Mother’s Day is a heartfelt celebration of the women who shape our lives with unconditional love, sacrifices, and endless support. In the United States, it falls on the second Sunday of May - in 2026, that’s Sunday, May 10. Flowers remain one of the most timeless and meaningful ways to express gratitude, appreciation, and love. But what is the official flower for Mother’s Day? It’s the carnation - a bloom with deep historical roots and rich symbolism.
Whether you’re honoring your mom, grandmother, wife, or any special mother figure, understanding the story behind carnations (and exploring beautiful alternatives) can help you choose the perfect bouquet.
The History of Mother’s Day and Carnations
The modern Mother’s Day tradition traces back to Anna Jarvis in the early 20th century. After the death of her own mother, Ann Reeves Jarvis (a dedicated community activist who organized Mothers’ Work Clubs to improve health and childcare), Anna wanted a day to honor mothers everywhere.
On May 10, 1908, Anna organized the first official Mother’s Day service at Andrews Methodist Episcopal Church in Grafton, West Virginia. She distributed 500 white carnations - her mother’s favorite flower - to every attendee. White carnations symbolized the purity, faithfulness, and enduring love of motherhood. Anna’s campaign grew rapidly, and in 1914, President Woodrow Wilson signed a proclamation making Mother’s Day an official national holiday.
Carnations were chosen deliberately: their layered petals represent the many layers of a mother’s care, while their long-lasting nature mirrors the enduring quality of maternal love. Over time, the flower became synonymous with the holiday worldwide.
In Christian lore, carnations are said to have sprung from the tears of the Virgin Mary at the crucifixion, adding layers of purity and sacrifice. In ancient Greece and Rome, they were called “dianthus” (“flower of the gods”) and linked to divine beauty.
Today, traditions include wearing carnations: white for mothers who have passed, pink or red for living ones. In places like Japan, red carnations are popular; in Australia and Canada, similar customs prevail.
Symbolism of Carnations: Why They’re Perfect for Mom
Carnations are more than just pretty - they’re packed with meaning:
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White carnations - purity, innocence, eternal love, and remembrance (ideal for honoring departed mothers).
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Pink carnations - gratitude, appreciation, and a mother’s gentle love (the most common choice for living moms).
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Red carnations - deep admiration, respect, and passionate love.
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Other shades: Purple for whimsical or adventurous moms; avoid yellow, traditionally linked to disappointment in Victorian floriography.
Carnations are incredibly durable (often lasting 2+ weeks with proper care), fragrant, and available in countless colors - from soft pastels to vibrant hues. Far from being “old-fashioned,” they’re enjoying a modern revival in chic, minimalist arrangements.
Top Alternative Flowers for Mother’s Day
While carnations hold official status, there are no strict rules - the best flower is one that resonates with your mom’s personality and preferences. Here are popular, meaningful alternatives:
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Peonies - Prosperity, happiness, and romance. Their lush, full blooms and sweet scent make them luxurious and joyful.
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Tulips (especially pink) - Perfect love, deep affection, and new beginnings. Simple, elegant, and cheerful.
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Roses (pink or light tones) - Gratitude, appreciation, and timeless love. Avoid bold red for a more maternal vibe.
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Ranunculus (pink) - Radiant charm, admiration, and “I’m dazzled by you.”
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Calla Lilies (pink or white) - Elegance, admiration, and sophisticated appreciation.
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Orchids - Strength, beauty, luxury, and enduring love. Great for long-lasting potted gifts.
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Hydrangeas - Heartfelt emotion, gratitude, and sincerity.
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Chrysanthemums - Joy and longevity (in some cultures, the name even relates to “mother”).
For something unique, consider succulents (resilient love that lasts), potted orchids, or preserved (forever) roses in a glass dome - beautiful keepsakes that can last a year or more.
Practical Tips: Choosing and Caring for Mother’s Day Flowers
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Personalize it: Think about her favorites, favorite colors, or even scents she loves.
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Arrangements: Mix carnations as fillers for volume and longevity, or go mono-floral for impact. Add greenery, berries, or accents like balloons, cards, or teddy bears.
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Care tips to make them last:
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Trim stems at a 45-degree angle under water.
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Remove leaves below the waterline.
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Change water every 2 days and add flower food.
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Keep away from direct sun, heat, drafts, and fruit (which releases ethylene gas).
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In Los Angeles, seasonal blooms are abundant - carnations are always available and fresh.
Make This Mother’s Day Unforgettable with Art Flowers LA
The most important thing? Your gesture of love and attention means more than any specific flower. She’ll cherish the thought behind it.
At Art Flowers LA, our florists craft stunning Mother’s Day bouquets featuring carnations, peonies, tulips, roses, and more - customized to your vision. We offer:
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Gorgeous arrangements like the Sensation Bouquet, Peonies Heart, or Gorgeous Bouquet.
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Add-ons: cards, balloons, teddy bears from our Featured Gifts section.
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Forever roses in glass jars for lasting beauty.
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Succulents and orchids for long-term gifts.
Enjoy free delivery within 4 miles of our studio, or visit us at 1484 S Robertson Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90035.
Order online today or call us at 310) 817-0605 - we’re here to help make her feel truly special on May 10, 2026 (and every day after).
What flower reminds you most of your mom? Share in the comments - we’d love to hear
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about Mother's Day Flowers
What is the official flower for Mother's Day?
The official flower for Mother's Day is the carnation. The tradition began with Anna Jarvis, who distributed white carnations at the first Mother's Day service in 1908 to honor her late mother. During the first official celebration in 1908, Anna Jarvis handed out white carnations to all mothers in attendance.
Which flower represents Mother's Day?
Carnations represent Mother's Day. They symbolize enduring maternal love, gratitude, and respect due to their long-lasting nature and wide variety of colors. Carnations are popular for Mother's Day because of their durability and symbolic depth.
What color carnation to wear on Mother's Day?
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Red carnations symbolize admiration and deep love - perfect if your mother is still alive.
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Pink carnations represent gratitude and a mother's gentle love.
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White carnations are worn or given in honor of mothers who have passed away. This tradition stems from early 20th-century customs, with white for remembrance and red/pink for living mothers.
Are dianthus and carnation the same?
Yes, carnations are a type of Dianthus (specifically Dianthus caryophyllus). The botanical name for the classic carnation is Dianthus caryophyllus, so they are essentially the same flower, though "Dianthus" covers a broader genus including smaller varieties like pinks.
Why do people give carnations on Mother's Day?
People give carnations on Mother's Day because of Anna Jarvis's tradition: she chose white carnations to honor her late mother in 1908. The tradition of giving carnations has spread worldwide, symbolizing respect, gratitude, and enduring love. Carnations are long-lasting and come in many colors, making them ideal.
What does the carnation flower mean for mothers?
Carnations mean enduring maternal love, gratitude, purity (white), admiration (red), and appreciation (pink). Their layered petals represent the many layers of a mother's care, and their longevity mirrors steadfast love.
