Oct 12, 2021
The majestic sunflowers are said to bag the title of the happiest flowers on earth – and much can be attributed to their brilliant, yellow petals and tall green stems that remind us of the sweet summer sun. Like a pocketful of sunshine, sunflowers can bring warm feelings to our hearts. They stand tall all the time, bravely holding their seedy heads high.
However, there is more to these vibrant flowers than meets the eye. Keep on reading to find out what makes the sunflower so cheery and why it deserves all the love in the world!
A Brief History of Sunflowers
Sunflowers first originated around 1,000 BC in the Americas. Back in the days, sunflowers were solely cultivated as a source of food for humans, cattle, poultry and other ornamental plants – nothing else. Its popularity only boomed when Europeans started to explore the New World, and more folks grew to appreciate its beauty and sustenance then.
How Did Sunflower Get Its Name?
Why are sunflowers called sunflowers? We have been asked this question a couple of times. Sunflowers are called sunflowers because - well - they love basking in the rays and, thus, are named after the sun.
Like most species of plants, the sunflower has its name derived from ancient Greek. The word “sunflower” comes from the Greek word “Helianthus” – where “Heli” means sun and “Anthus” means flowers.
Why Do Sunflowers Always Turn to Follow the Sun?
Sunflowers follow the sun across the sky, and it is certainly interesting to know that plants are not the static beings we always thought they were. There is a flurry of research papers on sunflowers and how they use circadian rhythms to track the sun – but we will attempt to sum it all up for you below.
In short, sunflowers have their biological clock (also known as the 24-hour circadian rhythm), which gives them the ability to detect light. When sunflowers are growing, their heads turn back and forth to follow the sun and gain as much energy as they can to stand tall even on the darkest days. However, once sunflowers reach maturity, movement decreases, and they stop tracking the sun.
Sunflower and its Symbolism
If you adore this floral beauty that radiates joy as much as we do, you would be curious to find out the true symbolism of the sunflower and why it is aptly called the happiest flower on earth.
Many people believe that the way sunflowers tend to position themselves toward the sun symbolises unwavering loyalty, whilst their bright yellow petals that shine splendidly scream optimism and all things positive. It is no wonder why sunflowers are the perfect choice of gift for graduations, anniversaries and all happy occasions in between.
For their ability to stay steadfast even on the hottest days of summer, sunflowers have also come to symbolise longevity and vitality in Chinese culture.
The Different Variations of Sunflowers
You will be surprised to know that sunflowers actually come in several varieties! Although uncommon, there are sunflowers with red, orange, white, pink or purple petals.
Where to Buy Sunflowers in Singapore
There are few things in life more cheery than receiving a bright bouquet of sunflowers. Can’t get enough of them? Neither can we! And that is why we place plenty of beautiful sunflower arrangements at your fingertips.
Find the perfect sunflower bouquet for yourself or surprise your loved ones with fresh sunflowers from The Interior Collections today. Be sure to order before 1 pm for free same-day delivery in Singapore!
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FAQs
Sunflowers, a natural emblem of sunshine, are beautiful and happy flowers emanating with healing powers to uplift and inspire. A sunflower arrangement conveys joy and optimism throughout the tall and vibrantly yellow blooms.
What makes sunflowers so special? ›
Sunflowers symbolise loyalty, adoration thanks to the myth of Clytie and Apollo. And, because of their association with the sun, sunflowers are well-known for being a happy flower and the perfect bloom for a summer flower delivery to brighten someone's mood! But, they actually have different meanings across cultures.
Why do sunflowers represent happiness? ›
Sunflowers can grow tall and strong even in adverse conditions, making them symbols of longevity and resilience. The sunflower can also be seen as a symbol of enlightenment, spiritual awakening, and personal growth. Its bright yellow petals and radiant energy are thought to bring positivity and joy into people's lives.
What does the sunflower symbolize in life? ›
The sunflower is seen as a sign of hope and warmth, positivity and strength, strong bonds and lasting happiness — always looking for the light. And a sunflower's seeds provide nutrition that is loved by both humans and wildlife alike.
What does 5 sunflowers mean? ›
5 flowers means I love you very much. 9 flowers means I want to be with you forever. 10 flowers means to me you are always perfect. 24 flowers means I miss you every moment. 99 flowers means I will love you until the last day of my life.
Are sunflowers the happiest flower? ›
Sunflowers are known for being “happy” flowers, making them the perfect gift to bring joy to someone's (or your) day.
What 3 things can sunflowers do? ›
The leaves are used as fodder, the flowers yield a yellow dye, and the seeds contain oil and are used for food. The sweet yellow oil obtained by compression of the seeds is considered equal to olive or almond oil for table use. Sunflower oil cake is used for stock and poultry feeding.
What do sunflowers do at night? ›
Once the sun sets in the western sky, those young sunflowers will slowly turn back to east during the night, waiting for the sun to rise once again. This sun tracking movement is known as heliotropism, and it happens less as sunflowers grow older.
What do you call a person who loves sunflowers? ›
anthophile (n.) a person who loves flowers.
What do sunflowers mean biblically? ›
(Romans 12:1) Without the sun, the sunflower will perish. Without the Sun of Righteousness, Jesus Christ, there is no life, no growth and no fruit, just withering and death. However, God's Word promises: if we abide in the light of the Son we will bring about abundant growth and life (John 10:10; John 15:1ff).
European superstitions
To achieve success in a small errand, cut a sunflower at sunset and carry it with you for the next day. In many cultures, sunflowers are associated with fertility. Frequent baths with yellow petals are believed to help women get pregnant. Sunflower products are also used in rituals.
How do sunflowers help humans? ›
Sunflower seeds are a source of many vitamins and minerals that can support your immune system and increase your ability to fight off viruses. These include both zinc and selenium. Zinc plays a vital role in the immune system, helping the body maintain and develop immune cells.
What do sunflowers mean spiritually? ›
It is often seen as a symbol of faith and devotion, radiating positivity and hope. In some Eastern religions, such as Buddhism, sunflowers are considered sacred and represent spiritual enlightenment. Their ability to turn towards the sun is seen as a metaphor for the human quest for enlightenment and self-realization.
Why are sunflowers so special? ›
Known for its brilliant color, its vibrant petals, and its showy appearance, the sunflower is fascinating in many ways. It's distinctive for its beauty, but it also represents a whole range of positive and uplifting emotions that set it apart from other blooms.
What does a sunflower mean in a relationship? ›
Sunflowers have a deep love meaning, a person who has loved with sincerity and purity never forgets and truly loves until the end. The flowers that most express fidelity are sunflowers. Sunflowers symbolize love and admiration.
How do sunflowers represent happiness? ›
Happiness and Optimism: The bright yellow petals, resembling rays of sunshine, naturally evoke feelings of joy and optimism. Sunflowers are often associated with warmth, positivity, and happiness. Nourishment and Vitality: The sunflower's seeds, rich in nutrients, represent nourishment and health.
What do sunflowers do for the soul? ›
No flower can lift someone's spirits quite like sunflowers. The shape and the color of the sunflower heads and their bright yellow, orange and red petals are symbolic of the sun. This flower represents happiness, radiance and all things that are positive. They symbolize adoration, loyalty and longevity.
What do sunflowers attract? ›
Butterflies, beneficial insects, hummingbirds and birds flock to sunflower heads for food, pollen and nectar. Mexican sunflowers are particularly good at attracting Monarch butterflies as they migrate through the country. Butterflies and insects enjoy the flower pollen and nectar while birds feast on the seeds.
How did the sunflower get its name? ›
The common name, “sunflower”, typically refers to the popular annual species Helianthus annuus, or the common sunflower, whose round flower heads in combination with the ligules look like the glowing sun. In Greek, helios means sun and anthos means flower, thus the name Sunflower.
How long do sunflowers live? ›
We'd like to make it easy for your to remember - that's why we've created this page as your go-to guide on how to pro-long the life of your cut sunflowers. With proper care, sunflowers should last up to 2 weeks!
The book chronicles the life of Johanna (née Bonger) Van Gogh, who married the painter Vincent's brother Theo, and whose story emerges in a parallel narrative. After moving to Paris with Theo, Johanna encounters the erratic Vincent. Theo explained to her how “Sunflowers mean gratitude to Vincent.
Are purple sunflowers real? ›
Sunflower colors range from cream to gold, yellow, orange, red, mahogany and chocolate brown. There are even pink sunflowers, but if you see blue sunflower seeds for sale, be wary. There's a deep, dark red hybrid that some gardeners consider purple, but there aren't any blue sunflowers in nature.
Oct 12, 2021
