A Guide to Flowers in Celebrating Mothers and Maternal Figures Throughout History
Flowers have long been symbols of love, gratitude, and reverence, making them a natural choice for honoring mothers and maternal figures. Across cultures and centuries, different flowers have been associated with motherhood, fertility, and nurturing. This Hong Kong floristry guide explores how flowers have been used to celebrate mothers in history, from ancient traditions to modern Mother’s Day customs.
1. Ancient Civilizations: Flowers in Worship of Mother Goddesses
Egypt: Lotus and Isis
In ancient Egypt, the lotus flower was a powerful symbol of fertility, rebirth, and motherhood.
It was often associated with Isis, the goddess of motherhood and protection, who was revered for her nurturing qualities.
Offerings of lotus flowers were made at temples dedicated to Isis to honor mothers and bless fertility.
Greece and Rome: Flora, Hera, and Cybele
The Greeks and Romans celebrated Hera (Greek) and Juno (Roman), goddesses of marriage and motherhood, with floral offerings.
The festival of Hilaria, held in honor of Cybele, the mother goddess, involved flower garlands and processions.
The festival of Floralia, dedicated to Flora, the Roman goddess of flowers, celebrated fertility and motherhood with floral tributes.
2. Medieval and Renaissance Europe: Flowers as Symbols of Motherly Love
Christian Influence: The Virgin Mary and the Rose
During the Middle Ages, the rose became associated with the Virgin Mary, the ultimate maternal figure in Christianity.
Red roses symbolized her compassion and love, while white lilies (Madonna lilies) represented her purity and motherly grace.
Churches were often decorated with these flowers on religious feast days dedicated to Mary, such as the Feast of the Annunciation.
Mothering Sunday: The First "Mother's Day" in England
Originating in the 16th century, Mothering Sunday was celebrated on the fourth Sunday of Lent.
People would return to their "mother church" and present their mothers with wildflowers, particularly violets and primroses.
3. 19th and 20th Centuries: The Modern Mother’s Day Movement
Anna Jarvis and the Carnation Tradition (USA, 1908)
Anna Jarvis, the founder of modern Mother’s Day, chose the carnation as the official flower.
White carnations were worn to honor deceased mothers, while red or pink carnations were given to living mothers.
This tradition spread across the United States and Europe, making carnations the most widely recognized Mother’s Day flower.
Japan: Red and White Carnations
Japan adopted Mother’s Day in the 1930s, inspired by Western customs.
Red carnations symbolize admiration and gratitude for mothers, while white carnations are worn in remembrance of those who have passed away.
4. Flowers and Motherhood in Asian Traditions
China: Peonies and Chrysanthemums
The peony, often called the "king of flowers," symbolizes honor and prosperity, making it a common gift for mothers.
Chrysanthemums, particularly yellow or white ones, are also given to mothers as a sign of longevity and respect.
Thailand: Jasmine for the Queen and Mothers
In Thailand, Mother’s Day is celebrated on August 12, Queen Sirikit’s birthday.
White jasmine flowers, representing pure and unconditional love, are the traditional gift for mothers.
Vietnam: Roses for the Living and the Departed
During the Vu Lan festival (Ullambana), a Buddhist event honoring mothers and ancestors, people wear roses to symbolize their love for their mothers.
Red roses are worn if one's mother is alive, while white roses are worn in remembrance of a deceased mother.
5. Contemporary Mother’s Day Flower Traditions
Popular Flowers for Mother’s Day Today
Carnations (classic Mother’s Day flower, symbolizing a mother’s eternal love).
Roses (red for admiration, pink for gratitude, white for remembrance).
Lilies (purity and devotion, often associated with motherhood).
Tulips (cheerfulness and deep love).
Orchids (exotic beauty and strength, often gifted in Asian cultures).
Sunflowers (adoration and appreciation, common in modern celebrations).
Global Flower Gifting Trends
Many cultures have adopted floral bouquets, potted plants, and floral-themed gifts for Mother’s Day.
In some countries, flowers are arranged in heart-shaped designs or mixed with chocolates and personal notes.
Eco-conscious trends have led to an increase in potted plants and sustainable floral arrangements as Mother’s Day gifts.
From ancient offerings to mother goddesses to modern-day bouquets, flowers have played a significant role in celebrating mothers and maternal love across cultures. While different flowers carry unique meanings, the universal message remains the same: honoring and expressing gratitude for mothers through the beauty of nature’s blossoms.
