Auspicious Chinese Flowers and Their Meanings

Chinese culture is rich in symbolism and meaning and flowers have played a large part in communicating these meanings and in various Chinese traditions and practices. Just like the colours of red and gold are considered luckiest, there are certain flowers that are luckier than others and for that reason are used more frequently in Chinese décor and gift giving. Here are nine different types of flowers that are considered lucky within the Chinese culture and some of their diverse meanings.

Peonies

Peonies are an important and significant flower in Chinese culture. They are the flower of spring and are known as the “Queen of Flowers”. Peonies symbolise richness, prosperity, honor, beauty, and romance. Peonies are often used in weddings to indicate a prosperous relationship as well as within the home to bring in good fortune.

Related: Spring Flowers to Brighten Any Space

Plum blossom

Image by Wang Leon on Wikipedia. Plum blossom in Nanjang, China.

Plum blossoms are the flower of winter and look and carry the same beauty as the infamous cherry blossoms that grow in spring. These blooms come out during winter time and are indicative of endurance, strength, well-being, and good fortune making the tree branches popular decorations.

Chrysanthemum

Even the humble chrysanthemum is held in high-esteem within the Chinese culture. This pleasant and resilient flower represents optimism and good cheer, and is used to usher in a balanced, successful and long life without too much toil. Chrysanthemums grow in autumn and can withstand colder temperatures making this flower the representation of autumn in Chinese culture and literature.

Lotus

Image by Wim De graaf from Pixabay

The beautiful bloom of the lotus is indicative of summer and has a long standing history with Buddhism and within Chinese culture. The root lies under the water and represents the journey from darkness to enlightenment. The flower is often considered sacred as it symbolises purity, peace, perfection, and harmony.

Orchids

Elegant, awe-inspiring, and luxurious, the orchid is one of the top flowers represented in Chinese culture. The flower is said to enhance career success and bring prosperity. It is a popular flower in many businesses and homes and are common gifts as they represent fertility and abundance.

Narcissus

The narcissus or daffodil is another lucky flower in Chinese culture especially during the Chinese New Year as the flower is said to attract success and wealth as well signifying optimism and general good cheer.

Anthurium

The colour of this anthurium comes in a lucky red or pink colour. It is said to attract money and good fortune and makes for a popular and beautiful decorative item and gift during Chinese New Year.

Related: The Best Gifts for Chinese New Year

Lilies

Lilies are an auspicious flower in Chinese culture as they are indicative of a happy union and are said to bring a family sons, making them popular flowers for brides and on weddings. Additionally, the flower also said to help lift spirits and wash worries away with their unique and beautiful scent and shape.

Related: Summer and Spring Floral Flower Arrangements

Hibiscus

Image by shinybutton from Pixabay

The hibiscus or the China Rose, symbolises fame, glory, and beauty. These flowers can be gifted to both men and women. They can also indicate fleeting beauty and personal glory. The flower grows in bushes and is found all over Hong Kong in gardens and natural areas in variety of summery colours.

Related: Flowers Native to Hong Kong