Ancient Beginnings: Flowers in Early Civilizations

The ritual of giving flowers can be traced back o early civilization when flowers had deeper meanings mainly spiritual. Egyptian societies back then used flowers mostly for religious purposes. Flowers were often used as an offering to the deities and the deceased. Similarly, the Greeks and Romans used flowers for religious purposes. The Greeks originally used flowers as props to enhance their storytelling. Later they started exchanging flowers to show affection and form deeper connections. The Romans similarly also began to exchange flowers in order to express feelings and form connections which has now evolved and been normalized all over the globe.

India

In India, offering flowers has been deeply rooted to religious and traditional beliefs. If we go deeper into the past, Mughal emperors always s allocated ample space for gardens which reflect their admiration for blooms. In Hindu culture, flowers have been considered as auspicious since ancient times. They offered flowers to the deities as gesture of gratitude. Over time offering flowers has become an integral part in Indian celebrations, such as festivals, weddings or even ordinary days symbolizing love and respect.

China

In China during Tang and Song dynasties, flowers were featured in arts and poetries reflecting their cultural significance. Flowers are regarded as symbols of honor and prosperity in China. Giving flowers is also linked to philosophical beliefs rooted back especially in Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism. In Chinese culture different flowers signified different meanings. For example, peony symbolizes wealth while flower symbolizes purity. Till today giving flowers remains meaningful gesture in China.

United States

In modern America, gifting flowers are the most common gesture of love and gratitude. This tradition traces back to when European settlers brought with them the notion of Victorian language of flowers or floriography. It was in the 19th century that giving flowers as a gesture to convey feelings became popular and it continues till date.

United Kingdom

In Britain, giving flowers has been shaped by ancient practices. In initial era, flowers were used for medicinal purposes. It was during the Victorian Era when floriography became popular and people started associating giving flower as a way of expressing themselves. The tradition evolved and now British use flowers for almost every occasion be it marriage, funerals or anniversaries.

Japan

The practice of giving flowers in Japan dates back to their ancient cultural and traditional practices. Japanese associate flowers with symbolism and seasonal changes. Ikebana, the art of flower arranging, has been practiced for centuries. It signifies harmony and balance. Flowers hold an important role when it comes to Japanese festivals and ceremonies, such as sakura season (cherry blossom season). In Japanese culture, the significance of flowers expanded during the Edo period where people started associating different flowers symbolizing different sentiments.