NEW YORK, May 8 — While the celebratory recognition of Mother’s Day transcends borders, the traditional American pairing of roses and carnations is increasingly giving way to a rich, global tapestry of symbolic blooms honoring mothers worldwide. A survey of diverse cultural practices reveals that flowers chosen for the holiday often reflect deeply held societal values regarding resilience, longevity, elegance, and devotion.

Across dozens of countries, the floral tribute acts as a nuanced language, each species carrying a specific weight of gratitude, respect, and admiration. This divergence from Western floriculture traditions offers insight into how different cultures define and celebrate the maternal bond.

Beyond the Carnation: Symbolism Anchors Tradition

The carnation, solidified as the seminal Mother’s Day flower by American founder Anna Jarvis in the early 20th century, remains a fixture in the United States and Europe, symbolizing deep love and devotion. Specifically, the white carnation is reserved to commemorate deceased mothers, while the pink variety signifies a mother’s eternal affection.

However, in East Asia, the chrysanthemum often takes precedence. Revered as the “flower of life” in ancient Chinese tradition, the chrysanthemum is predominantly associated with longevity, resilience, and loyalty—qualities intensely valued in depictions of motherhood across Japan, Korea, and China. Presenting this bloom signifies acknowledging a mother’s steadfast support over a lifetime, rather than just immediate affection.

Further east in Thailand and Singapore, the elegant orchid is a favored Mother’s Day gift. Instead of conveying simple beauty, the orchid symbolizes grace, inner strength, and refinement. Its delicate yet tenacious structure reflects the balance between a mother’s tender care and her enduring emotional fortitude.

Prosperity and Quiet Admiration

Other regions embrace flowers symbolizing abundance and emotional warmth. In China, the peony is hailed as the “king of flowers,” linking maternal figures not only to love, but also to honor, prosperity, and respect. Its lush, full blossoms evoke the desire for the mother’s continuous happiness and well-being.

Similarly, in Europe, particularly the Netherlands, tulips embody cheerfulness and appreciation. Their simple, vibrant form and wide array of colors—with pink often conveying affection and red representing deep love—make them a popular choice for expressing unadulterated joy and gratitude.

Conversely, some cultures opt for more subtle forms of admiration. The intensely fragrant gardenia, favored in parts of the U.S. and Asia, communicates purity, refinement, and a form of secret, profound respect. Its intoxicating scent acts as a sophisticated, quiet tribute to a mother’s nurturing influence.

Exotic Blooms Reflect Unique Maternal Qualities

For those seeking to convey highly personalized messages, exotic specimens are gaining traction. South African cultures might incorporate the striking protea, which signifies courage and transformation, reflecting the bold, adaptive nature of motherhood. Meanwhile, the flame-like Gloriosa lily symbolizes passion and intense admiration.

Experts note that this global diversity underscores the fact that the floral tribute is less about the bloom itself and more about the cultural significance attached to it.

“Selecting a Mother’s Day flower is a profound act of communicating inherited values,” notes Dr. Elara Vance, a cultural anthropologist focusing on celebratory customs. “The choice reflects not only personal feelings but also the broader societal ideals of what it means to be a matriarch—it’s a living expression of cultural identity.”

Ultimately, whether through the enduring symbolism of the carnation or the elegance of an orchid, the act of giving flowers remains a universal gesture, with each petal, color, and fragrance telling a story of enduring love and respect for the woman who has shaped a life.

母親節送什麼花？