The peony, with its extravagant, multi-layered petals and strong fragrance, is one of the world’s most celebrated flowers. Often referred to as the “King of Flowers,” this lush bloom has a rich history spanning millennia, deeply embedding it within art, tradition, and global culture. Its enduring popularity is largely due to the profound symbolic importance it has carried across centuries, accumulating a diverse array of meanings in different contexts.
The Foundational Symbolism
The opulent appearance of the peony naturally led to its foundational association with abundance and high social standing. The large, full blossoms, which unfurl dramatically in late spring, have been widely interpreted as a visual representation of wealth and good fortune. This symbolism of prosperity makes the peony a popular gift for celebrations, graduations, and major life milestones where wishes for future success are exchanged.
In Western traditions, the peony is perhaps most strongly connected to romance and the promise of a happy marriage. Its presence in wedding bouquets and floral arrangements is common, symbolizing the hope for a prosperous and loving union between partners. The flower is also the traditional floral gift for the 12th wedding anniversary, meant to represent the enduring love and fortune of the long-term relationship.
Beyond material success and romantic love, the peony signifies honor and respect due to its regal bearing and historical connection to nobility. Gifting the flower expresses admiration and esteem for the recipient’s character or achievements. The flower also carries the general meaning of good luck, covering all aspects of life, from love to business endeavors.
Mythology and Historical Naming
The scientific name for the flower, Paeonia, originates from a story in Greek mythology involving the physician of the gods, Paeon. Paeon was a student of Asclepius, the Greek god of medicine and healing, and was said to have used the root of the flower to successfully treat a wound suffered by the god Pluto.
Asclepius became jealous of his student’s success and threatened to harm Paeon in his anger. To save him from his teacher’s wrath, the Olympian god Zeus intervened by transforming Paeon into the beautiful flower. This mythological origin cemented the peony’s initial association with healing and protection.
Historically, the roots of the peony were used in ancient medicine across both Eastern and Western cultures. The early cultivation of the plant was often based on its perceived medicinal properties before its ornamental value gained widespread recognition.
Symbolism by Context and Culture
The peony’s symbolism is most pronounced and deeply rooted in Chinese culture, where it is known as Mudan. Cultivated for thousands of years, it is revered as the national flower and holds the title of “King of Flowers.” Historically grown in imperial gardens, it symbolizes wealth, nobility, and high rank. The flower is also strongly associated with feminine beauty and grace, appearing in art as a metaphor for an elegant woman, and is used during festivals and weddings to invite good fortune.
In Japan, the peony, called Botan, carries a different but equally strong set of meanings. Here, the flower symbolizes bravery, honor, and courage, meanings that are often interpreted as masculine virtues. Japanese traditional art frequently depicts the peony alongside the lion, known as shishi, creating a powerful image that pairs the flower’s beauty with the animal’s strength and protection. This combination serves as a talisman of strength and good fortune in traditional tattoos and paintings.
A contrasting meaning emerged during the Victorian Era in the West, where the strict “language of flowers” assigned the peony the meaning of bashfulness or shame. This interpretation stems from a Greek myth about a nymph named Paeonia who blushed and was turned into a flower out of modesty. While modern interpretations focus more on romance, this historical context reveals how the flower’s symbolism could signify an apology or a sense of modesty.
Interpreting Peony Colors
Pink peonies are the most popular choice for expressing romance and are closely tied to the themes of love and prosperity. They are the most traditional color for wedding arrangements, representing good luck and a happy marriage. This soft hue conveys a gentle, warm sentiment suitable for expressing affection on anniversaries or to new parents.
Red and crimson peonies communicate intense passion, honor, and deep respect. In China, the red peony is particularly prized, as the color red is tied to wealth and prosperity, making it a doubly auspicious gift for celebrating financial success or important achievements. A vibrant red bloom is a direct way to express admiration or profound love.
White and pale-colored peonies, including cream and light blush shades, are associated with purity, innocence, and new beginnings. These lighter blooms are often used when expressing apology or regret, linking back to the historical meaning of bashfulness. White peonies also signify sincerity and are frequently chosen to mark new chapters in life, such as a birth or a fresh start.