Across five thousand years of Chinese civilization, flowers have never been mere objects of natural beauty. They are deeply embedded cultural symbols, carrying emotions, moral values, and philosophical reflections. Unlike the relatively standardized “flower language” system in the West, Chinese floral symbolism related to love is subtle, layered, and diverse—shaped by phonetic associations, historical stories, literary traditions, and folk wisdom.
Flowers in Chinese culture do more than express affection; they reveal how love is understood, how marriage is envisioned, and how harmony and longevity are valued. This article offers a systematic exploration of flowers that symbolize love in Chinese tradition, decoding the cultural meanings behind them from antiquity to modern life.
I. Rose: A Localized Symbol of Love Influenced by the West
1. The Acceptance and Evolution of Roses in China
Although roses are native to China, their association with romantic love largely emerged through Western cultural influence.
- In ancient Chinese texts, “rose” often referred to gemstones or jade rather than flowers.
- While roses were recorded as plants during the Tang Dynasty, they were not primarily symbols of love.
- During the late Qing Dynasty and early Republican period, Western ideas reshaped the rose into a modern symbol of romance.
2. Modern Color Symbolism
Red Roses
Symbolizing passionate love, red roses are the classic choice for proposals and anniversaries.
- 1 rose: Love at first sight
- 11 roses: A lifetime together
- 33 roses: Love across three lifetimes
- 99 roses: Eternal love
- 108 roses: Marriage proposal
- 999 roses: Endless devotion
Pink Roses
- First love and romantic beginnings
- Gentle affection and appreciation
- Gratitude and emotional warmth
White Roses
- Pure and sincere love
- Popular in modern weddings
- Should be used cautiously in traditional families
Champagne Roses
- Mature, elegant love
- Low-key luxury
- Suitable for long-term partners and refined occasions
II. Peony: The Traditional Symbol of Prosperous Love
1. The “King of Flowers” and Its Romantic Meaning
The peony holds an exalted position in Chinese culture and represents a form of love that is dignified, abundant, and enduring.
- Associated with national prosperity during the Tang Dynasty
- A symbol of marriage and love in the Song Dynasty
- Widely used in wedding customs during the Ming and Qing periods
2. Peonies in Weddings
- Traditional bridal hair ornaments
- Wedding chamber decorations
- Peony motifs on dowries and ceremonial objects
Color Meanings
- Red peony: Traditional celebration and good fortune
- Pink peony: Romance and warmth
- White peony: Elegance and modern simplicity
III. Lotus: The Philosophy of Harmonious Love
1. Core Symbolism of the Lotus
- “He” (lotus) sounds like harmony
- “Lian” (lotus root) sounds like connection
- Symbolizes marital harmony and unity
2. Cultural Meanings
- Purity of love
- Emotional continuity (“lotus root breaks, silk remains”)
- Fertility and family prosperity
IV. Osmanthus: Noble and Enduring Love
1. Phonetic and Mythological Meaning
- “Gui” sounds like “noble” and “return”
- Associated with the Moon Palace and eternal love
2. Wedding Applications
- Osmanthus-scented desserts
- Wedding fragrances and keepsakes
- Autumn weddings and Mid-Autumn Festival ceremonies
V. Lily: “A Hundred Years of Harmony”
1. Cultural Integration
Lilies entered China through Western influence but quickly became localized due to their auspicious Chinese name.
- Symbol of “a hundred years of harmony in marriage”
- One of the most popular modern wedding flowers
2. Color Choices
- White lilies: Purity and elegance
- Pink lilies: Romance and tenderness
- Yellow lilies: Wealth and dignity (used cautiously)
VI. Peach Blossom: Romance and Opportunity
1. Cultural Meaning
- Symbol of romantic fortune (“peach blossom luck”)
- Associated with youth, spring, and new beginnings
2. Literary Influence
From the Book of Songs to Tang and Song poetry, peach blossoms have long symbolized love and destiny.
VII. Twin Lotus: The Ultimate Symbol of Marital Unity
- Two flowers growing from one stem
- Symbol of shared destiny and unwavering devotion
- Auspicious and extremely rare
VIII. Begonia: Subtle and Refined Love
- Favored by scholars and poets
- Represents deep, enduring affection
- Ideal for long-term partnerships
IX. Plum Blossom: Love Through Hardship
- Symbol of resilience and loyalty
- Represents love that withstands adversity
- Best used with cultural understanding
X. Regional and Ethnic Love Flowers
Southern China
- Kapok (Guangzhou): Heroic and steadfast love
- Jasmine (Fuzhou): Gentle and lasting affection
Ethnic Traditions
- Gesang flower (Tibet): Happiness and blessings
- Hydrangea (Zhuang culture): Courtship and unity
Conclusion: The Philosophy of Love in Chinese Flower Culture
Flowers that symbolize love in Chinese culture form a rich and evolving system. From classical restraint to modern expression, from spiritual ideals to everyday rituals, these flowers embody how love is understood, cherished, and sustained.
Rooted in tradition yet open to innovation, Chinese floral symbolism reminds us that love—like flowers—draws strength from deep roots while always reaching toward the light.
