The Complete Guide to 5 Iris Flower Meaning and Symbolism

The iris is a flower steeped in history and profound meaning, named after the Greek goddess of the rainbow. It beautifully symbolises faith, hope, and wisdom. This guide explores the deep symbolism behind its different colours and its cultural significance around the world and here in Singapore.

We will help you understand its story, so you can choose the perfect iris for any occasion, whether for a gift, your home, or simply to appreciate its timeless beauty.

1. Purple Iris Meaning: Royalty and Wisdom

The purple iris is perhaps the most recognised and popular variety. Its deep, rich hue has long been associated with royalty, nobility, and wealth. In ancient times, purple dye was rare and expensive, reserved only for the ruling class, and this association has endured. Giving someone a purple iris is a way of showing them great respect and admiration, acknowledging their wisdom and regal nature.

Beyond royalty, the purple iris also carries a deep spiritual meaning. It symbolises wisdom, compliments, and respect. It is the perfect flower to give to a mentor, a respected teacher, or a parent figure. In Singapore, a bouquet of purple irises makes a sophisticated housewarming gift or a beautiful centrepiece that adds a touch of elegance and dignity to any home.

2. Blue Iris Meaning: Faith and Hope

Blue irises are breathtakingly beautiful, with a calming and serene presence. Their primary meanings are faith and hope. The tranquil blue colour evokes a sense of peace and trust, making it a powerful symbol for deep, unshakable belief. It can represent faith in a person, hope for the future, or a spiritual conviction.

A bouquet of blue irises is a wonderful gesture for someone starting a new chapter in their life, such as a new job or a new home. It is also a very thoughtful "get well soon" flower, as it carries a message of hope and optimism for recovery. For a romantic partner, blue irises can signify a deep and faithful commitment, a promise of loyalty and trust. Their cool tones are a soothing presence, bringing a sense of stability and calm to any space.

3. White Iris Meaning: Purity and Innocence

Like many white flowers, the white iris is a powerful symbol of purity, innocence, and new beginnings. Its clean, crisp petals evoke a sense of clarity and truth. The white iris represents a clean slate, making it a wonderful flower for celebrating fresh starts. It carries a message of simple, untainted beauty and elegance.

White irises are a popular choice for weddings, where they symbolise the pure love and new life the couple is beginning together. They are often included in bridal bouquets and venue decorations. They are also used in christening arrangements to represent the innocence of a child. Furthermore, the white iris can be a thoughtful and respectful sympathy flower. It offers a message of hope and peace, honouring the departed’s soul with grace and dignity.

4. Yellow Iris Meaning: Passion and Friendship

The yellow iris is a burst of sunshine, radiating warmth, joy, and energy. Its primary meaning is passion, but this can be interpreted in several ways. It can symbolise a passionate admiration or a deep, abiding friendship. The bright, cheerful colour of the yellow iris makes it an excellent choice for celebrating a friend's success or simply letting them know you value their companionship.

In some traditions, yellow irises also symbolise pride and hope. Their vibrant energy can light up a room and lift spirits. They are a fantastic "just because" gift to bring a smile to someone's face. In a Singaporean home, a vase of yellow irises can add a welcome splash of colour to an HDB flat or condominium, bringing a sense of optimism and happiness into the living space.

5. Black Iris Meaning: A Symbol of Mystery

The "black" iris is not truly black but rather a very deep, dark shade of purple or blue that appears almost black. It is a rare and dramatic flower that carries a more complex and mysterious meaning. Due to its dark and intense colour, the black iris is often associated with mystery, rebellion, and profound, intense emotions.

This is not a flower you would choose for a lighthearted occasion. Instead, it is selected for its powerful and dramatic statement. It can be used in artistic floral arrangements or given to someone with a bold and unconventional personality. The black iris is a symbol for those who are not afraid to be different and who appreciate the deeper, more enigmatic aspects of life.

The Iris in Art and Culture

The iris's striking form and rich symbolism have made it a favourite subject for artists and a meaningful emblem in various cultures. From famous paintings to personal tattoos, the flower continues to inspire and convey deep messages.

Van Gogh's Irises: A Study in Hope and Nature

One of the most famous artistic representations of the iris is Vincent van Gogh's painting series, simply titled "Irises." He painted this celebrated work in 1889 while he was a patient at an asylum in France. For Van Gogh, the act of painting the irises was a way to connect with nature and find solace amidst his personal turmoil.

The painting is a vibrant study of colour and life. Each iris is uniquely detailed, capturing the individual character of the flowers. For art historians and admirers, Van Gogh's "Irises" represents hope and the healing power of nature. It shows that even in difficult times, there is beauty and resilience to be found, a sentiment that perfectly aligns with the flower's core symbolism of faith and hope.

The Meaning of an Iris Tattoo

Flowers are a popular choice for tattoos, and the iris is chosen by those who want to convey a message of depth and significance. An iris tattoo is more than just a beautiful design; it is a permanent symbol of a core belief or a cherished memory. The meaning of the tattoo can be deeply personal, often drawing from the personal meaning of flowers to the person.

Many people choose an iris tattoo to represent faith, wisdom, and hope in their own lives. A blue iris might be a reminder to always keep hope, while a purple one could symbolise personal wisdom or respect for one's heritage. 

The fleur-de-lis design is often chosen to represent courage, royalty, or family lineage. An iris can also be a memorial tattoo, honouring the memory of a loved one and the message of hope for their peaceful journey. The choice of colour and style makes each iris tattoo a unique and powerful personal statement.

The Historical Roots of the Iris Flower

Long before it was a popular choice in modern bouquets, the iris held a special place in ancient myths and royal courts. Understanding this history adds another layer of appreciation for this truly unique and elegant bloom.

The Fleur-de-Lis: A Royal Connection

The iris also has a strong connection to royalty, primarily through its stylised form known as the fleur-de-lis. This iconic symbol, which translates to "flower of the lily" in French, is widely believed to be a stylised iris, not a lily. It was famously adopted by French monarchs, becoming a powerful emblem of their divine right to rule.

This royal association has infused the iris with meanings of nobility, power, and regal splendour. The fleur-de-lis appeared on coats of arms, flags, and royal banners for centuries, solidifying the iris flower as a symbol of majesty and high esteem. This history is why the purple iris, in particular, is so strongly linked with royalty and respect.

Understanding the Iris Flower Meaning by Colour

One of the most captivating aspects of the iris is how its meaning changes with its colour. As with any flower, their colours and hues mean different things.

While all irises share the core symbolism of faith and wisdom, each shade offers a unique message. This makes the iris an incredibly versatile flower, perfect for expressing a wide range of feelings and sentiments. Understanding what each colour represents can help you create a truly personal and thoughtful floral gift.

The Iris in Singapore: Availability and Use

While not native to our tropical climate, the iris is a beloved flower in Singapore, prized for its elegance and rich meaning. You can readily find imported irises at good florists and markets across the island, especially popular varieties like the blue and purple Dutch iris.

Irises can be beautifully incorporated into arrangements for various occasions in the Singaporean context. For instance, their symbolism of a hopeful new beginning makes them a thoughtful, if untraditional, addition to a Chinese New Year bouquet. Their regal presence also makes them a wonderful gift for a corporate event or to congratulate someone on a significant professional achievement.

To make your irises last longer in Singapore's warm and humid weather, follow these simple steps:

• Upon bringing them home, trim about 2-3 cm off the stems at a sharp angle with a clean knife or scissors.
• Remove any leaves that will sit below the waterline in the vase to prevent bacterial growth.
• Place them in a clean vase filled with fresh, cool water. Use the flower food sachet provided by your florist.
• Change the water every day or two, re-trimming the stems each time.
• Keep the vase away from direct sunlight and ripening fruit, as both will cause the flowers to wilt faster.

You can also have a look at our flower care article here.

Conclusion On The Meaning of the Iris Flower

The iris is a flower of remarkable depth and grace. Its symbolism, rooted in ancient mythology and royal history, speaks of faith, hope, wisdom, and nobility. The wonderful variety of colours allows for every bouquet to carry a unique and personal message, from the regal respect of a purple iris to the pure hope of a white one. 

This flower’s timeless elegance and profound meaning make it a beautiful choice for any occasion. By understanding its story, you can appreciate the iris not just for its beauty, but for the powerful message it conveys. 

Bridge any distance with a vibrant bouquet; a flower delivery in Singapore provides an easy and reliable way to send your love and thoughts. 

Contact us today. We’ll be glad to hook you up with your perfect bloom.

Frequently Asked Questions About The Iris Flower

What Does an Iris Flower Represent?

An iris flower represents several profound concepts. Its core meanings, derived from the Greek goddess Iris, are faith, hope, wisdom, and communication. The three petals of the flower are often said to symbolise faith, valour, and wisdom. Because of its historical connection to the fleur-de-lis, it also represents royalty and nobility.

What Is the Spiritual Meaning of the Iris Flower?

The spiritual meaning of the iris is tied to its namesake, the Greek goddess of the rainbow. It symbolises a connection between the earthly and the divine, or heaven and earth. The flower is seen as a messenger of the spirit, carrying with it wisdom and heavenly truth. It represents enlightenment, spiritual awareness, and the hope that follows a period of darkness.

What Do the Different Colours of Irises Mean?

The meaning of an iris changes significantly with its colour. In short:

• Purple irises symbolise royalty, wisdom, and respect.
• Blue irises symbolise faith and hope.
• White irises symbolise purity, innocence, and new beginnings.
• Yellow irises symbolise passion, pride, and friendship.

What Does the Iris Symbolise in the Bible?

While the iris is not mentioned by name as frequently as other flowers like the lily, its symbolism is still present in biblical themes. The imagery associated with flowers that share the iris's characteristics often points to God's majesty, royalty, and the promise of the Messiah. Its connection to royalty through the fleur-de-lis aligns with descriptions of King Solomon's glory, and its symbolism of purity (in white irises) resonates with themes of holiness and redemption.

Is an Iris a Funeral Flower?

Yes, an iris can be a very appropriate and thoughtful funeral flower. White irises are often used in sympathy arrangements to symbolise the purity of the departed's soul and to offer a message of hope and rebirth. Blue irises can also be used to represent faith and the hope of a peaceful journey for the departed. Its overall symbolism of hope makes it a comforting and respectful choice during a time of loss.

What Does an Iris Tattoo Symbolise?

An iris tattoo is rich with symbolism and is a deeply personal choice. It most often represents hope, faith, and wisdom. Someone might get an iris tattoo as a daily reminder of these virtues. It can also be a symbol of courage and admiration, drawing from the fleur-de-lis association with royalty and valour. For some, an iris tattoo is a memorial piece, honouring a loved one and the lasting message they left behind.