Guide to Flower Symbolism When Sending Flowers to a Chinese Recipient

In Chinese culture, flowers carry rich symbolic meanings and are often used to convey sentiments ranging from congratulations and admiration to sympathy and respect. However, choosing the right flower involves more than just aesthetics—it requires cultural sensitivity to colors, numbers, and specific flower types.

General Etiquette for Gifting Flowers

When giving flowers in a Chinese context, avoid white flowers unless you are expressing condolences or attending a funeral. White, especially white chrysanthemums, is associated with mourning and death. The number four should also be avoided, as the word for four sounds similar to the word for "death" in Chinese (both are pronounced "sì" in Mandarin). On the other hand, auspicious numbers like eight (which sounds like wealth) and nine (which represents longevity) are favored.

Always present flowers in a neat, tasteful arrangement. In formal or traditional settings, bold or gaudy arrangements might be considered inappropriate.

Flower Meanings and When to Give Them

Peonies are among the most respected flowers in Chinese culture. Often called the "king of flowers," they symbolize wealth, prosperity, and honor. These make excellent gifts for weddings or for celebrating business achievements.

Orchids represent elegance, refinement, and friendship. They're ideal for professional settings, birthdays, or as a gesture of admiration, especially among colleagues or acquaintances.

Chrysanthemums carry different meanings depending on the context. In general, yellow or gold chrysanthemums represent longevity and nobility, making them suitable for birthdays, especially for elders. However, white chrysanthemums are strongly associated with funerals and should not be given casually.

Lotus flowers symbolize purity, spiritual awakening, and inner strength. With strong ties to Buddhism, they’re appropriate for religious occasions, weddings, or as thoughtful gifts for someone going through a personal journey or transformation.

Plum blossoms stand for resilience and perseverance, as they bloom in the winter snow. These are especially meaningful gifts during winter birthdays or when wishing someone strength during a difficult time.

Roses, much like in the West, symbolize love and passion. Red roses are best for romantic occasions like Valentine’s Day or anniversaries. Pink roses can convey admiration and sweetness, while yellow roses often represent friendship—but caution is advised, as yellow can also suggest betrayal or a fading relationship depending on tone and context.

Lilies symbolize lasting harmony and union. In Chinese, the name "baihe" sounds like “a hundred years of harmony,” making them especially appropriate for weddings and anniversaries.

Sunflowers are symbols of warmth, happiness, and longevity. Their vibrant appearance makes them great for celebrations such as graduations, job promotions, or housewarmings.

Hydrangeas represent gratitude and heartfelt emotion. They are thoughtful as thank-you gifts or when expressing sincerity, though meanings can vary regionally.

Flowers to Avoid

As mentioned, white chrysanthemums are strongly linked to death and mourning. They are suitable only for funerals or expressing condolences. Likewise, avoid giving any type of flower in sets of four, as this number carries inauspicious connotations.

Camellias, while beautiful, may be considered unlucky in certain regions due to the way their petals drop suddenly, which some interpret as symbolizing sudden loss or sorrow.

Choosing Flowers for Specific Occasions

For weddings, lilies, peonies, and orchids are excellent choices. Avoid somber colors or overly subdued arrangements.

For birthdays, consider orchids or chrysanthemums for elders, and roses or lilies for younger recipients. Plum blossoms are especially thoughtful for winter birthdays.

When sending flowers for business or professional milestones, orchids and peonies are safe and elegant. Lucky bamboo is also a popular choice for symbolizing growth and success.

For romantic gestures, red or pink roses remain the most direct expression of love. Peonies or lilies can also express devotion and lasting affection.

If you're expressing condolences, white lilies or chrysanthemums in a minimal, tasteful arrangement are appropriate. These should be sent only in situations involving loss or mourning.

To add a layer of cultural respect and good fortune, consider attaching a red envelope (hóngbāo) with your flower gift, especially around holidays or celebratory events. Including a handwritten message or card with well-wishes in simplified Chinese (for mainland recipients) adds a warm, personal touch.