Sunflower

Sunflower

Sunflowers are enormously popular flowers. They are often synonymous with summer with their open-faced, bright blooms guaranteed to brighten up your day. Let’s talk about sunflowers and learn more about this bright, “sunny” flower below.

About Sunflower

Sunflower is a genus composed of around 70 species of perennial and annual flowering plants. It’s part of the Asteraceae family, also known as the daisy family. The common name “sunflower” typically pertains to the well-known Helianthus annuus species. It’s the common sunflower characterized by round flower heads and a sun-like look.

Scientific Name

The scientific name of sunflower is Helianthus, which directly translates to the words “sun” and “flower” from the Greek words helios (sun) and anthos (flower). There’s no definite explanation why sunflower is named as such, but people believe it’s because the flower resembles the sun’s shape and color.

Origin and History

Sunflowers originated from North America but have gained popularity all over the world. They were domesticated first in what is now Mexico and the southern United States in 2100 BCE, grown by native Americans as crops serving as major edible seed sources. After several years, sunflowers were introduced to Europe and eventually made their way to Russia. Through the years, commercial production and breeding of sunflowers have become prominent in new geographical locations.

Symbolism and Meaning

Sunflowers have different meanings all over the world. Various cultures believe that sunflowers symbolize strength, loyalty, and admiration. These flowers could also mean lasting happiness and good luck. That’s why they’re usually given during business start-ups and graduations. Sunflowers can also represent peace, longevity, optimism, and devotion. With bright yellow and round petals resembling sun rays, sunflowers also have spiritual and cultural significance all over the world. They evoke positivity because of their yellow blooms, able to perk up someone’s mood easily.

Arrangements

Sunflower bouquets and floral arrangements are perfect during celebrations. Sunflowers can be paired with other blooms depending on the style and colours of the arrangement. Gerbera, dahlias, lily, and roses are perfect focal pairings for sunflowers.