What are the meanings and symbolic significance of the peony?
I. Meanings
Good fortune and wealth: Many traditional Chinese paintings feature scenes of peonies in full bloom, often accompanied by the words "blooming flowers bring wealth and honor." With its distinctive magnificence and opulence, it symbolizes happiness, peace, prosperity and flourishing, and is fully deserving of the title of national flower.
Nobility and elegance: Besides its meaning of good fortune and wealth, the peony also represents nobility and elegance, and is used to describe refined and cultured scholars and artists.
II. Flower Language
The flower language of the peony varies according to the color of the blossom. For example, the common red variety represents wealth and completeness, and can be made into a fresh flower arrangement given to friends as a gift for their shop. White represents dignity and purity, symbolizing honest and trustworthy people. Pink represents grace and magnificence.