Peony Flowers: Meaning, Symbolism, and Proper Occasions

More than just a popular and beautiful, low-maintenance perennial, peony flowers are rich in meaning and symbolism. Learn about the meaning and symbolism of peony flowers, as well as the proper occasions for giving them.

Peony Symbolism

Peonies have been an important symbol in Chinese culture for hundreds of years. During the Sui and Tang Dynasties, this flower was highly prized. Imperial palace gardens once housed it exclusively for the Emperor and the royal family. In feng shui, people use peonies for love and romance.

Peony Color Meanings 

Peony flowers are generally associated with happiness, romance, bashfulness, happy marriages, honor, prosperity, and good fortune. However, the meaning of the flower varies a bit depending on the color of the blooms. This is good information to have when you are selecting peonies for a gift or special occasion.

White Peony

As a general rule, white flowers symbolize purity and innocence. For this reason, white peonies carry the same meaning and symbolism. They can also represent shame or remorse, making them a popular offering from someone asking for forgiveness.

Pink Peony

A pink peony represents love, friendship, and happiness. Light pink most often represents luck, prosperity, and romance, while darker pink typically represents passion and excitement.

Red Peony

Peony flowers in red symbolize passion, love, luck, happiness, and joy. As symbols of Chinese royalty, they also represent respect, honor, abundance, and wealth.

Yellow Peony

Yellow peonies represent new beginnings or a fresh start, making them perfect for a new job, home, or relationship. The color yellow also symbolizes happiness, excitement, and optimism.

Proper Occasions for Peonies

Weddings are the most common occasions for white peonies, which are also traditionally given as a 12th wedding anniversary gift. Peonies are also popular for engagements and graduations.

White peonies are also commonly used for funerals due to their symbolism of purity. Pink peonies are popular for Mother’s Day and Valentine’s Day as an alternative to roses and are often mixed with white for a stunning and meaningful wedding bouquet. 

Whatever the reason or occasion, you’re sure to find a peony to fit your needs. 

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Serhii Brovko/Shutterstock.com