Lily Flower Symbolism: Meanings by Variety

Overview

True lilies (Lilium) have symbolic value dating to 1580 BC (ancient Crete). Greeks revered them as sprouting from Hera's milk. Each cultivar carries unique meaning.

Friendship: Peruvian Lily (Alstroemeria)

Strongly tied to friendship, devotion. Colors vary. Called Lily-of-the-Incas. Used for birthdays, graduations.

Prosperity: Pink Stargazer Lily

Dramatic, fragrant, bold. Associated with wealth, success. Great for promotions, new jobs.

Sympathy: White Stargazer Lily

Subtle fragrance, white blooms = innocence, chastity. Given as condolence. All white lilies symbolize light, purity.

Humility: Lily-of-the-Valley

Sweet scent. Symbolizes humility, chastity, sweetness, purity. Used for prom, first crush, new baby. May birth flower. Represents return to happiness after struggle.

Beauty: Calla Lily

Sleek, modern, "most gentle and delicate." Name from Greek kallos (beautiful). Wedding bouquet staple.