The Most Patriotic Flowers for the Fourth of July, According to Symbolism

This Fourth of July we have an incredible amount to celebrate: After a year of quarantine and isolation, "Independence Day'' takes on an entirely new meaning. Gathering with friends over hot dogs and fireworks feels especially exciting—even emotional—so it's all the more reason to make your celebrations special. Decorating with flowers is a surefire way to beautify your space and elevate the mood. And while our first instinct may be to create patriotic ambience with a bouquet of red, white, and blue carnations, there are actually many gorgeous flowers with meaningful patriotic symbolism. So we tapped Courtney Sixx, founder and co-designer of Bouquet Box, and Denise Porcaro Tupper, founder of Flower Girl, to get the scoop on which flowers are the most patriotic.

"July Fourth is the perfect reason to embrace summer entertaining, and a patriotic floral centerpiece can feel just as festive as fireworks," says Sixx. "The traditional red, white, and blue bouquet is one way to go, but flower selection can be based on symbolism, expanding the medley of choices and making the celebration that much more unique and meaningful." Ahead, our picks for the most patriotic flowers.

Red Rose

Most of the blooms on our list are nontraditional, but if you want to go classic, it doesn't get more quintessential than the red rose. "The red rose represents love, devotion, beauty, and eternity," explains Tupper. "And actually, the rose was declared our national flower in 1986 during a special ceremony at the White House rose garden."

Freesia

"Flowy and colorful, freesias are a symbol of freedom, making them perfect for the Fourth of July," says Sixx. "For an extra creative gesture, use them to create flower crowns to hand out to guests when they arrive," she suggests. Guests can keep them as a party favor, and it's a great alternative to your typical tablescape.

Edelweiss

Not only is the edelweiss a symbol of strength and courage, but they look like the stars on the American flag. "The star-shape of the white edelweiss is ideal for July Fourth," says Sixx. "Combine them with greenery, roses, tulips, or peonies. Or tie a bunch off with a trailing ribbon for a 'bright stars through the perilous fight' effect."

Snowdrop

When we look back on this year, it's easy to feel overwhelmed, but Independence Day is all about hope. "Snowdrops represent hope and rebirth," explains Tupper. "And as we work towards equality and unity as a country, this flower is especially significant for 2021."

Guernsey Lily

Guernsey lilies are a perfect choice for the holiday, because they symbolize freedom and good fortune. Plus, they look like literal fireworks. "The spindly Guernsey lily is reminiscent of a firework display," says Sixx. "And they are available in a variety of vibrant colors that span the spectrum."

Black-Eyed Susan

"The starburst-shape of black-eyed Susans make them festive for summer parties, and they represent justice, which is fitting for Independence Day," says Sixx. Black-eyed Susans are also a symbol of motivation and encouragement because of their adaptability. "Mix them with dahlias and large sunflowers for a dreamy floral arrangement," she suggests.

Acacia

The acacia represents renewal, balance, harmony, respect, and kindness. "Showing kindness and respect is the most patriotic we can be right now," says Tupper. "We need to show it through our actions, of course, but displaying these values through flowers also sends an important message."