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 |
![]() Orange Roses Burst with Vase – FedEx |
![]() Tons of Love Birthday Flowers |
![]() Boxed red roses |
![]() 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 New Day Dawns Bouquet by Vera Wang |
![]() Rosy Glow Bouquet |
![]() Plants Galore Basket |
![]() 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 |
![]() Lilies and More Bouquet |
![]() Color Your Day With Laughter Bouquet by FTD – PREMIUM |
![]() Japanese Green Maple Bonsai Tree – Small (acer palmatum) |
![]() 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 |
![]() FTD Birthday Wishes Bouquet |
![]() FTD Happy Day Birthday Bouquet |
![]() How Sweet It Is Flowers Bouquet |
![]() 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!
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