One of the most popular plants among gardeners is the peony. It is not surprising, because they are extremely beautiful flowers. This vegetable undergoes a true metamorphosis, going from being an unattractive shrub to a true wonder for the eyes, all thanks to its beautiful flowers. But did you know that peonies have a meaning? Several, in fact, according to culture and color.
Before explaining what the meaning of peonies is, it is important to note that the language of flowers began a long time ago in Japan. However, during the Victorian era it became popular in Europe as well. Today, the meaning of flowers is of the utmost importance for the creation of events and ceremonies. Therefore, I hope that this article will be useful to you to better understand the meaning of peonies.
What do peonies mean?
While it is true that all flowers have one meaning or another, mostly influenced by the color of their petals, the case of peonies is somewhat curious. The meaning of these beautiful flowers varies depending on the region in which we are. They do not represent the same thing in the East as in the West. This is mainly due to the Greek myths that are part of the cultural ensemble of the peony.
Peonies: Meaning in Asia
It was at the end of the XNUMXth century when peonies reached European lands. Nevertheless, They have been used in China for a long time. The application that they gave them was not only decorative, but also at a medicinal level due to the beneficial properties that are attributed to the roots of these plants. They helped reduce fever and improve blood flow. But today, they are used merely as ornamental elements.
In Asia, peonies are called Mudán, granted by China. Its translation would be "more beautiful«, a name that suits them wonderfully. In the year 600, the then Chinese emperor named Suyang ordered that these vegetables be planted in one of his royal gardens, specifically in the Xi Yuan. It was the first time that a space in such an honorable place had been dedicated to peonies.
Some time later, Empress Wu Zetian of the Tang dynasty made the cultivation of these beautiful flowers fashionable, as they were her favorites. She loved meeting them in the capital. And that is how the peony began to be known as “The King of Flowers”. In addition, he was attributed the meaning of honor, natural beauty and good fortune.
For this reason, in the Japanese flower language, this flower has been declared as symbol of prosperity, luck, happiness and fortune. We could say that it is the oriental equivalent of what the rose represents in our culture. There are important artistic and written works whose protagonists are peonies and that have been carried out throughout several dynasties.
Meaning of the Peony in Feng Shui
Also in the ancient Chinese art called Feng Shui peonies are not without importance. But what is Feng Shui? Well, it is a very old art that is based on the cosmogony of the universe. Your goal is seek the physical and spiritual well-being of the human being in space.
Regarding the meaning of peonies in Feng Shui, they are usually used above all as a decorative element. when the person is suffering love affairs. Usually this refers to some kind of romantic disappointment, a forced separation, or a breakup. petals in pastel colors they calm the ailments of the heart and also the spirit.
On the other hand, darker shades make it a more lush and refreshing plant. With these characteristics, peonies help to permeate the room or home with fertilizing energies. These energies contribute to learning, business success, career advancement, pregnancy, etc.
Meaning of the Peony in the West
After the opening of the Silk Road, the first peonies began to appear in Europe, and then also in the United States and Canada. However, the meaning of this beautiful flower is not the same in the East as it is in the West, due to the Greek myths that include the peony.
An example would be that, according to the Greeks, coquettish nymphs used to hide naked behind peony bushes, in order to avoid men looking at them. Because of that These flowers are associated with shyness and shame, apart from beauty.
Peony Seed Meaning
Not only the flowers of peonies have their own meanings, but also the seeds. These are used in both white and black magic. to protect newborn babies from the evil eye. Usually, the evil eye is interpreted as the negative energies caused by the envy of other people.
The seeds of the peonies are called Huayruro, and there are two different types:
- The females: They are completely red.
- The males: They are smaller and red in color but with a black part.
They are usually set in cord or silver and placed next to a jet stone in a black rope. This set forms a protection amulet for babies and children. It is usually placed on one of the feet. However, they also say that it attracts prosperity and abundance to adults if they are carried inside a purse or on a bracelet.
What does it mean to be given a peony?
Now that we know a little more about these beautiful flowers, let's see what the most general meaning of peonies is. As you can well imagine, such beautiful flowers also symbolize something very beautiful. This plant is generally associated with lto happiness, beauty and love, between many other things. Therefore, it is not surprising that peonies are one of the most frequent flowers at weddings, as it is one of the favorites of many brides.
So when someone gives us a peony, He is showing us love, affection and good wishes for life. Without a doubt, it is a very appropriate flower to give on special occasions such as declarations of love, anniversaries or romantic dates. If you have ever been given any of these beautiful flowers, or a bouquet of them, you will already know what they are capable of transmitting.
Peonies: Meaning according to their colors
Usually, the most common colors of peonies are white, pink and purple. However, there are many more varieties of these plants, so it is common to be able to choose different colors in florists. Some even have double color or ornamental flowers, that is, with jagged petals.
Whichever type of peony we choose, they all have a wonderful fragrance. Besides, Depending on the color we choose, they can symbolize one thing or another. As is often the case in the world of flowers, peonies and their meaning also depend mainly on the color of their petals. We are going to comment below on what the most common varieties symbolize.
Pink Peonies: Meaning
Let's start with one of the most common peonies: roses. Usually, when we think of these beautiful flowers, we imagine them in this color, as it is usually the favorite. The symbolism that these plants usually give is union in marriage and beauty, a general level. However, pink peonies are also related to love at first sight and that type of attraction that can exist between two people who do not know each other. These meanings make it very clear why pink peonies are the most common. The symbolism that accompanies them is as beautiful as their appearance.
White Peonies: Meaning
Let's continue with the meaning of white peonies, also a very common color in these flowers. They are so pretty that they do not go unnoticed. As for its meaning, they are usually related to shyness, so they express a flirtatious and shy love. Due to this, they are also very common flowers in some events such as weddings, but they are also a highly suitable gift in cases of apology or repentance.
Red Peonies: Meaning
Let's go now with the red peonies. This meaning is closely related to China, as the color red is of the utmost importance there. It was the color used by emperors. Therefore, the meaning of red peonies is honor, respect, wealth and prosperity. Also, as you probably already know, red is the color that symbolizes the passion, so this meaning can also be extrapolated to flowers of this color.
Blue Peonies: Meaning
As for the blue peonies, These symbolize eternal love. Its meaning is closely related to that unattainable love that we all have. The blue color itself reminds us of the sky, the ocean and the immensity of both. Therefore, blue peonies they also represent freedom and loyalty.
Without a doubt, this variety is ideal if we want to express a pure and true feeling towards a special person. If we decide to give a blue peony, We will convey love and openness.
Purple Peonies: Meaning
Finally we have to comment on the meaning of purple peonies. These imply all those that have violet, purple or lilac tones. They are generally related to the Greek myth of Paeon. It reflects the dishonor of this character, the envy of Asclepius and the anger of Zeus. So this flower it can be a kind of compassionate tribute or an insult, It depends on how we interpret the situation.
I hope you liked the different meanings of peonies. They are really beautiful flowers and their symbology does not fall short in that sense. If you are considering growing them, I recommend that you take a look at our article on the peony care.