When you think about the name Lilac, you would first think of the beautiful color – somewhat like a lighter shade of purple. Lilac is one of the breath-taking colors the sky makes every sunset.
But did you know that Lilacs are also flowers? And no, they don’t just bloom in a single color! These flowers are not only stunning – they are in fact incredibly fragrant!
History of Lilac Flowers
Lilacs were first brought to Europe in the 16th century by Puritans traveling from Persia. They were first botanically described around 1625. Lilacs are plants with charming and colorful flowers composed of large panicles and a fragrant scent. It is an elegant springtime flowering shrub or tree native to Eastern Europe and in some regions of temperate Asia.
The flowers belong to the Syringa genus of the Oleaceae or Olive family. The genus name comes from the Greek word syrinx meaning pipe or tube. Wondering why? It is because the stems of these flowers are hollowed out inside!
There are only about 25 species of these simple yet delicate flowers! A few of these wonderful species include the common Lilac (S. vulgaris), the Persian Lilac (S. persica), and the Daphne Lilac (S. pubescens).
Have you ever read about a flower whose name comes from numerous cultural meanings? It arises from several foreign words such as lilas in French, līlak in Arabic, nīlak in Persian, or nīl in Sanskrit. With these diverse words in translation, the Lilac still beholds one true meaning – Lilac means a dark blue.
With that, other popularly associated names with the Lilac include Laylock and Blow-pipe Tree.
Symbolism of Lilac Blossoms
The Lilacs were symbolic of many beliefs. For instance, a white Lilac embodies feminine purity and virginity.
It was believed that these flowers stood for the attribute of being one of a kind – a flower like no other is what the folk say. It brought to life the bravery of going against the status quo by encouraging emotional expressions.
In England, these blossoms are also symbolic of a woman’s fertility. The people of New Hampshire honor the purple Lilacs as their official state flower for how it symbolizes the hardy character of the men and most specifically, the women.
Laylocks also symbolize mystical entities. The zodiac Libra and Roman goddess of love and beauty – Venus, are said to be embodied by the grace of these blooms.
Meaning of Lilac Flowers
The meaning behind these blooms is just as delicate as its beauty. In the language of flowers, the Lilacs are messengers spreading happiness and glee. They are also meant as floral memoirs of your first love. What can mean a sweet memoir can also be an aching past because these flowers also mean a beautiful yet tragic love that is lost.
Laylocks are believed to be a good luck floral gift to women symbolizing their timeless beauty and sweetness.
What does a White Lilac Flower Mean?
A white Laylock blossom will mean your untinged innocence. Surprisingly, it is also a floral embodiment of the memoir of a first love.
What does a Red Lilac Blossom Symbolize?
Red Syringa flowers symbolize love and not just any kind of love! It specifically symbolizes a platonic kind of love with absolutely no romance! Just genuine love. Cherish this because this flower can also mean mourning over the loss of this love!
What does a Blue Lilac Floret Indicate?
Blue Laylocks are the glory of the Syringa genus. These colored flowers indicate pride and independence.
What does a Pink Lilac Bloom Represent?
The power of eternal youth dances gracefully with the awe of a pink Lilac! Not only that, but it also represents gentleness and serenity.
What does a Purple Lilac Flower Symbolize?
Oddly enough, grief and optimism are the two most commonly associated meanings behind a purple Syringa bloom. It is oftentimes also associated with the question do you still love me?
What does a Yellow Blossom Mean?
A never-ending bond of friendship is what is meant by yellow Laylocks. If you’re ever in a small quarrel with a dear friend, offer them this flower and remind them of the special bond you have!
What is the Cultural Significance of Lilac Flowers?
The Lilacs are culturally diverse flowers bearing with them a few wholesome traditions and customs. During the Victorian era, sprigs from Lilacs were traditionally sent over to fiancés who wished to have their engagements broken off.
In Japan, the Ainu used stem poles from Lilacs as protection from evil. The tradition instructs that the poles be placed specifically on the eastern side of the lodge during death ceremonies along with where the bear feasts were held.
What is the Spiritual Influence of Lilac Blooms?
The floral essence of Lilacs indulges in promoting intuition and aligning positive chakra. This fully promotes the light within the soul. The flowers are also said to open doorways of light between the physical and mystical world. It shows different perspectives and aspects of true life.
This essence can also guide the flowing energy of the body. It raises the frequency of the energy flow tuning into a more positive and energetic body vibration.
What is the Biblical Meaning of Lilac Florets?
Christian faith believes these flowers represent Spring and the rebirth of Christ. Its fresh blooms hint at the reconciliation preached by this religion. The divine truth lies within each petal of each flower symbolizing the ultimate unity of all things.
What are the Folktales Associated with Lilac Blossoms?
Many urban stories tell about the mystical and magical powers of the Lilacs. In one short tale, old folks used to say that the flowers were only planted to drive away evil! Fresh Laylock flowers were planted near or in the lawns of haunted houses to clear evil vibrations.
So, if you see a Lilac anywhere near a house or building, better steer clear from that or you might just get your pants spooked!
What does a Lilac Floral Tattoo Symbolize?
Take a look at these flowers and try to guess what a tattoo of this could mean. If it isn’t in plain sight yet, a tattoo of these blossoms celebrates youthfulness, solitude, and beauty. Hinting at the beauty of each flower, a tattoo of this will also symbolize your confidence and pride!
Uses of Lilacs
Lilacs are a favorite ornamental to plant in many outdoor gardens and potted containers. Its flowers bloom between 10-14 days which small birds and insects are attracted to!
In ancient China, Lilacs or Sung lo cha are used as a tea substitute. The flowers surprisingly add a lemony and pungent floral scent and taste to food. For the Iroquois, the petals were a popular additive to delicacies and sweets like marzipan, ice cream, and yogurt.
Early Europeans took the liking of traditionally using the stems for pipe manufacture. The plant stems were dried and then burned to obtain the sweet fragrance of the flower!
These plants also have a few folkloric medical uses. Iroquois people practiced chewing on the bark or leaves to relieve sore mouths. A word of warning that it’s a must to always consult a medical professional before using this plant or any part of it for medical purposes.
~ image source: depositphotos/studiograndouest