Plant Symbolism

The next time you buy a plant for your collection or want to gift one to a loved one or friend consider plant symbolism as part of the experience.

Red roses are known as a symbol of love, That's probably why they are the most popular flowers to give on Valentine's Day and other special occasions.

However, back in the day, Victorians followed the language of flowers by custom, and everyone carried around little bunches of flowers called Tussie Mussies. The idea of giving flowers with specific meanings is a fun way to show someone you care.

However, what about plant symbolism in general? Specifically houseplant symbolism. Why not give a plant instead of flowers, which will have an enduring effect and may even last for years? We all know that a Peace Lily is a symbol of sympathy but what about other occasions?

While many of these popular indoor plants have more than one meaning, this basic list will help you find a great gift for your next special occasion.

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House Plant Symbolism

Plants for Love

Lavender

Lavender is considered a symbol of love and devotion. Tender lavenders such as French Lavender are perfect houseplants. Every time you brush up next to the foliage the sweet scent fills the air. 

Primrose

Primroses are said to be a symbol of new love and new beginnings. They can be found here in Pennsylvania at the grocery store in January. They are typically only a few dollars and can come in a wide range of colors. Red symbolizes passion while yellow is more for warmth and love. I often buy a few, and when spring comes, I plant them in the garden. Since they are usually greenhouse-grown, their ability to come back year after year is hit or miss for me, but they certainly last a lot longer than cut flowers.

Jasmine

Jasmine is said to symbolize unconditional and eternal love. The white flowers also symbolize purity. This pretty and highly fragrant plant can be grown indoors as long as it receives a good amount of bright indirect light.

Orchid

Orchids symbolize love and fertility. Orchids, especially Phalaenopsis, are not that difficult to grow. The blooms last a long time. Certainly longer than any cut flower, and the plant can last for years. Pick out one that has a few of the flowers still in bud.

Plants for Luck

Aloe Vera

Aloe plants are super easy to grow. If you have any houseplants there's probably a good chance that you have an aloe plant. Perfect in the kitchen for burns. In South Africa, you may find it hanging above the entrances of homes for good luck.

Basil

Basil is another great plant for the kitchen. It does need a sunny window to grow, and well drained soil. During the summer a pot of basil on your front porch is said to help bring good luck into the home. Some say Holy Basil symbolizes eternal life.

Bamboo

You often find this plant with the name "Lucky Bamboo Plant." In Chinese culture, the more stalks the plant has, the greater the blessing or abundance. This Asia native is an easy to grow plant and can be found at most large retailers and big box stores.

Snake Plant

Sansevieria aka Snake Plant or Mother-in-law is seen as a good luck charm and symbol of prosperity. It requires very little water and thrives in low light, making this a perfect plant for anyone.

Plants for Health

Sage

According to Wikipedia, Sage or Salvia "derives from the Latin salvere --to feel well and healthy, health, and healing." Sage is also the plant for wisdom. Sage is often grown outdoors, and many varieties will return after a cold winter. In addition, this revered herb can also be grown on a well-lit windowsill or under grow lights in the home.

Rosemary

Rosemary is a tender perennial herb which means it needs to be brought indoors during the winter in cold climates. I often think of the famous quote from Shakespeare's Hamlet, "There’s rosemary, that’s for remembrance." This plant known for remembrance is also a symbol of positive energy, good health, and longevity.

Lemon

Lemon trees are considered a symbol of longevity as they can live for a long time. They are also wonderful plants to grow in the home. I have a dwarf Meyer Lemon tree and it bears beautiful fruit every year.

Monstera

This gorgeous exotic house plant symbolizes longevity and a long life. It's relatively easy to grow at home, however you need to have space for it as a Monstera plant does become a huge beautiful monster in time.

Plants for Happiness

Lemon Balm

Lemon balm is an easy herb to grow indoors or out. A relative of the mint family, the leaves are often made into tea which has been said to alleviate anxiety and lift your mood.

Cyclamen

The cyclamen plant is a pretty flowering houseplant. It can be a little finicky to grow, but once you have it established it will reward you with beautiful flowers and pretty foliage. Said to raise feelings of self-esteem and happiness, cyclamen would be a wonderful gift to receive. It's also considered the plant of friendship, long-lasting and sincere affection.

Lily of the Valley

Who doesn't love the adorable look and wonderful aroma of the lily of the valley flower? Chosen as the number one plant for happiness in a study this lovely perennial is easy to grow outdoors but some say it can also be grown inside the home.

Daffodil

The bright yellow color of daffodils in the springtime makes everyone happy. They are so easy to grow and deer leave them alone. A pretty pot of daffodils is said to "ensure happiness." Once the flowers fade the bulbs can be planted in the garden for next year.

Relating a meaning or symbol to a plant is a fun way to show someone that you care. This list of symbolic plants may have more than one meaning or purpose, but the proverbial quote holds,  "It's the thought that counts."