30 Chinese Flowers With Various Meanings And Symbolisms - MORFLORA (2023)

China, with its rich and diverse flora, has been generously endowed by nature.

The Chinese culture has a unique way of associating meanings and symbolisms with different flowers, as they are integral to numerous festivals, traditions, and everyday life.

This article takes you on a fascinating journey through 30 Chinese flowers that bloom with beauty and brim with profound symbolism.

1. Peony (牡丹)

• Botanical Name: Paeonia lactiflora
• Meaning: Prosperity, honor, nobility
• Soil Needs: Well-drained, fertile, loamy soil
• Water Needs: Moderate
• Sunlight Needs: Full sun to partial shade
• Growing Zones: 3-8
• Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer

The Peony, known as the ‘King of Flowers’ in China, symbolizes royalty and virtue.

It is often associated with wealth, honor, and high social status. Its lush, full-bodied petals represent prosperity and beauty in Chinese culture.

The peony is a perennial favorite in the Chinese Spring Festival and is widely used in art and decorations.

2. Chrysanthemum (菊花)

• Botanical Name: Chrysanthemum morifolium
• Meaning: Longevity, rejuvenation, joy
• Soil Needs: Well-drained, fertile soil
• Water Needs: Moderate
• Sunlight Needs: Full sun
• Growing Zones: 5-9
• Bloom Time: Late summer to fall

Chrysanthemums hold a special place in Chinese culture. These fall-blooming flowers symbolize longevity and rejuvenation.

Each petal of the Chrysanthemum is seen as a representation of the sun, depicting the flower’s ability to withstand life’s challenges while maintaining vibrancy and beauty.

3. Plum Blossom (梅花)

• Botanical Name: Prunus mume
• Meaning: Resilience, perseverance, beauty
• Soil Needs: Well-drained, fertile, loamy soil
• Water Needs: Moderate
• Sunlight Needs: Full sun to partial shade
• Growing Zones: 6-9
• Bloom Time: Late winter to early spring

The Plum Blossom, known for its resilience, symbolizes perseverance and hope.

Often blooming vibrantly in the harsh winter, the plum blossom represents strength and endurance in adversity.

It’s one of the ‘Four Gentlemen’ in Chinese art, embodying noble character.

4. Orchid (兰花)

• Botanical Name: Cymbidium spp.
• Meaning: Nobility, refinement, friendship
• Soil Needs: Well-drained, orchid potting mix
• Water Needs: Moderate
• Sunlight Needs: Bright, indirect light
• Growing Zones: 10-12 (indoor)
• Bloom Time: Winter to early spring

The Orchid, another member of the ‘Four Gentlemen’, represents nobility, friendship, and refinement.

It’s admired for its elegant and delicate look, and its fragrance is cherished.

In Chinese culture, it’s believed that the orchid emits its enchanting aroma even if no one is around, symbolizing a virtuous person who performs good deeds unnoticed.

Learn more about: 35 Best Types of Orchids for Houseplant Beginners

5. Lotus (荷花)

• Botanical Name: Nelumbo nucifera
• Meaning: Purity, enlightenment, rebirth
• Soil Needs: Heavy clay, loamy soil (aquatic)
• Water Needs: High (requires standing water)
• Sunlight Needs: Full sun
• Growing Zones: 4-10
• Bloom Time: Summer

The Lotus is a flower deeply embedded in Chinese culture and Buddhism.

Symbolizing purity and perfection, it’s admired for its ability to rise from the muddy water, unspoiled and beautiful, reflecting the journey of attaining enlightenment.

It’s also one of the ‘Eight Auspicious Symbols’ in Buddhism.

Learn more about: Lotus Flower Meaning: A Symbol of Spiritual Enlightenment

6. Azalea (杜鹃花)

• Botanical Name: Rhododendron spp.
• Meaning: Fragility, temperance, passion
• Soil Needs: Well-drained, acidic, moist soil
• Water Needs: Moderate to high
• Sunlight Needs: Partial shade to full sun
• Growing Zones: 5-9
• Bloom Time: Spring

With their vibrant and alluring flowers, Azaleas signify the joys and pains of love in Chinese culture.

The spring-blooming azalea is often associated with femininity and the emotions of passionate love and temperance.

Its blooming period is eagerly awaited as it transforms any landscape into a breathtaking array of colors.

Learn more about: Azalea Flower Meaning: Symbolism in Colors

7. Camellia (茶花)

• Botanical Name: Camellia sinensis
• Meaning: Longevity, faithfulness, adoration
• Soil Needs: Well-drained, acidic, moist soil
• Water Needs: Moderate to high
• Sunlight Needs: Partial shade to full sun
• Growing Zones: 6-9
• Bloom Time: Winter to early spring

Camellias are flowers of great cultural significance in China. They symbolize young sons and daughters and are often given as gifts to show the wish for the recipient to have a child.

They also symbolize longevity and faithfulness, making them a popular choice for gifts between lovers.

8. Magnolia (玉兰)

• Botanical Name: Magnolia spp.
• Meaning: Nobility, perseverance, dignity
• Soil Needs: Well-drained, fertile, loamy soil
• Water Needs: Moderate
• Sunlight Needs: Full sun to partial shade
• Growing Zones: 5-9
• Bloom Time: Spring

The Magnolia symbolizes nobility, perseverance, and love of nature.

Known for its large, aromatic flowers, the magnolia is often associated with the sublime beauty of nature.

Its name in Chinese, “Yu Lan”, means “jade orchid”, which reflects its high esteem in Chinese culture.

9. Chinese Rose (月季)

• Botanical Name: Rosa chinensis
• Meaning: Love, beauty, happiness
• Soil Needs: Well-drained, fertile, loamy soil
• Water Needs: Moderate
• Sunlight Needs: Full sun
• Growing Zones: 6-9
• Bloom Time: Late spring to early fall

The Chinese Rose, also known as the China Rose, holds a special place in people’s hearts. It’s a symbol of love, beauty, and happiness.

As the flower of four seasons, it blooms all year round, bringing color and joy into people’s lives, regardless of the season.

Learn more about: 20 Rose Color Meanings: Love and Relationships

10. Osmanthus (桂花)

• Botanical Name: Osmanthus fragrans
• Meaning: Nobility, integrity
• Soil Needs: Well-drained, fertile, loamy soil
• Water Needs: Moderate
• Sunlight Needs: Full sun to partial shade
• Growing Zones: 7-9
• Bloom Time: Late summer to early fall

The sweet-scented Osmanthus, often used in Chinese cuisine and tea, symbolizes love and romance.

Its tiny yet fragrant blooms represent the sweet, subtle whisperings of a lover.

Blooming in autumn, the osmanthus also symbolizes the chivalry and bravery of a knight standing strong against the impending winter.

11. Lycoris Radiata (石蒜)

• Botanical Name: Lycoris radiata
• Meaning: Resilience, rebirth, never-ending love
• Soil Needs: Well-drained, fertile soil
• Water Needs: Moderate
• Sunlight Needs: Full sun to partial shade
• Growing Zones: 6-10
• Bloom Time: Late summer to early fall

Lycoris Radiata, commonly known as the red spider lily, holds a sad place in Chinese symbolism.

It’s often associated with loss, longing, abandonment, and memories of loved ones.

It is believed to guide the departed souls on their journey to the afterlife, serving as a poignant reminder of the transient nature of life.

12. Chinese Hibiscus (朱槿)

• Botanical Name: Hibiscus rosa-sinensis
• Meaning: Delicate beauty, fame, wealth
• Soil Needs: Well-drained, fertile, loamy soil
• Water Needs: Moderate to high
• Sunlight Needs: Full sun
• Growing Zones: 9-11
• Bloom Time: Summer to early fall

The Chinese Hibiscus symbolizes fame, wealth, and a prosperous career with its striking, large, trumpet-shaped flowers.

It’s often seen as a flower that can bring good luck and drive away evil spirits. Its vibrant blooms also represent the fleeting beauty and glory of personal achievement.

13. Rhododendron (杜鹃)

• Botanical Name: Rhododendron spp.
• Meaning: Danger, to beware, caution
• Soil Needs: Well-drained, acidic, fertile soil
• Water Needs: Moderate
• Sunlight Needs: Partial shade
• Growing Zones: 4-8
• Bloom Time: Late winter to early spring

Rhododendrons, known for their stunning springtime blooms, are symbols of caution and danger in Chinese culture. This is due to their toxic properties if ingested.

Nevertheless, the Rhododendron’s vibrant colors and lush blossoms also represent passion and the blooming of intense emotions.

14. Narcissus (水仙)

• Botanical Name: Narcissus spp.
• Meaning: Rebirth, new beginnings, eternal life
• Soil Needs: Well-drained, fertile soil
• Water Needs: Moderate
• Sunlight Needs: Full sun to partial shade
• Growing Zones: 3-8
• Bloom Time: Spring

The Narcissus, often associated with the Chinese New Year, symbolizes good fortune and prosperity.

It’s believed that if a narcissus blooms on New Year’s Day, it will bring a year of good luck. Its elegant, fragrant flowers are a traditional Chinese art and poetry staple.

15. Jasmine (茉莉)

• Botanical Name: Jasminum spp.
• Meaning: Love, beauty, sensuality
• Soil Needs: Well-drained, fertile, loamy soil
• Water Needs: Moderate
• Sunlight Needs: Full sun to partial shade
• Growing Zones: 7-10
• Bloom Time: Summer

Jasmine, with its intoxicating scent, symbolizes feminine sweetness and beauty.

Often associated with love and romance, Jasmine also represents amiability and affability.

It’s highly valued for its soothing properties and is frequently used in teas and perfumes.

16. Lily (百合)

• Botanical Name: Lilium spp.
• Meaning: Purity, motherhood, majesty
• Soil Needs: Well-drained, fertile, loamy soil
• Water Needs: Moderate
• Sunlight Needs: Full sun to partial shade
• Growing Zones: 4-9
• Bloom Time: Summer

In Chinese, the Lily, known as ‘Bai He’, symbolizes purity and motherhood.

Its name sounds like the Chinese word for ‘forever’, making it a common wedding flower, symbolizing a happy union for a hundred years.

It’s also a symbol of good luck and is often gifted to women on birthdays.

Learn more about: 30 Types of Lilies by Division and Their Meanings

17. Sweet Alyssum (丁香花)

• Botanical Name: Lobularia maritima
• Meaning: Beauty, protection against evil
• Soil Needs: Well-drained, fertile soil
• Water Needs: Moderate
• Sunlight Needs: Full sun to partial shade
• Growing Zones: 4-9
• Bloom Time: Spring to fall

Sweet Alyssum, a small yet charming flower, represents beauty and protection against evil.

The tiny, fragrant blooms are often used as ground cover in gardens and are believed to bring good luck.

Despite their size, their impact is significant, demonstrating that size is only sometimes an indication of influence.

Learn more about: Alyssum Flower Meaning: The Sweet Symbolism

18. Hydrangea (绣球)

• Botanical Name: Hydrangea macrophylla
• Meaning: Heartfelt emotions, gratitude
• Soil Needs: Well-drained, fertile, loamy soil
• Water Needs: High
• Sunlight Needs: Partial shade to full sun
• Growing Zones: 5-9
• Bloom Time: Summer

Hydrangeas symbolize heartfelt emotions and gratitude with their large, stunning flower heads.

Their name in Chinese, ‘Xiu Qiu’, translates to ’embroidered ball’, reflecting their unique, full shape.

In a bouquet, they convey a deeper understanding and heartfelt respect for the recipient’s feelings.

Learn more about: The Hidden Meanings of Hydrangea Flower Symbolism

19. Tree Peony (牡丹)

• Botanical Name: Paeonia suffruticosa
• Meaning: Honor, wealth, romance
• Soil Needs: Well-drained, fertile, loamy soil
• Water Needs: Moderate
• Sunlight Needs: Full sun to partial shade
• Growing Zones: 4-8
• Bloom Time: Late spring

Tree Peony, a variety of peonies, holds similar cultural significance as the common peony. It also symbolizes wealth, honor, and high social status.

Known for its large, double-flowered blooms, the tree peony is often considered more extravagant and thus is an even stronger symbol of prosperity and nobility.

20. Chinese Wisteria (紫藤)

• Botanical Name: Wisteria sinensis
• Meaning: Welcome, playfulness
• Soil Needs: Well-drained, fertile, loamy soil
• Water Needs: Moderate
• Sunlight Needs: Full sun
• Growing Zones: 5-8
• Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer

Chinese Wisteria, with its cascading clusters of purple flowers, is a symbol of love, sensuality, and sensitivity.

Its intoxicating fragrance, and dramatic display of blooms represent the overwhelming emotions of a new romance.

The wisteria’s vigorous growth symbolizes our natural, unrestrained feelings and desires.

21. Chinese Sacred Lily (水仙)

• Botanical Name: Narcissus tazetta
• Meaning: Good fortune, prosperity
• Soil Needs: Well-drained, fertile soil
• Water Needs: Moderate
• Sunlight Needs: Full sun to partial shade
• Growing Zones: 5-9
• Bloom Time: Late winter to early spring

Despite the similarity in names with the Narcissus, the Chinese Sacred Lily is a different variety, often used in religious ceremonies.

This flower is seen as a symbol of spiritual purity and enlightenment. Its strong, sweet scent is believed to attract good fortune and positive energies.

22. Chinese Lantern (红灯笼)

• Botanical Name: Physalis alkekengi
• Meaning: Protection, good fortune
• Soil Needs: Well-drained, fertile, loamy soil
• Water Needs: Moderate
• Sunlight Needs: Full sun to partial shade
• Growing Zones: 3-9
• Bloom Time: Late summer to fall

The Chinese Lantern, known for its unique, bright orange-red, lantern-shaped pods, symbolizes protection and good fortune.

This flower is often associated with the spirit world, believed to ward off evil spirits and guide lost ones. Its vibrant lanterns also symbolize the joy and brightness of life.

23. Gardenia (栀子花)

• Botanical Name: Gardenia jasminoides
• Meaning: Purity, sweetness, secret love
• Soil Needs: Well-drained, acidic, fertile soil
• Water Needs: Moderate to high
• Sunlight Needs: Full sun to partial shade
• Growing Zones: 8-11
• Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer

The Gardenia, known for its intoxicating fragrance and waxy white flowers, symbolizes purity, love, and refinement.

In Chinese culture, it’s often used to express secret love. It’s sweet scent and delicate beauty make it a popular addition to gardens and floral arrangements.

Learn more about:

24. Cotton Rose (木芙蓉)

• Botanical Name: Hibiscus mutabilis
• Meaning: Change, adaptability
• Soil Needs: Well-drained, fertile, loamy soil
• Water Needs: Moderate
• Sunlight Needs: Full sun
• Growing Zones: 7-9
• Bloom Time: Summer to fall

The Cotton Rose, also known as Confederate Rose, changes color as it blooms, symbolizing change and adaptability.

It starts as a white flower in the morning, turns pink in the afternoon, and finally becomes a deep, rosy red by evening, representing life’s beautiful yet transient nature.

Learn more about: Number of Roses Meaning: Love and Symbolism

25. Begonia (秋海棠)

• Botanical Name: Begonia spp.
• Meaning: Caution, fanciful nature
• Soil Needs: Well-drained, fertile soil
• Water Needs: Moderate
• Sunlight Needs: Partial shade
• Growing Zones: 6-11 (depending on species)
• Bloom Time: Summer

Begonias, known for their bright and attractive flowers, symbolize caution and fanciful nature.

Their delicate, beautiful blooms remind us to tread carefully in new environments or relationships.

They also symbolize deep thoughts and reflections, urging us to appreciate their beauty and contemplate their underlying meanings.

Learn more about: Begonia Flower Meaning: Spiritual Symbolism

26. Chinese Bellflower (桔梗)

• Botanical Name: Platycodon grandiflorus
• Meaning: Unchanging love, honesty
• Soil Needs: Well-drained, fertile, loamy soil
• Water Needs: Moderate
• Sunlight Needs: Full sun to partial shade
• Growing Zones: 4-9
• Bloom Time: Summer

The Chinese Bellflower symbolizes unchanging love and honesty with its beautiful bell-shaped blooms.

Its delicate petals represent the transparency and purity of feelings in a relationship.

With its long-lasting bloom, the bellflower is often associated with everlasting love and loyalty.

27. Iris (鸢尾)

• Botanical Name: Iris spp.
• Meaning: Wisdom, hope, trust
• Soil Needs: Well-drained, fertile soil
• Water Needs: Moderate
• Sunlight Needs: Full sun to partial shade
• Growing Zones: 3-9 (depending on species)
• Bloom Time: Spring to early summer

The Iris, known for its vibrant, unique-looking flowers, symbolizes wisdom, hope, and trust. It’s said that the iris acts as a bridge between heaven and earth, providing divine messages.

Its intricate blooms are a favorite among gardeners and florists, admired for their rich color and elegant form.

Learn more about: Iris Flower Meaning: Symbolism of Love and Hope

28. Pansy (三色堇)

• Botanical Name: Viola tricolor var. hortensis
• Meaning: Thoughtful reflection, remembrance
• Soil Needs: Well-drained, fertile soil
• Water Needs: Moderate
• Sunlight Needs: Full sun to partial shade
• Growing Zones: 6-10
• Bloom Time: Spring to early summer

Pansies symbolize thoughtful reflection and remembrance with their charming, face-like flowers. Their name comes from the French word ‘pensée’, meaning ‘thought’.

These delicate flowers, often with contrasting colors on their petals, remind us to pause and reflect amidst life’s hustle and bustle.

29. Chinese Trumpet Vine (凌霄花)

• Botanical Name: Campsis grandiflora
• Meaning: Unchanging love, attachment
• Soil Needs: Well-drained, fertile, loamy soil
• Water Needs: Moderate
• Sunlight Needs: Full sun
• Growing Zones: 6-9
• Bloom Time: Summer to early fall

The Chinese Trumpet Vine, known for its spectacular trumpet-shaped flowers, symbolizes unchanging love and attachment.

Its vigorous growth and ability to cling tightly to structures reflect the strong bonds of love and friendship.

It’s a reminder that even in tough times, love can help us hold on and thrive.

30. Chinese Milk Vetch (紫云英)

• Botanical Name: Astragalus sinicus
• Meaning: Good luck, protection
• Soil Needs: Well-drained, fertile, loamy soil
• Water Needs: Moderate
• Sunlight Needs: Full sun
• Growing Zones: 3-8
• Bloom Time: Spring to summer

The Chinese Milk Vetch, a humble yet important plant, symbolizes good luck and protection. It’s often planted to improve soil fertility, signifying the enhancement and nurturing of life.

Its small, clustered purple flowers bloom in early spring, symbolizing the beginning of a prosperous year.

Conclusion

Each Chinese flower carries its unique significance and symbolism, deeply intertwined with Chinese culture and traditions.

From symbolizing unchanging love, prosperity, and longevity to representing caution, adaptability, and enlightenment, these flowers embody the richness and diversity of Chinese cultural symbolism.

Their beauty and the profound meanings they hold continue to captivate and inspire, making them more than just a feast for the eyes.

Whether in art, literature, festivals, or gardens, they play an integral role, adding color, fragrance, and deeper understanding to our lives.

Discover more about different flora types:

• 30 Varieties and Types of Lemons from All Over the World
• Types of Melons: 30 Melon Varieties that You Should Know
• 30 Romantic Flowers to Symbolize Your Love and Affection
• 30 Mountain Flowers with Striking Natural Beauty
• 30 Blue Flowers to Calm and Relax Your Mind