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For centuries, orchids have enchanted the human world with their exquisite beauty, exotic blooms, and vibrant colors. Each orchid color can convey emotions, cultural significance, and even hidden messages.
Let’s dive into the world of orchid color symbolism, enabling you to choose an orchid color with meaning to you or the person you’re giving it to!
Color aside, orchids have been thought to have certain powers by various cultures, including the Aztecs, the Greeks and the Chinese.
While Aztecs used orchids to make powerful elixirs, ancient Greeks believed orchids had the power to decide a baby’s gender. Fathers would eat a large portion if they wanted a male child, while mothers would eat a smaller part in hopes of a daughter.
According to Smithsonian Magazine, “orchidelirium,” or orchid mania, developed in Victorian times in response to a growing fascination with these rare flowers. During this time, orchids were displayed as status symbols.
Color meanings vary across cultures, so we’ve used a broad brush to paint a well-rounded picture of what various orchid colors can mean to different people.
White orchids are often associated with purity, innocence and elegance. Their pristine petals evoke a sense of simple elegance.
In some cultures, white orchids symbolize spirituality and new beginnings, which is why they are often used in wedding bouquets and decorations.
In others, white is also associated with funerals, so be sure to research the specific cultural implications before giving this gift to someone outside of your culture or religion.
Yellow orchids radiate warmth and positivity, symbolizing friendship and joy. These cheerful blooms are the perfect way to show appreciation for friends or for adding a cheerful vibe to indoor decor.
In ancient Chinese culture, yellow orchids were believed to bring good fortune and happiness to households, making them a great companion to the money tree plant.
Pink orchids embody grace, femininity, and affection, making them perfect gifts at baby showers and great decorations for events supporting causes such as breast cancer awareness.
Pink orchids are often associated with romantic gestures and expressions of love, so they are a popular choice for gifts to convey appreciation and admiration.
Purple orchids exude an air of luxury, opulence, and regality. Their rich tones are reminiscent of nobility and luxury. In Victorian times, purple orchids were considered rare and were highly sought after.
Purple or violet is also associated with higher consciousness in some traditions. Want to vibrate higher? A lavender watercolor orchid may be the perfect plant for you!
Like red roses, red orchids (or any plant) can symbolize passion and romantic love. Red is great for a gift for a loved one, making it popular on Valentine's Day as well as the winter holidays.
Red is also a popular color for those celebrating the Chinese New Year. During this time, people wear red and give each other red envelopes having cash or lottery tickets for good luck and fortune in the upcoming year.
Blue stands for tranquility and calmness and is associated with water and emotions. Like purple, blue is a royal color, (especially royal blue!) Instead of diamonds, royal members often wore sapphire engagement rings.
While blue orchids do not occur naturally, we do offer blue watercolor orchids. These plants are perfect for Hanukkah, as winter decor, or as a gift for anyone who loves blue.
Orange orchids exude energy, enthusiasm, and creativity. Their vibrant shades mirror the warmth of the sun as it sets in the evening sky or the glow of a fireplace in winter.
Orange orchids are great gifts for those needing some encouragement and warmth. They look great in rooms with blue or green decor and can add a touch of autumn to Thanksgiving dinner tables.
Green orchids, with their connection to nature, symbolize renewal, growth, and good health. They evoke feelings of harmony and balance, reflecting the rejuvenating power of the natural world.
Green watercolor orchids are great for the winter holidays, but they are particularly popular as St. Patrick’s Day decorations.
While orchids and their colors have traditional symbolism associated with them, always keep the individual in mind when buying a gift. A pink orchid may be perfect for a male or female wanting to embrace femininity. (Or perhaps they’re just fans of the Barbie movie or love pink).
And luckily, orchids are no longer for the wealthy elite. Just Add Ice specializes in Phalaenopsis orchids, which are easy to care for and can be bought for as little as $30, depending on the size of the orchid.
