The meaning and psychology of flower colours

For many centuries, the language of flowers has held significance across the world. Flower and plant symbolism can even be found woven into the mythologies, folklore, sonnets, and plays of the ancient Greeks! By the 1800s, flower symbolism was a popular pastime with virtually every Victorian household possessing guidebooks dedicated to unravelling the "language" of flowers.  

In recent years, there has been a huge advancement in colour psychology and the impact of hues on human behaviour.

What do different colours symbolise?

Colour psychology is an integral part of colour theory, forming emotional and psychological links between colours and human emotions. While some colours hold universal significance, others are culturally influenced and reflect specific meanings within particular societies.

In this blog, we'll uncover different colour flower meanings, exploring what colours signify friendship and love to which colours represent good luck and fortune!

The meaning of colours on the left side of the colour wheel

What is the meaning of the colour red?

What is the meaning of the colour orange?

What is the meaning of the colour yellow?

What is the meaning of the colour pink?

The vibrant hues of reds, oranges and yellows found on the left side of the colour wheel evoke the warmth of the sun and the intensity of fire. Opting for flower arrangements in these shades can convey a sense of comfort, akin to the soothing rays of the sun.

The left side of the colour wheel features warmer hues which create a cosy and safe feeling, making these colours a favourable choice for spaces of comfort - like sitting rooms and bedrooms."

What is the meaning of the colour red?

The colour red commands the upmost attention and is linked with powerful emotions, notably love and passion. Universally recognised as the symbol of eternal love, red holds a significant place in conveying deep and enduring affection. Beyond its romantic connotations, red is a robust colour that conveys power and courage.

In Asian cultures, red is seen to be lucky as well as a symbol of prosperity, happiness, and good fortune.

Red roses are universally known as the 'flower of love and romance' however roses are not the only red flower to convey this message. Red tulips, lilies and carnations also convey love and affection."

Looking to express the gift of love? Fall in love with our artificial regal bouquet. Elegant and timeless, this faux bouquet is the ideal choice for those who revel in romantic sentiments.

What is the meaning of the colour orange?

Orange exudes vibrancy, boldness and fun!

Whether combined with other colours or presented on its own, orange flowers radiate with life and excitement, symbolising joy, warmth and happiness. Those with passionate spirits in your life will instantly connect with the energy of our orange arrangements, like our tequila sunrise bouquet, or our happy orange arrangement.  

What is the meaning of the colour yellow?

Commonly associated with the summer season, yellow creates a fresh yet warm look to any space that exudes happiness, optimism and friendship.

Yellow flowers are great to gift those starting a new chapter because of their association with positivity and new beginnings."

Statement flowers, such as sunflowers, lilies and gerbera daisies create a bold and bright look, while smaller yellow flowers like forsythia, sweet pea and buttercup sprays create are more subtle and delicate.

Whether you're buying a yellow flower arrangement as a housewarming gift, or to spice up your own home, you can be sure that these bright and cheery flowers will make you feel uplifted and happy!

Want the look of the a summer flower arrangement, but none of the fuss? Take a look at our stunning sunflower- filled lazy days bouquet or our garden-inspired sensational bouquet. Looking for something bespoke? Check out our yellow flower styling tips.

What is the meaning of the colour pink? 

From small buds to fully bloomed peonies, pink flowers are the go-to colour to include in your arrangement, embodying grace, innocence, and platonic love.

Whether you're gifting for a birthday, or a graduation, pink flowers show you care, without the heavy romantic connotations associated with similar shades. Want to learn more about gifting flowers for a birthday? Take a look at our 'birth flowers and artificial alternatives' blog post.

Brimming with beautiful blush hues, our pre-made artificial flower arrangements are a quick and easy way to add a pop of pretty pink to your home, without any of the hassle. To help you find the perfect pink, we have complied our top pink picks below...

The meaning of colours on the right side of the colour wheel

What is the meaning of the colour blue?

What is the meaning of the colour green?

What is the meaning of the colour purple?

What is the meaning of the colour white?

In contrast to the left side of the colour wheel, the right side encompasses greens, blues, indigos and violets, which are reminiscent of earth and water. 

In this part of the blog, we explore why cool colours are associated with positive health, wisdom, and peace - let's get stuck in...

What is the meaning of the colour blue?

Blue tones create a refreshing and tranquil atmosphere by embodying the relaxing effects of water.

Although blue shades are often associated with sadness, blue flowers, however, aren't, and instead are associated with qualities such as trust, wisdom, and mystery."

To create an opulent yet calming arrangement, we combined beautiful blue hues with delicate purple lisianthus in our artificial tranquil bunch.

A bouquet featuring fresh blue flowers also provides a soothing remedy for anxiety. To learn more about how the mental health benefits of flowers and plants, check out our 'the mental health benefits of artificial plants' blog post.

What is the meaning of the colour green?

The colour green is directly tied to connotations of nature, linking to themes of rebirth and renewal. Moreover, green symbolises good fortune and youthfulness. Surrounding yourself with the myriad of green plants can evoke these positive feelings and create a sense of vitality and well-being. 

Add a mix of uplifting green foliage and calm elegance to any room with our artificial fauxliage bouquet, or add the ultimate example of floral zen to your home with our eucalyptus bunch.

What is the meaning of the colour purple?

Rooted in royalty and ceremonial traditions, purple flowers symbolise dignity, pride and success. Whether showcased independently in a striking array of opulent shades or blended with other colours to enhance depth and contrast, a bouquet brimming with purple blooms signifies achievement and admiration. 

Purple flowers are symbolic of enchantment and luxury - because of this, they easily transform a bland and unassuming space into one which exudes opulence and whimsicalness, which can be very captivating."

Drawing inspiration from the crystal of the same name, renowned for its serene properties, our faux amethyst bouquet features soothing lilacs, along with serene pink and white roses. 

While traditional purples signify royalty, lavender represents femininity in its mature form. Lavender flowers symbolise refinement, grace and elegance, as well as holding an almost sacred status in nature, with violet and lavender flowers often regarded as the most delicate and precious. For a feminine touch to your garden or entrance, discover our lavender and starflower hanging basket.

What is the meaning of the colour white?

Traditionally incorporated in bridal bouquets or memorial services, white flowers hold a spectrum of meanings from purity and innocence to sympathy.

White flowers are perfect for neutral homes and spaces, adding a pop of texture to a dining table or nightstand instead of colour - Queen Anne's lace and pussy willow do this exceptionally well. Similar to blue, white works best in spaces which should feel calm and fresh, like bedrooms and bathrooms.

White is also a highly popular flower colour for weddings because of their classy and elegant look. To discover more about wedding flowers and popular flower choices, check out our '10 most popular flowers for weddings', blog post.

Often associated with innocence, humility and reverence, white flowers evoke a sense of simple beauty as our charming enchanting bunch perfectly demonstrates.  

Whilst knowing the symbolism of flower colours isn't essential for gifting blooms, this understanding can help you to choose the perfect arrangement for your partner, family member, friend or colleague.

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Simply looking for inspiration? Discover our photo gallery.