First found growing in Africa and Asia, the mimosa flower is a sunny bloom that prefers to be grown in warm climates. It is now found all over the world, however, growing in areas like the United States and even Australia.
This lovely flower is often taken as a sign of joy, but the symbolism doesn’t end there. Here’s what you need to know about this prolific bloom.
What Does Mimosa Mean?
The mimosa flower is a genus of roughly 400 different shrubs and herbs. The name is derived from the Greek “mimos,” which means an “actor” or “mime,” while the suffix means “resembling.” This is likely because the leaves are said to mimic conscious life.
The full scientific name of the plant is Mimosa tenuiflora.
Mimosa plant is a beautiful tree which produces yellow flowers that bloom in winter. It goes by many names including acacia dealbata (scientific name) and the silver wattle or blue wattle.
What Do Mimosas Symbolize?
One of the most common yellow flowers used in symbolic poetry and other messaging, the mimosa flower typically represents the sun. It can be used to symbolize the nature of secret love – nobody knows that I love you! – or it can be used to symbolize increased sensitivity or safety, too.
Mimosa flowers are often tied to themes of sense and good sensibility. They can be used to show that you wish to “expand” your life, too, whether that’s in terms of your career, your family, or even travel.
In some cultures, the flower is more directly tied to sensitivity and is given as a gesture of mourning. In the United States, mimosa flowers are tied to Women’s Day. It’s used to symbolize International Women’s Day and to honor Jewish immigrant women in particular.
What is the Cultural Significance of a Mimosa?
Mimosa flowers have been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine. The bark and leaves are also used, with the bark in particular known as a helpful tonic when it comes to cleaning the energetic pathways of the body (usually the heart and liver).
The flower can provide a significant spiritual boost and is known as the Collective Happiness Bark by these people as a result.
Mimosa in Traditional Medicine
Mimosa flowers were also once used by the ancient Mayans to treat burns and injuries as well as for other medicinal properties.
Today, it is still frequently used in homeopathic medicine (the bark, in particular) to treat coughs, colds, pain, and inflammatory conditions. Its uses in traditional medicine were once widespread, though not as common today.
Mimosa Flower Meaning for Women
In Russia, the mimosa flower is also a symbol of women’s activism and solidarity. In the early 20th century, Russian women began to organize and participate in political movements, advocating for women’s rights and suffrage.
On March 8th, 1917, which later became International Women’s Day, thousands of women marched through the streets of Petrograd, carrying banners and flowers, including the mimosa.
In 1921, the first National Women’s Union in Italy chose the mimosa flower as its emblem. It signified the importance of women’s solidarity and unity in the face of social and economic challenges.
What is the Symbolism of a Mimosa Tattoo?
The mimosa tattoo is often used to indicate symbols of sun and gold, as well as the victory of life over death. If you choose one of these tattoos, you may simply wish to convey your sensitivity, too.
When Should You Give Someone a Mimosa?
Mimosa flowers are appropriate for just about any occasion, but they are usually given at funerals and to show your sympathy in times of mourning. However, they can also be given to celebrate happier occasions or larger, more symbolic events – like Women’s Day – as well.
With their sunny nature and ability to add a ton of beauty to an arrangement, these bright flowers are perfect for practically any event.
Image by TravelTelly/depositphotos
