Hydrangea Flower Meaning, Symbolism & Gift Guide

Hydrangeas imbue a light and airy presence that evokes the essence of carefree summer days. Their presence enhances the aesthetic of any space and infuses a refreshing summer charm into your home decor. Whether you seek to elevate the ambiance of a summer soirée or cultivate a tranquil oasis within your living space, hydrangeas provide that extra touch of brilliance you desire.

Join us as we unveil the origin, meaning, and symbolism of the graceful perennial flower known as the hydrangea.  

HYDRANGEA ORIGIN

Native to eastern Asia, notably China, Japan, Korea, and the Western Hemisphere, hydrangeas are characterized by their clusters of cloud-like blooms. There are 23 known hydrangea species, including mophead hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla), lacecap hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla normalis), and oakleaf hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia). They produce beautiful round clusters and flat frilly layers of blooms in various colors, including white, pink, lavender, green, and blue. One of the cultivation qualities of hydrangeas is their ability to thrive in various soil types.

Hydrangeas have a rich history in Japanese culture, rooted in a poignant legend. According to the tale, a Japanese emperor, burdened with regret over abandoning his beloved, offered her numerous blue Ajisai (Japanese hydrangea) flowers as a sincere expression of remorse.

​​However, during the era of feudal Japan, the warrior class regarded the Ajisai blossoms with caution. The warriors' apprehension stemmed from the flowers' kaleidoscope of changing colors. Known as Nanahenge, meaning "seven transformations," hydrangea symbolized their extraordinary ability to transition through multiple hues over time, adding an air of mystique to their allure.

Hydrangea Cultural History

While the origins of this plant can be traced back to Japan, where the hydrangea remained concealed within secret gardens for centuries, its intriguing history extends far beyond those borders. Ancient hydrangea fossils dating back 40-65 million years have been uncovered in North America, indicating the plant's presence in the region long before its official recognition.

Native Americans deeply appreciated hydrangeas, utilizing its root and rhizomes for diverse medicinal purposes, specifically the kidney and bladder. They revered hydrangeas for their beauty, incorporating them into ceremonies and using their flowers for natural dyes. Hydrangeas held spiritual significance as a connection to nature and their sacred rituals.

During the Victorian era, hydrangeas were regarded as prideful plants, symbolizing boastfulness, bragging, and vanity. This perception stemmed from their abundant blooms and scarce seeds, which led people to view them as lavish displays. Hydrangeas were rarely given as gifts or displayed as fresh-cut flower decor during that period. 

In Korean culture, hydrangeas are associated with perseverance and resilience. Today their brilliance is celebrated yearly at the Hydrangea Flower Cultural Festival at the Busan Taejongsa Temple inside the Taejongdae Park. 

Hydrangea Meaning and Symbolism

The hydrangea encompasses a broad spectrum of meanings, ranging from abundance, heartfelt emotion, gratitude, and boastfulness, with each interpretation rooted in cultural history, beliefs, and narratives. In Japanese culture, the association with apologies originates from a specific legend surrounding the flower.

During the Victorian era, hydrangeas were regarded negatively, symbolizing traits such as boastfulness, bragging, and vanity. This perception stemmed from their remarkable display of flowers but limited seed production. Additionally, they were often bestowed upon individuals who rejected romantic advances, implying their perceived coldness or frigidity.

Hydrangeas have a contrasting reputation, embodying positive and negative connotations within various cultural contexts.

The symbolism of hydrangeas is intricately tied to the colors of their blossoms, with each hue conveying its own unique message. Exuding the aura of gratitude, abundance, and grace, Venus et Fleur® eternity® hydrangeas offer a serene tribute to nature, captivating all who behold their exquisite beauty. Consider the following hydrangea colors when choosing the perfect blooms.

White Hydrangea

White hydrangeas symbolize purity, innocence, and honor; their graceful blooms are an ode to the delicate essence of nature. The ethereal blooms of white hydrangea are fashioned as exquisite gifts, befitting summer weddings and stylish home decor. 

Blue Hydrangea

In ancient Japanese culture, blue hydrangea is imbued with the symbolism of apology and remorse. Today, the elegant presence of blue hydrangeas gracefully signifies serenity and gratitude. Blue hydrangea flowers unfurl as the perfect hostess gift, a graceful token of appreciation. 

Pink Hydrangeas