What Does Sending Chrysanthemums Mean? A Full Analysis of Chrysanthemum Flower Language and Symbolism
I. Flower Language
Different chrysanthemums have different flower languages: the flower language of spring chrysanthemums is divining for love, winter chrysanthemums mean parting, yellow chrysanthemums mean rapid success, white chrysanthemums mean mourning and true sincerity, wealth chrysanthemums mean wealth and honor, and African daisies mean mystery, excitement and perseverance. You must pay special attention to the meaning when giving chrysanthemums to others, because white chrysanthemums are often used to mourn the deceased, so avoid causing misunderstandings.
II. Taboos
1. Although white chrysanthemums are beautiful and elegant, white also represents sadness and sorrow, and they are generally used at funerals and for mourning, so they must not be given to others on festive occasions.
2. Yellow chrysanthemums carry the meaning of rapid success, but between lovers they symbolize a broken heart, so when giving them you should confirm the other person's relationship status to avoid hurting their feelings.
3. The aloofness and toughness of winter chrysanthemums give them a touch of chill when parting, so they can only be given to others at parting, representing a kind of well-wishing.
III. Tradition
In traditional Chinese culture, starting from Tao Yuanming, the chrysanthemum was endowed with the character of being resilient and aloof and pure, so it has the laudatory title of one of the Four Gentlemen of Flowers. In addition, the Double Ninth Festival on the ninth day of the ninth month overlaps with the chrysanthemum's blooming in the ninth month, carrying the meaning of good fortune and longevity.