Flower Etiquette Around the World: What Not to Send

Flowers may seem like a universal language, but they don't say the same thing everywhere. A bouquet that is a harmless gift in one country can signal mourning, separation or too much intimacy in another. Here is a country-by-country guide so your flowers are always read the right way.

Russia: count your stems

• Odd numbers for happiness, even numbers for mourning. In Russia, flowers for happy occasions come in odd numbers — 1, 3, 5, 7, 11. Even numbers are reserved for funerals and memorials. The rule matters most for individually counted roses; large mixed bouquets are rarely counted.
• Yellow flowers are traditionally linked to separation or infidelity — avoid yellow roses for a partner.
• 8 March is the biggest flower day of the year: mothers, wives, colleagues and teachers all receive flowers. More in 8 March flowers in Russia.

France: no chrysanthemums

• Chrysanthemums are cemetery flowers in France, laid on graves on All Saints' Day (1 November). Never give them as a gift.
• Traditionally, even numbers — and 13 in particular — are avoided.
• If you're invited to dinner, sending flowers before or the day after is considered thoughtful: your hosts won't have to hunt for a vase mid-evening.

Germany: red roses mean romance

• Red roses carry a clear romantic message. For colleagues, teachers or hosts, a mixed bouquet is better.
• White lilies and chrysanthemums are associated with funerals and graves.
• Celebrating a birthday early is considered bad luck — time your delivery for the day itself.

United Kingdom: lilies and hospital visits

• White lilies are traditionally linked with funerals.
• An old superstition says red and white flowers together are unlucky in hospitals — and many UK wards no longer accept fresh flowers for hygiene reasons, so sending them to the patient's home is safer.

Turkey: relaxed but thoughtful

Flower etiquette in Turkey is more relaxed. White and soft tones are chosen for condolences, and strongly scented flowers are avoided for hospital visits. Red roses for a partner and pink and white tones for mothers are popular choices.

The Gulf

Giving flowers is increasingly common in the UAE and Saudi Arabia. In more conservative families, gifts with a strong personal or romantic meaning are better sent via the family; colourful bouquets and arrangements are a safe choice.

Three rules that work everywhere

1. When in doubt, choose a mixed, colourful bouquet. All-white or all-red bouquets carry more meaning.
2. Add a card message. Saying what you mean removes any risk of misunderstanding.
3. Ask someone close to the recipient if you're unsure about local customs.

For what each colour means, see our guide to rose colour meanings.