How to choose birthday flowers

This guide will help you choose the appropriate birthday flowers for your recipient. While birthday flowers (especially roses and bouquets) have traditionally been brought or sent by men to women, in recent years this has changed dramatically, and it is now very acceptable for women to send flowers to men.  In general, for birthdays avoid white flowers (except roses) which are associated both with weddings, and in some cultures, with mourning.

We have guidance for the following

  • Appropriate birthday flowers for lovers
  • Appropriate birthday flowers for a man to send to a woman (no romantic intent)
  • Appropriate birthday flowers for a woman to send to a man (no romantic intent)
  • Appropriate birthday flowers for parents
  • Appropriate flowers to send to a child or teenager on their birthday

If you see the flowers or gift you need, click through for price and delivery options.

 

Appropriate flowers for a lover or romantic interest on their birthday

Red roses in bouquets, or long stem roses, are appropriate for lovers of any age, and are not just reserved for Valentine’s day; if you are very caught up in the first stages of a romantic relationship any bold orange roses or other flowers would also be a good choice, as they would represent intense passion. To some, strong purple roses represent love at first sight.  But if you already know the recipient’s favourite flowers all you need to do is decide on the size or style of the bouquet!

Long Stem Red Rose Bouquet by FTD
Long Stem Red Rose Bouquet by FTD
Orange Burst with Vase - FedEx
Orange Roses Burst with Vase – FedEx

Tons of Love Birthday Flowers

Boxed red roses
My Heart to Yours Rose Bouquet by FTD - PREMIUM
My Heart to Yours Rose Bouquet by FTD

 

Appropriate birthday flowers for a man to send to a woman (no romantic intent)

In this case you want to avoid any inappropriate inferences, so any bouquet would do, except those with red roses.  Avoid single flowers or long stem flowers.   White or yellow roses (symbolizing friendship), lilies and orchids are appropriate.  If the woman is a gardener, a live potted plant would be appreciated. If sending a bouquet, a small to middle sized one is more appropriate than a large, extravagant one.

FTD Happy Day Birthday Bouquet by Hallmark
FTD Happy Day Birthday Bouquet by Hallmark
FTD New Day Dawns Bouquet by Vera Wang
FTD New Day Dawns Bouquet by Vera Wang
Rosy Glow Bouquet
Rosy Glow Bouquet
Plants Galore Basket
Plants Galore Basket
Rose and Lily Celebration Bouquet - FedEx
Rose and Lily Celebration Bouquet

 

Appropriate birthday flowers or gifts for a woman to send to a man (no romantic intent)

The custom of a woman sending flowers to a man is new, so the traditions of flower choices here hardly exist.  However, you should still exercise some prudence and avoid overly romantic choices and select neutral or ‘standard’ flowers like chrysanthemums, lilies or carnations.   Men tend to like strong, single colored bouquets that don’t appear too ‘fussy’ or ‘busy’.  A practical man or gardener may like a bonsai tree or live orchid plant or a replantable tree.  Food gift baskets are also very acceptable.

Southern Magnolia Tree
Southern Magnolia Tree
Lilies and More Bouquet
Lilies and More Bouquet
Color Your Day With Laughter Bouquet by FTD - PREMIUM
Color Your Day With Laughter Bouquet by FTD – PREMIUM
Japanese Green Maple Bonsai Tree - Small (acer palmatum)
Japanese Green Maple Bonsai Tree – Small (acer palmatum)
The Metropolitan Gourmet Gift Basket
The Metropolitan Gourmet Gift Basket

 

Appropriate birthday flowers for parents

In this case you need to select a large bouquet representing your affection, devotion and respect. If siblings may be also sending flowers, you could guarantee your own bouquet will stand out by selecting unusual flowers such as blue roses, flowers which come in their own attractive vase or basket, or a ‘luxury’ arrangement which florists can display all their best flowers.

Joyful Jubilee Flower Bouquet
Joyful Jubilee Flower Bouquet
FTD Birthday Wishes Bouquet - PREMIUM
FTD Birthday Wishes Bouquet
FTD Happy Day Birthday Bouquet by Hallmark - PREMIUM
FTD Happy Day Birthday Bouquet
How Sweet It Is Flowers Bouquet
How Sweet It Is Flowers Bouquet
Extreme Blue Hues Fiesta Rose Bouquet - 12 Stems - FedEx
Extreme Blue Hues Fiesta Rose Bouquet – 12 Stems – FedEx

 

Appropriate flowers and gifts to send to a child or teenager on their birthday

Young children love to receive colorful flowers with teddies or cookies or balloons; older girls can be sent bouquets of mixed flowers with ribbons, or daisies which symbolize purity and innocence; older boys may prefer and appreciate a food basket as a gift – some boys may not really want pink flowers!

Polka Dots & Posies Flower Bouquet

Polka Dots & Posies Flower Bouquet with Daisies

Happy Blooms Basket by FTD

Happy Blooms Basket by FTD

Balloons & Bear-5 Mylar

Birthday Balloons & Bear

Birthday Cake Pops

Birthday Cake Pops

Happy Birthday Cookie Pail

Happy Birthday Cookie Pail