Flowers have long been used as symbols to convey different meanings and messages. When looking for a flower that represents peace, there are a few key options that stand out. In this article, we will explore some of the main flowers that are associated with peace, look at their history and meaning, and help you determine which bloom is the best fit for your needs.
White Roses
One of the most classic flowers symbolizing peace is the white rose. In fact, white roses have come to represent several interrelated meanings: purity, innocence, reverence, young love, and peace/anti-war sentiment. Their white color conveys simplicity and purity of intent between two people. Historically, they were given as tokens of truce or to symbolize the end of a conflict. Even today, laying white roses is a meaningful act of paying respects and promoting peace.
White roses became prominent in the pacifist movement during World War I in England, where they were used in propaganda posters to recruit soldiers and promote the anti-war message. The white poppy was also adopted as an alternative to the red remembrance poppy, advocating for non-violent conflict resolution rather than the sacrifices of war. So if you’re looking for a classic floral emblem of peace, white roses are a timeless and meaningful choice.
Lilies
Many types of lilies also symbolize peace, including white lilies and yellow lilies. In Christianity, the lily is considered a symbol of purity and peace, which is why it is commonly associated with the Virgin Mary. It was seen as representing her peaceful nature and perpetual innocence. Lilies are also used as Easter symbols to represent Christ’s resurrection and hope for eternal peace.
Beyond religious meanings, lilies have come to signify peace more broadly through their calming appearance and soothing fragrance. They evoke a sense of tranquility and inner stillness. Giving lilies can express sympathy, convey wishes for peace, or commemorate a peaceful departing. Common types like Asiatic, Oriental, and Stargazer lilies make lovely peace-themed gifts or floral arrangements.
Gladioli
Gladioli are multi-spiked blooms that also hold significance as peace symbols in various cultures. Their name comes from the Latin word for “sword” – gladius. However, gladioli flowers represent laying down arms and pacifism instead of violence. Their tall spikes and bright colors give them a bold, uplifting presence that suggests rising above conflict to pursue harmony.
In Feng Shui principles, gladioli signify absence of anger and full attention to positive goals. They encourage focusing energy on forgiveness, compassion, and moving toward inner peace. Displaying gladioli blooms in an entryway or living space is believed to invite peaceful energy into the home. They make striking additions to bouquets, centerpieces, and gifts aimed at promoting goodwill and reconciliation.
Conclusion
When selecting flowers to represent peace, white roses, lilies, and gladioli emerge as top choices due to their meaning and imagery. White roses have a classic, timeless connection to peace, remembrance, and anti-violence. Lilies evoke serenity, innocence, and sympathy. Gladioli symbolize laying down weapons, forgiveness, and inner stillness. All provide beautiful ways to share a message of hope for peace. Beyond these options, flowers in tranquil cool colors like white, lavender, pale blue, or green also make peaceful floral gifts. The key is choosing blooms that inspire positive thoughts and wishes for a nonviolent world.
| Flower | Meaning | History/Symbolism |
|---|---|---|
| White roses | Purity, innocence, remembrance, peace | Used in anti-war propaganda, alternative to red poppy, tokens of truce |
| Lilies | Purity, peace, innocence | Symbol of Virgin Mary, used in Easter services |
| Gladioli | Laying down arms, forgiveness, compassion | Name comes from “sword” but means nonviolence, uplifting presence |
