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The Language of Flowers: Sunflower
By Penny | January 8, 2008
Bright and cheery, bold yet comfortable, sunflowers have brilliant yellow petals that surround the flower’s center giving it an unmistakable sun-like appearance. Sunflowers come in a number of varieties, ranging from small to large and from daylight yellows to sunset reds.
The use of sunflower images as religious symbols has also been documented in some native societies. With the European exploration of the New World, the sunflower was brought to new areas, and the flower’s popularity eventually spread as the rest of the world began to appreciate its beauty and sustenance. Today sunflowers have become recognized as a floral symbol of great significance.
Much of the meaning of sunflowers stems from its namesake, the sun itself. Wild sunflowers are often photographed with their tall stalks and bright petals stretched towards the sun. This unique behavior, known as phototropism, is a motif that has appeared in many ancient myths and is viewed as a symbol of loyalty and constancy. Their physical resemblance to the sun has also influenced their meanings. The sunflower’s petals have been likened to bright yellow rays of sunshine, which evoke feelings of warmth and happiness. In addition, the sunflower is often associated with adoration and longevity.
Topics: language of flowers |