what do blue hydrangeas mean

The Captivating Symbolism and Meaning Behind Blue Hydrangeas

Hydrangeas are undeniably one of the most popular flowers used in gardens and floral arrangements. Their big, pom pom-like blooms come in a variety of colors and instantly draw the eye. But blue hydrangeas, in particular, carry a deeper symbolic meaning. So what do these striking blue blossoms represent?

The origins of the hydrangea’s symbolism stem from European folklore dating back centuries. According to legend, young women who grew hydrangeas would never marry. This myth cast hydrangeas as unlucky in love and associated them with rejecting romantic affection.

In medieval times, hydrangeas represented frigidity or disinterest. The flowers became a symbol of turning down advances from potential suitors. Victorian gentlemen would even gift hydrangeas to ladies who rebuffed their attempts at courtship as a sarcastic message.

But one poignant origin story cemented the blue hydrangea’s meaning as an apology and expression of regret. As the myth goes, a Japanese emperor gave the blue blossoms to his beloved’s family to make amends for neglecting her. Thus, the rare blue hydrangea came to represent admitting wrongdoing and asking forgiveness.

So why specifically the blue color for remorse and apology? For starters, true blue is exceptionally uncommon in nature. The pigment that produces blue, anthocyanin, is difficult for many plant species to generate.

Hydrangea flowers are actually made up of sepals, not petals. By altering soil chemistry, growers can manipulate the sepals to turn blue, creating a tranquil cool tone found nowhere else. Blue’s rarity parallels the sincerity of the emotion behind an apology.

Additionally, blue evokes a cold, melancholy feeling. The pigment occurs when hydrangea sepals contain high aluminum levels, preventing pink hues from emerging Therefore, blue represents the absence of cheer, reflecting regret and solemnity

Across cultures, the symbolism remains relatively consistent. Blue hydrangeas make a thoughtful gift to offer sincerely when admitting fault and apologizing

In the West, Victorians shunned hydrangeas as bad for romance, but the blue variety could redeem the situation. Offering these rare blooms showed acceptance of responsibility for heartbreak or rejection.

Similarly, in Asia the emperor’s gesture established the tone for blue hydrangeas representing regret. This meaning persists in Japan where the blossoms bloom during the rainy season.

When gifting blue hydrangeas, be mindful of inadvertently conveying the wrong sentiment. Avoid implying:

• Interest is not reciprocated

• Asking forgiveness when you’re not sorry

• Making light of a delicate situation

Instead, select blue hydrangeas to:

• Apologize sincerely after an argument

• Admit fault gracefully in a misunderstanding

• Convey condolences at a difficult time

Choose companion flowers carefully. Pair blue hydrangeas with:

• White roses for new beginnings

• Ivy for enduring bonds

• Daisies for gentleness

• Lilacs to complement the blue tones

But avoid mixing them with:

• Yellow tulips (for hopeless love)

• Orange lilies (for hatred)

• Gladioli (for rejection)

Beyond bouquets, hydrangeas make an exquisite garden focal point. Look for blue varieties like Nikko Blue, Blues Festival, and Blue Wave. Site them in acidic soil with aluminum sulfate to enhance their rare blue pigment. With a little work, you can enjoy these meaningful flowers for years.

The next time you see a stunning blue hydrangea, appreciate the deep cultural symbolism and history it represents. And when words fail, let blue hydrangeas speak volumes in their own voice. Their captivating rarity and elegance convey a sincere message like no other flower can.