Flowers, contrary to popular belief, are not just for aesthetic purposes.
People seeking internal resilience and positivity see these beautiful blossoms as a signal to push them further toward their life goals.
Each holds different meanings. Yet, among thousands of options, flowers that symbolize growth – despite difficult circumstances – are still the most favored.
Who doesn’t want a dash of them in their garden? Keep scrolling through our list for more suggestions of flowers that represent growth.
Flowers That Symbolize Growth Through Tough Time
What is the most common flower symbolizing growth?
From all-too-familiar ones – such as Cactus flowers, Potentilla, Gladiolus, and Cistus – to less popular plants like Epimedium, Protea, or Carnation, the choices of flower that symbolizes growth are endless.
Allium
Allium (meaning unity, prosperity, and progress) is an ornamental and edible flower in the onion line.
Originating from the globe’s northern hemisphere, this flower soon spreads its beauty to the rest of the world in numerous bright colors, such as purple, pink, blue, yellow, and white.
Since ancient ages, Allium’s unique spherical shape has made it a global symbol representing the universe. Many countries (particularly Egypt) use it to shoo bad luck away.
These blossoms will be a terrific gift for friendships, couples, family events, or someone you know who is currently having a difficult time.
Potentilla
Another flower from our northern hemisphere, Potentilla, has its name directly derived from “Potens” (a Latin word), which means “Powerful/Growing”.
Red, pink, yellow, and white are some of its most popular colors.
And true to its name, the flower can handle all tough weather and climates, such as dry weather, salty air, heat, and drought.
No wonder people laud it as the best survivor: barely any flowering and feeding are needed!
Better yet, Potentilla’s medical usage is also incredible, further associating it with well-being, health, and endurance.
Valeriana
Those seeking plants that mean strength and growth for their garden would also fall in love with Valeriana/Valerian, a medicinal flower from Europe, Asia, and South and North America!
Its title stems from “Valere” (another Latin word! How interesting), which implies health and physical development.
To date, two hundred species have been found, many of which are cultivated in herbal and medical remedies to relieve muscle pain, epilepsy, headaches, insomnia, stress, and anxiety.
And the aesthetic aspects should not be overlooked, either: their colorful variants (white, pink, and lavender) make them a great touch for your beautiful garden!
Gladiolus
Despite being globally well-known, gladiolus is actually only native to a small portion of Africa (Sub-Saharan). Among its 300 different species, only 1/10 is spotted in Europe.
The name “gladiolus” (from “Gladius” in Latin) means sword – quite understandable, judging its sword-formed petals.
Their flower spikes are another impressive, charming point, inspiring the term “Gladiators” to refer to Roman people fighting for freedom.
As if the implication wasn’t obvious enough, Gladiators even wore gladiolus flowers on their necks to pray for more strength during battle!
With such meaning and historical usage, it’s unsurprising that gladiolus often goes hand in hand with dignity, integrity, courage, endurance, and mental growth.
In some other cultures, it also stands for faithfulness, honor, loyalty, and remembrance.
Phacelia
Also known as Lacy Phacelia or Scorpionweed, Phacelia often grows in South and North America.
Some cannot help but wonder: Scorpionweed and Lacy Phacelia give off totally opposite impressions. Why can these two stark contrasts be associated with the same flower?
Turns out the reason is simpler than one may think: Scorpionweed pays homage to the flower’s curly clusters that look like scorpion’s tails. Meanwhile, Lacy Phacelia is just a compliment to its pure beauty.
Phacelia is versatile and can adapt to all soil conditions – even tougher ones, given well drainage.
It also handles hot weather and drought surprisingly well, eventually blossoming into the most stunning blues and purples we have ever seen!
As such, people often link it with endurance, determination, and advancement. Garden experts suggest growing Phacelia flowers in small groups or clusters, adding more colors and volume to your residence.
Cistus
We often find them in Mediterranean areas, notorious for excessive heat and drought. The fact that Cistus can develop well here speaks a thousand words about their adaptability and strength!
Even the rockiest ground can do nothing on them, making Cistus one of the best low-maintenance flowers without consistent watering.
Cistus stands for development, motivation, and vigor, regardless of difficult circumstances. Plan it in the garden to encourage yourself, or give it to someone else as a message of love and positivity!
Echinacea
Do you know Echinacea has never left its top spot as the most used plant and flower?
They have been – and still are – prevalent in medicinal benefits since the early days of Indians and Native Americans, treating stomach cramps, wounds, sore throats, insect bites, toothaches, colds, and much more.
Hence, like with other medicinal plants, Echinacea also becomes a flower symbolizing life due to its healing power.
The flower’s moniker comes from a Greek term, “Echinos,” meaning hedgehog or urchin. A look at its prickly center easily explains the inspiration behind such nicknames!
Some also call it “coneflower” due to striking resemblances between these two plants, though the label is not that popular.
Astrantia
Aster in Latin means star – which earns this star-shaped flower its current name.
Some Asian and European communities also call it “masterwort” or “star herb,” believing it’s a flower falling on Earth to protect people on behalf of the Mighty God.
Like its other companions on our list, Astrantia thrives well in humid, shady forests and mountain pastures.
Even better, their diverse inclusion of purple, white, red, and pink can suit varied preferences – a good choice for gardens or as personal gifts.
Aside from their most widespread meaning – as flowers that represent transformation, passion, and God’s mercy – Astrantia also embodies elegance, grace, youth, and innocence for some communities.
Antirrhinum
Just its name alone sparks a lot of interesting myths: though Antirrhinum’s Greek meaning is “nose-like” (looking like a nose), these popular flowers are actually more widely known as “Snapdragon.”
Some claim that the petals look like a dragon closing and opening its mouth, while others compare their overall shape to the dragon’s head.
One can spend a whole day discussing and theorizing about the origins of these titles!
As Antirrhinum grows in dry, rocky areas without hassles, many correlate the flower to a resolute soldier that “grows” through his circumstances and becomes the strongest.
Their bold, radiant, and elegant colors will motivate your loved one or friend during their toughest times!
The flower’s reputed height is another remarkable bonus, which makes it a fitting symbol of admiration and respect. Why not give it to someone you truly look up to – like parents or mentors?
Aquilegia
Aquilegia/Columbine, grown in Northern Hemisphere regions, has its name inferred from Aquila (a Latin word that means eagle).
Most people attribute this nickname to its five spurs, which look exactly like eagle claws from afar!
Indeed, the flower’s rounded petals and leaves spurting straight from the root make it one of the most unique plants ever found.
In general, Aquilegia depicts happiness, wisdom, strength, and personal growth – thanks to its resilience in tough environments of high mountains, grasslands, woodlands, and meadows.
Nevertheless, note that the flower’s interpretations might not be the same for every culture.
Take Greek as an example, whose citizens associate the flower with the god of love, Aphrodite, to represent passion and deep romance.
Cactus Flower
It’s not exaggerating to say cactus flowers blooming amidst a hot, barren desert are truly a gift from God. How stunning they are!
Sure, thousands of flowers out there can thrive in extremely tough conditions.
But cacti step up the game several notes; they can literally blossom in abandoned, unlivable areas. Going for days with no water is just a norm for them.
That’s why so many gardeners like using cacti as decor – these gorgeous blooms are a great reminder to stay resilient and determined.
Even better, each cacti color reflects different meanings: yellow and white, for instance, denote endurance, while orange and pink stand for youth.
Other Lesser-Known Flowers That Mean Growth
Epimedium
Next on our list is Epimedium, a flower with a unique heart shape that can prosper in withered, moistureless environments.
Its major ingredients, icariin, are great for body-building foods and solutions.
Nasturtium
These creeping plants spread startlingly fast, leaving small orange or red flowers at every step. Linked to long journeys and battles, they signify progress, victory, and toughness.
Carnation
Pay attention to the color! Only white carnations point to spiritual growth, caring, and purity. Other colors do not hold the same significance.
Protea
As the oldest flower known to date, Protea’s growing rate and surviving skill is unmatched. When used properly, it can even fight cancer or other severe diseases.
Sweetpea
Their smells are as great as their looks; tuck some fresh Sweet Peas into the present or greeting cards to brighten the days of your lucky recipients.
Other Beautiful Flowers With Meaning In Love And Healing
We have just discussed what flower symbolizes growth. Why not have a look at other flower symbolisms?
Symbolizing Love
Lilac
Want to remind your spouse of the honeymoon phases – with blossoming romance and sparking fireworks? Then you can never go wrong with lilac bouquets.
Arriving quite early (February), those early bloomers represent renewal, spring, and the first touches of true love.
Sunflowers
Adoration, loyalty, longevity, and happiness are key pillars to sustain any relationship – not just romantic ones.
Want your loved one to know they deserve all those things? A beautiful sunflower vase will deliver the message on your behalf.
Plus, who doesn’t want to look at sunflowers? Their shiny yellow exhibits unparalleled joy! Click here to learn more about the center of sunflowers – their most important parts.
Symbolizing Healing
Jasmine
Do not confuse it with Gardenia!
The most famous healing flower, Jasmine, impresses everyone in all of its all-white, soothing glory.
And that’s not just a personal predicament: scientific research has proven its assistance in sleep cycles and anxiety disorders.
Sage
The term “Sage” originates from a Latin equivalent, “Salvere,” which translates to “feeling healthy,” “health,” and “heal.”
And like Jasmine, Sage isn’t just some baseless, mystical plant with made-up healing properties.
It has been around for decades to provide antioxidants and anti-inflammatory ingredients, relieving physical and mental pain.
Conclusion
With this long, inclusive list of flowers that symbolize growth, you will never run out of options!
One thing: although most of these flowers do not require much upkeep for optimal growth (hence their meanings), there are still other relevant factors to consider (needed sunlight, containers, wet or dry soil, etc.).
Research carefully to ensure the best growing conditions for your beloved garden.
