20 Incredible Flowers That Represent Change

Today, we’ll discuss 20 beautiful flowers that represent change. If you’re looking for a new perspective or if you’re undergoing a massive transformation in your life, these flowers can serve as inspiration and can even offer encouragement.

From the very first bloom of spring to the robust colors of fall, flowers serve as a gentle reminder that life itself is no exception to change. Change is the epitome of life; inevitable and constant.

Whether you’re welcoming new life or saying goodbye to a loved one, you can always expect change to accompany you through it all. Life can create a looming feeling when you realize that things rarely stay the same. When these feelings arise, look to nature for a reminder that even flowers transform to adapt to the world around them.

1. Hydrangea

Also known as hortensias, Hydrangea is a genus of flowering plants native to the Americas and Asia. There are 100 species of hydrangea and the majority of them are in Japan, Korea, and China. The name ‘hydrangea’ is a derivative of the Greek words ‘hydro’ and ‘angos,’ meaning ‘water vessel,’ referring to the shape of the flower’s seed capsule and how much water it needs to survive.

Gardeners love hydrangeas for their vibrant bushes of flower petals that grow in a variety of colors ranging from purple, blue, red, pink, white, and green. Hydrangeas symbolize the beauty of life and death as they’re constantly evolving, starting from the first bloom in June to the last petal that falls in August.

Their flower petals can change color depending on the pH levels in the soil, with pink pedals indicating alkaline soil and blue pedals indicating more acidic soil. The ability hydrangeas possess to physically transform and adapt to their environment is a perfect example of why this flower is a representation of change.

2. Crocus

Belonging to a genus of over 80 different species of flowering plants, crocus is a part of the Iridaceae family, making crocus and iris distant cousins. These alluring flowers possess a rich significance of symbolism and culinary uses still used today.

Crocuses are a beacon of hope because they peep their head through the snow, indicating the beginning of a new season. The durable crocus blooms from mid-winter to spring all over the world in places like the Mediterranean, North Africa, Central and Eastern Europe, parts of Asia, and the Middle East.

The botanical name Crocus sativus, derived from the Greek word ‘krokos,’ references its primary use as saffron in ancient Greece. These mesmerizing cup-shaped flowers come in a variety of hues ranging from lavender, yellow, pink, and white.

These flowers symbolize spring, renewal, death, and rebirth. Purple crocuses represent personal success, while people give white crocuses during the loss of a loved one or to congratulate a newlywed couple. Overall, the crocus plant is inspiring because it blooms in winter, reminding us that even though life may seem cold, the warmth of spring is yet to come.

3. Daffodil

Daffodils are a genus of perennial flowering plants that belongs to the Amaryllidaceae family. Its teacup-shaped petals bloom at the start of spring, which makes them a symbol of change and new beginnings. The common daffodil’s botanical name is Narcissus pseudonarcissus. The daffodil genus, Narcissus, comes from the mythical tale of a man who was captivated by his own reflection in a pond.

These flowers are associated with Narcissus because they resemble a face looking down, and they grow well near ponds, streams, and riverbanks. There can also be an abundance of these flowers in clusters and it’s not uncommon to find these gifts of nature in a field of wildflowers.

Since these trumpet-shaped flowers are one of the first to bloom during the spring. They sound off to let us know that new life and transformation are near. So, if you’re ever thinking about buying these flowers for yourself or gifting these flowers to someone you love, make sure you give them more than one. One daffodil is bad luck.

4. Butterfly Bush

Butterfly bush is a genus comprised of 140 species of deciduous flowering plants that produce cone-shaped clusters of tiny aromatic flowers. The scientific name of the common butterfly bush is Buddleja davidii. They now belong to the Scrophulariaceae family, as opposed to the Buddlejaceae family it was previously classified under.

These shrubs are native to Africa, Asia, and the Americas, and can grow from six to 12 feet tall. The conical flowers on this plant are purple, red, pink, and white and typically bloom from summer through fall

As the name suggests, butterfly bushes attract butterflies and other pollinators due to the high levels of glucose, fructose, and sugar found in their nectar. Butterflies are the embodiment of transformation, as they start as caterpillars and evolve into winged beauties.

Along with butterflies, the butterfly bush has its own transformation cycle. They are quiescent and lifeless during the winter months, but when spring arrives, new growth appears. And by summer, they’re covered in lush blooms.

The dormant, rebirth, and growth patterns butterfly bushes go through represent the changes we all face in life. When life seems stagnant or moving faster than you’d expect, let these flowers serve as a reminder that change is necessary for your overall growth.

5. Hyacinth

These perennial flowers represent change because people give them as gifts to help refresh one’s home or as a symbol of new beginnings. Surprisingly, hyacinths are a part of the Asparagaceae family, making them a distant relative of asparagus and a variety of other garden plants.

Hyacinthus is a small genus of plants native to the Mediterranean, Africa, and Turkey. They are also extremely popular in the UK, Netherlands, and parts of Europe. They typically bloom early to mid-spring and can last two weeks longer than most bulb flowers.

The hyacinth has a long record of history dating back to 375 BC when the Greek philosopher Theophrastus first recognized it. The flower has a correlation to Hyacinthus in Greek mythology, in relation to the tale of how Apollo, the sun god, cried over Hyacinthus’s lifeless body. From the blood that was shed, Apollo formed the Hyacinth flower in his name.

As a result, the hyacinth symbolizes a love that transcends death and how new beginnings can emerge from loss or tragedy.

6. Iris

Irises belong to a genus of more than 300 varieties of flowering plants. It’s also a member of the Iridaceae family, just like the crocus flower. The botanical name for iris is Iris sp. These enigmatic flowers represent change as they physically adapt depending on the seasons. They save energy during the winter months by withering away in a dormant state. During spring, they emerge refreshed showcasing their beautifully distinctive six inner petals and three outer ones.

Irises is named after the goddess Iris in Greek mythology. Iris was the goddess of the rainbow, and she relayed messages between the gods and humans. Because of this and the variety of colors irises grow in, the iris plant is often referred to as the bridge connecting heaven and earth.

Irises also represent change medicinally, as the rhizomes in certain species treated ailments such as menstrual cramps, rheumatism, and skin infections in ancient times. Irises are also a natural dye that provides a rich indigo color still used in art and textiles today.

Overall, the iris is perfect for anyone wanting to improve the energy of their home as they symbolize change, transformation, and healing.

7. Lily of the Valley

Lily of the valley’s popularity is largely attributed to its sweet aroma and meaningful symbolism. Contrary to popular belief, the lily of the valley is not a lily; it surprisingly belongs to the asparagus family. Convallaria majalis is native to Asia and Europe. Lily of the valley is a low-growing plant that ranges from six to 12 inches. Since they’re perennials, they sprout year after year during the spring months.

Biblical texts mention the lily of the valley at multiple points. Eve was said to have cried after she was forced to leave the Garden of Eden. In doing so, the lily of the valley sprouted from her tears. Although it may seem sad, her tears left a trail of beautiful white flowers behind her. The story reminds us to look back and admire the times we’ve had as we look forward to the new path ahead.

The lily of the valley also goes by “Old Lady Tears” or “Mary’s Tears,” because of its correlation to Mary in the bible. According to the biblical text, the virgin Mary witnessed the crucifixion of her son, Jesus. As she began to cry, her tears fell and grew into tiny white flowers. This is why these flowers represent both loss and resurrection as Jesus rose from the dead.

Although the lily of the valley is said to have sprouted from Eve and Mary’s tears, it also serves as a symbol of change, revival, new beginnings, and remembrance for those we’ve lost.

8. Nasturtium

The name nasturtium is a derivative of the Latin words ‘nasus,’ meaning nose, and ‘torquere,’ meaning twist. It refers to the face people make when they smell or taste the pungent flavor of this plant.

Nasturtiums comprise a genus, Tropaeolum, of around 80 species of perennial and annual flowering plants. These flowers are native to Central and South America. Nasturtiums now grow all over the world, from the Mediterranean to North America, following its discovery in the 1500s.

Flower enthusiasts adore the nasturtium for its radiant colors, pepper-like taste, and distinctive shape. There’s more than meets the eye in these captivating flowers. Not only are they known for their aesthetic appeal, but the nasturtium is also renowned for its symbolism, healing properties, and spiritual meanings.

Their vibrant colors correlate to courage, positivity, and strength. Its bright hue also relates to the energy of the sun, as it can bring excitement, warmth, and new beginnings to a person’s life. The nasturtium flourishes in harsh environments, making it a symbol of tenacity and resilience.

9. Scarlet Pimpernel

Scarlet pimpernel or red pimpernel is a popular wildflower that represents a shift in major life events. It’s native to Western Asia, Europe, and North Africa, but it has naturalized globally in other areas, including South Asia, Australia, South Africa, and the Americas. This flower belongs to a genus of low-growing annual plant species that belongs to the Primulaceae family.

Its botanical name, Anagillis arvensis, comes from the Greek words ‘ana,’ meaning again, and ‘agallein,’ meaning to delight in. This refers to the ability of these flowers to open and close according to the weather. The scarlet pimpernel is called shepherd’s weather glass because it helps farmers and shepherds forecast upcoming changes in climate conditions.

Along with its weather-predicting capabilities, the scarlet pimpernel holds a rich history of symbolism and folklore. Ireland calls scarlet pimpernel the ‘blessed herb.’ They believed holding the plant in your hand would allow you to predict the future and communicate with animals.

Scarlet pimpernel can also offer good luck and protection, and help ward off evil spirits according to old wives’ tales. In mythology, the scarlet pimpernel represents big changes happening in your life. The lush and vibrant orange tones of this flower convey excitement for what’s to come.

10. Lotus Flower

This aquatic flowering plant is native to Asia, but some varieties of this flower are found in North America, Iran, China, India, Japan, and Russia. Lotus flowers are a part of the Nelumbonacea family. Nelumbo nucifera is a perennial tropical plant located in bodies of water, like lakes, ponds, and rivers.

Lotus flowers also possess the ability to thrive in mud-covered marshes, swamps, and streams. As the roots attach themselves to the mud below, stems that can grow as long as six to eight feet tall emerge from the surface, displaying the plant’s bold leaves and beautiful aromatic flowers.

Lotus flowers also have the capability of cleaning themselves. This flower has water-resistant leaves covered in a wax that uses water to carry dirt and debris off the plant as it falls. The ability lotus flowers have to appear unscathed in the midst of unfavorable conditions is why they are revered in many cultures as a symbol of resilience and power.

The contrast between its surroundings and appearance serves as a metaphor for change and personal growth. The lotus flower reminds us that adversity never lasts long. Instead of being constrained by our obstacles, emerge from them knowing that these struggles are temporary and necessary for our growth, just as mud is necessary for the lotus flower’s growth.

11. Morning Glory

Morning glory is a common name for over 1000 species of flowering plants that belong to the Convolvulaceae family, making them a distant relative of sweet potatoes. The morning glory species belong to a plethora of genera, but the largest genus of this species is Ipomoea. This genus grows throughout the tropical and subtropical regions of the world and typically blooms from mid-summer into fall.

The botanical name of the common morning glory is Ipomea purpurea. These plants have lush trumpet-shaped flowers that are accompanied by heart-shaped leaves.

The name Ipomoea is a derivative of the Greek words ‘ips,’ meaning worm, and ‘homoios,’ meaning like or resembling, in reference to the tendency these vines have to twist around anything near them.

These flowers represent change because they blossom in the morning and fade away in the evening. The cyclical process of blossoming and withering away symbolizes the transient reality that life is fleeting and ever-changing.

Morning glories are also able to flourish in harsh environments, including warm temperatures and deficient soil. As a result, morning glories represent the fortitude and perseverance required to handle the changes in life.

12. Sunflower

Everyone loves sunflowers, so it’s no surprise that these flowers hold symbolic meaning. Sunflowers are a genus of almost 70 types of flowering plants that are part of the Asteraceae family. Indigenous to South and North America, these flowers are known for their massive flowers and tasty seeds.

The sunflower’s genus name, Helianthus, is from the Greek words ‘helios,’ meaning sun, and ‘anthios,’ meaning flower. This is more than accurate because the gold and auburn hues of sunflower petals resemble the sun.

Young sunflowers have the ability to track the sun, facing east in the early morning as the sun rises, and gently turning toward the west, catching the last moment of the sun’s rays before it sets. Then, overnight, they return to their original position, waiting to start the process all over again.

Fully matured sunflowers stop sun-tracking and face only eastward. Nonetheless, this phenomenon, called heliotropism, is linked to a shift in perspective and transformation, as they grow rapidly and turn to capture sunlight. Their ability to withstand rough environments and flourish reminds us that even though change can be tough, shifting the way you view your situation can open up new opportunities to grow.

13. Zinnia

Zinnia flowers are shrubs, annuals, and sub-shrubs indigenous to Mexico and South America. However, since zinnias were introduced to Europe in the 1700s, they are now naturalized in several places like Central and South America, Italy, Australia, the West Indies, and the United States.

Zinnia is a genus of annual flowering plants within the Asteraceae family. The common zinnia’s botanical name is Zinnia elegans, which is Latin for elegant zinnia, in reference to how pristine this flower looks despite growing in harsh conditions.

Zinnia flowers represent change because they come in a variety of colors, such as magenta, auburn, scarlet, gold, and white. These colors are used to transform gardens by adding a pop of color. Their flamboyant and vivid colors shine brightly in the midst of scorching and dry growing conditions. Regardless of how many times you cut, damage, or move this hardy plant, it persists in growing.

As a result, zinnias represent staying steadfast in the face of change. Change can be troubling for some, but let this flower serve as a reminder that with willpower and persistence, you can overcome the hurdles in life.

14. Delphinium

The name of this flower is derived from the Greek word ‘delphis,’ meaning dolphin. There are a couple of reasons for the name. One is in response to the way the bud of the plant resembles a dolphin’s nose. The other is because the flower resembles a dolphin leaping out if you remove a bloom from the tallest spike on the plant.

Delphinium is a genus of over 300 species of perennial and annual flowering plants in the Ranunculaceae family. These plants are indigenous throughout the Northern Hemisphere, as well as the tropical mountain areas of Africa.

These subtle flowers hold vast spiritual symbolism. The spiritual significance of delphinium flowers correlates to calming energy, optimism, and openness to change. Delphiniums have the ability to cleanse and heal negative energies in your house.

Delphiniums typically bloom as soon as winter ends, displaying their majestic blue, purple, and sometimes white and pink flowers that represent the change of a new season. As a result, these flowers symbolize new beginnings, self-confidence, and a brighter future. The spiritual meaning of this plant conveys that even though life may seem futile, new beginnings and happiness are found in abundance if you open yourself up to them.

15. Dahlia

Dahlia is a large genus of flowering plants native to Central America and Mexico. Being a member of the Asteraceae family, dahlia flowers are related to sunflowers, daisies, and zinnias.

Dahlias represent change both physically and personally. These bulb-like flowers bloom late in the summer and through early autumn. As the weather begins to cool down and the days become shorter, dahlias get ready for winter as they begin to wither away and become dormant. This represents the change one goes through as they prepare for a new season in life.

Along with these flowers representing the changes of the season, dahlias also represent transformation on a personal level. They start off as tiny buds and then ultimately blossom into captivating mature flowers with layers of petals that display their growth. Pull back the layers of this plant and you will find that change is a natural occurrence in life. Don’t fight it, just grow with it as the dahlia does.

16. Lilac

Lilacs form a group of flowering plants in the Oleaceae family, making them a relative of olives. This flower is indigenous to the rugged hillsides of the Balkan Peninsula. And naturalized in North America, Asia, and certain parts of Europe. The scientific name of the common lilac is Syringa vulgaris. The lilac flower is named after an irresistible nymph named Syringa. She disguised herself as a lilac flower to hide from Pan, the God of the forests.

Lilac flowers are adored for their cluster of periwinkle flowers and flagrant aroma, which is reminiscent of spring. The scent these flowers possess correlates to spring and regeneration. That’s why it is referred to as a flower of change. Lilac flowers have also been used to help comfort those experiencing major changes in life as well.

As the cold from winter slowly dissipates and the warmth of a new season arises, the smell of lilacs fills the air, signaling the beauty of spring is here. Lilac flowers represent the changes in seasons as well as the transformation we go through during the different seasons in our lives.

17. Magnolia

Magnolia is a massive genus of up to 340 flowering species in the Magnolioideae family. The southern magnolia’s botanical name is Magnolia grandiflora. Fossil records suggest this plant existed during the Paleogene period over 66 million years ago. Records also suggest plants belonging to Magnolioideae date back 95 million years ago.

You might have seen these enchanting blossoms. They are native to the southeastern United States and certain parts of Mexico. Renowned for their pristine white flowers that grow on trees, these flowers are a symbol of elegance, hospitality, and remembrance.

According to dream interpretation, dreaming of this plant can indicate personal growth, transformation, and spiritual enlightenment. These flowers also represent a change in life or a path to new beginnings. Along with personal development, magnolias also symbolize healing from past traumas. These flowers encourage you to be patient with yourself, and with grace, poise, and elegance, you will overcome whatever is hindering you.

18. Heather Flower

Heather flowers are a genus of flowering plants apart of the Ericaceae family. The common heather’s botanical name is Calluna vulgaris. Calluna most likely refers to the ancient Greek word ‘kallyno,’ meaning sweep or clean, which references the plants’ traditional use as a broom. Heather flowers are a low-growing evergreen plant native to Ireland, Scotland, Russia, Africa, the United Kingdom, and parts of the Mediterranean.

These flowers are known for their ability to change and evolve with nature. During the summer months, the firefly heather plant blooms beautiful gold and fuchsia pink foliage, but during the winter months, it takes on a remarkable coppery-red color. That makes heather flowers a perfect representation of change.

The most common heather flower varieties typically bloom in lavender, white, and fuchsia pink. The physical changes this flower goes through are associated with positive or significant changes in one’s life. Heather flowers also represent a time for change and fresh starts. So, if life seems a little too mundane or ordinary, heather flowers can offer a clearing energy that’ll help transform the environment around you.

19. Daisy

Daisies are perennial herbaceous plants of the Asteraceae family, making them closely related to artichokes and high in vitamin C. The botanical name for the daisy is Bellis perennis. These plants are native to central, northern, and western Europe, but they are vastly naturalized in temperate climates like Australasia and the Americas.

The common name, daisy, is a derivative of the Old English saying “daes eage,” which means day’s eye. The name references how daisies close their petals in the afternoon and reopen them in the morning. The process these flowers have opening and closing represents change and new beginnings, as you close the chapters of the past and begin to open a new chapter.

Daisies also flourish in harsh conditions and can even break through the cracks in concrete. The resilience and flexibility daisies possess symbolize the attributes needed to navigate change and grow from it. If you or your friend is moving, changing occupations, or going through a drastic change in life, these ebullient flowers will serve as a reminder to stay positive as they embark on their new journey ahead.

20. Calla Lily

The calla lily is an herbaceous perennial flowering plant of the Araceae family. They are native to southern Africa, specifically Lesotho, Eswatini, Mozambique, and South Africa. They have become naturalized in places like Kenya, Tanzania, New Zealand, California, and Australia.

The name calla means ‘beautiful’ in Greek, which is why calla lilies are a symbol of beauty to this day. These flowers have an undeniable elegance that makes them stand out among other flowers. Aside from its alluring appearance, calla lilies are eminent for their symbolic significance.

Calla lilies typically bloom for six to 12 weeks in the spring and throughout summer. During autumn these flowers are dormant and seemingly lifeless. However, during spring, these flowers grow back, displaying their velvet-white blossom and singular yellow spike, representing the change of the season. The cyclical nature of the calla lily is also reminiscent of death and resurrection. As a result, calla lilies encourage us to let our old habits and insecurities die so we can emerge anew and transformed.

Flowers and Symbolisms

In summary, understanding the importance of change in our lives is imperative, because life is susceptible to change. Everything you know can change at a moment’s notice and when it does, the worst thing you can do is fight it. Instead, embrace it just as flowers do.

Take a trip to your local botanical garden and let these flowers serve as a reminder that change, yet constant is only temporary. By having the tenacity to welcome and remain open to change, you can help yourself navigate through this new avenue in life.

Summary of 20 Flowers That Represent Change