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The symbolism of flowers is undeniable. Different flowers carry different meanings, and can be used to say goodbye in a number of ways.
If you’re looking for a way to say goodbye that is both heartfelt and meaningful, consider using flowers as your farewell gesture.
1. The Black Rose
A black rose is often seen as a symbol of death, something that wilts and withers away. However, there is another interpretation of this dark flower.
A black rose can also symbolize strength in the face of adversity, the ability to weather any storm. In this light, the black rose becomes a symbol of hope and resilience.
It is a reminder that even in the darkest of times, we can still find our way forward. Whatever interpretation you choose to believe, there is no denying that the black rose is a powerful symbol with a long history.
Drifting through the ages, it has taken on new meanings and become a part of our shared cultural heritage.
2. Lily Flower
The lily is a ubiquitous symbol of purity and innocence. Its trumpet-shaped blooms are often associated with the
Virgin Mary, and as such, it has come to represent spiritual enlightenment. The lily is also a popular choice for funerals, as its white flowers symbolize hope and new beginnings.
In ancient Greece, the lily was a symbol of fertility, and in China, it is associated with happiness and good fortune.
[Related Article: 9 Flowers That Represent Life]
3. Chrysanthemum
The chrysanthemum is one of the most popular flowers in the world, and it has been associated with a wide range of symbols and meanings.
In China, the chrysanthemum is often seen as a symbol of longevity and vitality, while in Japan it is associated with the autumn season and the impermanence of life.
In Europe, meanwhile, the chrysanthemum is often seen as a symbol of death and rebirth.
Regardless of its cultural associations, the chrysanthemum remains a popular flower for its beautiful appearance and sweet fragrance.
4. Alstroemeria
Alstroemeria, commonly known as the Peruvian lily or lily of the Incas, is a flowering plant that is native to South America.
The flower is named after its discoverer, Swedish botanist Carl von Linné (1707-1778), who was also known as Carolus Linnaeus.
The genus Alstroemeria contains about 150 species, and the flowers come in a wide range of colors, including white, yellow, pink, orange, red, and purple.
The flowers are also often bi-colored or multi-colored. Alstroemeria symbolizes friendship and devotion, and the flowers are often given as gifts to express these sentiments.
They are also popular flowers for bouquets and other floral arrangements.
5. Calla Lily
The calla lily is a beautiful flower that has come to symbolize many things, but most importantly, it represents goodbye.
The word “calla” comes from the Greek word for beauty, and indeed, these flowers are stunning. They are often used in funerals and memorials because of their associations with sadness and loss.
However, the calla lily can also represent new beginnings and hope. In this way, it is the perfect flower to give to someone who is going through a tough time.
Though it may be associated with sad occasions, the calla lily is a reminder that life goes on and that there is always hope for a better tomorrow.
6. Cymbidium
It’s fitting that the cymbidium, also known as the boat orchid, is associated with farewells. After all, its long stem and delicate petals look like they could be easily blown away in the wind.
And while the cymbidium may not be as popular as other flowers, it’s nonetheless a symbol of sadness and loss. In
Chinese culture, for example, the cymbidium is often given to those who are leaving on a long journey. It’s also a popular funeral flower, as it represents the fleeting nature of life.
So next time you’re saying goodbye to someone, consider giving them a cymbidium. It may not last forever, but it will always be remembered.
7. Dahlias
The dahlia is a beautiful flower that has many different meanings. In some cultures, it is a symbol of good luck and abundance.
In others, it represents strength and courage. But in many parts of the world, the Dahlia is seen as a symbol of goodbye.
This is because the dahlia is often one of the last flowers to bloom in the autumn. As the days grow shorter and the leaves begin to fall, the dahlia stands out as a reminder that summer is coming to an end.
For this reason, it has become a popular choice for farewell gifts and bouquets. So if you’re looking for a way to say goodbye to someone you love, consider giving them a dahlia.
8. Freesias
As anyone who has ever given or received a bouquet of freesias knows, these flowers are associated with goodbyes.
Their delicate fragrance and fragile petals convey the bittersweetness of saying farewell to a loved one. However, the meaning of freesias goes even deeper than that.
In Victorian times, freesias were often given to sick patients in hospitals. The flowers were seen as a symbol of hope, reminding the patients that they would soon be well enough to go home.
Today, freesias continue to be associated with both goodbyes and hope.
So, if you ever find yourself giving or receiving a bouquet of these beautiful flowers, take a moment to reflect on their deeper meaning.
9. Hydrangea
For anyone who has ever had to say goodbye, the hydrangea can be a symbol of hope and healing.
The word “hydrangea” comes from the Greek words for “water” and “ vessel,” and the flowers are known for their ability to hold large amounts of water.
This makes them a symbol of strength and resilience, as well as of goodbye. In Japan, the hydrangea is known as the “get well soon” flower, and it is often given to people who are recovering from illness.
The plant is also associated with apologies and forgiveness, making it the perfect gift for someone you are trying to make amends with.
Whether you are saying goodbye to a loved one or trying to make peace with a friend, the hydrangea can be a beautiful way to express your feelings.
10. Lisianthus
Lisianthus has long been associated with farewells and goodbyes. The Greek philosopher Socrates is said to have worn a garland of lisianthus when he was sentenced to death.
In Victorian England, lisianthus was often given to departing friends and loved ones. Today, the flower is still often used to say goodbye.
So, if you’re looking for a way to express your regrets at someone’s departure, or simply want to wish them well on their journey, consider giving them a bouquet of lisianthus.
Conclusion
Flowers are usually associated with happiness and positive occasions, but sometimes they can have a more somber meaning.
For example, the flower known as ‘ goodbye’ is often given to someone who is departing for a long trip. The reason this flower has such a sad name is because it’s mostly used as a way to say farewell to someone who is leaving forever.
While it’s definitely not the most cheerful of flowers, it’s still a beautiful way to show your loved ones that you’ll miss them while they’re away.
So if you ever see this flower in person, remember that it carries a lot of weight behind its petals.