Usually referred to as a mum, the Chrysanthemum flower is a beautiful plant used in landscaping. Also a popular cut flower, this gorgeous bloom has a humble appearance, but powerful symbolic meaning.
You might give Chrysanthemum flowers to others simply because you believe they are beautiful—as many people do—but there is plenty of deeply hidden symbolism to this plant that you need to be aware of, too.
What Does Chrysanthemum Mean?
It’s easy to remember the scientific name for the Chrysanthemum flower since it is the same as the common name—Chrysanthemum! This is not something you’ll always find in botany.
Interestingly, though, there are several exhibition varieties of the Chrysanthemum flower that are used by florists. These are divided into their own genus, Dendranthema.
Usually, the mums that you grow in your backyard are part of the Chrysanthemum genus while those sold at flower shops are Dendranthema.
However, regardless of the scientific name, all Chrysanthemum flowers share a common Greek naming. The word “Chrysos” means gold, and “Anthemon” means flower.
The name reflects both the beauty and symbolism of the flower, which is most frequently found in shades of orange and yellow.
What Do Chrysanthemums Symbolize?
Chrysanthemum flowers are most commonly used to symbolize friendship, and not just a passing friendship, but one that is truly meaningful. This gorgeous flower can also symbolize trust among friends as well.
Following that trend, the Chrysanthemum flower can be used to symbolize loyalty and devotion. This loyalty can be toward a friend or a romantic partner—the flower is also used to symbolize romantic or platonic love.
The flower is often used as a general symbol of positive energy. This is why it is often used to cheer someone up at a time of need, but it can also just be used to make a day more beautiful and enjoyable. Chrysanthemum flowers are used to symbolize other common themes like rebirth and enduring life, too.
What Does a White Chrysanthemum Flower Mean?
White Chrysanthemum flowers symbolize purity, spirituality, and innocence. They can really be gifted to anyone at any time.
What Does a Red Chrysanthemum Flower Symbolize?
Red Chrysanthemum flowers are perfect gifts for Valentine’s day. They can symbolize friendship and devotion but usually symbolize stronger emotions, like romantic love.
What Does a Pink Chrysanthemum Flower Mean?
Give someone a Chrysanthemum flower, and you will most likely be giving it as a symbol of love and devotion. You would give this color flower to someone you really love or like a lot.
What Does a Yellow Chrysanthemum Flower Represent?
Yellow Chrysanthemum flowers usually symbolize joy and happiness.
What is the Cultural Significance of a Chrysanthemum?
The Chrysanthemum flower has serious cultural significance, grown in many regions around the world, and valued for its symbolic implications.
In Australia, for instance, Chrysanthemum flowers are often given on Mother’s Day. Victorian cultures considered it a flower that was strictly given to commemorate friendship. It could also be given to people to help them get well.
In Japan, the Chrysanthemum flower represents the royal family of the Emperor. However, in New Orleans, the flower is only used for All Saints Day celebrations.
Finally, in Chinese culture, the Chrysanthemum flower is a symbol of the dead and is often referred to as one of the Four Gentlemen in Chinese culture, frequently used as a symbol in artworks.
In fact, the flower was first grown in China, where it was cultivated from wild blossoms.
What is the Symbolism of a Chrysanthemum Tattoo?
Chrysanthemum tattoos are most popular when chosen as symbols of rebirth. Since they are often given at events like weddings, baptisms, births, and birthdays, these flowers can also symbolize new beginnings, joy, and peace. Overall, a chrysanthemum tattoo has very positive connotations.
When Should You Give Someone a Chrysanthemum?
Although you can give a Chrysanthemum flower to anybody at just about any time of the year, the best time to do so is when you have a friend who is facing some kind of obstacle or has experienced a life-altering event.
Chrysanthemum is also a November birth flower, so if you have any friends or family members that have birthday in this month, you can give them this flower.
See more: How To Grow and Care for Chrysanthemums
*Photo by saharrr/depositphotos
