Did you know that each flower has its own meaning? This concept is known as the language of flowers. In this article, we will uncover the messages conveyed by the lily flower based on its color. Revered for its fragrant blooms and spectacular colors, the lily is both refined and elegant, and it surprises us with the messages it communicates.
Meaning of the Fleur-de-Lis According to Its Color
Whether you’re planning to gift lilies or have received some, understanding the hidden message behind these flowers is fascinating. Here’s what each color signifies:
1. Red Lilies
- Symbolism: Expresses love, courage, and passion. Red lilies are ideal for romantic settings and floral arrangements that convey deep feelings of love.
2. Purple Lilies
- Symbolism: Represents luxury, timelessness, and elegance. Purple lilies create a majestic and sophisticated ambiance, perfect for elegant celebrations or as a gift for their refined beauty.
3. White Lilies
- Symbolism: Symbolizes purity, chastity, and innocence. White lilies are also associated with harmony and marriage, making them suitable for weddings or celebrating special moments.
4. Orange Lilies
- Symbolism: Represents luck, joy, and passion. The vibrant orange color conveys enthusiasm and the joy of living, making them a great choice for celebrating achievements.
5. Yellow Lilies
- Symbolism: Signifies joy, friendship, and happiness. Yellow lilies are ideal for expressing friendship and bringing a touch of cheer to loved ones.
6. Pink Lilies
- Symbolism: Symbolizes tenderness, gratitude, and beauty. Pink lilies create a romantic and pleasant atmosphere, making them perfect for expressing thanks to someone who has supported you.
Fleur-de-Lis: What Is Its Meaning in Greek Mythology?
One popular mythological tale traces back to Zeus, the king of the gods, and Hera, the goddess of marriage and fertility. According to the myth, Zeus wanted his son Heracles to drink Hera’s milk. Hera, refusing because Heracles was not her son, was tricked by Zeus into allowing the baby to drink while she slept. When Hera awoke and pushed them away, drops of her milk fell to the ground and became lilies. This myth imbues the lily with meanings of rebirth and fertility.
How to Plant and Grow a Fleur-de-Lis?
FAQ
When do lilies bloom?
- Lilies bloom in spring and summer. It is best to plant them in the fall so they can root and produce fragrant flowers when the time comes.
How long do lilies last once cut?
- Cut lilies can last one to two weeks in a vase with water. To extend their lifespan, cut the stems at an angle, change the water frequently, keep the vase away from sunlight and drafts, and ensure the leaves do not touch the water to prevent rotting.
What is the symbol of the fleur-de-lis?
- The fleur-de-lis has historical significance linked to French royalty and the Church. Originally considered a noble flower by the Greeks and Romans, it was associated with goddesses like Hera. Later, in Western societies, it symbolized purity and was used to represent the Virgin Mary and the theological virtues of faith, charity, and hope.
Why is the fleur-de-lis a royal symbol?
- The fleur-de-lis became the emblem of the kings of France during the Ancien Régime. Charles the Bald adopted it as a reference to Clovis, the first king of the Franks, whose victory along a river lined with irises led to the use of the iris as a symbol. In the Germanic language of the Franks, “iris” was “lisbloem,” meaning “flower of the lily.”
Another explanation links the fleur-de-lis to the Catholic religion. It represents the divine relationship between the king and God, signifying divine authority and the Holy Trinity (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit). The three fleur-de-lis on the coats of arms of France symbolize these aspects, alongside the virtues of faith, charity, and hope.
