15 Amazing Flowers That Symbolize Beauty

Flowers have long been used as a form of communication; each color and species has its own unique meaning. While all flowers are beautiful in their own way, some also symbolize beauty and act as a message to the recipient.

In this article, we’ll cover 15 amazing flowers that symbolize beauty so you can tell that special someone how you feel.

Let’s dig in!

1. Amaryllis

Amaryllis is a genus of flowers originating from subtropical regions, with the most common species originating from South America or South Africa. These flowers were discovered and popularized at the dawn of the 1800s.

Etymologists believe the name Amaryllis is Greek or pre-Geek in origin, as it was a common female name among the working class when discovered. The name is derived from amaryssein, which means “to twinkle” or “to sparkle.”

The amaryllis symbolizes beauty, love, and hope. Unlike most flowers, this symbolism is not dependent on color.

2. Calla Lily

Calla lilies have long been a recognized symbol of beauty and purity. Their lore dates back to Greek mythology. 

It’s said that calla lilies were created when Hera, in a fit of rage, cast the infant Heracles away from her. As drops of milk hit the ground, pure white calla lilies bloomed where they fell. 

The name “calla” stems from the Greek word for beauty, Kállos. Calla lilies aren’t true lilies and grow from tubers. However, their beauty is world-famous, and they’ve become a popular wedding flower as a result.

3. Cherry Blossom

Cherry blossoms have a rich history and cultural significance in Japan. Every year, millions of people travel to Japan to watch these stunning trees bloom. 

Cherry blossoms have several meanings, one of which is the fleeting beauty of life—like the cherry blossom blooming season, life is all the more beautiful because of its brevity. 

4. Daisy

Daisies are a versatile plant with various symbolic meanings based on its color. These cheerful blooms are often associated with motherhood, purity, joy, and beauty in simplicity.

Red daisies, like many red flowers, represent love and romance. Florists often use them to communicate affection to someone who doesn’t know how beautiful they are—a.k.a. beauty unknown to the possessor. 

5. Heather

Heather grows free and wild across untamed moors in Asia and Europe. Its muted blooms are soft and delicate, adding to its allure and mystery. Heather is the only flower in the Calluna genus. 

Like calla lilies, the word Calluna is believed to be derived from the Greek language—in this case, the word Kallyno, meaning “beautify.”

Purple heather blossoms, in particular, are said to represent beauty.

6. Hibiscus

Hibiscus flowers are a stunning tropical plant with hundreds of species and cultivars. Also known as the marshmallow plant, the hibiscus is primarily associated with feminine beauty, especially in bright shades of pink.

The yellow hibiscus is Hawaii’s state flower and has a rich cultural history in the islands. Once endangered, these beautiful blooms now grow in abundance. However, the blooms themselves only last a day. 

7. Lotus

The lotus is a powerful symbol in Hinduism, representing beauty in the divine. One of the primary deities, Vishnu, is also known as the “Lotus-Eyed One.” 

The Hindu people are said to have a lotus within them, representing their heart and soul. As it blooms, it represents enlightenment and spiritual growth; therein lies the beauty.

The lotus is also significant across other Asian cultures, with historical records in Egypt and China.

8. Meadowsweet

Like heather, you can find meadowsweet across the fields of Europe and Asia. It has since been introduced to North America and has become naturalized over time. 

Meadowsweet is recognizable by its soft, fluffy white blooms, creating a cloud-like appearance at a distance. This herb represents beauty and peacefulness, though its ancient symbolism tells a different story.

Meadowsweet is a herb with a sweet scent. According to the folklore, it was a sacred herb to the ancient druids and often referenced in Celtic mythology. People once believed that the soft scent could induce a death-like slumber, making it a symbol of bad luck and death when brought indoors.

Despite the negative connotations, many skeptics of the time used meadowsweet for bridal bouquets, leading to a shift in symbolism over the centuries.

9. Orchid

Orchids are a favorite among indoor plant collectors, with dedicated followings to this beloved plant. There are thousands of orchid species, hybrids, and cultivars, with some so rare they’re impossible to acquire.

Like many flowers, orchid symbolism relies on the color. While the flower itself represents beauty, the petal colors offer a more specific and in-depth meaning.

For example, white orchids represent beauty in purity and fertility. Blue orchids represent rare beauty, as they’re difficult to come by. 

10. Peony

Peonies are a stunning flower beloved by gardeners and florists alike. They’re a popular gift to mark special occasions. 

Like many flowers, the symbolism behind peonies is contingent on their color. While they generally represent beauty and humility, the petal color provides deeper insight.

Yellow peonies represent the beauty of joy and friendship, making them the perfect gift for a friend. Red and pink peonies represent beauty in passion and love, making them ideal for a partner.

Red peonies are an auspicious gift to give for Chinese New Year, as they represent beauty, luck, and prosperity. 

11. Rhododendron

Rhododendrons are a symbol of beauty. Yet, these controversial blooms have mixed meanings, so gift them with care.

During Victorian times, flower symbolism was more culturally significant. Now, floral symbolism is treated more casually. Then, the Language of Flowers was used to send clear messages.

At this time, rhododendrons were a symbol warning people away. This could be a rejection from a suitor’s family or a subtle threat among adversaries. 

This meaning is believed to result from the often negative relationship between bees and this flowering plant. Rhododendrons overproduce a sweet nectar that rewards pollinators for visiting the plant. 

However, the nectar contains high levels of neurotoxins that impact the bees and result in a substance known as “mad honey.” When consumed by humans, mad honey can induce hallucinations and dizziness. 

This fascinating history is unknown to many modern flower lovers outside the apiarist community, making it a valid floral option for gift giving.

12. Rose

Roses are one of the most popular flowers that symbolize beauty. Pink roses and rose buds, in particular, indicate that you find someone beautiful when you present them as a gift.

Roses are still used as a form of communication based on their color. Red roses show romantic love. Yellow roses represent friendship. White roses symbolize innocence and purity. 

13. Spider Lily

Spider lilies are another bloom with mixed meanings. Pink spider lilies represent beauty. Red spider lilies are associated with death.

These unique flowers have a rich history and cultural symbolism in Asia. Be cautious when gifting spider lilies, and ensure the color you choose is clearly pink with no notable red tones.

14. Stock

Stock flowers refer to the genus Matthiola, a member of the mustard family. These herbaceous wildflowers come in shades of purple, pink, and white. They’re also called “gillyflowers.”

Like the heather and meadowsweet, these untamed blooms represent beauty. As this genus is known for its long lifespan, most associate them with lasting or enduring beauty. 

15. Tulip

Tulips are another bloom known for their rich symbolism and cultural significance. The economic boom known as Tulipmania shaped Europe’s economy in the 1600s, with some species becoming more valuable than modern homes.

Variegated tulips, in particular, are the perfect gift to tell someone they have beautiful eyes. This symbolism is believed to be related to the variegated varieties’ unique patterns and coloration.

Flowers That Symbolize Beauty: A Summary