National flowers serve as symbolic representations of a country’s natural beauty, heritage, and cultural pride. These floral emblems often hold deep historical or cultural significance, showcasing the nation’s connection to its land and identity. Across the globe, countries have selected flowers that best represent their natural ecosystems, from the resilient Golden Wattle of Australia to the vibrant Rose of the United States.
In some regions, flowers are chosen to honour indigenous traditions, while in others, they symbolise a unique aspect of national character or history. Whether it's the Black Orchid of Belize or the Bayahibe Rose of the Dominican Republic, each national flower tells a story about the country it represents, often becoming an integral part of national celebrations, emblems, and cultural traditions. Here is a list of national flowers across the world.
How do countries decide their national flowers? Countries decide on their national flowers based on cultural significance, biodiversity, and symbolism. Often, the chosen flower has deep roots in a nation's history or folklore, representing pride and identity. Native plants are typically favoured to promote ecological conservation and reflect local ecosystems.
The process may involve formal legislative action, where governments introduce bills to officially recognize a flower. Public involvement is also common, with polls or contests allowing citizens to have a say in the selection, fostering national pride. Symbolically, the chosen flower often embodies qualities such as resilience, beauty, or freedom; for example, the rose represents love, while the lotus symbolises purity.
Additionally, a national flower can serve as a tourism draw and enhance a country’s identity on the global stage. List of countries and their national flowers Region Country National Flower Notes Africa Mauritius Ruizia boutoniana Represents the unique biodiversity of Mauritius, reflecting the island's rich flora. Nigeria Costus spectabilis (Yellow Trumpet) Symbolises the nation's beauty and prosperity, often seen in various ceremonies.
Seychelles Tropicbird orchid (Angraecum eburneum) Represents the national pride and the unique ecosystem of the Seychelles. South Africa King Protea (Protea cynaroides) A symbol of resilience and diversity, reflecting the country’s unique botanical heritage. Tunisia Jasmine Represents the Jasmine Revolution of 2010, symbolising freedom and hope for the nation.
Zimbabwe Flame lily (Gloriosa superba) Known for its vibrant colours, it symbolises the beauty of Zimbabwe's landscape. Asia Afghanistan Tulip (Lala in Farsi, Khatol in Pashto) Represents love and beauty, widely cultivated in the country. Bangladesh Water lily (Nymphaea nouchali, Shapla) A national symbol reflecting the country's rich natural resources and heritage.
Bhutan Blue Poppy (Meconopsis gakyidiana) A symbol of national identity, representing the unique flora of the Himalayas. Brunei Simpoh Ayer (Dillenia suffruticosa) Represents Brunei's commitment to environmental conservation and its natural beauty. Cambodia Romduol (Sphaerocoryne lefevrei) Symbolises peace and is associated with Cambodian culture and traditions.
Hong Kong Hong Kong Orchid Tree (Bauhinia blakeana) A symbol of Hong Kong's unique identity and its blending of Eastern and Western cultures. Indonesia Melati (Jasminum sambac) Represents purity and is a symbol of Indonesian national identity. India Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) It symbolises purity, beauty and spiritual enlightenment.
Iran Water lily (Nymphaea) Reflects Iran's natural beauty and cultural significance. Israel Poppy Anemone (Anemone coronaria) Symbolises the arrival of spring and is linked to the national landscape. Japan Sakura Blossom Represents beauty, the transient nature of life, and is celebrated during Hanami.
Jordan Black Iris (Iris nigricans) A symbol of Jordan’s natural heritage and resilience. Laos Plumeria (Champa) Represents purity and is commonly used in local traditions and ceremonies. Malaysia Bunga Raya (Chinese Hibiscus) Represents unity and is featured on the national flag.
Maldives Pink Polyantha Rose Symbolises love and beauty, reflecting the nation’s natural landscape. Mongolia Scabiosa comosa (Ber tsetseg) Represents the nation's rich natural heritage and is cherished in local culture. Myanmar Pterocarpus indicus (Paduak) A symbol of strength and resilience, reflecting Myanmar's natural resources.
Nepal Tree Rhododendron (Rhododendron arboreum) Represents national pride and is associated with the beauty of the Himalayas. North Korea Korean Mountain Magnolia A symbol of national pride and beauty in North Korean culture. Pakistan Common Jasmine (Jasminum officinale) Represents love and is often used in cultural and national ceremonies.
Philippines Sampaguita (Jasminum sambac) Symbolises purity and simplicity, and is a national symbol of Filipino culture. Saudi Arabia Taif's Rose (Rosa × damascena) Represents the beauty of the region and is an important part of local culture. Singapore Singapore Orchid (Vanda Miss Joaquim) A symbol of Singapore's multicultural identity and is celebrated during National Day.
South Korea Hibiscus syriacus (Mugunghwa) Represents resilience and is a symbol of national pride. Sri Lanka Blue-star Water-lily (Nymphaea stellata) Symbolises purity and is associated with the country's rich natural heritage. Taiwan Plum Blossom (Meihua) Represents perseverance and is a national symbol of hope and resilience.
Thailand Golden Shower Tree (Cassia fistula) Symbolises the beauty of Thailand and is often associated with the Songkran festival. Vietnam Lotus Flower (Nelumbo nucifera) A symbol of purity and enlightenment, deeply rooted in Vietnamese culture. Europe Albania Papaver rhoeas Represents the blood shed for freedom and is associated with national identity.
Andorra Narcissus poeticus Symbolises the beauty of Andorra's natural landscape and cultural heritage. Austria Edelweiss (Leontopodium nivale) Represents rugged beauty and is a symbol of the Alps, associated with Austrian identity. Belgium Iris pseudacorus A symbol of bravery and strength, linked to the country's cultural heritage.
Croatia Iris croatica Represents the country’s beauty and cultural significance. Cyprus Cyclamen cyprium Symbolizes the rich flora of Cyprus and is an emblem of national pride. Denmark Daisy (Marguerite or Oxeye Daisy) Represents simplicity and beauty, associated with Danish culture.
Estonia Cornflower A symbol of Estonia's natural beauty and cultural heritage. Finland Lily of the Valley Represents purity and humility, significant in Finnish culture. France Iris sibirica A symbol of French culture and history, associated with royalty.
Iceland White Dryad (Dryas octopetala) Represents the unique flora of Iceland and its natural beauty. Italy Strawberry Tree Flower (Arbutus unedo) Symbolises the richness of Italy’s natural landscapes and cultural heritage. Lithuania Ruta graveolens A symbol of love and protection, associated with Lithuanian traditions.
Netherlands Daisy (Bellis perennis) Represents beauty and is widely found throughout the country, symbolising Dutch culture. North Macedonia Poppy A symbol of remembrance and resilience, linked to the nation’s history. Poland Red Poppy Represents remembrance of soldiers and is a symbol of freedom and sacrifice.
Portugal Lavender (unofficial), Carnation Carnation symbolises the Carnation Revolution, while Lavender represents natural beauty. Romania Peony Represents prosperity and is celebrated in local traditions. Russia Chamomile A symbol of love and devotion, often associated with Russian folklore.
Serbia Natalie's Ramonda (Ramonda nathaliae) Represents resilience and is endemic to the region, symbolising national pride. Slovenia Carnation Represents love and is a symbol of Slovenian national identity. Spain Carnation A symbol of love and national identity, deeply rooted in Spanish culture.
Sweden Campanula rotundifolia Represents the beauty of Sweden's natural landscape and is a symbol of cultural pride. Switzerland Edelweiss (Leontopodium nivale) A symbol of the Alps and Swiss national pride, representing resilience. Turkey Tulip Represents beauty and abundance, historically significant in Turkish culture.
Ukraine Sunflower A symbol of loyalty and warmth, representing the Ukrainian spirit and culture. Americas Mexico Dahlia Represents beauty and is celebrated in various festivals, symbolising national identity. Canada Maple leaf Symbolises Canadian identity, culture and history United States Rose Symbolises love and beauty, recognized as the national flower since 1986.
Antigua and Barbuda Dagger Log (Batta Log) Represents the unique flora of the Caribbean and is an emblem of national pride. The Bahamas Yellow Elder A symbol of beauty and resilience, widely recognized in Bahamian culture. Barbados Pride of Barbados Represents the island's natural beauty and cultural identity.
Belize Black Orchid A symbol of national pride, representing Belize's unique biodiversity. Costa Rica Guaria Morada Represents beauty and is a symbol of Costa Rican national identity. Cuba White Ginger Lily Symbolises purity and is a national symbol of Cuban culture.
Dominica Carib Wood Represents the rich natural resources and biodiversity of Dominica. Dominican Republic Bayahibe Rose Symbolises love and is associated with the beauty of the national landscape. Guatemala Monja Blanca Represents national pride and is a symbol of the country’s unique flora.
Haiti Choeblack or Rose Kayenn A symbol of love and resilience, significant in Haitian culture. Honduras Orchid Represents beauty and is an important part of the country's natural heritage. Jamaica Lignum Vitae A symbol of strength and resilience, linked to Jamaica's history and culture.
Nicaragua Sacuanjoche Represents national pride and is an emblem of the country’s natural beauty. Australia Golden Wattle A symbol of national identity and resilience, significant in Australian culture. Fiji Tagimoucia Represents beauty and is cherished in Fijian culture and heritage.
French Polynesia Tahitian Gardenia A symbol of love and beauty, significant in local customs and traditions. New Zealand Kōwhai Represents resilience and is a symbol of New Zealand's natural beauty. Tonga Heilala A symbol of beauty and is significant in Tongan culture.
Argentina Flower of the Ceibo Tree Represents national pride and is a symbol of the country's unique flora. Bolivia Kantuta and Patujú Represent national pride and are symbols of the country’s rich natural resources. Brazil Golden Trumpet Tree Represents national identity and is celebrated for its beauty and cultural significance.
Chile Copihue A national symbol reflecting the unique biodiversity of Chile. Colombia Cattleya Orchid Represents beauty and is significant in Colombian culture and identity. Guyana Victoria Regia Lily Represents the unique biodiversity of Guyana and its natural heritage.
Paraguay Mburucuyá A symbol of national identity and cultural heritage. Peru Cantuta Represents national pride and is a significant part of Peruvian culture. Suriname Jungle Geranium A symbol of natural beauty and biodiversity in Suriname.
Uruguay Flower of the Ceibo Tree Represents national pride and is a symbol of the country's unique flora. Venezuela Flor de Mayo Orchid A symbol of beauty and resilience, linked to Venezuelan cultural identity. United Kingdom Northern Islands The Tudor rose Represents the unification of the House of Lancaster and the House of York, symbolising peace after the Wars of the Roses.
England The flax flower, orange lily and shamrock Serves as national symbols, representing the Holy Trinity in Christianity and reflecting the region's deep-rooted traditions. Scotland The scotch thistle Considered as the national emblem, symbolises resilience and strength. Wales Daffodil and leek The daffodil is often associated with St.
David's Day, while the leek has historical ties to Welsh warriors and is celebrated as a national emblem. A journey through the world's national flowers Africa Mauritius (Ruizia boutoniana): Known for its striking appearance, this flower is native to Mauritius and symbolises the island’s unique flora. Nigeria (Costus spectabilis): The yellow trumpet flower represents the country's beauty and vibrancy, often associated with joy and celebration.
Seychelles (Tropicbird orchid) : This rare orchid reflects Seychelles’ rich biodiversity and is admired for its exquisite beauty. South Africa (King Protea) : A symbol of diversity, this flower is known for its unique shape and vibrant colours, representing the nation’s rich cultural heritage. Tunisia (Jasmine) : Associated with the 2010 Tunisian Revolution, jasmine symbolises hope and resistance in the fight for freedom.
Zimbabwe (Flame lily): This striking flower represents resilience and beauty, significant to Zimbabwe's natural heritage. Asia Afghanistan (Tulip): Revered for its beauty, the tulip holds cultural significance and represents the arrival of spring. Bangladesh (Water lily): The national flower symbolises purity and tranquillity, reflecting the country’s natural beauty.
Bhutan (Blue Poppy) : Unique to the Himalayan region, this flower represents the rich biodiversity and natural beauty of Bhutan. Brunei (Simpoh Ayer) : Known for its vibrant flowers, it symbolises Brunei’s cultural heritage and national identity. Cambodia (Romduol): The fragrant flower symbolises love and beauty, reflecting the rich traditions of Cambodian culture.
Hong Kong (Hong Kong Orchid Tree): This tree's beautiful blossoms symbolise resilience and the unique identity of Hong Kong. Indonesia (Melati, Moon Orchid, Rafflesia arnoldii): These flowers represent beauty and cultural significance, with Rafflesia being one of the world's largest blooms. India (Lotus Flower): The lotus is a symbol of purity, beauty, and spiritual enlightenment in Indian culture.
Iran (Water lily): Known for its elegance, it symbolises purity and beauty in Iranian culture. Israel (Poppy Anemone) : This vibrant flower represents the beauty of the Israeli landscape and national identity. Japan (Sakura Blossom): Symbolising the transient beauty of life, cherry blossoms are central to Japanese culture and celebrations.
Jordan (Black Iris): A national symbol representing resilience and beauty, significant in Jordan's culture. Laos (Plumeria): Known for its delightful fragrance, it symbolises peace and beauty in Laotian culture. Malaysia (Bunga Raya): The hibiscus is a symbol of courage and represents the vibrant culture of Malaysia.
Maldives (Pink Polyantha Rose): This flower symbolises love and beauty, reflecting the Maldives’ tropical paradise. Mongolia (Scabiosa comosa): Represents Mongolia’s unique flora and cultural identity. Myanmar (Pterocarpus indicus) : Known for its beautiful wood and flowers, it symbolises the nation’s natural resources.
Nepal (Tree Rhododendron) : This flower, vibrant and diverse, represents Nepal’s rich biodiversity and natural heritage. North Korea (Korean Mountain Magnolia): Symbolising resilience, it is cherished for its beauty and cultural significance. Pakistan (Common Jasmine): Known for its fragrance, it symbolises beauty and is a national emblem of love.
Philippines (Sampaguita) : This fragrant flower represents purity and simplicity, deeply rooted in Filipino culture. Saudi Arabia (Taif's Rose): Celebrated for its scent, it symbolises beauty and is significant in local traditions. Singapore (Singapore Orchid) : This hybrid orchid represents the nation's multicultural identity and floral diversity.
South Korea (Hibiscus syriacus): Known as the Rose of Sharon, it symbolises resilience and is a national emblem of beauty. Sri Lanka (Blue-star Water-lily) : A symbol of purity and beauty, this flower is significant in Sri Lankan culture. Taiwan (Plum Blossom) : Represents resilience and perseverance, cherished for its beauty in Taiwanese culture.
Thailand (Golden Shower Tree) : Known for its striking yellow flowers, it symbolises prosperity and is celebrated during festivals. Vietnam (Lotus Flower): A symbol of purity and enlightenment, it holds significant cultural importance in Vietnam. Europe Albania (Papaver rhoeas): Known as the corn poppy, it symbolises beauty and is often associated with remembrance.
Andorra (Narcissus poeticus): This daffodil represents renewal and is a cherished symbol of Andorran identity. Austria (Edelweiss): A symbol of the Alps, it represents bravery and the beauty of Austria’s mountainous regions. Belgium (Iris pseudacorus): This yellow iris symbolises beauty and resilience, significant to Belgium’s cultural heritage.
Croatia (Iris croatica): Native to Croatia, it represents the country’s natural beauty and is a national emblem. Cyprus (Cyclamen cyprium): A symbol of the island's unique flora, it reflects Cyprus’ natural heritage. Denmark (Daisy): Known for its simplicity and beauty, the daisy symbolises innocence and is popular in Danish culture.
Estonia (Cornflower): Represents Estonia’s natural beauty and is associated with national pride. Finland (Lily of the Valley): This delicate flower symbolises purity and is beloved in Finnish culture. France (Iris sibirica) : The iris symbolises beauty and is a national emblem, associated with French history.
Iceland (White Dryad): This flower symbolises resilience and the unique beauty of Iceland’s flora. Italy (Strawberry Tree Flower) : Represents abundance and beauty, reflecting Italy’s rich agricultural heritage. Lithuania (Ruta graveolens): Known as rue, it symbolises protection and is significant in Lithuanian traditions.
Netherlands (Daisy): Represents beauty and simplicity, cherished in Dutch culture. North Macedonia (Poppy) : A symbol of remembrance and beauty, significant in the country’s heritage. Poland (Red Poppy): Represents remembrance and resilience, often associated with national pride.
Portugal (Lavender, unofficial; Carnation): The carnation is a symbol of the Carnation Revolution, representing freedom and love. Romania (Peony): This flower symbolises prosperity and beauty, significant in Romanian culture. Russia (Chamomile): Represents simplicity and purity, cherished in Russian traditions.
Serbia (Natalie's Ramonda): A symbol of resilience, it reflects the unique flora of Serbia. Slovenia (Carnation): Represents beauty and is significant in Slovenian culture and identity. Spain (Carnation): Symbolises love and beauty, deeply rooted in Spanish culture.
Sweden (Campanula rotundifolia) : Known as the harebell, it symbolises beauty and is a national emblem. Switzerland (Edelweiss): A symbol of the Swiss Alps, it represents bravery and the beauty of nature. Turkey (Tulip): Historically significant, it symbolises beauty and is associated with Turkish culture.
Ukraine (Sunflower) : Represents happiness and loyalty, deeply connected to Ukrainian identity and agriculture. Americas Mexico (Dahlia): Symbolises beauty and is recognized for its cultural significance and diversity. United States (Rose): Represents love and beauty, deeply embedded in American culture.
Antigua and Barbuda (Dagger Log): Known for its resilience, this flower represents the country's natural heritage. The Bahamas (Yellow Elder): Symbolises beauty and is a national emblem of the islands. Barbados (Pride of Barbados): Represents beauty and resilience, celebrated for its vibrant colours.
Belize (Black Orchid): A symbol of beauty and uniqueness, it reflects the country's rich biodiversity. Costa Rica (Guaria Morada) : Represents beauty and national identity, cherished in Costa Rican culture. Cuba (White Ginger Lily): Symbolises purity and is significant in Cuban culture.
Dominica (Carib Wood): Represents the rich natural resources and biodiversity of Dominica. Dominican Republic (Bayahibe Rose): Symbolises love and the beauty of the national landscape. Guatemala (Monja Blanca): Represents national pride and is a symbol of the country’s unique flora.
Haiti (Choeblack or Rose Kayenn): A symbol of love and resilience, significant in Haitian culture. Honduras (Orchid): Represents beauty and is an important part of the country's natural heritage. Jamaica (Lignum Vitae): A symbol of strength and resilience, linked to Jamaica's history and culture.
Nicaragua (Sacuanjoche): Represents national pride and is an emblem of the country’s natural beauty. Australia (Golden Wattle): A symbol of national identity and resilience, significant in Australian culture. Fiji (Tagimaucia): Represents beauty and is cherished in Fijian culture and heritage.
French Polynesia (Tahitian Gardenia): A symbol of love and beauty, significant in local customs and traditions. New Zealand (Kōwhai): Represents resilience and is a symbol of New Zealand's natural beauty. Tonga (Heilala): A symbol of beauty and is significant in Tongan culture.
Argentina (Flower of the Ceibo Tree): Represents national pride and is a symbol of the country's unique flora. Bolivia (Kantuta and Patujú) : Symbolises beauty and is important to Bolivian identity and heritage. Brazil (Golden Trumpet Tree): Represents the rich biodiversity of Brazil and its cultural significance.
Chile (Copihue): A national symbol that represents beauty and the natural heritage of Chile. Colombia (Cattleya Orchid): Symbolises beauty and diversity, significant in Colombian culture. Guyana (Victoria Regia Lily): Represents the country's rich biodiversity and is a national symbol.
Paraguay (Mburucuyá): The passion flower symbolises beauty and is significant in Paraguayan culture. Peru (Cantuta): Represents the Andean heritage and is a symbol of national pride. Suriname (Jungle Geranium): Symbolises resilience and beauty, reflecting Suriname's rich biodiversity.
Uruguay (Flower of the Ceibo Tree) : Represents national pride and is significant in Uruguayan culture. Venezuela (Flor de Mayo Orchid): A symbol of beauty and resilience, important in Venezuelan heritage. United Kingdom England : The Tudor rose, also known as the red rose, represents the unification of the House of Lancaster and the House of York, symbolising peace after the Wars of the Roses.
Northern Ireland: The flax flower, orange lily, and shamrock serve as national symbols, representing the Holy Trinity in Christianity and reflecting the region's deep-rooted traditions. Scotland : The Scotch thistle, often considered the national emblem, symbolises resilience and strength. Wales : The daffodil, blooming brightly in spring, is often associated with St.
David's Day, while the leek has historical ties to Welsh warriors and is celebrated as a national emblem. Also read: Ranking the 10 most-visited theme parks: Disney’s Magic Kingdom leads the way.
