It is worth more than a carnation, more elegant than a rose, and symbolic of everything from life, love, and happiness. Whether it is given in a pot or as part of a bouquet, the orchid is known as delicate and luxurious flower. During the times of Zeus in ancient Greece, the orchid symbolized fertility and maternal instinct.
Today, in some parts of the world, the orchid is seen as a flower to represent wealth and status; however, one thing is for sure, the orchid is a flower that has an undeniable beauty that can be enjoyed either alone in a vase or mixed with other flowers in a bouquet.
Read on as we discus more on:
• Different colors of the orchid
• The orchid in history and culture
Different Colors of the Orchid
Did you know that the orchid is a flower that is available in more than just one color?
Here is a breakdown of the most common orchid colors and the meaning behind each one. The last thing you want to do is give a colored orchid to someone you like, but the color you have chosen symbolizes friendship.
Blue
The color blue is considered one of those rare flower colors, as it is not one that is common for a natural color. When you give a blue orchid to someone, you are giving them a flower that is unique, and special. This is a flower you would give to a parent, grandparent, or someone you know that is one-of-a-kind.
Purple
Are you looking to give a flower that symbolizes admiration and royalty? The purple orchid is one that does just that. If you have a mentor or someone who has influenced and positively impacted your life, surprise them with a bouquet of purple orchids. A choice flower for any mentor, teacher, or colleague.
Red
No matter the flower, anytime you see or receive the color red, it represents love. Not only does it represent love, red orchids are also known to symbolize passion. This is the perfect floral gift to give someone you are in a relationship with. Giving a red orchid is a great alternative to the commonly gifted red rose or carnation.
Pink
Are you looking for a flower to gift your daughter? Sister or mother? The pink orchid represents feminism and grace. It also represents innocence, which is why this flower and color choice is a great birthday gift for a girl.
White
Celebrating a newborn? Getting married? A white orchid is one that symbolizes purity, innocence, and beauty. The white orchid, while it is commonly given to someone celebrating a birth or a marriage, it is also a common choice of flower to give someone who has undergone an operation or is in the hospital. There is something about a white flower, regardless of the kind, that can be both refreshing and hopeful.
Yellow
Bring a little joy into someone’s life with yellow orchids. Yellow is a color that represents joy and happiness and is a great floral choice for anyone seeking some encouragement and support.
Green
Four-leaf clovers aren’t the only flower that represents good-luck, there is now the green orchid. This manually created orchid is one way of symbolizing positivity and good fortune. Maybe this St. Patrick’s Day, give the Irish some good luck with green orchids.
Multi-colored
Can’t decide on one color? Check with your florist to ask if they can create a multi-colored orchid for you. Some florists have the ability to customize the orchid’s color to the point that they can even come multi-colored, if not rainbow. What better way to show your special-someone just how much they mean to you by gifting them customized and personalized colored orchids.
A Look at the Orchid in History and Culture
Cultural Influence – In many South American countries, the orchid is seen as a national flower. The orchid, to many cultures in Colombia, Venezuela, and Mexico, is a symbol of strength, beauty, and love. In other countries in Europe, the orchid is perceived as representing social status, whereas, in North American cultures, the orchid is available to anyone and everyone.
Culinary Use – In Australia, the orchid is often regarded as a food that is similar to the potato. Many aboriginals use parts of the orchids in their dishes by grounding the flower to a fine-powder. Other ways of consuming the orchid include being consumed as a beverage or as part of a dessert. In North American cuisines, the orchid is not typically consumed but rather used as a form of décor on the plate, especially on desserts.
Cosmetic and Fashion Appeal – The orchid has a sweet scent that makes it a popular perfume choice. The Orchid is also a flower that is often seen as an inspiration for many make-up designers and outfits. In Hawaii, the orchid is an inspiration for many Hawaiian shirts – that while tacky, is a popular fashion choice for visitors.
Decoration – The orchid, especially a fresh cut one, can add a splash of color and life to any room, not to mention giving someone orchids can brighten up their day. For those who are a bit more ambitious, orchids can be given as a plant in a pot. The maintenance of a potted orchid does require some research and preparation. Orchids are also a great flower choice for weddings, and baby showers.
Why Give an Orchid?
The orchids symbolism is just one of the many reasons it is an ideal floral choice. Unlike the rose, the orchid is perceived as a flower that can speak wonders to the recipient. Depending on the color, you can say “I love you,” or, “I miss you,” all with a bouquet of orchids.
Orchids have a life-span of nearly 10 weeks, which is longer than most floral bouquets, which is just another reason that the orchid is a stunning and rare beauty that can make a great gift. Whether it’s for Mother’s Day, an anniversary, or a “just because,” orchids are worth every penny spent.
The next time you are in the market to send flowers, remember that orchids not only can say what you feel, but they are a gift that is sure to outlast most other flowers.