Known for their vibrant, colourful blooms and steadfast resilience, poppies have been loved by people the world over for generations. They are a symbol of everything from remembrance to hope, and they have held great cultural significance for many cultures. But poppies are more than just beautiful flowers.
A Brief History of Poppies
Thought to have originated in the Mediterranean region, the earliest mention of poppies appears in ancient Sumerian texts from around 3,400 BCE. The Sumerians referred to poppies as ‘the plant of joy’ which means even then, poppies were likely being used for their medicinal and recreational purposes.
We have many records of the uses of the opium poppy (Papaver somniferum) in ancient civilisations for its sedative and pain-relieving effects. It was used as medicine in Ancient Greece, Egypt, and Rome, and some Egyptians even buried poppy seeds in tombs, believing them to symbolise eternal rest.
In mythology, the Greek goddess, Demeter, was often associated with poppies. The goddess of agriculture was believed to have grown them after losing Persephone to the underworld. There are also records to link the poppy to the god of sleep, Hypnos, likely due to its opium properties.
Cultural Significance of Poppies
One of the most common associations with poppies stems from World War I, when the fields devastated by war in Belgium began to sprout red poppies, popping up through the destruction. It’s the resilience and strength of these poppies that inspired poet John McCrae to write his famous poem, In Flanders Field, which commemorated the fallen.
Over time, the red poppy became a symbol to honour the soldiers that were lost, and on Remembrance Day (November 11th), many people will don a red poppy out of respect.
In Eastern cultures, however, poppies hold very different meanings. In China, red and orange poppies are symbols of prosperity, and represent compassion amidst mourning. In Persian and Turkish cultures, poppies are seen as a symbol of eternal beauty. In fact, the poppy is a central theme of Middle Eastern poetry, symbolising the endurance of love beyond death. How interesting that the Ancient Egyptians believed the same thing!
Unfortunately, due to the impact of the opium trade in Asia, poppies can also carry a negative connotation. To some, these blooms are reminders of the struggles associated with addiction and colonial history.
Symbolism of Poppies
The versatility of the poppy for meaningful arrangement is endless, as depending on the colour, type, and cultural context, what they represent will change.
Red Poppies: Remembrance and Sacrifice
Most commonly associated with remembrance and sacrifice from their association with World War I, red poppies can also symbolise peace and hope, and a world free from the darkness of war. In literature, we often see poppies used within themes of love, sacrifice, and courage.
White Poppies: Purity and Peace
White poppies still hold the meaning of peace and remembrance, but without the war association. These poppies can symbolise purity, innocence, consolation, hope, and faith.
Yellow and Orange Poppies: Wealth, Success, and Positivity
In some Eastern cultures, the colours yellow and orange are associated with prosperity, wealth, and success, which extends to flowers as well. Yellow and orange poppies are bright, happy symbols of optimism, good fortune, and positive energy.
Pink Poppies: Compassion and Platonic Love
Pink poppies are a perfect gift or addition to a bouquet for a friend, or a loved one going through a difficult time. They’re most commonly associated with compassion and non-romantic love, a beautiful reminder of the kind of love and support we receive from friends in a time of need.
Poppies have captivated humanity with their beauty, usefulness, and deep symbolism for millenia. Their history spans cultures and eras, and even as recently as last century, became the symbol for hope through the horrors of war and a reminder to appreciate life’s fleeting moments. We think it’s safe to say that poppies will continue to enthral flower lovers for generations to come.