What Do Tulips Symbolise? | A Romantic Alternative to Roses

Tulips, a symbol of new beginnings and rebirth, are one of the most popular flowers for hand-tied bouquets. Although synonymous with The Netherlands, tulips originally came from Asia, growing in popularity during the Ottoman Empire, when they were brought to Turkey. Tulips are amongst the most beloved flowers in the world and are a popular alternative to rose bouquets.

Blooming in the spring, you can expect to see tulips start to pop up from March, although some tulips will continue to bloom into early summer. Symbolic of romance and love, tulips also became a symbol of wealth and prosperity during the 17th century – even becoming as valuable as gold.

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Where Do Tulips Come From?

It's a common misconception that tulips originate from the Netherlands. Although colourful tulip fields are synonymous with Amsterdam and the Netherlands, the flower originated as a wildflower in Central Asia. We can trace tulips back to 1000 AD in Turkey with the name coming from the Turkish word for 'turban'.

Tulips came to Europe in the 16th century before soaring in popularity in the 17th century with so-called 'tulip mania' making the flower as valuable as gold. While today's tulips aren't as expensive, they're a luxury gift that's popular for weddings, birthdays, Mother's Day, special occasions, and as romantic gestures.

What Do Tulips Symbolise?

Every flower symbolises a message. A dozen roses symbolise a year of love and commitment, while lilies represent purity and commitment. Whether you're shopping for sympathy flowers or birthday bouquets, you'll want to send the right message with your flowers.

Tulips symbolise love, making them the perfect choice as a romantic flower for anniversaries, birthdays, and 'just because' gifts. You can use tulips to show love to a romantic partner, friend, or family member.

Alternatively, tulips are synonymous with spring and the start of a new season, making them a great way to represent change or rebirth in a person's life. You can give tulips as a gift for a new house, milestone birthday, or before travelling.

Understanding the Different Colours of Tulips

You've decided to send a loved one a bouquet of tulips – but what colour? Tulips come in a rainbow of colours, so it's easy to feel overwhelmed when choosing which ones to add to your hand-tied bouquet.

• Yellow tulips: A sign of hope and happiness, yellow tulips are synonymous with sunshine and the perfect way to brighten up a room or bring a smile to someone's face.
• White tulips: Symbolise honour, purity, forgiveness, and respect. White tulips can represent a new start, making them an ideal gift to celebrate a new addition or the start of an exciting journey.
• Orange tulips: Represent energy, excitement, and enthusiasm. Choosing orange tulips sends a cheerful message and can help to brighten a person's day. They're a popular choice for flowers when marking a milestone or celebrating an achievement.
• Pink tulips: Symbolic of love, affection, commitment, and well wishes, pink tulips aren't just a symbol of romantic love. They can be sent to any woman in your life, whether it's to celebrate a birthday or say 'congratulations'.
• Blue tulips: A sign of tranquillity, giving blue tulips can help bring a sense of calm to someone's life, especially if they're going through a difficult time or need a little encouragement. They're a colourful option for sympathy flowers as a heartfelt gift.
• Purple tulips: Purple flowers symbolise luxury as the colour has long been associated with royals. You'll often see purple tulips incorporated into luxury bouquets and glamorous wedding bouquets.
• Red tulips: A romantic alternative to roses, red tulips symbolise passion, love, commitment, and desire. If you want to make a grand romantic gesture, send a bouquet of red tulips.

How to Care for Your Tulips

Whether it's a gift for you or someone else, knowing how to care for your tulips can help you get the most out of your bouquet. Instead of just placing them into a vase, take a few minutes to properly care for your tulips. It's important to keep them away from the sun and drafts in your home.

Here are our top tips for looking after a tulip bouquet:

• Your tulips will usually grow a few centimetres, even after cutting, so choose a tall vase.
• Put a copper coin at the bottom of your vase to keep your tulips looking fresh and to prevent them from drooping over.
• Cut the stems of your tulips at an angle and put a small hole in the stem, helping to stop any drooping.
• Put your tulips into the vase and fill it with room temperature water.
• Set your vase in a cool area of your home away from direct sunlight.
• Make sure to put flower food into your vase to improve the lifespan of your flowers.
• Tulips are thirsty flowers, so change out the water and refill the vase regularly with tap water.

What Occasions Are Tulips Appropriate For?

Not every flower is appropriate for every occasion – even tulips. Although their symbolism is flexible, tulips are a great choice if you're struggling to find the right flower for your special occasion. Elegant, graceful, and colourful, tulips are the perfect choice for romantic gifts, 'just because' bouquets, and wedding bouquets.

It's worth noting that tulips might not be the right choice for someone with a pollen allergy, especially if they're sensitive to flowers. Roses and peonies are allergy-friendly flowers and an ideal alternative to tulips.

Can You Send Tulips as Sympathy Flowers?

Tulips are an appropriate choice for sympathy flowers and are often used for funerals and memorial services. Choose tulips in a lighter colour to show sympathy and give comfort.

Order a Tulip Hand-Tied Bouquet in London with Chelsea Florals

With spring about to bloom, it's the perfect time to send a luxury hand-tied bouquet with tulips. At Chelsea Floral, we're proud to be your local flower delivery service in London. You can send a luxury bouquet to a loved one or friend this spring directly to their doorstep with guaranteed chosen day delivery. Explore our best-selling floral bouquets to find the perfect luxury flowers for any occasion.