Floral Inspiration

I recently created this piece for a close friend for her birthday. I was trying to think of what a good representation of her would be in a picture, and my mind immediately went to a ladies’ leadership event I attended. One of the speakers talked about orchids, and how they represent strength and endurance, as well as several other positive qualities. So I decided to do a little research myself, and was reminded of several scripture references along the way…

HOW ORCHIDS GROW:

Orchids grow around the world on every continent, in almost every climate except Antarctica.  This means they are very versatile, adaptable, strong, resilient, and made to thrive. (Psalm 1:1-3; Psalm 92:12-15)

Seeds (if grown in labs) must be grown in sterile jars. The ground must be a jelly-like substance, full of nutrients and growth hormones.  From seed to bloom, they require extreme patience, care, and nurturing. (Ephesians 3:16-19; John 15:1-17)

The seed grows up to one centimeter in a YEAR.  After that process, it takes 3-8 YEARS for the plants to start to bloom.  Most orchids only bloom once a year, so it truly is a rare beauty.  However, once it starts, the orchid will bloom for 6-10 WEEKS. (James 1:2-4; Romans 5:1-5; Proverbs 31:10-31)

Orchids once they have stopped blooming will enter dormancy.  That is, for 6-9 MONTHS it will enter a resting period after the extreme amount of energy it requires to create such beautiful, large flowers.  This allows the plant to rest and replace the nutrients expended during blooming.  The nutrients are stored in the leaves until they are needed for growth and blooming. (Isaiah 40:30-31; Psalm 51:10-12; Matthew 11:29; Matthew 11:28-30; Psalm 119:11; Colossians 3:16)

SYMBOLISM:

Victorian era Europeans saw orchids as symbols of luxury and elegance, as well as love.  (John 1:12; Philippians 2:12-16)

The symmetry of the flowers to its stems and leaves, as well as the straight lines on the petals has led to the orchids being a symbol of beautiful perfection.  Their beauty is simply mesmerizing, and unlike anything else! (Ephesians 2:10; Psalm 139)

In Christian theology, the spots on orchids represent the blood of Christ. (1 John 1:7)

The vanilla orchid (as in where we get vanilla!!) was an Aztec and Chinese symbol of strength and healing, and is also used for delightful fragrances everywhere. (Isaiah 40:29; 41:10; 53:5; Ephesians 5:1-2)

In parts of the Philippines, orchids play a role as the protectors of the forest. (2 Thessalonians 3:3; Deuteronomy 31:6; Psalm 46:1)

In ancient Japan, it was believed that a warrior finding an orchid was a symbol of his bravery. (Ephesians 6:10-20; Judges 6:12)

Tranquility, abundance, peace, and creativity are also symbols; orchids represent our desire to reach greatness in life. (2 Corinthians 4:7-9; 2 Timothy 4:7-8; Hebrews 12:1-2)

COLORS:

-White: Innocence, beauty, and purity, as well as elegance, hope, humility, faith, and reverence

-Pink/Lavender: Femininity, grace, joy, happiness, gentleness, and innocence

-Red: Passion, determination, and desire; strength and courage

-Orange: Sunshine, pride, enthusiasm, success, and boldness

-Yellow: Friendship, joy, optimism, and new beginnings

-Green: Good fortune and blessings; good health, nature, safety, harmony, and longevity

-Blue: Rarity, spirituality, loyalty, sincerity, trust, and meditation

-Purple: Royalty, dignity, and admiration; a sign of respect

Resources: Happy DIY Home, Just Add Ice Orchids, Gardenerdy, Fresh Trimmings, Site for Everything, Flower Meanings, Gardener's Supply Company, Gardening Know How