Tulip Color Meanings
While tulips have their own general meaning, different colors are actually associated with a wide range of meanings. If you’d like to give a tulip arrangement to someone, you can make your selection based on the message you’d like to convey.
Yellow
Once upon a time, yellow tulips were symbolic of “hopeless” love. In fact, they were often linked to jealousy. Today, though, the flower has taken on a newer, more positive meaning. Perhaps in an ode to the naturally sunny color, the yellow tulip is now a standout symbol of joy, happiness, hope, and good tidings. Legend has it that old Victorian novels featured yellow tulips in abundance, often used as an analogy for a person with a brilliant “sunshine smile.”
This is a big reason why yellow tulips are favored as the universal tulip of choice. They’re radiant, uplifting, and almost guaranteed to bring a smile to your recipient’s face. People who are superstitious even believe that planting this color in the garden will bring good fortune, prosperity, and joy to the family who resides in the home.
White
When you present someone with a white tulip, you’re either conveying your sorrow and condolences or expressing your regret over a mistake. Giving white tulips is a way of saying you’re sorry. They’re reflective of forgiveness, purity, holiness, and honor, so they are suitable to give for a variety of solemn, somber, or religious occasions.
For example, you could send them to a funeral or to the home of a family who is coping with the loss of a loved one. You could just as fittingly send them to a family celebrating a baptism or communion. Interestingly, in Holland, the white tulip is considered a powerful symbol of respect. It’s not unusual to give white tulips to someone as a mark of appreciation or even in honor of a wedding.
Pink
The pink tulip is another that’s incredibly versatile. It’s symbolic of happiness, love, joy, good luck, and well wishes. This makes it a well-rounded flower perfect for giving to a new love interest or on a first or second date as a sign of affection. It’s not reflective of passion like a red flower, but it still communicates a powerful message of love. This makes them just as appropriate to incorporate into an arrangement if you’re proposing to your significant other.
Pink tulips are also symbolic of attachment. As much as the flower is romantic, it’s also a nice reflection of a simple, uncomplicated, reliable love between a parent and child or between family members or best friends. It’s a suitable “just because” flower if you’d like to surprise someone with something to brighten their day.
Red
If love and romance are in the air, sending red tulips is a great way to show exactly how you feel. The red color is strongly associated with passion and unbridled love, making it a thoughtful option for a Valentine’s Day bouquet or an anniversary. You could give red tulips to a spouse, a fiancé, or a lifelong love simply to remind them just how much you love them.
A red tulip arrangement could also be a beautiful addition to a surprise proposal or a thoughtful and uplifting alternative to conventional red roses on a romantic occasion. You could have red tulips delivered to someone's doorstep if you want to send a message that you’re in love with them.
Purple
Purple tulips have an interesting history. The purple dye itself was very difficult for the average person to obtain — and because only royals could afford it, purple clothing was only worn by members of the royal family. By the 16th century, Queen Elizabeth had forbidden anyone who was not part of the royal family from wearing the color.
It’s no surprise, then, that the purple tulip is associated entirely with royalty. It’s far more versatile than it ever was, of course, and can add a little pop of interest to a mixed tulip bouquet. It’s often included in bridal arrangements and is commonly given between girlfriends to honor a “queen” who deserves the world.
Orange
The radiant orange tulip is undoubtedly the kind of pick-me-up flower that will bring a smile to anyone’s face. It’s often given as a mark of understanding, respect, and appreciation. While it’s commonly given to a significant other, it would not be inappropriate to give to someone as a gesture of gratitude. For example, giving orange tulips to a secretary or assistant is perfectly suitable.
Yet orange also has a deeper meaning. The tulip is symbolic of a profound connection between two people. While it undeniably conveys your thanks and appreciation, it also sends the message that you feel a strong bond with the person.
With such a wide variety of tulip colors available, it’s clear there is an option for every moment. Whether you’re sending flowers for a romantic occasion, just because, or to express your best wishes or gratitude, you can easily do so with the revered tulip.
