular present.
Flowers are suitable for almost every major celebration (Christmas, Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, etc) and are a wonderful way to show that you love someone. Aaron Neville, the American singer, has said “Be sincere, be pleasant and be a flower, not just a flower.” That’s the reason why flowers are perfect for celebrations and other occasions that require an extra touch of love.
If you’re planning to send flowers to Australia, deliver flowers in advance using an online service such as JollyFlorist or present 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 that symbolize purity and innocence
Peonies for love and luck
Roses of yellow to express joy and friendship
Sunflowers for love and love
Orchids to be admired and strong
Tulips for happy thoughts Love, confidence and happiness
Flowers have been utilized as a means of communication for centuries that, as one see, it hasn’t changed even in modern times. What changes is the significance of the flowers from one country to another This is the reason when you are dealing with floral gifting the proper manner is to be aware.