A Florist's Guide to the Geographical Origins of Popular Flowers
Understanding where flowers come from enriches our appreciation of their beauty and helps us better care for them in our arrangements and gardens.
European Natives
Roses (Rosa species)
Origin: Mediterranean region, Middle East, and parts of Asia The beloved rose has ancient roots stretching across the Mediterranean basin and into western Asia. Wild roses were first cultivated in Persia (modern-day Iran) around 5,000 years ago, with different species native to various regions from the Caucasus Mountains to the shores of the Mediterranean Sea. Today's garden roses are complex hybrids of multiple species.
Carnations (Dianthus caryophyllus)
Origin: Mediterranean region Native to the rocky slopes and coastal areas of the Mediterranean, carnations were first cultivated by the ancient Greeks and Romans. The name "Dianthus" literally means "flower of the gods," reflecting their early reverence for these fragrant blooms.
Sweet Peas (Lathyrus odoratus)
Origin: Sicily and southern Italy These delicately scented climbing flowers originated in the Mediterranean islands and were first brought to wider European attention in the 17th century. Their natural habitat includes rocky coastal areas and limestone cliffs.
Lavender (Lavandula species)
Origin: Mediterranean region, particularly France and Spain Wild lavender thrives in the dry, rocky hillsides of southern France, Spain, and other Mediterranean countries. The herb has been cultivated for over 2,500 years for its aromatic and medicinal properties.
Asian Origins
Peonies (Paeonia species)
Origin: China, Mongolia, and Siberia Peonies have been cultivated in China for over 2,000 years, where they're known as the "king of flowers." Wild species are found throughout temperate Asia, from the mountains of China to the steppes of Mongolia and the forests of Siberia.
Chrysanthemums (Chrysanthemum species)
Origin: China and northeastern Asia First cultivated in China around the 15th century BCE, chrysanthemums spread throughout Asia before reaching Europe. Wild species are native to China, Korea, Japan, and parts of Russia. In Japan, the chrysanthemum became so important it's featured on the imperial seal.
Orchids (Orchidaceae family)
Origin: Diverse tropical regions worldwide, with major centers in Southeast Asia While orchids are found on every continent except Antarctica, the greatest diversity exists in tropical Asia, particularly in the cloud forests of the Himalayas, Southeast Asian rainforests, and the islands of Indonesia and the Philippines.
Lilies (Lilium species)
Origin: Temperate regions of Asia, Europe, and North America True lilies originated across temperate Asia, with many species native to China, Japan, and Korea. The Madonna lily comes from the eastern Mediterranean, while tiger lilies are native to China, Japan, and Korea.
Jasmine (Jasminum species)
Origin: Tropical and subtropical Asia Most jasmine species originate from the warm regions of Asia, particularly the Himalayas, China, and Southeast Asia. Arabian jasmine, despite its name, is actually native to Southeast Asia.
African Heritage
Gladioli (Gladiolus species)
Origin: South Africa and the Mediterranean While some gladiolus species are native to the Mediterranean, the majority of the 260+ species originate from South Africa, particularly the Cape region. These sword-like flowers grow wild in the fynbos vegetation of the Western Cape.
Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae)
Origin: South Africa This exotic-looking flower is native to the coastal areas of South Africa, particularly around Durban and the Eastern Cape. It's the official flower of Los Angeles, despite its African origins.
Calla Lilies (Zantedeschia species)
Origin: Southern and eastern Africa Despite their name, calla lilies aren't true lilies but are native to South Africa, with some species found in other parts of southern and eastern Africa. They grow naturally in marshy areas and along stream banks.
American Natives
Sunflowers (Helianthus annuus)
Origin: North America, particularly the Great Plains Sunflowers are native to the American Midwest and were first domesticated by Native American tribes around 3000 BCE. Wild sunflowers still grow throughout the Great Plains, from Canada to Mexico.
Zinnias (Zinnia elegans)
Origin: Mexico and Central America These bright, cheerful flowers originated in the scrublands and dry grasslands of Mexico. They were sacred to the Aztecs and were among the first flowers brought to Europe from the New World.
Marigolds (Tagetes species)
Origin: Mexico and Central America Native to Mexico and Guatemala, marigolds were cultivated by the Aztecs both for decoration and religious ceremonies. Spanish conquistadors brought them to Europe in the 16th century.
Cosmos (Cosmos bipinnatus)
Origin: Mexico These delicate, daisy-like flowers are native to Mexico, where they grow wild in fields and along roadsides. The name "cosmos" means "harmony" or "ordered universe" in Greek.
South American Treasures
Petunias (Petunia species)
Origin: South America, particularly Argentina and Brazil Wild petunias grow throughout South America, with the greatest diversity in Argentina and southern Brazil. The garden petunias we know today are hybrids of several wild South American species.
Alstroemeria (Alstroemeria species)
Origin: South America, primarily Chile and Peru Also known as Peruvian lily, these long-lasting cut flowers originated in the temperate regions of the Andes Mountains. Most species are found in Chile, with others native to Peru, Brazil, and Argentina.
Begonias (Begonia species)
Origin: Tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, with major diversity in South America While begonias are found in tropical regions globally, South America hosts incredible diversity, particularly in the cloud forests of the Andes. Other major centers include Africa and Southeast Asia.
Australian Uniqueness
Wattle (Acacia species)
Origin: Australia Australia is home to over 900 species of Acacia, making it the largest genus of flowering plants on the continent. Golden wattle is Australia's national flower, blooming across the continent in brilliant yellow displays.
Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus species)
Origin: Australia and nearby islands Nearly all eucalyptus species are native to Australia, with a few found in New Guinea and nearby islands. These aromatic plants have become popular in floral arrangements worldwide.
Understanding Origins in Your Floristry Practice
Climate Considerations
Knowing a flower's origin helps you understand its preferences:
Mediterranean natives (roses, carnations) prefer moderate water and good drainage
Tropical species (orchids, bird of paradise) need warmth and humidity
Desert natives (some cacti flowers) require minimal water
Seasonal Availability
Origin stories explain why certain flowers are available at specific times:
Spring bulbs from temperate regions (tulips, daffodils) bloom early in the year
Tropical flowers may be available year-round in climate-controlled environments
Cultural Significance
Understanding origins adds depth to your arrangements:
Peonies symbolize honor and prosperity in Chinese culture
Roses have different meanings based on their European romantic traditions
Sunflowers represent the American spirit of optimism and strength
Care and Conditioning
Geographic origins inform proper flower care:
Flowers from arid regions may last longer without frequent water changes
Tropical species often benefit from misting and warm temperatures
Alpine flowers may prefer cooler conditioning environments
Hong Kong Florist tips
The flowers we work with daily carry stories of continents and cultures, of ancient civilizations and natural wonders. From the rose gardens of Persia to the wildflower meadows of the American prairies, each bloom connects us to distant places and times. As florists, understanding these origins not only makes us better at our craft but also helps us share the rich heritage of the flowers we arrange with our customers.
The next time you create a bouquet, consider the incredible journey these flowers have taken – not just from farm to vase, but across millennia and continents to reach us today.
