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Many are familiar with the concept of the "language of flowers." For instance, roses symbolize love, while sunflowers represent cheerfulness and encouragement, among others. But what about the "language of flowers" specific to Thai people or the meanings of Thai flowers—can you name any?
No worries, we're not here to test your knowledge. Today, Love You Flower Shop just wants to invite you to get to know more about Thai flowers and ancient Thai flowers, including the profound meanings our ancestors have attributed to these blooms. I can assure you, the depth of meaning in the Thai floral language is as rich as any global floral language.
Explore Thai Flowers: Meanings You Might Not Know
1. Jasmine Flower
Source of Image: royalparkrajapruek.org
Meaning of Jasmine: Purity, Gentleness, Loyalty, Maternal Love
The jasmine flower represents purity, a trait underscored by its pristine white color and its delicately pleasant fragrance. It is no wonder then that jasmine is celebrated as the flower of Mother’s Day in Thailand.
Jasmine is a staple in Thai culture, familiar and frequently chosen for various uses. It is woven into garlands, floated in drinking water for a refreshing flavor, used in temple decorations or royal courts, crafted into traditional rice offerings (Bay-Sri), or arranged in flower vases temples for its aesthetic and spiritual significance.
2. Orchid
Source of Image: tranhao จาก pixabay
Meaning of Orchid: Luxury, Beauty, Education, Teacher's Efforts
The orchid symbolizes wealth and grace across many cultures, including Thai culture, likely stemming from its unique and striking appearance. Orchids stand out among other flowers with their robust and elegant petals truly embodying opulence.
In Thailand, the orchid also represents education and the efforts of teachers, as it is commonly brought to honor teachers on Teacher’s Day. This tradition reflects the dedication of educators, akin to the careful nurturing required to bloom these magnificent flowers and growing orchids requires patience and meticulous care. Just as teachers invest time and effort into cultivating the minds of their students,
3. Lotus
Source of Image: Minh Hung Le from Pixabay
Meaning of Lotus: Purity, Peace, Enlightenment
The lotus flower stands as a symbol of purity, cleanliness, and awakening. It is unique in its growth, blossoming beautifully and cleanly above the water's surface, despite its roots being mired in mud. A common analogy used in Buddhist teachings is known as the “Four Types of Lotus” in Buddhism.
Additionally, the lotus is revered in Thailand and throughout the Buddhist world as a sacred flower. It appears frequently in Buddhist art and lore, such as the lotus steps marking the seven steps taken by Prince Siddhartha at birth. The flower is also commonly used in Buddhist rituals, serving as a seat or pedestal for statues of the Buddha.
4. Orange jasmine
Source of Image: shopee.co.th
Meaning of Orange Jasmine: Happiness, Prosperity, Beauty
Orange jasmine, known for its clusters of creamy white flowers, symbolizes happiness and prosperity. The flowers are grouped together in lush bunches, emitting a sweet and refreshing fragrance that spreads particularly well at night. It is commonly planted around homes in Thailand, as it is believed that the delightful scent of Orange Jasmine brings joy and good fortune to its surroundings.
5. Globe Amaranth
Source of Image: matichonweekly.com
Meaning of Globe Amaranth: Endurance, Strength, Longevity
Globe Amaranth may not have the delicate petals of more conventionally beautiful flowers, but it is celebrated for its ability to withstand the test of time without wilting. Its blooms may dry out, yet they retain their shape and vibrant color, symbolizing endurance and strength. Moreover, this flower represents everlasting love, as implied by its name which suggests a bloom that never fades.
Additionally, Globe Amaranth is often used in teacher appreciation ceremonies in Thailand, where it is part of floral arrangements symbolizing the enduring nature of learning a never-ending journey.
6. Cosmos
Source of Image: th.wikipedia.org
Meaning of Cosmos: Hope, Brightness, New Beginnings
Cosmos flowers are known for their fully opened, brightly colored petals that shine under the sun. Available in shades of pink, yellow, orange, and white, they create a stunning and cheerful display when clustered together in fields.
Beyond their beauty, Cosmos symbolize new beginnings because these resilient plants are perennials that bloom throughout the year, representing hope and the possibility of fresh starts in all situations.
7. Little Ironweed
Source of Image: samunpri.com
Meaning of Little Ironweed: Strength, Resilience, Adaptability
Although Little Ironweed may not stand out at first glance as strength and resilience. But this flower thrives in diverse environments, demonstrating a remarkable ability to adapt and grow continuously.
The specific type of Little Ironweed being discussed here is known locally as "Heaven's Curtain." It features densely clustered blooms at the tips of its branches, appearing in shades of light purple with red, purple, and pink. When the flowers bloom, they will fluff up softly and fade to white, leaving behind only the hardened core of the seed.
8. Frangipani (Plumeria)
Source of Image: technologychaoban.com
Meaning of Frangipani: Happiness, Youthfulness, The Sweetness of Love
Originally known in Thai as "Lan Thom," Frangipani was traditionally believed to be ill-omened to plant near homes because its name sounded like "Rathom," which means sorrowful or troubled. However, its name was later changed to 'Leelawadee,' which refers to a tree known for the elegant way its branches sweep out from the stem.
In the present, the meaning associated with Frangipani in Thailand has transformed to signify the shedding of sorrow ("La" coming from "Lan" – “La” in Thai Means “Leave”), implying leave from the sorrow. Moreover, its gently scented flowers, creamy white tinged with yellow, evoke feelings of freshness, youth, and the sweet allure of love.
9. Rumdul Flower
Source of Image: royalparkrajapruek.org
Meaning of Rumdul flower: Strength, Perseverance, Longevity
Rumdul flower, known for its striking yellow flowers, The flower features six petals arranged in two layers, Including three blooming outward and three slightly close, which creates a distinct and memorable appearance. Additionally, its subtle and unique fragrance sets it apart from other floral species.
Rumdul flower is a hardy perennial that can grow from 5 to 20 meters tall and thrives in various environmental conditions. This resilience makes both the tree and its flowers emblematic of steadfastness and endurance. The flower is also associated with the elderly, representing those who have weathered many seasons and grown strong and majestic through the years.
10. Asian Bullet Wood
Source of Image: khaosod.co.th
Meaning of Asian Bullet Wood: Fertility, Grace, Preciousness, Flower from heaven
Asian Bullet Wood is celebrated for its gentle fragrance and delicately with 6 pointed petals that split at the tips into two sharp points, giving it an intricate and exquisite appearance.
Historically, Asian Bullet Wood was regarded as a "flower from heaven" due to its association with the divine gardens of Indra in Hindu mythology, located in the heavenly realm of Tavatimsa. Planting Asian Bullet Wood in the home is believed to bring fertility and abundance. Additionally, in ancient times, monarchs would exchange "Silver Bullet Wood Flower" and "Bullet Wood Flower" flowers as diplomatic gifts to symbolize valuable and auspicious wishes for prosperity between kingdoms.
11. Cork tree
Source of Image: disthai.com
Meaning of Cork Tree Flowers: Gentleness, Respect, Humility
The Cork Tree, also known as “Kasalong”, is noted for its delicately fragrant flowers. These blooms release a subtle scent when they fall and blanket the ground, creating a fragrant spread that enhances their surroundings.
In addition to their beauty and fragrance, Cork Tree flowers hold a special place in the cultural practices of the Lanna people in Thailand. They are traditionally used in the religious ceremony known as "Tung Dham Luang," part of the Vessantara Jataka chanting celebrations. Ancient scriptures, such as the "Tutiyamalai," mention Kasalong as one of the flowers used in these religious offerings. Moreover, it is believed that the Cork Tree flowers are used to honor the Earth Goddess (Phra Mae Thorani), spreading their soothing fragrance across the land as they fall.
12. Adenium (Desert Rose)
Source of Image: treeitems.com
Meaning of Adenium: Charm, Beauty, Welcoming
Adenium, known for its stunning beauty, certainly earns its praise from its vibrant pink petals, sleek green leaves, and glossy stems. As a succulent plant, it embodies not only physical beauty but also the ideas of welcoming and inviting admiration.
In Thailand, Adenium is considered an auspicious plant to grow near homes because it is believed to bring charm and popularity to the residents. Additionally, its resilience to sun and heat makes it well-suited to the Thai climate, further enhancing its reputation as a desirable and beneficial plant.
Explore Rare and Traditional Thai Flowers
1. Vallaris glabra
Source of Image: th.wikipedia.org/wiki
Meaning of Vallaris glabra: Prosperity in Career
Vallaris glabra, is noted for its pristine white blossoms that are said to resemble freshly cooked jasmine rice and emit a subtle fragrance tinged with pandan leaf scent. The flowers grow in clusters tucked among the leaves and at the tips of branches, resembling inverted bells.
It is believed that planting Vallaris glabra at home, especially in the north direction, can bring prosperity and career success to the residents. This flower is not only admired for its beauty and rarity but also valued for its auspicious implications for professional life.
2. Cestrum nocturnum
Source of Image: samunpri.com
Meaning of Cestrum nocturnum: Mystery, Beauty in Tranquility, Spiritual Love
Cestrum nocturnum, commonly known as Night Blooming Jasmine, blooms during the nighttime, which lends it an aura of mystery. Its flowers are generally white and grow in clusters, similar in appearance to the Cork Tree but distinct in their nocturnal blossoming. The fragrance, which is most potent at night, symbolizes charm and the quiet beauty of peaceful moments.
Furthermore, this flower is often associated with profound spiritual love or transcendent romance, suggesting a connection that goes beyond the physical realm into the spiritual or even spanning multiple lifetimes.
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3. Artabotrys Hexapetalus
Source of Image: disthai.com
Meaning of Artabotrys hexapetalus: Virtue, Goodness, Gentle Refinement
Artabotrys hexapetalus, (Kalaviṅka), is distinguished by its six petals divided into two layers, each with three petals, resembling White Cheesewood in structure. The flower's yellow petals emit a unique fragrance at night, similar to that of Night Blooming Jasmine.
The name "Kalaviṅka" is derived from the mythical bird in Buddhist legend, renowned for its beautiful singing that mesmerizes both humans and animals, compelling them to pause and listen. Additionally, its scent is metaphorically linked to "the fragrance of goodness," which spreads far and wide, much like the virtues it symbolizes.
4. White Champaca (Magnolia × Alba)
Source of Image: royalparkrajapruek.org
Meaning of White Champaca: Prosperity, Beauty, Everlasting Love
White Champaca is renowned for its soft, captivating scent and is often considered a "twin" to the Champaka flower. The petals are a creamy white or ivory color, with sharp tips and inner petals longer than the outer ones, giving it a distinctive appearance. It is believed in Thai culture that planting a White Champaca near one’s home brings prosperity and career advancement.
Historically and continuing today, Thais use White Champaca flowers to worship, make garlands, or for scenting rooms and clothing. Even when dried, the flowers maintain their fragrance, symbolizing enduring love that never fades, much like their persistent scent.
5. Magnolia Champaca (champak)
Source of Image: disthai.com
Meaning of Magnolia Champaca: Everlasting Love, Purity of Heart, Wisdom
Magnolia Champaca, also known simply as Champak, is the "twin" of White Champaca but distinguishes itself with its yellow color and the outer petals being longer than the inner ones. It emits a deep, gentle fragrance, so revered that it was historically known as the "King of Flowers" in Ayutthaya.
According to the royal chronicles of the Ayutthaya Kingdom, Champak flowers were sent by Prince Butsri Sura to Thao Sri Sudachan and were traditionally given to diplomats as a welcoming gesture. Furthermore, Buddhist legends prophesy that the future Buddha, Devadeva, will attain enlightenment beneath a Champak tree, symbolizing not only purity of heart and wisdom but also undying love, much like the enduring fragrance of the Champak flower.
6. Nepal Trumpet
Source of Image: Flowers In Thailand ดอกไม้ในประเทศไทย
Meaning of Nepal Trumpet: Wealth, Fertility, Success
The Nepal Trumpet flower, locally known as “Hiranyikar”, is often associated with wealth, fertility, and success. Its elegant, bell-shaped, luxurious white blossoms emit a pleasing fragrance contributing to its opulent appearance.
The name "Hiranyikar" translates to "one who turns things into gold," symbolizing prosperity. It is believed that planting this flower at home will bring financial prosperity to its residents. Originally, the name was inspired by the moonlit or silvery appearance of its pale blossoms at night, where "Hiranya" means "silver" in Sanskrit.
7. Tuberose
Source of Image: disthai.com
Meaning of Tuberose: Seductive Charm, Secret Love
Tuberose, also locally referred to as “Dok Son Choo” (meaning secretly having an affair), features clean, white flowers that resemble those of the Cork Tree but are larger and rise in clusters above the plant. The name Tuberose derives from its intense fragrance, which is particularly strong at night, whereas it is almost scentless during the day.
Historically, Thai people used tuberose in funeral ceremonies to mask odors, which led some to consider it an unlucky flower. However, today, it is more commonly associated with secret love and unrequited affections, as well as its compelling, enchanting scent that is known to be intoxicating and can stimulate sexual allure.
So far, the Thai flowers we’ve explored are as meaningful as those in other floral traditions. Not only do they convey heartfelt messages, but they also bring good luck with their beauty and fragrance. They’re definitely worth cultivating to enhance your fortune! If you're interested, check out our other fascinating articles on the meanings of various flowers.
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