Alstroemeria – Meaning and Symbolism
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Alstroemerias are beautiful blossoms with vibrant hues that can attract anyone’s attention. Aside from its charming appearance, the flower also is also known for its symbolism which can help express your heartfelt emotions or feelings, especially when given at the right moment. To give you a better view, here’s what you need to know about alstroemeria.
What are Astroemerias?
Alstroemeria is the genus of flowering plants under the Alstroemeriaceae family. Its name was given by Klaus Alstromer, a Swedish baron who discovered the plant in Chile.
Alstroemerias are known for having an inflorescence formation, which is a cluster of flowers on a single branch. Typically, these florets blooms during the summer season, but some varieties blossom in autumn. Aside from that, the flower comes in various shades, including white, yellow, purple, pink, orange, and red. Some new varieties have striped patterns.
Alstroemeria originated in South America and were brought to Europe in the 18th century, making them available internationally. Today, there are more than 50 varieties of alstroemeria. The most popular varieties of this flower are the Peruvian lily (Alstroemeria pelegrina), Brazilian lily (Alstroemeria caryophyllacea), lily of the Nile (Alstroemeria ligtu), and parrot lily (Alstroemeria pulchella). One of the reasons for the flower’s popularity is its multitude of colors and long vase life.
Meaning and Symbolism of Alstroemeria
Alstroemeria has several symbolic meanings, which include the following:
- Friendship – The alstroemeria flower is a symbol of friendship. The reason is due to its leaves that twist out of their base as they grow upside down. Like the leaves, friends experience some twists and turns, which allows them to grow and strengthen their friendship.
- Devotion – Like the twisting leaves of this flowering plant, marriages have a complex nature, and couples experience twists and turns. Even so, these challenges will only strengthen their relationship as long as they remain devoted to each other. For this reason, alstroemeria is used as a symbol of everlasting devotion between married couples.
- Support – Alstroemeria is considered a symbol of mutual support, and it signifies people’s ability to help each other during difficult times.
- Survival – Alstroemeria is a symbol of survival because the plant can thrive in various environmental conditions. Plus, the plant can also overcome numerous challenges.
- Wealth, Prosperity, and Luck – In some cultures, this lovely blossom symbolizes luck, prosperity, and wealth. As such, it can be a great housewarming gift.
As mentioned, alstroemeria comes in different hues, and each color has its own meaning.
- White – In general, white alstroemeria symbolizes spirituality, love, purity, and support. As such, the flower is often used at weddings because it represents the love between two people. Also, the white variety can signify pure friendship.
- Yellow – The yellow alstroemeria is a symbol of energy, optimism, joy, and happiness. For this reason, this charming flower can be a great decor to bring positivity and optimism into the home. You can also give this blossom to your friends to remind them of the happy moments you’ve spent together.
- Pink – The pink alstroemeria represents playfulness, romance, love, and gentle feelings. Because of its meaning, this beautiful blossom is the perfect gift to your special someone, especially if your relationship has bloomed from friendship to lovers.
- Orange – Like the yellow varieties, orange alstroemeria stands for passion and positive energy, making it a great home decor.
- Red – Like most red-colored flowers, the red alstroemeria is a symbol of love, romance, and passion. As such, it can be an excellent gift to your significant other, especially if you want to say I love you in a fun and passionate way.
- Purple – The purple alstroemeria is usually given to graceful and elegant people because it symbolizes nobility and royalty.
Alstromeria in Use Today
Alstroemerias have a delicate texture and vivid colors. For this reason, a lot of florists use this gorgeous flower as a filler in various flower arrangements, including corsages, boutonnieres, and bridal bouquets. Additionally, it can also be used in centerpieces and home décor because it can last for as long as two weeks as a cut flower. Lastly, alstroemeria doesn’t have a scent. As such, it can be a great alternative to fragrant flowers, especially if the recipient has allergies.
When to Give Alstroemeria?
Alstroemerias can be great gifts because they radiate a beauty that can uplift a person’s mood; however, the flower is not for all occasions because of its meanings. So, when should you give this vibrant blossom?
- Birthdays – Alstroemerias, specifically the orange and yellow varieties, can be an excellent birthday gift for your family and friends because they symbolize positivity, joy, and happiness. When given as a gift, you are communicating that you wish joy and happiness for the birthday celebrant.
- Valentine’s Day – If your special someone has allergies, pink or red alstroemerias are great gifts. The reason is that the flower can express your love and affection for the recipient.
- Get Well Gift – As a symbol of support and survival, alstroemerias can be given to your loved ones who are feeling unwell or those facing difficulties in life. The flower will not only express your support. It can also act as a reminder that the recipient has the strength to survive and overcome life’s challenges.
- Housewarming – Alstroemeria is an excellent housewarming gift because it can bring positive energy into a home.
Final Thoughts
Overall, alstroemeria can be a great gift for your family and friends, and because the beautiful blossom has several meanings, it’s an appropriate present for various occasions. Whether you’re including it in your wedding bouquet, or looking for fresh flowers for your home, alstroemeria offers something for everyone.
