daylily symbolism

Interesting Daylily Flower Meaning and Symbolism You Want To Know

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From the calla lily to the peace lily, there are all kinds of lilies that you can grow in your garden. While not all lilies – the daily included – are considered “true lilies”, they all offer their own unique beauty and mystique.

Enshrined in that beauty is some deep symbolism. If you’re interested in learning more about the hidden meaning of this illustrious flower, you’ve come to the right place.

What Does Daylily Mean?

catherine woodbury daylily

Daylilies are aptly named. They bloom during the day and then close at night so the literal translation makes a lot of sense. Daylilies used to be part of the Liliaceae family, but since they are no longer viewed as true lilies, they are housed in the Asphodelaceae family, under the genus Hemerocallis.

The name of this genus comes from the Greek words “hemera,” which means “day” and “kalles,” which means “beauty.” The loose translation of this is “beautiful for one day,” since each daylily flower remains open for just a day.

What Does a White Daylily Mean?

As with many types of flowers, a white daylily symbolizes innocence, purity, perfection, and honesty. It is frequently associated with the Virgin Mary and viewed as a holy or religious flower. 

What Does an Orange or Yellow Daylily Mean?

yellow daylily

Orange or yellow daylilies are most often used to symbolize joy, love, courage, beauty, and devotion. A darker orange daily – or even one that is redder – could symbolize deeper passion.

What Does the Daylily Flower Symbolize? 

The day lily is a flower that represents the sacrifice that a mother makes for her child. It can also represent the filial devotion that a child has to his or her own mother. It can have many other meanings besides this, too. For example, if the day lily is poised in a cheerful fashion, it indicates good luck.

The day lily also serves as a symbol of flirtation. Because it blooms at sunrise and closes at sunset, it shows that it doesn’t intend to stay around long. That’s just like a flirt, isn’t it?

Daylilies come in many shapes, sizes, and colors, each of which plays a role in the overall meaning and symbolism of the flower. 

meaning of daylily flower

What is the Cultural Significance of the Daylily?

The day lily is surrounded by a great deal of superstition! In some cultures, people believe that the day lily is closely related to forgetfulness and loss of memory. People once believed that the blossoms could help you forget difficult memories, including those of sorrow and pain.

In China, superstitions surrounding daily life relate to birth. A pregnant woman who wishes for a boy is told to wear a daily girdle, which will increase the likelihood of a male birth.

What is the Symbolism of a Daylily Flower Tattoo?

The lily is a fantastic choice for a flower tattoo. It represents purity, modesty, along with sensitivity. It can also symbolize the beginning or end of life and can represent the acceptance of both stages. 

When Should You Give Someone a Daylily Flower? 

You can give daylilies on any occasion, but they are wonderful flowers for Mother’s Day. Since they are often viewed as matronly flowers, giving a mother a bouquet of lilies is a great way to show your appreciation and devotion to her.

These flowers are also commonly given for various occasions in the springtime, which is when they are first and in full bloom.

See more: Companion plants to grow with daylilies

*Featured Photo by PantherMediaSeller/depositphotos

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