The Language of Christmas Flowers: Meaningful Blooms for the Festive Season

Christmas is a season rich with traditions, and flowers and greenery play an essential role in setting the mood for this magical time of year. At Lily & Myrtle, we believe every flower tells a story, and Christmas blooms are no exception. From holly’s cheerful berries to mistletoe’s romantic allure, each festive favourite carries a meaning that can enhance your holiday celebrations and gifts.

Here’s a look at the symbolic language of some popular Christmas flowers and foliage, along with ideas for creating heartfelt arrangements that reflect the season’s spirit.

Lily and Myrtle: A Perfect Pair for Christmas

At Lily & Myrtle, the namesake flowers of our shop hold special meaning during the festive season.

• Lilies symbolise purity, hope, and renewal, making them a beautiful representation of the spirit of Christmas. Their elegant blooms bring a serene and uplifting presence to any arrangement, reminding us of the peace and promise the holiday season offers.
• Myrtle, often associated with love, commitment, and prosperity, is a traditional favourite in floral arrangements. In ancient times, it was considered a sacred plant, and its delicate greenery adds a timeless charm to Christmas displays.

Together, lilies and myrtle create a harmonious balance of beauty and meaning, perfect for festive centrepieces or bouquets that celebrate love, joy, and new beginnings.

Arrangement Idea:
Combine white lilies with sprigs of myrtle and red llex  berries ( holly with no leaves!!) in a tall vase for a striking and meaningful arrangement. This elegant combination also makes a thoughtful gift for loved ones or a stunning addition to your Christmas table.

Holly: The Protector of the Season

With its glossy green leaves and bright red berries, holly is one of the most iconic symbols of Christmas. Traditionally, holly was thought to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits. Its spiky leaves were said to represent the crown of thorns, while the red berries symbolised Christ’s blood, making it a meaningful addition to Christian celebrations.

Arrangement Idea:
Incorporate holly sprigs into a traditional Christmas wreath or pair them with white & red roses surrounding a cream pillar candle  in a table arrangement for a classic, elegant holiday display.

Mistletoe: The Kiss of Love and Friendship

Mistletoe is synonymous with festive romance, but its history goes deeper. In ancient times, it was considered a symbol of peace and healing. Hanging mistletoe in the home was believed to bring harmony and encourage love, a tradition that lives on today with the popular ‘kiss under the mistletoe.’

One berry equals one kiss .. take a berry from the branch as each kiss is taken. 

Arrangement Idea:
Tie a small bunch of mistletoe with a satin ribbon to hang in a doorway, or include it in a hand-tied bouquet alongside ivory lilies for a romantic festive gift.

At weddings during the festivities it’s lovely to provide a bunch of  mistletoe at the alter for the newly weds to take there first kiss Xx 

Ivy: Strength and Endurance

Ivy, with its trailing vines, symbolises resilience and connection. It often appears in Christmas carols, like “The Holly and the Ivy,” and represents eternal life and faithfulness in the face of challenges—a perfect sentiment for this reflective season.

Arrangement Idea:
Use ivy as a trailing element in a festive garland for your staircase or mantlepeiece,  weave it into a Christmas centrepiece with red amaryllis and evergreen sprigs. The berries in the ivy this time of year give a wonderful added texture to each design. 

Pine and Evergreen: The Spirit of Renewal

Though not a flower, pine and evergreen foliage are staples of Christmas, representing eternal life and renewal during winter’s stillness. Their fresh scent evokes cosy winter evenings, while their vibrant green reminds us that life continues even in the coldest months.

Arrangement Idea:
Create a lush table runner with layers of pine, spruce, and fir, accented by pinecones, cinnamon sticks, and fairy lights for a warm, rustic look.

Poinsettias: The Star of Christmas

Known as the “Christmas Star,” poinsettias bring a burst of festive red and green to homes. They are native to Mexico and are said to symbolise purity and goodwill. According to legend, they became associated with Christmas when a poor child offered a humble bouquet of weeds to baby Jesus, which miraculously transformed into vibrant poinsettias.

Arrangement Idea:
Place a single poinsettia plant in a decorative pot as a statement piece, or use poinsettia flowers to add height and drama to a mixed arrangement.

Heartfelt Gifts and Arrangements from Lily & Myrtle

At Lily & Myrtle, we take pride in creating bespoke arrangements that celebrate the beauty and meaning of the season. Whether you’re looking for a wreath bursting with Christmas spruce and ivy, a romantic mistletoe-inspired bouquet, or a sustainable garland to adorn your home, we craft each piece with care and intention.

Flowers have a way of speaking to the heart, and with their timeless meanings, Christmas blooms can help you express everything from love to gratitude. Visit us in-store or browse our festive offerings online to find the perfect arrangement to brighten your home or delight someone special

Discover the magic of Christmas flowers with Lily & Myrtle, where every bloom tells a story.