Flowers For Mother's Day: The Messages Behind Your Choices

Flowers are a popular gift on Mother’s Day, but do you know the significance of your choice of flowers? Those blooms are sending specific messages to your mother and/or caregiver, and you don’t want to get it wrong!

The language of flowers has been part of our culture for centuries. Many myths, folklore and even the works of William Shakespeare are rich with floral symbolism as most sentiments can be expressed with flowers.

As a gift, beautiful flowers are appreciated as something women enjoy but rarely buy for themselves. But before you grab a display from the supermarket, order from the florist or pick out a budding houseplant, consider the message that each flower conveys.

What are those roses saying to Mum? Why are chrysanthemums popular at this time of year? Does it matter what colour flower you give?

Here are some flowers and their meanings. As you can see, yes, colour matters!

Let’s start with roses as a classic choice.

White: purity, reverence, a fresh start
Red: love; I love you
Deep, dark crimson: mourning
Pink: gratitude, appreciation
Yellow: jealousy, infidelity
Orange: desire and enthusiasm
Lavender: love at first sight

Chrysanthemums are the traditional Mother’s Day flower in Australia because they end with the word ‘mum’.

Red: I love you
White: truth
Yellow: slighted love

Carnations are the official Mother’s Day flower as a symbol of both beauty and the eternal love a mother has for their children.

Pink: I’ll never forget you
Red: admiration
White: pure love, gift of good luck to a woman

Lilies symbolise motherhood.

White: purity
Yellow: happiness
Orange: hatred
Tiger: wealth, pride

Tulips bring elegance and sophistication.

Red: love
Pink: happiness
Yellow: friendship, cheerfulness

Orchids represent love, beauty, and refinement.

Peonies signify a happy life, and a happy marriage.

Irises stand for faith, trust, and wisdom.

Meanings change with the colour but generally, pink, red and white are safer colour choices than yellow or orange. Use this little guide to help you give flowers that show Mum or your caregiver how much you love them.

Wishing all mothers and caregivers a very Happy Mother’s Day – we hope you receive the spoiling you deserve.