Every March 8th, millions around the world pause to honour the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. International Women's Day transcends borders, languages, and traditions—yet one element remains beautifully constant: flowers.
From the violet-hued bouquets exchanged in European cities to the delicate cherry blossoms celebrated in Asia, flowers serve as a universal language of appreciation, dignity, and celebration. They carry meaning that words sometimes cannot convey, making them an ideal gesture for a day dedicated to recognising the women who shape our world.
This tradition varies richly across cultures, each bringing its own symbolism, preferred blooms, and rituals to the occasion. For those looking for arrangements inspired by these global traditions, our International Women's Day collection offers curated blooms reflecting the colours and symbolism celebrated worldwide.
Europe – Celebrating with Classic Blooms
In many European nations, International Women's Day holds particular cultural weight, especially in countries with strong historical ties to the women's rights movement. Here, flowers aren't merely decorative—they're deeply symbolic.
In the United Kingdom, the choice of blooms often reflects the colours of the suffragette movement: purple for dignity and justice, white for purity, and green for hope. Modern celebrations frequently feature roses, particularly in purple and pink tones, alongside elegant white lilies that symbolise the ongoing journey toward equality.
France approaches the day with characteristic elegance, favouring refined arrangements of roses and violets. The violet, in particular, holds special significance—Napoleon Bonaparte famously adopted it as his emblem, but it later became associated with the women's suffrage movement in the early 20th century. French florists often create sophisticated bouquets combining deep purple blooms with softer pink and white accents.
In Italy and across the Mediterranean, mimosa flowers have become synonymous with International Women's Day. The tradition dates back to 1946, when Italian feminists chose the bright yellow mimosa as the day's official flower. Unlike roses, mimosas were affordable and bloomed naturally in early March, making them accessible to everyone. Today, Italian streets fill with the sunny pompom-like flowers, gifted between friends, colleagues, and family members as tokens of solidarity and appreciation.
Across Europe, the colour purple remains paramount—a visual reminder of the historical struggle for women's rights and the dignity that defines the movement.
Asia – Blossoms and Symbolic Gestures
Asian cultures bring their own profound traditions to International Women's Day, often weaving together modern celebration with ancient symbolism.
In Japan, while International Women's Day itself isn't widely celebrated as a public holiday, the cultural appreciation for women coincides beautifully with the cherry blossom season. The fleeting beauty of sakura symbolises life's preciousness and the strength found in gentleness—qualities often associated with feminine energy in Japanese culture. Many choose to honour the women in their lives with orchids, which represent refinement and beauty, or seasonal arrangements featuring early spring blooms.
China observes International Women's Day as a half-day holiday for women, and flowers play a central role in the celebrations. Carnations are particularly popular, symbolising a mother's pure love, though roses and tulips are increasingly favoured by younger generations. The tradition often extends beyond romantic partners—colleagues exchange flowers in offices, and children present blooms to their mothers and teachers. Red and pink flowers dominate, as these colours represent happiness, good fortune, and appreciation in Chinese culture.
In India, the day has gained momentum in recent years, with flowers serving as both celebration and statement. Marigolds, deeply significant in Indian culture for their association with the sun and positive energy, are often chosen alongside roses. Urban centres see elaborate floral displays, while in smaller communities, women may receive locally grown seasonal blooms that carry personal significance and support local growers.
Americas – Flowers and Empowerment
Across North and South America, International Women's Day celebrations blend floral tradition with activism and community gathering.
In the United States, the day has evolved from its labour movement origins into broader celebrations of women's achievements. Flowers given on this day often carry intention—purple iris or violet roses signal support for women's equality, while pink blooms celebrate femininity in all its forms. Many organisations and companies present arrangements to female employees, though the tradition is increasingly paired with meaningful action: donations to women's causes, mentorship programmes, and policy changes that flowers alone symbolise but cannot achieve.
Mexico approaches the day with vibrant colour and community spirit. Marigolds (cempasúchil), significant in Mexican culture for their use in Día de los Muertos, sometimes appear in arrangements honouring women who've fought for rights, creating a bridge between remembrance and celebration. Pink and red roses remain popular choices for personal gifting, while public demonstrations often feature women carrying flowers alongside banners—a peaceful yet powerful visual statement.
In Brazil, where International Women's Day coincides with the tail end of summer, tropical flowers take centre stage. Orchids, heliconias, and birds of paradise create bold, celebratory arrangements that match the Brazilian spirit. The day often includes street festivals where flowers are distributed freely, transforming public spaces into gardens of appreciation. Brazilian florists report that demand focuses less on traditional roses and more on unique, statement blooms that celebrate individuality—a reflection of the diverse women being honoured.
Africa & Middle East – Unique Floral Traditions
While International Women's Day observance varies across Africa and the Middle East, flowers remain a meaningful element where celebrations occur.
In South Africa, the day often features bright, bold blooms native to the region—proteas, which symbolise courage and transformation, feel particularly apt for a day celebrating women's resilience. Gerbera daisies in cheerful colours are also popular, their open faces representing the joy and optimism that women bring to communities. Many celebrations incorporate purple flowers specifically, connecting South African observance to the global movement's symbolic colour.
Morocco and parts of North Africa see roses taking prominence, particularly in regions where rose cultivation is part of the cultural heritage. The Valley of Roses in Morocco produces some of the world's finest damask roses, and gifting roses on International Women's Day connects local tradition with global solidarity. The exchange of flowers often occurs within family settings, with daughters, mothers, and grandmothers all receiving blooms that honour multiple generations of women.
In the Middle East, where customs vary significantly by country and community, flowers serve as a culturally appropriate way to honour women in professional and social settings. White lilies and pink roses are frequently chosen for their elegance and subtle beauty, allowing celebration while respecting cultural norms around modesty and propriety.
The Symbolism Behind International Women's Day Flowers
Understanding the meaning behind International Women's Day flowers enriches the gesture of giving them. The colour symbolism established by the suffragette movement over a century ago continues to resonate today. Our detailed guide to the meaning and symbolism of International Women’s Day flowers explores these traditions in greater depth.
Purple remains the most significant colour, representing justice, dignity, and the historical struggle for women's rights. Purple flowers—from deep violet roses to delicate irises—honour both the past and ongoing fight for equality. When you choose purple blooms, you're not simply selecting a beautiful colour; you're connecting to a legacy of courage and determination.
White symbolises purity of purpose and the hope for a more equitable future. White flowers like lilies, roses, or tulips represent the clarity of the movement's goals and the peace sought through equality rather than conflict. They remind us that the fight for rights need not be divisive but can unite us in shared human dignity.
Pink represents femininity and grace, celebrating rather than diminishing the qualities traditionally associated with women. Pink flowers acknowledge that strength comes in many forms, and that embracing femininity doesn't contradict fighting for equality—it's part of the rich tapestry of women's experiences.
Yellow, particularly through mimosa flowers, adds brightness and optimism to International Women's Day. It represents the joy found in solidarity, the warmth of community support, and the sunny prospect of continued progress.
Beyond colour, certain flowers carry their own significance. Roses, universal in their appeal, adapt to any cultural context while maintaining their association with respect and admiration. Carnations speak to maternal love and the generations of women who've paved the way. Tulips suggest new beginnings and the fresh chapters women continue to write in history.
A Shared Language of Appreciation
Flowers have always spoken what words sometimes cannot—and on International Women's Day, they become more than beautiful gestures. They're visual reminders of dignity, acknowledgments of strength, and symbols of the ongoing journey toward equality.
Whether it's the sunny mimosa brightening Italian streets, the purple roses echoing suffragette courage, or the cherry blossoms marking spring's promise in Asia, these blooms connect us across borders and generations. They honour not just the battles won but the everyday resilience, creativity, and grace that women bring to the world.
This International Women's Day, consider how the simple act of giving flowers—chosen with thought, offered with respect—can participate in a global tradition that celebrates women everywhere. Explore our International Women's Day collection for refined arrangements inspired by these global floral traditions, each designed to honour the remarkable women in your life.
