Some flowers have the most autumnal energy, and chrysanthemums (or ‘mums’ for short) are a great example of that. They have vibrant colours and are very easy to buy as a bouquet – the main qualities of a top-selling bloom. However, to find the right variety for your message, you’ll need to know the chrysanthemum flowers’ meanings.
Read more below to find your next bouquet.
What do chrysanthemums symbolise?
In general, they are associated with growth, positive energy, and luck. In some corners of the world, it holds a very special place – for example, the chrysanthemum flower’s meanings in Japan are life and nobility, and it’s the official bloom of the royal family.
In China, the flowers carry similar ideas – vitality and wealth.
Chrysanthemum meaning in the UK
So, what do these blooms mean in the UK? Mostly, they denote happiness and friendship, and are a popular choice for birthdays and friendly celebrations. They also carry the symbolism of longevity and wealth, like in Japan and China.
However, there’s another vital connotation in the UK, and that is sympathy and grief. This applies only to the white varieties, so be careful presenting white chrysanthemum mono-bouquets during happy events.
If you want to make sure your gesture is appropriate, read more about chrysanthemum colours below.
Chrysanthemum colour meanings
White
White chrysanthemums are associated with tranquillity and rebirth; another meaning is devotion. As we mentioned before, they’re often chosen for solemn occasions or to express sympathy. However, in combination with other colours, their meaning changes – for example, devoted love when combined with red, enduring love with pink, and so on.
Pink
Pink chrysanthemums demonstrate a person's adoration and fascination. They’re ideal for saying ‘I adore you’ or ‘I admire you’, but not necessarily in a romantic context – it’s a versatile bloom for any people you’re close to, including family members and friends.
Yellow
Yellow chrysanthemums signify friendship bonds and happiness. They used to mean neglected love, but today, many associate these blooms with cheer and a lucky start. Orange chrysanthemums have a similar meaning, but leaning towards energy.
Red
For red chrysanthemums, the symbolism is romance and unrelenting love. They work great for all romantic holidays, but can also serve as a wonderful surprise outside of any celebrations.
Purple
Purple chrysanthemums express the ideas of royalty and luxury, thanks to their impressive appearance. With these blooms, you can wish someone a lifetime of prosperity and celebrate their integrity. There’s a similar variety – blue chrysanthemums, which denote mystery and the unique look of the unattainable.
Best occasions to send chrysanthemums
Birthdays
Vibrant bouquets with mums make amazing birthday gifts – you can choose the one that works best for your message or aligns with your recipient’s preferences. Usually, for a friend or relative, consider bright, cheerful colours; for a romantic partner, add reds or pinks. Many Udora sellers can help customise your composition – ask your seller if they can add a specific variety.
Holiday celebrations
There are a few staple combos for holidays: green and pink, white and pink, orange and pink, and pastels. Not to say that you can’t gift anything else – these are some of the most versatile and popular options. Most holidays are a great fit for mums.
Anniversaries
To express enduring love and devotion, consider white mums mixed with red or pink blooms. Together with red, white mums signify loyal love; with pink, deep affection and admiration.
Get well gift
To wish someone a quick recovery, positive colours work best – think orange and yellow, as they express joy and longevity. Another option is green – green chrysanthemums symbolise growth and new beginnings.
Chrysanthemums for sympathy flowers
When sending an arrangement to express condolences, choosing the wrong colour might make your gesture inappropriate. For example, mono-bouquets of white chrysanthemums are a classic choice for funerals – being associated with a pure soul is one of the reasons. To say ‘I’m here for you’ or wish someone resilience, you can add small clusters of red or yellow blooms.
Chrysanthemums in relationships and love
When it comes to all things romantic, the main associations are red and pink, so mums in these hues are a top-notch choice for a significant other. To make your message more detailed, look for combinations. For example, pink and yellow mean ‘You’re my soulmate’, while red and purple say ‘I’m wealthy as long as I have your love.’
Autumn chrysanthemum bouquets
These blooms are among the top-selling autumn flowers, but what is the reason? The answer is simple – timing. This is when mums are in bloom and easy to find at floral shops. Perfect for spoiling your loved ones without breaking the bank – many Udora sellers offer discount deals during this season.
Types of chrysanthemums
Like all flowers, these blooms also have a few varieties:
- Decorative or single mums are the most popular type; they have large, daisy-like blooms
- Pompom chrysanthemums look like fuzzy pompons on winter hats; they’re adorable
- Spider chrysanthemums are especially distinct, with spike-like petals
- Incurve mums feature petals that curve, well, inside – towards the centre of the bloom
- Spray chrysanthemums have several blooms attached to one stem, making bouquets more voluminous
Chrysanthemum care tips
These flowers are famous for their longevity – in a vase, they can last for up to 2 weeks. Provided, of course, with the right care. Remember to:
- Trim the stems – aim for a 45 or 60 degree angle
- Remove the lower leaves if they’re touching the water
- Use cool, fresh water, and fill the container up to ⅔
- Use flower foods or make your own mix
- Find a shaded spot, protected from drafts or hot air
You can also re-trim the stems every 2-3 days – it might help keep your bouquet fresh for longer.
Whenever you’re ready to buy chrysanthemums, your sellers can help – on Udora, many florists offer stunning bouquets for various occasions. Choose the right composition to celebrate your loved ones or to wish a colleague a happy birthday, and select the date and time that suits you best. Not sure when your recipient is available? Select “Ask the recipient”, and the shop will contact them before the delivery. Find amazing gifts for your loved ones with Udora.
