Celebrating an anniversary is a special time to show your love and appreciation for your partner. One beautiful way to express your feelings is through flowers. Each flower carries its own meaning and can make your celebration even more memorable.
From your first year together to your fiftieth, these 18 choices will help you pick the right bloom for your special day.
1. First Anniversary: Carnations
Origins: Carnations are believed to have originated in the Mediterranean region. They have been used for centuries, dating back to ancient Greece and Rome.
History: In the language of flowers, carnations symbolize love and fascination. They have been popular in wedding bouquets and celebrations for many years.
Why They’re Great: Carnations represent a strong and enduring love. Their vibrant colors and sweet fragrance make them a beautiful way to celebrate the first year of your marriage.
2. Second Anniversary: Lily of the Valley
Origins: Lily of the Valley is a delicate flower native to Europe, especially in woodlands. It has a charming appearance and a lovely scent.
History: This flower has been used in traditions and folklore for centuries. In some cultures, it symbolizes the return of happiness.
Why They’re Great: Lily of the Valley represents humility and sweetness. It’s a perfect way to express your appreciation for your partner and the happiness they bring to your life.
3. Third Anniversary: Sunflowers
Origins: Sunflowers are native to North America and were cultivated by Native Americans for food and decoration.
History: They symbolize adoration, loyalty, and longevity. Their bright yellow petals and large size make them eye-catching and cheerful.
Why They’re Great: Sunflowers bring warmth and joy. They remind you to always turn towards the sun and keep your love bright and positive.
4. Fourth Anniversary: Hydrangeas
Origins: Hydrangeas are native to Asia and the Americas. They thrive in various climates and have unique, colorful blooms.
History: Hydrangeas symbolize gratitude and understanding. Their fluffy blooms are often seen in gardens and bouquets.
Why They’re Great: Hydrangeas represent appreciation and heartfelt emotions. They show how much you value your partner and your time together.
5. Fifth Anniversary: Daisies
Origins: Daisies can be found all over the world, but they are particularly common in Europe and North America. They are known for their simple yet charming appearance.
History: Daisies symbolize innocence and purity. They have been associated with love and new beginnings throughout history.
Why They’re Great: Daisies represent loyalty and true love. Their bright and cheerful nature makes them a lovely way to celebrate five wonderful years together.
6. Sixth Anniversary: Calla Lilies
Origins: Calla lilies are native to southern Africa. They are known for their elegant, trumpet-shaped blooms and come in various colors.
History: Calla lilies symbolize beauty and purity in many cultures. They have long been used in weddings and celebrations.
Why They’re Great: Calla lilies represent faithfulness and commitment. Their stunning appearance reflects the beauty of your relationship and how it has grown over the years.
7. Seventh Anniversary: Freesias
Origins: Freesias are native to South Africa and are known for their lovely fragrance and colorful blooms.
History: Freesias symbolize friendship and trust. They were named after the German botanist Friedrich Freese.
Why They’re Great: Freesias represent the strong bond of friendship in your marriage. Their sweet scent and bright colors can brighten your celebration and show your love.
8. Eighth Anniversary: Lilacs
Origins: Lilacs are native to Europe and Asia. They are popular for their beautiful clusters of flowers and delightful scent.
History: Lilacs symbolize the first emotions of love. They have been admired and used in gardens for centuries.
Why They’re Great: Lilacs represent love and the joy of your relationship. Their enchanting fragrance can remind you of the special moments you’ve shared together.
9. Ninth Anniversary: Poppies
Origins: Poppies are found in many parts of the world, including Europe, Asia, and North America. They are known for their bright, vibrant colors.
History: Poppies symbolize remembrance and sleep. They have been used in art and literature for centuries, often associated with peace.
Why They’re Great: Poppies represent love that has endured challenges. Their bold colors reflect the strength and passion in your relationship.
10. Tenth Anniversary: Daffodils
Origins: Daffodils are native to Europe and North Africa. They are known for their cheerful yellow blooms that herald the arrival of spring.
History: Daffodils symbolize new beginnings and rebirth. They have been admired for their beauty since ancient times.
Why They’re Great: Daffodils represent a decade of love and new adventures. Their bright, sunny appearance is perfect for celebrating this significant milestone.
11. Fifteenth Anniversary: Roses
Origins: Roses have been cultivated for thousands of years, originating in the Middle East. They come in various colors, each with its own meaning.
History: Roses symbolize love and passion. They have been cherished in art, poetry, and culture throughout history.
Why They’re Great: Roses stand for deep love and admiration. Their timeless beauty and fragrance make them a classic choice to celebrate your lasting commitment to one another.
12. Twentieth Anniversary: Asters
Origins: Asters are native to Europe and North America. They come in many colors, including purple, pink, and white.
History: Asters symbolize love and wisdom. In ancient times, they were believed to be connected to the stars.
Why They’re Great: Asters show your lasting love and the wisdom you’ve gained together. Their beautiful blooms are a lovely way to celebrate two decades of your journey as a couple.
13. Twenty-Fifth Anniversary: Irises
Origins: Irises, named after the Greek goddess Iris, are found in many parts of the world, particularly in Europe and Asia. They have striking flowers on tall stems.
History: Irises symbolize faith, hope, and wisdom. They have been admired in gardens and art for centuries.
Why They’re Great: Irises represent your enduring commitment and the hope for many more happy years together. Their stunning colors and elegant shape make them a beautiful choice for this special milestone.
14. Thirtieth Anniversary: Lilies
Origins: Lilies are native to many regions, including Europe, Asia, and North America. They are known for their large, fragrant blooms.
History: Lilies symbolize purity and refined beauty. They have been used in celebrations and rituals throughout history.
Why They’re Great: Lilies represent the purity of your love and the beauty of your relationship. Their elegant appearance can symbolize the deep connection you’ve built over the years.
15. Thirty-Fifth Anniversary: Coral-Colored Flowers
Origins: Coral-colored flowers can refer to various species, such as geraniums or certain roses. They are often found in gardens worldwide.
History: Coral colors symbolize warmth, enthusiasm, and love. They are often associated with joy and celebration.
Why They’re Great: Coral-colored flowers symbolize the warmth and passion that continue to grow in your relationship. Their vibrant color can brighten your celebration and remind you of the joy you share together.
16. Fortieth Anniversary: Gladiolus
Origins: Gladiolus, often called “sword lily,” is native to Africa and parts of Europe. These tall flowers have striking blooms and come in various colors.
History: Gladiolus symbolizes strength of character and honor. The name comes from the Latin word “gladius,” meaning sword, which reflects the shape of the leaves.
Why They’re Great: Gladiolus illustrates the strength and passion in your marriage. Their tall, elegant stalks make a bold statement and symbolize the endurance of your love over the years.
17. Forty-Fifth Anniversary: Blue Irises
Origins: Blue irises are found in many regions, including Europe, Asia, and North America. They are known for their vibrant blue color and unique shape.
History: Blue irises symbolize faith, hope, and wisdom. They have been admired for their beauty and have been used in art and culture for centuries.
Why They’re Great: Blue irises represent the deep trust and understanding in your relationship. Their rich color and beauty make them a perfect choice to celebrate this milestone, reminding you of the journey you’ve shared together.
18. Fiftieth Anniversary: Yellow Roses & Violets
Origins: Yellow roses are native to various regions, including North America, and are known for their bright, cheerful color. Violets are found in many parts of the world, especially in Europe and Asia, and are admired for their lovely purple blooms.
History: Yellow roses symbolize friendship and joy, while violets represent loyalty and faithfulness. Together, they convey a message of happiness and enduring love.
Why They’re Great: The combination of yellow roses and violets celebrates a lifetime of love and friendship. Their bright and cheerful colors reflect the joy of your shared experiences and the deep bond you’ve created over five decades together.
Each bloom tells a story and holds special meaning, reminding you of the moments you’ve shared together. Whether you go for classic roses or vibrant sunflowers, these flowers can make your anniversary feel even more special.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.