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The sunflower is a unique species that blooms during the summer months and its meaning can differ between cultures. Whilst some cultures believe that it is a sign of positivity and strength, others believe that it is a sign of loyalty and admiration.
Sunflowers get much of their meaning from the sun as they are recognized as happy flowers that are a source of energy.
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What is the history of sunflowers?
A sunflower is a tall annual species of the Helianthus annuus that originates back to 1000 BC.
The head of a sunflower bears a similar resemblance to that of the glowing sun. Originating in the Americas, Sunflowers were once a valued food source, however, it has since been commercialized as the world began to appreciate its beauty.
In the 1700s it became popular in Russia, Europe, and Ukraine. In fact, Russia is the second biggest consumer of sunflower seed oil.
Helianthus annuus is a combination of two Greek words which mean flower of the sun. It is also believed to be a flower that is always facing towards the sun, hence its name.
As the sunflower is one of the world’s leading oilseed crops, nowadays, in some parts of the world, the seeds are still consumed and the oils are used for medicinal purposes to treat coughs, lower cholesterol, and wounds.
Often the oil is also used for skincare and haircare as it is full of vitamins. In European and Asian countries, sunflowers are the inspiration behind many artistic pieces.
Sunflower meaning
Some people consider the sunflower to be a spiritual species. This is because, as it blooms it appears to follow the direction of the sun as it travels through the sky.
As such, it is thought to display faithful loyalty toward something brighter than itself and it is always trying to find a source of light.
In Chinese culture, sunflowers are thought to be a sign of luck and lasting happiness. For this reason, they are typically gifted to others during graduation ceremonies and the beginning of a business venture.
In Greek mythology, Sunflowers earned their name as a result of the nymph Clytie’s adoration towards Apollo who is the god of the sun. In the beginning, this love was reciprocated, however, another nymph then caught his attention and his affections began to turn.
As a result, Clytie unleashed her rage by informing the other nymph’s father. In response, he buried her alive as a punishment. Angrily, Apollo then turned Clytie into a sunflower.
Despite this, her strong feelings for him persisted and she watched him daily as he traveled across the sky, just like sunflowers follow the sun as it moves.
Sunflower Symbolism
Sunflowers are admired by many and are thought to symbolize loyalty and happiness. Although science may suggest otherwise, many still associate its movements with the sun as a sign of dedication and devotion.
The vibrant and bright colors of sunflowers are fairly similar to the appearance of the sun and because of this, they are seen as a sign of positivity and joy. It is because of this that you will often see them used for celebratory and joyous occasions.
In some cultures, particularly in China, sunflowers are viewed as a sign of vitality and longevity.
Sunflowers are believed to be symbolic of good fortune and many see it as a sign of positivity and luck when embarking on a new career or venture of some kind.
Finally, sunflowers represent peace and hope. Many years ago, this flower was chosen to symbolize a world that is nuclear-free.
Some were planted close to missile bases in Ukraine in an attempt to clean up the environment. They did so by absorbing harmful toxins. Essentially, they are thought to signify hope for future generations to come.
The Color of Sunflowers
For many of us, when we think of sunflowers we immediately think of the color yellow, however, there are several other color varieties available, each of which has its own meaning.
Though they may be rather unusual, red sunflowers share the same beautiful appearance as yellow sunflowers and are believed to be a symbol of positivity and strength.
Orange sunflowers are a sign of happiness and energy, whilst yellow sunflowers, which are possibly the rarest of the species, are seen as a symbol of purity and peace.
Final Thoughts
Sunflowers are a highly recognized species that are known for their attractive sun-like heads and elongated rough stems.
They have many meanings which can differ between cultures, however, overall they are thought to be a symbol of happiness, peace, joy, and loyalty.
They also have multiple uses and aren’t just used for decorative purposes because of their appearance but also their high vitamin content makes them a popular addition to recipes and hair and skin care products.