19 Flowers Used in Religious and Cultural Events

In Singapore's vibrant multicultural society, flowers are more than just beautiful decorations; they are a meaningful part of our daily lives and traditions. From solemn religious ceremonies to joyful festivals, flowers help us express faith, love, and respect. 

This guide explores the significance of popular blooms like marigolds, lotuses, and lilies, explaining their symbolism and use. Understanding these traditions helps us appreciate the deeper meaning behind the beautiful flowers we choose for bouquets and displays during life's most important moments.

1. Marigold (Tagetes)

Marigolds, with their brilliant orange and yellow hues, are often called "herbs of the sun." Their bright, cheerful appearance symbolises positivity, auspicious beginnings, and good fortune. In Hindu traditions, the vibrant colour of the marigold represents surrender to a deity and is seen as a beacon of divine blessing.

These hardy flowers are a common sight during Hindu festivals in Singapore, such as Deepavali and Thaipusam. They are woven into thick, fragrant garlands used to adorn deities in temples and family altars. Marigolds are also featured in Malay weddings as part of the bunga manggar, a decorative palm blossom arrangement that welcomes guests and signifies a joyous celebration.

2. Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera)

The lotus holds a powerful and profound place in both Buddhism and Hinduism. It symbolises purity, enlightenment, and spiritual rebirth. This meaning comes from the flower's unique ability to emerge from muddy waters perfectly clean and beautiful, representing the journey of the soul rising above worldly troubles to reach a state of grace.

In Singapore, the lotus is a key feature in Buddhist temples, where it is presented as an offering to represent the purity of the mind and spirit. It is also a central motif in religious art and architecture. During Vesak Day celebrations, the lotus is especially significant, reminding followers of the Buddha's teachings on purity and detachment.

3. Jasmine (Jasminum)

The delicate jasmine flower is cherished for its intoxicating fragrance and its association with love, purity, and good fortune. Its sweet scent is believed to attract positive energy and is considered divine in many cultures. The small, white blossoms represent modesty and grace.

Jasmine is deeply woven into Indian culture in Singapore. Brides often wear strings of fresh jasmine woven into their hair on their wedding day, symbolising beauty and new beginnings. These fragrant flowers are also a popular offering in Hindu temples and are strung into garlands for deities, filling the air with their sacred aroma.

4. Rose (Rosa)

The rose is a universally recognised symbol of love and beauty. Each colour carries its own distinct meaning: red for deep passion, white for purity and innocence, and yellow for friendship and joy. In Christianity, the white rose holds special significance, often symbolising the virtue and purity of the Virgin Mary.

Roses are incredibly versatile and are used across almost every culture and occasion in Singapore. They are the star of wedding bouquets, Valentine's Day arrangements, and anniversary gifts. White roses are also chosen for Christian ceremonies like baptisms, while soft-hued roses can be found in thoughtful sympathy bouquets.

5. Lily (Lilium)

Lilies are admired for their elegant shape and majestic presence. The white lily, in particular, is a powerful symbol of purity, virtue, and rebirth. In Christian traditions, it is closely linked to Easter and the resurrection of Christ, representing hope and a new beginning. It is also associated with the Virgin Mary, signifying her purity and grace.

This elegant flower is a popular choice for wedding bouquets and floral decorations in churches, especially during Easter. Due to their association with peace and purity, white lilies are also one of the most common flowers used in sympathy bouquets and funeral arrangements, offering a message of comfort and solace.

6. Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium)

The chrysanthemum holds a complex and varied meaning. In Chinese culture, it is a noble flower that symbolises longevity and a life of ease. It is associated with autumn and is admired for its resilience. However, the symbolism changes dramatically with colour. White and yellow chrysanthemums are specifically linked to grief and remembrance.

This distinction is very important in Singapore. While colourful chrysanthemums may be used in festive decorations, white and yellow varieties are reserved for solemn occasions. They are the traditional flower for Chinese funerals and are brought as offerings during the Qingming Festival (Tomb-Sweeping Day) to honour ancestors.

7. Orchid (Orchidaceae)

As Singapore’s national flower, the Vanda 'Miss Joaquim' orchid holds a special place in our hearts. Orchids generally symbolise love, beauty, luxury, and strength. Their exotic and graceful appearance makes them a sophisticated choice for any occasion, with different colours conveying different sentiments.

Orchids are frequently used in elegant floral arrangements for corporate events, as prestigious gifts, and as a beautiful addition to modern home decor. Their long-lasting blooms make them a practical and stylish choice. They are also a sought-after flower for high-end wedding bouquets, adding a touch of local pride and tropical elegance.

8. Frangipani (Plumeria)

The frangipani, with its sweet fragrance and delicate, waxy petals, is often associated with spirituality and immortality. In many Asian cultures, including in Hindu and Buddhist traditions, it is considered a sacred temple flower. Its enduring scent is believed to represent the eternal nature of the soul.

You will often find frangipani blossoms used as offerings in Buddhist temples around Singapore. Their calming aroma and simple beauty create a peaceful atmosphere. They are also popular in floral arrangements for spas or Balinese-themed events, where their fragrance helps to create a relaxing and serene environment.

9. Hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis)

Known as Bunga Raya in Malay, the hibiscus is the national flower of Malaysia and holds significant cultural importance in the region. In Hindu traditions, the vibrant red hibiscus is a sacred flower offered to powerful deities, particularly the goddess Kali and Lord Ganesha, symbolising divine energy and strength.

In Singapore, the hibiscus is commonly used in Hindu religious ceremonies (pujas) as an offering. Beyond its religious use, its large, colourful blooms are also used for decorative purposes in cultural events and festivals, adding a bright, tropical touch to the celebrations.

10. Peony (Paeonia)

In Chinese culture, the peony is revered as the "king of flowers." It is a rich symbol of wealth, prosperity, honour, and romance. A lush, full-blooming peony is believed to bring good fortune and a happy marriage, making it a highly auspicious flower.

The peony is especially popular during Chinese New Year. Families often display beautiful peony arrangements in their homes to attract wealth and good luck for the year ahead. It is also one of the most requested flowers for bridal bouquets, prized for its romantic, ruffled petals and its promise of a blissful union.

11. Carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus)

The carnation is best known as the flower of motherly love, making it the classic choice for Mother's Day. Its gentle, ruffled petals symbolise affection, admiration, and gratitude. Different colours convey various meanings, with light red suggesting admiration, dark red expressing deep love, and white symbolising purity.

In Singapore, carnations are the star of countless Mother's Day bouquets. Their long vase life and lovely fragrance make them a practical and heartfelt gift. They are also a popular choice for mixed bouquets for birthdays, get-well-soon wishes, and to celebrate teachers, thanks to their cheerful and enduring nature.

12. Tuberose (Polianthes tuberosa)

The tuberose is famous for its intense and captivating fragrance, which grows stronger after sunset. This alluring scent has made it a symbol of both sensual pleasure and deep passion. At the same time, its pure white colour also allows it to be used in rituals seeking peace and serenity.

In Indian cultural events, particularly weddings, tuberose is often woven into garlands and bridal bouquets. Its powerful fragrance is believed to bless the couple and create a romantic atmosphere. Tuberose stems are also popular in vase arrangements for the home, where they can fill an entire room with their beautiful perfume.

13. Gladiolus (Gladiolus)

The tall, striking gladiolus gets its name from the Latin word 'gladius,' meaning sword. This association lends it the symbolism of strength of character, integrity, faithfulness, and remembrance. Its impressive height and linear form make it a flower that commands attention.

The gladiolus is often used in large, formal floral arrangements, making it a popular choice for the grand opening of a new business to wish the owners success and strength. It is also used in funeral sprays and standing arrangements, where its tall stature stands as a tribute to the strong character of the deceased.

14. Daffodil (Narcissus)

As one of the first flowers to bloom at the end of winter, the daffodil is a joyful symbol of new beginnings, hope, and rebirth. Its sunny yellow colour radiates happiness and optimism, making it a welcome sight that promises better things to come.

In the Christian faith, the daffodil's symbolism of rebirth makes it a fitting flower for Easter celebrations, representing the resurrection and the start of a new season. It is also a wonderful choice for a bouquet to congratulate someone on a new job, a new home, or the arrival of a new baby.

15. Daisy (Bellis perennis)

The simple and charming daisy, particularly the colourful Gerbera daisy, is a flower that radiates happiness. It symbolises innocence, purity, and most of all, cheerfulness. Its bright, open face looks like a smile, making it impossible not to feel a little happier in its presence.

Gerbera daisies are a favourite for bright, uplifting bouquets. They are perfect for celebrating birthdays, sending get-well-soon wishes, or congratulating new parents. Their wide range of colours and simple, unpretentious beauty make them a versatile choice for almost any happy occasion.

16. Peach Blossom (Prunus persica)

In Chinese culture, the delicate peach blossom is a very powerful symbol. It represents romance, prosperity, and a long, healthy life. It is believed to have the power to attract love and ward off evil, making it a highly auspicious bloom, especially when it appears in full flourish.

Peach blossoms are a central floral decoration during Chinese New Year in Singapore. It is common to see large, budding branches placed in tall vases in homes and businesses. This is done to welcome a year filled with good fortune, growth, and flourishing relationships.

17. Sunflower (Helianthus annuus)

True to its name, the sunflower represents adoration, loyalty, and happiness. Its unique trait of turning its head to follow the sun across the sky makes it a symbol of optimism and unwavering faith. Its bright, open face is like a burst of sunshine, bringing joy wherever it goes.

The sunflower is an exceptionally popular choice for graduation bouquets, symbolising a bright future and the adoration of proud family and friends. Its cheerful and uplifting nature also makes it a perfect flower for birthday celebrations and get-well-soon arrangements to brighten someone's day.

18. Baby's Breath (Gypsophila)

The tiny, cloud-like blossoms of Baby's Breath symbolise everlasting love, purity of heart, and innocence. While it is often used as a filler flower, its delicate beauty allows it to stand on its own, creating a soft, dreamy, and romantic effect.

Baby's Breath is a staple in wedding floristry, used to soften bouquets and add a touch of gentle elegance to centrepieces. In recent years, bouquets made entirely of Baby's Breath have become very trendy for their minimalist charm. They are a popular gift for anniversaries and to congratulate new mothers.

19. Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae)

This exotic and dramatic flower gets its name from its unique shape, which resembles a colourful bird in flight. It is a symbol of joyfulness, magnificence, and freedom. Its bold form and vibrant colours make it a true showstopper in any floral arrangement.

The Bird of Paradise is perfect for making a bold statement. Its striking, tropical appearance is often featured in large, modern floral arrangements for grand opening ceremonies, corporate events, and milestone celebrations. It conveys a message of excitement and success, ensuring the occasion is a memorable one.

The Role of Flowers in Cultural and Religious Traditions

Across different faiths and cultures in Singapore, flowers are a universal language. They represent life, purity, and devotion, making them essential for connecting with the divine and with each other. Whether presented as a humble offering at a temple, woven into elaborate garlands for a wedding, or arranged in a thoughtful bouquet, flowers carry deep emotional and spiritual weight. 

They are an integral part of our life milestones, helping us to celebrate new beginnings, honour sacred traditions, and remember loved ones with dignity and grace.

Conclusion On Flowers In Religious And Cultural Events

Understanding the language of flowers allows us to appreciate the rich cultural and religious tapestry of Singapore more deeply. From a simple offering to an elaborate wedding bouquet, flowers are a powerful, non-verbal way for us to communicate our most important feelings. 

They connect us to our traditions, our faith, and to each other. Choosing the right flower for an occasion adds a layer of meaning that goes far beyond its beauty. These traditions enrich our lives, turning moments into cherished memories.

If you have any questions or want to order a bouquet of flowers, please contact us. Visit Singapore Florist to find beautiful flowers and bouquets for any occasion.

Frequently Asked Questions About Flowers In Religious And Cultural Events

What Flower Is Used for Religious Purposes?

Many flowers are used for religious purposes, but some of the most common include the lotus in Buddhism for its symbolism of purity, and marigolds and jasmine in Hinduism, which are often used as offerings to deities.

What Flowers Are Used as Offerings to God?

Flowers that symbolise purity, devotion, and beauty are typically chosen as offerings. In Singapore, marigolds, hibiscus, jasmine, and frangipani are frequently used as offerings in Hindu and Buddhist temples.

What Do Flowers Symbolise in Different Cultures?

Symbolism can vary greatly between cultures. For example, the chrysanthemum represents longevity in Chinese culture but is associated with mourning in some Western and local contexts. The rose, however, is a more universal symbol of love, while the lily often stands for purity across many traditions.

Which Flower Is a Symbol of Spirituality?

The lotus flower is one of the most powerful and widely recognised symbols of spirituality, particularly in Eastern religions. Its journey from mud to pristine bloom represents the soul's path to enlightenment and purity.

What Flowers Are Used in Hindu Worship?

Auspicious and fragrant flowers are preferred for Hindu worship (puja). Marigolds, red hibiscus, jasmine, and roses are commonly offered to deities and woven into garlands as a sign of devotion and respect.

What Is the Most Sacred Flower?

While many flowers are considered sacred, the lotus is widely regarded as one of the most sacred of all, especially in Hinduism and Buddhism. This is due to its profound symbolism of purity, divinity, and rising above worldly attachments to achieve spiritual enlightenment.