Symbolic plants and flowers for Mother's Day

by Cheryl Schroeder

Throughout the book, Washington explains ancient and modern meanings behind astrological signs, common objects, flowers, plants, trees, food, animals, jewelry, colors, numbers, shapes, body parts, scents and even days of the week.  She then shows the reader how to apply that symbology when selecting presents for gift giving occasions like Christmas or birthdays.

I thought Washington's book would be especially appropriate for Mother's Day, when most of us yearn to give something sentimental but are hindered by time and money constraints.   Since flowers (and especially roses) are one of the most popular gifts, this article focuses on alternative plants and flowers. So take the plunge and break out of the rose-rut this year!

Washington's book lists a number of plants and flowers that would make a suitable substitute for roses, including:   

* meanings found in the book,  The Language of Gifts

Think you would like to give one of these plants or flowers?  I surfed the Internet and found some sources for them, which I have listed below. (Hint: when giving these items, include a handwritten note card explaining the significance of the plant/flower and why you chose it especially for Mom.) 

Hinoki Cypress

This small evergreen conifer is perfect who  live in small homes or apartments yet still love plants. Even though its four years old, it measures only 5" tall.  It features flat, deep-green, fan like foliage and pea-sized cones.   Like mom, it's beautiful and uncommon!  Cost: $29.95 from  Bonsai Boy of NY (Item #b1130).  

African Violet

Fussy flowers?  Not these richly colored plants, which are incredibly easy to grow!  Their petal hues range from rich solids to intriguing bicolors, while the attractive oval leaves can be smooth and glossy or soft and velvety. Another great gift for a mom who loves plants but has limited space to keep them. Available for $4.25 from Gurney's Seed and Nursery.  

Strawberries

Strawberries--for a Mother's Day gift?  Why not?  After all, in Victorian times the strawberry represented everything that is motherhood--perfection, sweetness and strong character. And this is one gift that will produce year after year. We recommend the Surecrop Strawberry from Gurney Seed and Nursery.  It's a heavy bearer that does well in almost any climate, producing large, rich-flavored berries. Mom will think fondly of you each time she bites into one these firm, deep red berries! Plants are available for $8.65 from Gurney's Seed and Nursery.

Citrus Tree

A great gift for the snowbird Mom (who spends her winters in Florida), or even for the Mom who dreams of spending her winters in warmer climates! This miniature tree produces real oranges throughout they year, in addition to a fragrant white flower.  The fruit can be eaten as a snack, or used in stir fry or beverages.  The orange fragrance is said to have re-energizing properties, so even the Mom with young children would like this gift!  Available from Bonsai Boy of NY for $58.95. (Item #a1024). 

French Hybrid Lilac
Is there anything more fragrant and beautiful than the lilac bush?  Yes--the French Hybrid Lilac!  It produces vivid purple, double-thick flowers that will fill Mom's yard with color each spring!  And when she snips a few branches and brings it inside, it will brighten up her home with color and fragrance. It comes in a 2-1/4 inch pot, all ready for planting.  Available from the Michigan Bulb Company for $5.99 (Item # 03491). 

For All You Do,  Mom

Carnations are the official flower of Mother's Day, and there's no classy way to say "I Love You, Mom" than with this gorgeous assortment. Set in a sleek pink chrome watering can, this arrangment features light and dark pink Carnations, seeded Eucalyptus, greenery, and a pink ribbon create a stunning arrangement. This practical keepsake bouquet will remind her how special she is to you on Mother’s Day and every day! Available from 1 Stop Florists for $44.95 

Blooming Love™ Azalea
Symbolizing womanhood in China, the beautiful azalea is a wonderful tribute to any mother.  Its ruffly petals and bright colored flowers will bring sunshine and happiness into her life every time she looks at it! It comes in a reusable basket and measures approximately 12"H.  From 1-800-FLOWERS.COM $39.99 (Item # 3131). 

Note:  Save 10% on this gift for Mom when you buy today for delivery on May 7 or May 8. Be the first to get it there for Mother’s Day and save by entering MDAY2 during checkout in the “promotion code” section.

Tulips in a Basket
Timelessly appealing, tulips are the symbol of eternal and perfect love, like the love between mother and child.  This leaf-green basket includes five sprouting tulip bulbs to brighten Mom's special day with color!  Basket measures 7.5"D. Tulips arrive budding and bloom in approximately 3-4 weeks and grow to approximately 12-14"H.  From 1-800-FLOWERS.COM for $29.99. (Item # 4028).

Fragrant Lavender Plant
Mothers of young children will especially appreciate this plant since its fragrance is known to calm frazzled nerves! It is also said to bring happiness to its owner, but who wouldn't feel happy when smelling such a refreshing scent? This plant is set in a rustic faux stone pot that matches perfectly with almost any decor.   Stands approximately 14-16"H. Available from 1-800-FLOWERS.COM for $34.99.  (Item # 3335).

Rosemary Topiary

As beautiful as it is useful, this elegant rosemary topiary can be kept in Mom's kitchen, ready for snipping when she's cooking!  And when she's had an especially trying day, she can break off a leaf, take a sniff and feel re-energized by the plant's invigorating scent! This 18" to 22" plant is preplanted in a 6" pot with burlap cover. From Catalog City, $37.98. (Item #9216).