Flowers carry profound symbolic meanings that vary beautifully across cultures. Here’s a florist guide to choosing the perfect blooms for anniversary celebrations around the world.
East Asia
China Peonies are the quintessential choice for anniversaries, symbolizing prosperity, honor, and a happy marriage. Red roses have also become popular, representing passionate love. Orchids convey refinement and mature beauty—perfect for marking years together.
Japan Cherry blossoms (sakura) represent the beauty and fleeting nature of life, making them meaningful for celebrating time together. Chrysanthemums, despite their funeral associations in some cultures, symbolize longevity and rejuvenation in Japan. Red camellias express deep love and devotion.
Korea Roses remain popular, but consider mugunghwa (hibiscus)—Korea’s national flower—which represents immortality and eternal love. White chrysanthemums are avoided as they’re associated with mourning.
South Asia
India Marigolds (genda) are auspicious flowers used in celebrations, symbolizing passion and creativity. Jasmine represents divine hope and purity, while lotus flowers symbolize spiritual enlightenment and the unfolding of love. Rose petals scattered during celebrations represent beauty and devotion.
Middle East
General Traditions Red roses are universally appreciated for expressing romantic love. White flowers like jasmine and orange blossoms symbolize purity and are often used in celebrations. In Persian culture, tulips represent perfect love—contrary to Western associations with spring alone.
Europe
France Red roses reign supreme as expressions of passionate love. Lily of the valley (muguet) brings good luck, while peonies represent bashfulness and romance.
Italy Red roses for passion, white lilies for purity, and sunflowers for adoration and loyalty—perfect for long marriages. Avoid chrysanthemums, which are funeral flowers.
United Kingdom Traditional anniversary flowers by year include carnations (1st), lilies (30th), and roses (15th). Modern couples often choose personal favorites or seasonal British blooms like sweet peas or roses.
Russia Always give flowers in odd numbers (even numbers are for funerals). Red roses express deep love, while tulips represent perfect love. Peonies symbolize a happy life and bashfulness.
Latin America
Mexico Marigolds (cempasúchil) are celebratory flowers rich with cultural significance. Red roses express passion, while orchids represent strength, beauty, and love.
Brazil Tropical orchids are highly prized and represent refined beauty. Roses in various colors are popular, with red for passion and yellow for friendship that has deepened into love.
Africa
South Africa Proteas—the national flower—symbolize transformation and hope, making them meaningful for anniversaries. Roses and lilies are also popular choices.
North Africa Jasmine is especially meaningful, representing beauty and sensuality. Roses and orange blossoms are traditional in wedding and anniversary celebrations.
North America
United States & Canada Traditional anniversary flowers by year include:
- 1st: Carnations (new love)
- 10th: Daffodils (new beginnings)
- 25th: Iris (faith and hope)
- 50th: Yellow roses and violets (lasting joy)
Red roses remain the universal symbol of romantic love.
Universal Considerations
Colors Matter Everywhere:
- Red: Passion, romantic love
- White: Purity, new beginnings (but funeral associations in some East Asian cultures)
- Yellow: Friendship, joy (can mean jealousy in some European traditions)
- Pink: Gratitude, admiration, gentleness
- Purple: Royalty, dignity, success
Numbers Count: In Russia and some Eastern European cultures, give odd numbers. In Chinese culture, even numbers (especially pairs) are luckier for celebrations. The number 4 is unlucky (sounds like “death”), while 8 and 9 are fortunate.
When in Doubt: Research your partner’s specific cultural background or ask family members about traditional preferences. The most meaningful gesture is often choosing flowers that reflect your shared experiences or hold personal significance to your relationship—perhaps blooms from your wedding or first date.
The beauty of anniversary flowers lies not just in cultural tradition, but in the thoughtfulness of choosing blooms that honor both heritage and personal love story.
