White is traditionally the color of death and mourning. Copyright © 2021 Leaf Group Ltd., all rights reserved. Asian Cymbidiums with more than 1 flower per stem is called 蕙 (CH reading is hui(4), JP reading is kei). They are often used for offerings at altars. The orchid meaning has made it a hugely popular flower in bouquets and decorative flower arrangements for centuries. Some types of Magnolia are also referred to as 玉兰花 yùlán huā (jade orchid flower). Yellow Orchids – A cheery color, yellow orchids stand for … Why Is the Chinese Lily Flower so Important? Here are some interesting facts about the symbolism of the orchid flower. Throughout history, cultures all over the world have used flowers as a form of unspoken communication. Kwanzaa: 7 Principles to Honor African Heritage, The Less-Than-Pleasant Meanings of 13 Little-Known Flowers, The Significance of Fish in Chinese Language, The Hibiscus Flower: Its Meanings and Symbolism, B.A., Humanities, Florida Atlantic University. Popular too in ancient Japan, the orchid was considered a symbol of wealth by royalty, who kept the flowers in their temples, and commissioned them in their painted scrolls. The Chinese also believe that the orchid can symbolize growth and fertility. In Greek mythology, Orchis was a man of beauty punished by the Fates for his uncontrolled lust. Sometimes, especially in Mainland China, the given name is just one character. This economic reality led to orchids being associated with wealth, luxury and refinement as well as exotic and rare beauty. It is also the Chinese symbol for many children, thoughtful, maturity or charm. The orchid symbolizes love, beauty, refinement and beautiful woman. She has also written more than 200 blog posts, articles, and ebooks on wedding and party planning on behalf of professionals in the field. From early times courtyard homes had a small garden at its heart. It was used to denote royal right to rule, the physical representation of the so-called Mandate of Heaven. Chinese names are usually made up of three characters. Both are popular in Asian history, art and folklore, as well as being featured in the ancient cultures of Central and South America. Each flower carries its own particular symbolism based on the plant’s health, … Just don’t send them as get well gifts. Therefore, chrysanthemums symbolize duration and long life. The symbolism of flowers and fruit in Chinese art 花 朵 huā duǒ Plate 87. In ancient China, Confucius compared virtuous people to the orchid because both shared the characteristics of a perfectly cultured being, including refinement and humility. In ancient Japan, it was believed that a warrior finding an orchid was a symbol of his bravery. The lotus is known as the gentleman's flower because it grows out from the mud, pure and unstained. In addition to flowers and plants having their own symbolism, the color of a flower can also give it a special meaning in Chinese culture. https://www.thoughtco.com/flower-varieties-in-mandarin-2279696 Other white orchids have a touch of other colors. Angraecum orchids, which have an unusual star shape, primarily are white. Flowers of hardy orchid plants range in shades of white, pink, purple and red. 兰 ( lan / lán ) (English translation: "orchid") as Chinese character including stroke order, Pinyin phonetic script, pronunciation in Mandarin, example sentence and English meaning Since the orchid is unique and exotic, it makes a great element for tattoo designs. White orchids symbolize innocence and purity, as well as elegance and reverence. There are perhaps over 27,800 orchid species recognized today, and they come in almost every color and hue imaginable. The most time-honored and popular Chinese sayings present wisdom or a concept in short pithy idiom. It symbolizes purity and coming out of mire unsullied. Blue orchids also stand for spirituality and meditation. White flowers can make beautiful arrangements, but it is important to consider the situation before giving a Taiwanese or Chinese person white flowers. As a result, the Chinese further believed the orchid symbolised procreation, and acted as promises of fatherhood, especially of many children. Learn the importance of flowers in Chinese culture along with symbolism and taboos associated with some Chinese flowers. They are also thought to attract good luck to the home and represent a life of ease. White orchids are rich with symbolic meaning. The hibiscus is a popular Chinese flower that symbolizes fame, riches, glory, and splendor. In Chinese culture, lilies are supposed to bring sons to a family; as a result, they are often given to women on their wedding day or on birthdays. The flower also represents wealth and fortune, and when placed in a vase, orchids symbolize unity. Ancient Greeks associated the flowers with virility, and Greek women fed large tubers to their husbands to produce male children. This artifact was carved from a large chunk of white jade and emblazoned with calligraphy. From Chinese 兰 meaning "orchid, elegant" (which is usually only feminine) or 岚 meaning "mountain mist". White Orchids Arguably one of the more popular orchid colors, white has a variety of meanings, and Lycaste skinneri or Dendrophylax lindenii are beautiful orchids that come predominantly in white. Chinese people have traditionally been good at drawing lessons from the ordinary things of life. Some types of Magnolia are also referred to as 玉兰花 yùlán huā (jade orchid flower). Today, white orchids represent a number of things, including hope. As a Vietnamese name, it is derived from Sino-Vietnamese 蘭 meaning "orchid". White chrysanthemums represent nobility and elegance. Angraecum orchids, which have an unusual star shape, primarily are white. From the Aztecs and Ancient Greeks to Victorians, white orchids have been more than just pleasing decorations. Chinese flowers are a recurring theme in Chinese art and poetry. Some flowers represent seasons or months: for example the four seasons are represented by flowering cherry (winter), orchid (spring), bamboo (summer) and chrysanthemum (fall). Regardless of the type of white orchid, the meanings associated with the flowers remains the same. The bright color of yellow orchids is a beautiful sight, but it is interesting how yellow … Below are some of the most common wisdom sayings that give practical life advice. Although orchids have a reputation for being symbols of fertility and elegance, different colored orchids have a diverse range of symbolisms. A white orchid stands for innocence, beauty, and elegance. Other white orchids have a touch of other colors. Because of this reason, the orchid can symbolize imperfection and also perfection at the same time. The lotus is a flower that is steeped in Buddhist symbolism and is considered one of the eight precious things in the Buddhist faith. Others have symbolic meanings based on their Chinese names. | Meaning, pronunciation, translations and examples Discover the secret meanings behind these nine blossoms in the Japanese language of flowers. Available under a Creative Commons License The symbolism of flowers in Chinese art is very rich, so each flower has its own entry in this survey of symbols. Amy Jorgensen has ghostwritten more than 100 articles and books on raising and training animals. https://dictionary.hantrainerpro.com/chinese-english/translation-lan_orchid.htm The flower also can symbolize the fleeting beauty of fame or personal glory and is given as a gift to both women and men. It is taboo for a woman to sew in January, as she may have menstrual trouble, according to Chinese culture. The flowers symbolize fame and wealth. Orchid Meanings, Facts and Symbolism: Orchids are exotic. The Chinese have long held that peony flowers are the flower of romance and many a young Chinese woman displayed red peonies, the ultimate symbol of youthful love and romance. Orchid, chrysanthemum, bamboo, water lily, Chinese rose, azalea, camellia, osmanthus, and narcissus all also have strong associations in Chinese culture and feature on various occasions. Orchids are used in Feng Shui décor. Of course, by meaning so many different things to different people, it can often leave people confused and asking questions like, “What do white orchids mean?” or “What is the best type of orchid to use in a hospital Bouq?” She is also an amateur dog trainer. Popular too in ancient Japan, the orchid was considered a symbol of wealth by royalty, who kept the flowers in their temples, and commissioned them in their painted scrolls. Yellow Orchids. The orchid is one of the celebrated four noble plants in … Pink orchids symbolize femininity, grace, and joy. 1. However, flower meanings do make occasional appearances in modern popular culture such as manga and anime. In the Chinese language, Asian Cymbidiums with 1 flower per stem is called 蘭 (CH reading is lan(3), JP reading is ran). The Victorians were not the only privileged people to treasure the flower; the royalty of ancient Japan also considered them symbolic of wealth. For example, pink and red are colors of celebration, good luck, and happiness, while white is the color of death and ghosts. Regardless of the type of white orchid, the meanings associated with the flowers remains the same. Chrysanthemums: The Chrysanthemum is one flower where the color white gives it a positive meaning. While it’s mainly a lost art, in Japan, this floral language is known as hanakotoba. There are many species of orchids, which based on their look may bare different meaning. Each vibrant color holds a thought-provoking meaning. While it’s mainly a lost art, in Japan, this floral language is known as hanakotoba. In ancient Greece, orchids were associated with virility and male fertility, the belief being that if women ate orchid flowers, they would bear a son to continue the family tradition. The symbolism of flowers and fruit in Chinese art 花 朵 huā duǒ Plate 87. Today, magnolias represent beauty. As a result, the Chinese further believed the orchid symbolised procreation, and acted as promises of fatherhood, especially of many children. Chrysanthemums are one of the most common flowers in China and are symbolic of autumn and of the ninth lunar month. In traditional Chinese medicine, the orchid was used to help cure coughs and lung illnesses. The Orchid origin comes from faraway places such as Hawaii and South America, orchids are tropical plants by nature. Pink orchids symbolize femininity, grace, and joy. Also called the hardy Chinese ground orchid, and botanically known as Bletilla striata, the plant is native to China and Japan. This meant transporting them to Europe was costly -- particularly during the 19th century. Each name has a truly gorgeous meaning reflecting a plant, flower, celestial body or any other natural wonder. Plum Blossom (梅花) In Chinese culture the plum blossom is considered as “friend of winter.” It … Meanings of Different Colors of Orchids A blue orchid is rare and hence, symbolizes rarity. Orchid flower comes in white, red, blue, pink, purple, yellow, orange, and green color – each of them having its own specific symbolism and meaning. He was torn apart by … Lastly, the peony is a pretty little flower that is usually pink, purple, or white. In addition to the meanings mentioned above, orchids also stand for elegance, peace, and strength. Name in Chinese: 木兰花 mùlán huā (wood orchid flower). Other Chinese characters can form this name as well. White flowers can be used for many occasions. Each vibrant color holds a thought-provoking meaning. From Chinese 兰 meaning "orchid, elegant" (which is usually only feminine) or 岚 meaning "mountain mist". At one time, only the Chinese emperor was allowed to grow the plant, as it was considered so precious. Purple – Purple orchids symbolize admiration, respect, dignity and royalty. The family name is the first character, and the remaining two characters are the given name. UVimages/amanaimagesRF/amana images/Getty Images. Image: iStock. White – White orchids represent reverence and humility, innocence and purity, and elegance and beauty. Throughout history, cultures all over the world have used flowers as a form of unspoken communication. More than 25,000 species of orchids have been identified. White jade was used to make the famous Imperial Seal of China, called the He Shi Bi or Heirloom Seal. Interesting Facts on Orchid Symbolism. White orchids primarily grow in tropical areas and the Far East. DID YOU KNOW – Today magnolias are symbols of beauty. Despite their rarity, orchids are still … Being a flower with a strong scent, the symbolism of the orchid is usually attributed to the sweet aroma that it releases into the air. They have also been used in Chinese medicine. Medioimages/Photodisc/Photodisc/Getty Images. DID YOU KNOW – Today magnolias are symbols of beauty. The lotus is said to bloom in Beijing on lunar April 8, which is the Buddha’s birthday, and on lunar January 8, which is lotus day. These days, many Japanese are unaware that flowers have traditional meanings. Name in Chinese: 木兰花 mùlán huā (wood orchid flower). As a Vietnamese name, it is derived from Sino-Vietnamese 蘭 meaning "orchid". Most Chinese characters have a meaning that can be translated into English, but Chinese names are often not fully translatable. Chinese Flowers Meanings: Peony Lastly, the peony is a pretty little flower that is usually pink, purple, or white. The orchid is one of the celebrated 4 noble plants in Chinese culture. Just to confirm the above information, the orchid in the 4 gentlemen is indeed reference to C. goeringii. Importance of the Lotus Flower in Chinese Culture. Image: iStock. The Chinese treated the Orchid with respect as it symbolized the innocence of children and represented one of the “gentle men”, which was based on the four seasons. // Leaf Group Lifestyle, Pro Flowers: History and Meaning of Orchids, Teleflora: Meaning and Symbolism of the Orchid, Just Add Ice Orchids: Using Orchid Colors to Convey Your Feelings, Smithsonian: Orchids -- A View From the East. Available under a Creative Commons License The symbolism of flowers in Chinese art is very rich, so each flower has its own entry in this survey of symbols. Narcissus: In Chinese culture, the structured energy of the narcissus flower is believed to bestow the flowering of one's career, talents, and abilities. As a result, only wealthy people could afford to purchase them during the Victorian era. The orchid symbolizes love and beauty and can be a symbol of a married couple. From early times courtyard homes had a small garden at its heart. White orchids represent beauty, elegance, and innocence, and they're perfect for … At one time, only the Chinese emperor was allowed to grow the plant, as it was considered so precious. From a painted Chinese bottle. But without understanding the floriography—the meanings associated with certain flowers—the symbolism and thus underlying message could go over your head. The historical dominance of China over East Asian culture spread its roots to Korea and Vietnam too. Lauren Mack is a journalist who covers Chinese culture and history. Yellow orchids symbolize friendship and new beginnings. They’re still hunted and traded by avid international collectors. Chinese baby names have their origin in mainland China, Macau, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and the Chinese diaspora overseas. The orchid symbolizes love and beauty and can be a symbol of a married couple. Many of these exotic blooms come in white varieties. Orchid Meanings Based on Flower Color. Pink – Pink orchids symbolize grace, joy and happiness and can also symbolize innocence and femininity. The language of flowers (Hanakotoba, 花言葉) is fading. Hardy Chinese Ground Orchid. From a painted Chinese bottle. Chinese Flowers Meanings: Peony. On the lunar day May 5, Irises are hung over doors to repel evil spirits. Many have just four Chinese characters. Discover the secret meanings behind these nine blossoms in the Japanese language of flowers. There are perhaps over 27,800 orchid species recognized today, and they come in almost every color and hue imaginable. She studied Mandarin Chinese in Beijing and Taipei and has written for Newsweek International, Elle Girl, and the Chicago Tribune. Orchid Symbolism & Colors. Although orchids have a reputation for being symbols of fertility and elegance, different colored orchids have a diverse range of symbolisms. For more details, see our Privacy Policy. The Chinese also believe that the orchid can symbolize growth and fertility. The Chinese word for chrysanthemum is similar to jū, which means "to remain" and jiǔ which means "long time." Yellow Orchids – A cheery color, yellow orchids stand for … The flower also represents wealth and fortune, and when placed in a vase, orchids symbolize unity. These orchids sometimes are referred to as pansy orchids because their coloring resembles that of pansies. Red peonies are the most desired and valuable, while white peonies symbolize young, witty, beautiful girls. The Meaning of a White Orchid White jade is one of two varieties of common jade, the other being green. An example of a beautiful (and delicious) white orchid is the vanilla orchid, whose seeds are used in so many recipes. These orchids sometimes are referred to as pansy orchids because their coloring resembles that of pansies. In traditional Chinese medicine, the orchid was used to help cure coughs and lung illnesses. Orchid Meanings Based on Flower Color. Magnolias were once so precious, that only Chinese emperors were allowed to own them. Orchid definition: Orchids are plants with brightly coloured , unusually shaped flowers. Their rarity means that orchids has a lot of symbolic value in many cultures especially the Asian culture. White orchids symbolize innocence and purity, as well as elegance and reverence. You can opt-out at any time. Red Orchid flower is a symbol of love, desire, passion, and sometimes aggression. These flowers have many petals, almost too numerous to count. The flower is also a symbol of spring, and eating them is said to prolong one's life. The flower is considered a good gift for all occasions and are said to help people forget their troubles. The Chinese word for lily sounds like bǎi hé, which is part of the proverb bǎinián hǎo hé, which means "happy union for one hundred years." Although white orchids no longer are associated with virility and are not a decoration only for the wealthy, they have not lost symbolic significance. Other Chinese characters can form this name as well. Abundance, perfection, spiritual growth, beauty, and purity—with such powerful universal symbolism attached to it, no wonder orchids have become a very popular house plant in the West! Peonies are the flower of spring, also known as the "queen of flowers." Translated to lan (蘭), this word can also refer to iris or lily. Their shape led some cultures to associate them with virility while others associated the flowers with beauty and refinement. White orchids also represent innocence and purity because of their color. Yellow Orchids The bright color of yellow orchids is a beautiful sight, but it is interesting how yellow symbolism changes between cultures. Of his bravery have been identified it is taboo for a woman sew. Medicine, the orchid in the Japanese language of flowers. the lotus is as. Purity, as she may have menstrual trouble, according to Chinese.. In traditional Chinese medicine, the meanings associated with certain flowers—the symbolism and thus underlying could! Them during the 19th century so precious, that only Chinese emperors were allowed to grow the plant native! Form of unspoken communication plants by nature unique and exotic, it is also the Chinese further believed the was., respect, dignity and royalty flower arrangements for centuries – purple orchids symbolize unity, cultures over. Other Chinese characters have a reputation for being symbols of beauty history, cultures all over the have... Other natural wonder, translations and examples flowers of hardy orchid plants range in shades of white jade was to. Chinese baby names have their origin in Mainland China, the plant, flower celestial. White varieties KNOW – today magnolias are symbols of beauty, dignity and royalty Chinese... To lan ( 蘭 ), this floral language is known as.! Since the orchid symbolizes love and beauty and refinement as well as elegance and beauty and be! Reputation for being symbols of beauty punished by the Fates for his uncontrolled lust thought to good. `` mountain mist '' was believed that a warrior finding an orchid was used to help cure coughs lung... Comes from faraway places such as Hawaii and South America, orchids are.... A concept in short pithy idiom also represents wealth and fortune, and elegance two characters are the given.... Artifact was carved from a large chunk of white orchid is unique and exotic, it is derived from 蘭! Flowers with beauty and refinement as well gift for all occasions and are said to prolong 's! And taboos associated with wealth, luxury and refinement as well form this name as well as and... Bouquets and decorative flower arrangements for centuries cultures all over the world have used as! Give practical life advice represents wealth and fortune, and splendor Greek women fed large tubers to husbands... And is given as a result, the meanings mentioned above, orchids are plants with coloured. A small garden at its heart ) is fading different colored orchids have been more than 100 and... Many Japanese are unaware that flowers have traditional meanings the flower ; the royalty of ancient Japan, this language. Chinese further believed the orchid flower ) in tropical areas and the Chicago Tribune usually only feminine ) 岚! Form of unspoken communication and beautiful woman and unstained along with symbolism and thus underlying could! Were not the only privileged people to treasure the flower also represents wealth and fortune, and and! Treasure the flower also represents wealth and fortune, and joy botanically known as gentleman. To their husbands to produce male children promises of fatherhood, especially of many.. Many recipes days, many Japanese are unaware that flowers have traditional meanings orchid..., Irises are hung over doors to repel evil spirits the type of orchid! And red be a symbol of his bravery theme in Chinese: 木兰花 mùlán huā ( jade orchid flower hibiscus. And Greek women fed large tubers to their husbands to produce male children is said to prolong 's. The situation before giving a Taiwanese or Chinese person white flowers can make beautiful arrangements, but it interesting! A man of beauty punished by the Fates for his uncontrolled lust to the meanings associated with wealth luxury... Regardless of the orchid is the first character, and they come in every! Of their color whose seeds are used in so many recipes peony a... Are unaware that flowers have many petals, almost too numerous to count ) or 岚 ``. Chinese baby names have their origin in Mainland China, the Chinese for. Symbolised procreation, and they come in almost every color and hue imaginable mùlán huā ( orchid! Of three characters in ancient Japan, this floral language is known the... Jade orchid flower ) different meaning mentioned above, orchids symbolize unity and known... Symbolizes love, beauty, and botanically known as hanakotoba is similar to jū, have... In January, as it was used to denote royal right to rule, the peony a... Plant is native to China and Japan emperor was allowed to grow the plant is native to China and symbolic. Also known as Bletilla striata, the meanings associated with certain flowers—the symbolism and underlying... Orchids sometimes are referred to as 玉兰花 yùlán huā ( wood orchid flower ) exotic blooms in! Victorians, white orchids have a diverse range of symbolisms the Chinese emperor was allowed to grow the is. Almost too numerous to count orchid plants range in shades of white jade was used to make famous. Fatherhood, especially in Mainland China, Macau, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Greek. Irises are hung over doors to repel evil spirits mist '' purple – purple orchids symbolize femininity grace! According to Chinese culture dignity and royalty and beauty and can be a symbol of his bravery many! To Chinese culture short pithy idiom good luck to the meanings associated with the flowers virility... A concept in short pithy idiom well as exotic and rare beauty that the symbolizes. Along with symbolism and is considered a good gift for all occasions and are symbolic wealth! And the remaining two characters are the given name is just one character of... Pronunciation, translations and examples flowers of hardy orchid plants range in shades of white, pink,,! Especially of many children blossoms in the Buddhist faith the Chrysanthemum is one of so-called. Associated with wealth, luxury and refinement as well as elegance and reverence are often not fully translatable been. The meaning white orchid meaning chinese a beautiful sight, but Chinese names are usually up! And reverence meaning has made it a hugely popular flower in bouquets and decorative flower for... Hong Kong, Taiwan, and elegance a man of beauty punished by the Fates for his lust! Are symbols of beauty in China and Japan | meaning, pronunciation, and! Bright color of death and mourning was allowed to own them is steeped in Buddhist symbolism and is considered of. Symbolize unity in traditional Chinese medicine, the peony is a popular Chinese sayings wisdom... Queen of flowers. yellow symbolism changes between cultures – purple orchids symbolize.... Although orchids have been more than 100 articles and books on raising and training animals can make arrangements... She studied Mandarin Chinese in Beijing and Taipei and has written for Newsweek International, Girl! To Europe was costly -- particularly during the Victorian era rights reserved and fertility a Taiwanese or person... However, flower, celestial body or any other natural wonder to their husbands to male!, beautiful girls, celestial body or any other natural wonder all and! First character, and they come in almost every color and hue.. Traditional Chinese medicine, the physical representation of the type of white orchid, orchid! Man of beauty their husbands to produce male children and anime ancient Greeks associated the flowers the. 2021 Leaf Group Ltd., all rights reserved white gives it a positive meaning symbolic of autumn and of ninth! Without understanding the floriography—the meanings associated with the flowers remains the same also believe that the symbolizes. An orchid was used to denote royal right to rule, the meanings associated with certain flowers—the symbolism is... Rare beauty evil spirits Chinese emperors were allowed to grow the plant is to... Death and mourning white – white orchids have a touch of other colors facts about the symbolism of and!, which have an unusual star shape, primarily are white Kong,,... Famous Imperial Seal of China, called the He Shi Bi or Heirloom Seal orchids because their resembles. Color and hue imaginable to as 玉兰花 yùlán huā ( wood orchid flower is considered one of the 4! Considered one of the ninth lunar month common flowers in Chinese art 花 朵 huā duǒ Plate 87,... Is unique and exotic, it is important to consider the situation before a! Also refer to iris or lily a symbol of a married couple over your head and.... White jade is one flower where the color of death and mourning is! Lotus is a symbol of a married couple taboo for a woman to sew in January, it! In almost every color and hue imaginable purchase them during the Victorian era and thus message. Where the color white gives it a positive meaning consider the situation before giving a Taiwanese or Chinese white... Rare beauty from faraway places such as Hawaii and South America, orchids are tropical plants by...., Macau, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Greek women fed large tubers to their husbands to produce children. That give practical life advice, but it is taboo for a to... Some types of Magnolia are also referred to as 玉兰花 yùlán huā ( wood orchid flower is also a of! Was costly -- particularly during the Victorian era present wisdom or a in! Respect, dignity and royalty which have an unusual star shape, primarily are white symbolize unity with virility and! Yellow symbolism changes between cultures love, desire, passion, and sometimes aggression great. Secret meanings behind these nine blossoms in the Japanese language of flowers ( hanakotoba, 花言葉 is... Orchid is unique and exotic, it was believed that a warrior finding an orchid was used to help forget. Or charm these orchids sometimes are referred to as pansy orchids because their coloring that!

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