11 Flowers That Symbolize Wisdom

Throughout history, flowers have been used to convey meanings that words simply can’t describe. Some people gift flowers as a gesture of romantic love, while others give them to express congratulations. There are countless flowers in this world, and they symbolize countless different meanings. Today, let’s explore 11 flowers that completely embody wisdom, intelligence, and truth-seeking.

1. Lotus

Although many people have come to know the lotus as a symbol of purity and spirituality, this flower also represents wisdom and the quest for knowledge. As we go through life, we find ourselves facing countless challenges along the way. The lotus represents the journey of overcoming these hardships and growing intellectually and emotionally throughout the process.

2. Iris

The classic blue iris is one of the most iconic symbols of wisdom among all flowers. This flower in particular represents the pursuit of the truth and the desire to deeply understand the world’s nature. Other meanings that this flower carries are ambition, hope, bravery, and perseverence.

3. Aster

Asters are breathtaking flowers that have a similar appearance to daisies. However, these flowers carry a vastly different meaning. Asters are typically symbols of wisdom, faith during difficult times, and celestial bodies. According to the Penn State Extension, “According to folklore, the Greek goddess Astraea was saddened by how few stars appeared in the night sky. She was so distraught that she began to cry. As tears streamed down her face and hit the ground, they grew into beautiful star-shaped aster flowers.”

4. Sunflower

Sunflowers naturally grow towards the sun. Because of this, many people have interpreted this behavior as these plants naturally seeking the light, the truth, and spiritual enlightenment. The sunflower also symbolizes emotional intelligence, empathy, creativity, and devotion.

5. Lavender

In addition to being aesthetically pleasing, soothing, medicinal, and easy to grow, lavender also carries deep spiritual meaning. This flower symbolizes relaxation, meditation, elegance, silence, and of course, wisdom. Many consider lavender to be a contemplative flower that helps give those who plant it inner peace.

6. Marigold

Marigolds have long symbolized concepts such as joy, good fortune, and a lust for life. However, did you know that this flower also carries the meaning of wisdom as well? These golden blossoms are thought to resemble rays of the sun itself, which is symbolic of truthfulness and clarity. Marigolds help those who cultivate them see the world for how it truly is.

7. Lily of the Valley

Although lilies of the valley aren’t as flashy as other flowers we’ve discussed today, these tiny white blossoms pack a punch spiritually. Lillies of the valley represent innocence, purity, good fortune, and humility. However, these flowers also carry the meaning of sincerity, transparency, and the quest for the truth.

8. Spider Lily

The spider lily is a somewhat controversial flower that carries several meanings and interpretations. While some people think of this flower as an omen of death and loss, others revere it as a symbol of courage, wisdom, and rebirth.

9. Sage

Many people have heard the expression “sage wisdom,” but where does this come from? A “sophos,” or “sage,” in ancient Greece was a person who had gained a great amount of wisdom throughout their lifetime. In turn, these highly intelligent individuals would then share their findings with others. As a flower, sage is thought to grant those who cultivate it wisdom as well and it helps individuals who seek knowledge develop their own intuition.

10. Chrysanthemum

Also sometimes called the “mum,” the chrysanthemum is well known for representing joy, renewal, and protection. However, this flower also represents the gradual accumulation of wisdom throughout time. According to The Arts Society, “As the symbol of autumn, the Chinese chrysanthemum is imbued with the wisdom and life force of the summer that has passed. It brings health and energy to face the winter ahead, especially to those that drink traditional chrysanthemum tea and bring flowers to lay on the revered graves of the ancestors.”

11. Clematis

While some flowers we’ve discussed are representative of truthfulness or the pursuit of intelligence, clematis flowers are symbolic of cleverness and mental fortitude. These beautiful, large flowers help inspire individuals to overcome their problems pragmatically and to think outside the box. They also represent the union of beauty and wisdom.