Looking for a list of flowers that symbolize moderation and self-control? Check out our collection of 10 flowers that represent temperance.
From classic blooms like the daisy to lesser-known varieties like the spiderwort, these flowers each offer their own unique message of restraint and balance.
Whether you’re looking to add a touch of mindfulness to your garden or just want to learn more about the language of flowers, you’re sure to find something to inspire you on this list.
Iris
Iris is a popular flower that symbolizes temperance due to its association with the Greek goddess Iris, who is often depicted as a messenger between gods and mortals.
In ancient Greece, Iris was also believed to be the personification of the rainbow, which represents a balance between the elements of water and fire. As such, the iris flower became associated with balance, harmony, and self-control.
The iris flower has a distinctive look, with tall, slender stems and delicate petals in shades of blue, purple, and white.
This elegance is part of what makes the iris an ideal symbol for temperance, as it suggests a graceful restraint and an ability to maintain a sense of balance even in difficult situations.
Additionally, the iris has long been associated with the French monarchy, and it is still used as a symbol of France to this day.
This regal association adds to the sense of dignity and self-control that the iris represents. Whether used in a bouquet, a centerpiece, or a garden, the iris is a beautiful and meaningful symbol of temperance.
Lily Of The Valley
Lily of the valley is a delicate and fragrant flower that has long been associated with temperance and purity.
It is a popular flower used in many cultures for weddings and religious ceremonies. In the Victorian language of flowers, the lily of the valley symbolized the return of happiness and the restoration of innocence.
The white bell-shaped flowers of the lily of the valley are said to represent the humility and modesty of a person who practices temperance.
The flower’s sweet fragrance is also believed to have a calming effect on the mind and body, helping to promote a balanced and moderate lifestyle.
In Christian symbolism, the lily of the valley is often associated with the Virgin Mary, who is seen as a symbol of purity and temperance. It is said that the flower was created from the tears of the Virgin Mary as she wept at the crucifixion of her son, Jesus.
Overall, the lily of the valley serves as a gentle reminder to practice self-restraint, modesty, and purity in our thoughts and actions, and to live a life of balance and moderation.
Hibiscus
While hibiscus is often associated with tropical climates and warm weather, it also has a deeper meaning related to temperance. In many cultures, hibiscus is seen as a symbol of balance, moderation, and self-control.
One reason for this is the flower’s unique ability to open and close in response to its environment.
When the sun is out, the hibiscus flower will open fully to take in as much sunlight as possible. But when the sky is overcast or the temperature drops, the flower will close up to conserve its energy.
This adaptability and self-regulation make hibiscus a fitting symbol for those who strive to maintain a sense of balance and self-control in their lives.
Whether it’s resisting temptation, managing emotions, or maintaining a healthy work-life balance, hibiscus represents the importance of moderation and self-discipline.
Gladiolus
Gladiolus is a flower that represents temperance due to its association with the Roman gladiators. The name “gladiolus” is derived from the Latin word “gladius,” which means “sword.”
The gladiolus flower is long and slender, resembling a sword, and its association with the gladiators was due to the fact that the leaves of the plant were used to create a salve that was applied to the wounds of the gladiators after battles.
In this context, the gladiolus represents temperance because it was used to soothe and heal wounds, promoting a sense of calm and balance.
The gladiolus flower also has a long history of being used in medicinal practices, particularly in Africa, where it was used to treat ailments such as fever, dysentery, and tuberculosis.
The gladiolus flower also has a variety of colors, each with its own symbolic meaning. For example, the red gladiolus represents love and passion, while the white gladiolus represents purity and innocence.
Overall, the gladiolus represents the idea of temperance in both its healing properties and its varied symbolism.
Lavender
Lavender is a delicate and fragrant flower that is widely known for its soothing properties. However, it is also a flower that represents temperance. In the language of flowers, lavender signifies devotion and purity, which are essential qualities for achieving temperance.
Temperance is the practice of moderation and self-restraint, which leads to a balanced and harmonious life.
Lavender’s calming and relaxing qualities can help individuals find inner peace and balance in their lives. This, in turn, can help them exercise better judgment and make more balanced decisions.
Lavender is also believed to have the ability to calm and clear the mind, making it easier for individuals to focus and maintain their self-control. In this sense, the flower’s scent can be seen as a reminder of the importance of staying grounded and focused on one’s goals.
Overall, lavender is a flower that represents the importance of balance, self-control, and staying focused on one’s goals. These are essential qualities for achieving temperance and living a well-rounded and fulfilling life.
Daisy
Daisy is a flower that is often associated with purity, innocence, and simplicity. However, it is also a flower that can represent temperance due to its meaning in some cultures.
In Victorian flower language, the daisy symbolized loyal love and patience, which are qualities that are often associated with temperance.
Temperance is the ability to exercise self-control and moderation, especially in regards to alcohol consumption. In the temperance movement of the 19th and early 20th centuries, daisies were often used as a symbol to represent the virtues of sobriety and abstinence.
This was because the white petals of the daisy were seen as representing purity and clarity, while the yellow center represented the sun, which was associated with enlightenment and clarity of thought.
Additionally, daisies are also seen as a symbol of new beginnings and fresh starts, which can be an important part of achieving temperance.
People who are trying to overcome addiction or other negative behaviors often need to make a fresh start and begin anew, and the daisy can serve as a reminder of this.
Overall, while the daisy may not be the first flower that comes to mind when thinking of temperance, its association with loyalty, patience, and new beginnings makes it a fitting symbol for those who strive to live a life of moderation and self-control.
Lotus Flower
The lotus flower is an aquatic plant that is considered one of the most important and sacred symbols in many cultures and religions around the world.
It is widely recognized as a symbol of purity, enlightenment, and self-regeneration. In many Asian cultures, the lotus flower represents temperance, which refers to the ability to control one’s actions, desires, and passions in a balanced way.
In Buddhist and Hindu cultures, the lotus flower is often associated with the concept of enlightenment and spiritual awakening.
It is believed that the lotus flower symbolizes the journey towards spiritual enlightenment, where the flower’s ability to rise above murky waters and bloom into a beautiful flower represents the path towards overcoming suffering and achieving spiritual purity.
In Chinese culture, the lotus flower is also highly regarded as a symbol of purity, and it is often associated with the Taoist concept of temperance.
The Taoist philosophy emphasizes the importance of living in harmony with nature, cultivating self-discipline, and achieving balance in all aspects of life.
Overall, the lotus flower’s association with purity, enlightenment, and self-regeneration makes it a powerful symbol of temperance in many cultures. It represents the ability to overcome obstacles, maintain balance, and achieve inner peace and harmony.
Daffodil
Daffodils are a type of bulbous perennial plant that produces trumpet-shaped flowers in the spring.
The flower typically has a central trumpet-shaped corona surrounded by six long, narrow petals that flare outwards. Daffodils come in a range of colors, from yellow to white, and even pink or orange.
In many cultures, daffodils symbolize temperance. This is because they are one of the first flowers to bloom in the spring, often even pushing through the snow. As such, they represent perseverance and endurance, traits that are essential to exercising self-control and temperance.
Additionally, daffodils are often associated with new beginnings and renewal, as they mark the start of the spring season. This can be interpreted as a call to reflect on past behaviors and make a fresh start with a commitment to temperance.
In literature, daffodils have been used as a symbol of self-control and temperance. In William Wordsworth’s famous poem “I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud,” he describes a field of daffodils, writing:
“For oft, when on my couch I lie
In vacant or in pensive mood,
They flash upon that inward eye
Which is the bliss of solitude;
And then my heart with pleasure fills,
And dances with the daffodils.”
This passage speaks to the uplifting and calming effect of the daffodil, which can inspire a sense of inner peace and harmony. It also suggests that the presence of daffodils can help cultivate a sense of restraint and moderation in one’s behavior.
Wisteria
Wisteria is a woody, climbing vine that produces cascades of flowers in shades of purple, pink, and white. In many cultures, it is regarded as a symbol of temperance due to its association with humility, moderation, and self-control.
The delicate beauty and sweet fragrance of the wisteria flower belie its resilience and hardiness, making it a fitting symbol for those who exercise restraint and discipline in the face of adversity.
In the language of flowers, wisteria is often used to convey a message of devotion and loyalty, as well as respect and admiration. It is a flower that is associated with patience, perseverance, and steadfastness, qualities that are essential to the practice of temperance.
The wisteria vine grows slowly and steadily, but once established, it can reach great heights and produce an abundance of blooms, a testament to the power of disciplined and consistent effort.
Wisteria is also believed to have spiritual significance in many cultures, representing the attainment of enlightenment and the realization of one’s true nature.
In Chinese culture, the wisteria flower is associated with the goddess of mercy and is often depicted in art and literature as a symbol of spiritual purity and grace.
In Japan, the wisteria flower is a popular motif in art and is often used in traditional tea ceremonies as a symbol of humility and gratitude.
Overall, the wisteria flower represents the delicate balance between beauty and strength, reminding us that true temperance requires both restraint and resilience.
Sweet Pea
Sweet pea is a delicate and fragrant flower that is often associated with temperance. This flower has long been used as a symbol of purity, humility, and modesty, which are all virtues associated with temperance.
In the language of flowers, sweet pea is said to represent “thank you for a lovely time,” making it a popular choice for expressing gratitude and appreciation.
Its gentle and unassuming appearance also suggests a quiet and restrained nature, which is another trait of temperance.
Sweet pea is often given as a gift to celebrate milestones such as birthdays, graduations, and weddings, as well as to express sympathy during times of loss.
Its soft and pastel colors, including shades of pink, lavender, and blue, convey a sense of serenity and peacefulness, further reinforcing the idea of temperance as a calming and harmonious force.
My name is Daniel Elrod, and I have been houseplant love ever since I was 17. I love how much joy they bring to any room in the home. I’ve always been amazed at how a few pots of flowing leaves can turn a drab and sterile office into an inviting place where people love to work at.
