6 Meaningful Flowers to Choose for a Get-Well-Soon Bouquet

When selecting flowers for a get-well-soon bouquet, the choices you make are important as each flower carries a message. It's more thoughtful than just randomly picking any flowers. Find out the meaning behind six common flowers and some useful tips to consider.

Why the flower you pick actually matters

Even before people had the chance to text "get well soon," flowers were already being used as an expression of emotions that are hard to articulate. Floriography is the practice of assigning literal meanings to flowers, and because of it, pretty much every bloom has been given a special symbolism. Much of this still stands today.

Giving someone flowers isn't just tradition, either. Studies show that, for starters, receiving flowers triggers happy emotions, heightens feelings of life satisfaction, and affects social behavior in a positive way for days (Haviland-Jones et al., 2005). So when you give flowers to someone in the hospital or elsewhere, those flowers are doing a lot of the talking for you.

Orchids for strength that lasts

Orchids symbolize strength, perseverance, and a silent resilience. They are an ideal choice for someone who is going to have a longer recovery, for what the flowers represent, and also because they can last for quite a long time. While a bouquet of roses can wither in just one week, the orchids will bloom beautifully for weeks if they get proper care. Hence, the good intention and well-wish sentiment with which the gift was sent will last longer, not be forgotten in a wilted flower pot.

At this point, the material aspect of sending flowers becomes equally important with their symbolism. The freshness of the flowers, the way they are arranged, and the timing of the delivery will determine if the good intentions behind your gesture are actually felt by the person who is receiving them. If you need a florist, Toronto has Cindy's Flowers, a favorite with residents for years. They will put together a bouquet of flowers just for you with all this in mind, and have it delivered the same day, because that's what being a florist is all about.

Sunflowers for warmth and adoration

Sunflowers express the sentiment of "get well soon" in the most direct way - by literally turning their heads towards the sun. The meaning behind these cheerful flowers is loyalty and adoration. They are the perfect way to remind someone that you're rooting for them and you will be there when they are back on their feet.

Daisies for a fresh start

Daisies are the low maintenance alternative. They represent innocence and also new beginnings, making them an obvious choice for someone who is starting recovery or coming out of a difficult diagnosis. Daisies are also one of the gentlest flowers in a hospital or clinical setting as they have a light scent and produce a minimal amount of pollen making them less likely to irritate someone who is already dealing with enough.

Chrysanthemums for vitality, with a caveat

For many Asian cultures, chrysanthemums are perceived as a symbol of a long and healthy life, hence a highly symbolic and appropriate get-well bloom. Interestingly enough, in Europe, chrysanthemums are also linked to much sadder events; they're strongly associated with funerals and death. So, if you're hoping to send these cheering blooms to someone from Europe or with European heritage, it may be worth checking in with them first to see if these flowers carry any somber memories for them.

Yellow and pink roses for friendship and encouragement

Roses have different meanings based on their colors. Yellow roses symbolize friendship and happiness, so they are a good choice for giving to coworkers, friends, or distant relatives. Pink roses represent gratitude, admiration, and gentle affection, and are suitable for a get-well-soon message.

Red roses are a no-go in this situation because the strong message of romantic love can be inappropriate for a coworker or acquaintance in the hospital. Instead, reserve red roses for your anniversary.

Tulips for hope and renewal

Tulips can be seen as a symbol of a positive approach. Their upright form and clear lines indicate regeneration and the future, and this is definitely the right inspiration for your friend or loved one lying in a hospital bed. They are also a cost-effective option during the spring, since they are readily available. Freshly cut flowers that are in season have the extra advantage of lasting longer in the hospital room. So, the decision of timing your floral gift with what blooms at the time is smart on multiple levels.

A few practical notes before you order

There are certain rules to follow while sending flowers to a hospital room. For instance, you should avoid overly powerful scents that could overwhelm patients in close quarters. Also, opt for flowers with less pollen if you're concerned about allergies or respiratory issues. Finally, choose long-lasting blooms since patients won't be able to care for them as they would at home.

Flowers communicate a certain message intentionally or unintentionally, so it is important to choose them wisely. Select the flower that conveys the sentiment you truly feel, not just the one that appeals to your eyes.