The Meaning Behind Popular Mother's Day Flowers

The Meaning Behind Popular Mother's Day Flowers

Apr 23, 2025Thanks A Bunch Florist

Mother’s Day is fast approaching, and if flowers are your plan, good call.

Still, staring at rows of roses, tulips, lilies—it’s easy to second-guess yourself. You’re standing there thinking, “Do I go classic or bold?” But then the bigger question hits: what actually makes a bouquet feel right for Mother’s Day? And why are flowers so deeply tied to feelings?

If you’re in Melbourne and want guidance from one of the most trusted local florists, Thanks a Bunch, who’s been serving Melbourne and nearby suburbs for more than a decade, you are at the right place—because flowers have their own language, and we speak it fluently.

Popular Mother’s Day Flowers and Their Meanings

  1. Roses

Roses are timeless because their symbolism and beauty have stood the test of time.

Their connection to love and admiration is universally understood. While trends come and go, roses continue to hold emotional weight, making them a reliable and meaningful gift for any occasion, especially Mother's Day.

You can always create a balanced bouquet of roses by combining different colours to express a range of emotions.

For example, a bouquet of pink and white roses is a perfect balance of gratitude and purity. If you want to emphasise admiration and appreciation, a bouquet of all pink roses is perfect. Keep in mind that red roses, though more commonly associated with romantic love, can be used sparingly to convey deep admiration.

A mix of both can create a beautifully balanced bouquet perfect for Mother's Day.

  1. Lilies

Lilies look grand. Their petals open up wide, and they have this sculptural, graceful shape that feels refined. Even a small bunch looks premium. And because they last a while in a vase, they give off that “high-end” feel without needing a huge bouquet or fancy extras.

Lilies also have this deep connection to motherhood because of what they represent—purity, nurturing, and strength.

They feel gentle and graceful, but they also stand tall and proud, which kind of mirrors the role mums play in our lives. Lilies are not just about how they look—it’s what they stand for.

When you go with lilies, you’re not just handing over a bouquet—you’re offering a quiet nod to everything your mum is: strong, graceful, and always there.

  1. Carnations

Carnations are sometimes overlooked because they tend to be seen as less glamorous compared to roses or lilies.

But what many don’t realise is that they have deep symbolic value and are often just as beautiful, if not more, in their simplicity. For people on a budget but still wanting to give a meaningful gift, carnations are a great option that doesn't compromise on sentiment.

Carnations have been used for centuries in floral arrangements, and their consistent presence on Mother’s Day shows how deeply rooted they are in tradition.

They hold a timeless appeal because they represent a love that’s not fleeting or superficial—just like the love mothers give. Despite being overshadowed by trendier flowers, carnations remain relevant due to their enduring meaning and availability.

  1. Tulips

Tulips are kind of quiet in their beauty. Their cup-like shape looks like it’s gently holding something, almost like an embrace. So instead of shouting love, they express it in a soft, steady way—like the kind of love that’s always there, even if it’s not loud.

Some flowers can feel a bit formal or like they belong in a big ceremony. Tulips don’t do that. They feel personal and homey—like something you'd place in a vase on the kitchen table. That’s why they feel more natural and down-to-earth.

If your mum’s home is full of clean lines, natural light, and soft textures, tulips will feel right at home there. Same goes for mums who dress in neutrals or pastels—they’ll see tulips as an extension of their style, not just a gift.

  1. Orchids

Orchids are delicate-looking, but they’re surprisingly hardy.

They bloom for weeks, and they don’t need a lot of fuss. That quiet strength is part of what makes them so symbolic—just like some mums, they’re graceful on the outside but strong underneath.

Orchids don’t need a dozen blooms to impress. One well-shaped stem can steal the whole show. The colours are rich, the petals are dramatic, and the way they grow looks sculptural. They just stand out without needing volume.

If your mum loves travel, fine details, or has a taste for things that feel rare or different—orchids will hit the mark. They have that ‘something special’ vibe that feels worldly and thoughtful.

Same-Day Flower Delivery in Melbourne for Mother’s Day Flowers

Melbourne is a bustling city, and between work, family, and life, it can be tough to find the time to go out and pick up flowers.

That’s where our same-day flower delivery services step up. If you place your order before 1 pm, or before 12 pm on weekends, we’ll get those flowers to Epping and nearby suburbs exactly when they’re meant to arrive.

Our flower delivery services are quick, but we don’t rush the care bit—flowers are handled with care every step of the way, so they’re perfect when they reach your beautiful mum’s hands.

Closing Thoughts: Show Your Love with Thoughtful Floral Gifts

A bunch of flowers can look lovely, but when it’s Mother’s Day, it’s not about just being lovely. It’s about what those flowers mean. A tall lily says strength, a soft tulip whispers quiet care, and together they can echo who your mum is in a way that words can’t.

If you are still not sure where to begin? Have a look at our gorgeous Mother’s Day flower collection, choose when you want them delivered, and place your flower order online.

If you’re still unsure, don’t stress—Thanks a Bunch is here to help. With more than ten years of experience serving Melbourne locals, we know which flowers tell the right story, and we’re happy to guide you to a bouquet that truly fits your mum.

Send love this Mother’s Day with fresh flowers delivered across Melbourne – lovingly arranged by Thanks a Bunch.

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