Few flowers carry as much symbolism as the lily. For thousands of years it has appeared in religions, works of art and cultures across the globe. Anyone looking into the meaning of lilies usually wants to know: what message does a bouquet of lilies send, and which colour suits which occasion? This article gives clear answers.
The lily (Lilium) was revered in ancient Greece. According to legend, it sprang from the milk of the goddess Hera — an origin myth that established its connection with purity and divinity. In ancient Egypt it symbolised fertility, and in medieval Europe it became the emblem of the Virgin Mary.
The fleur-de-lis, the stylised lily symbol in the French coat of arms, stands for royal dignity and power. In Japanese culture the lily is also a sign of rebirth and hope. This cultural depth makes the lily a flower that communicates far more than beauty alone.
A lily's colour is the single biggest factor in its message. Anyone giving a lily bouquet should understand colour symbolism — to avoid misunderstandings and to say exactly the right thing.
The oriental lily 'Stargazer', with its deep-pink blooms and intense fragrance, is particularly popular. It is one of the best-selling lily varieties in the world — and for good reason: it combines beauty, scent and symbolism in a single flower.
The meaning of lilies makes them exceptionally versatile. Depending on colour and variety, they suit almost any occasion.
White lilies such as 'Casa Blanca' and 'Siberia' are among the most popular wedding flowers of all. They represent purity and the new beginning of a marriage. Combined with lisianthus and roses, they create classically elegant bridal bouquets.
White and cream lilies are the standard funeral flower in many cultures. They symbolise the return of the soul to innocence. In Germany they are commonly used on wreaths and condolence bouquets. One important practical note: always remove the pollen before using lilies in funeral arrangements — it can permanently stain clothing. Remove the anthers with a dry cloth or brush while they are still dry; using water spreads the stain.
Pink and yellow lilies make an excellent gift for Mother's Day or a birthday. They look festive without being overpowering. A bouquet of five to seven stems of oriental lilies, complemented by chrysanthemums or gerbera, makes a real visual impact and smells wonderful.
Red lilies are an expressive alternative to classic roses. For something truly special, combine red lilies with deep-red roses for a passionate, fragrant bouquet.
With the right care, fresh lilies can last an impressively long time. Keep the following points in mind to get the most out of your bouquet:
Important note for cat owners: all parts of the lily plant are highly toxic to cats. Even the water in the vase can cause kidney failure. Always keep lilies well out of reach of cats.
Lilies are natural team players. They combine beautifully with many other flowers to create striking arrangements. Here are some tried-and-tested combinations:
If you are looking for fresh flowers to complete an arrangement, you can order flowers from Regionsflorist — there is a wide selection of cut flowers that pair beautifully with lilies.
The Netherlands is the world's largest producer of cut lilies. Around 60 per cent of all lilies traded globally come from Dutch greenhouses. Varieties such as 'Stargazer', 'Casa Blanca', 'Tresor' and 'Conca d'Or' are grown there under controlled conditions — with precise temperature, light and irrigation management.
The key advantage of buying direct from the grower is that the flowers are not passed through multiple stages of the supply chain. Instead, they reach the customer fresh and still in bud. That means a longer vase life and a more impressive bloom. When you order lilies from Regionsflorist, you benefit from this direct route from the Netherlands — no middlemen, no unnecessary time in storage.
Lilies are normally dispatched in bud. This is not a quality issue — quite the opposite: it means you get to enjoy the full spectacle of the flowers opening over the next two to four days.
White and cream lilies — especially the variety 'Casa Blanca' — are considered the classic funeral flower in Germany. They symbolise dignity, peace and the innocence of the soul. For condolence bouquets and wreaths, they are often combined with white chrysanthemums.
Yes, absolutely. White lilies are among the most popular wedding flowers. In some cultures they are even regarded as a symbol of good luck for the couple. Colour choice matters: white stands for purity and new beginnings, pink for affection. Red lilies are better suited to romantic occasions outside the wedding ceremony itself.
Fragrance depends on the lily group. Oriental lilies such as 'Stargazer' and 'Casa Blanca' have an intense, sweet scent. Asiatic lilies such as 'Tresor' and 'Landini', on the other hand, are almost completely scentless — ideal for people with fragrance sensitivity or for rooms where strong scents would be unwelcome.
Greenhouse lilies are available all year round. The natural outdoor season runs from June to September, when they are at their most affordable and the widest range of varieties is available. For Christmas and the winter months, lilies are grown in climate-controlled greenhouses — the quality is comparable to the summer harvest.
