Light pink peonies are commonly used in wedding bouquets, as their gentle pastel color adds an ethereal and natural feel. Add them to a Mother’s Day bouquet for a sweet and gentle pop! Hot pink peonies are bolder and more passionate than the light pink. Also use these for weddings, especially if you want a more electric and dazzling feel.
Give white peonies when you are apologizing, or seeking forgiveness for something. [3] X Research source
This makes a great Valentine’s Day substitution for the rose, because of the romantic scent and deep red color. The color red is associated with wealth and prosperity in China, and the peony was the preferred flower of Chinese royals. It makes an excellent gift or adornment for the Chinese New Year. [5] X Research source
Give yellow peonies to new homeowners or recent graduates. They are a positive message for anyone starting a new chapter in their life.
These flowers will brighten up a hospital room or the bedroom of someone suffering from an illness by bringing in an optimistic light that the color orange provides.
Bring purple peonies to a birthday party or add them to an anniversary bouquet![8] X Research source
A mythical Tang dynasty legend tells the story of an empress who ordered all of the flowers in her garden to bloom during the cold winter. All of the flowers but the peony feared her power, so they bloomed, and the empress burned the peonies out of spite for not following her orders. When spring came, the peonies bloomed beautifully, despite the fire. This story is meant to show that true wealth and prosperity come from living the natural way, which the ancient Chinese called “living in the Tao. ”[11] X Research source
In this legendary myth, Zeus–the king of gods–immortalized the peony as a symbol of his compassion.
