Russia’s Obsession with Flowers
If you’ve ever been to Russia you will have noticed the country’s beautiful obsession with flowers.
General Dos and Don’ts
DO: give only an odd number of flowers – even numbers of flowers are used for funerals and sympathy arrangements only. The importance of sticking to this custom can’t be emphasized enough. So if you’re buying a girl roses, it’s much better to buy her 13 rather than 12!
DO: give flowers on the following occasions (as it will be expected) –
On public holidays such as New Year (1 January), Valentine’s Day (14 February), Women’s Day (8 March), Knowledge Day (1 September) and Teachers’ Day (5 October)
On anniversaries and dates with a woman
For special occasions (birthdays, promotions, graduations, returning after a long trip)
As an act of sympathy when someone is in the hospital or has died
Basically, if there’s an occasion where you’re not sure whether to give flowers… always give flowers! It will brighten up everyone’s day.
DON’T: give red carnations when giving flowers as a romantic gift – they are associated with Soviet Union holidays.
The Meaning of Flowers
In Russian culture, flowers are not only meant to be beautiful: they also all have their own meanings. If you give flowers to a Russian, they will almost certainly read into the colour or the type of flower that you chose.
Yellow – a big no-no
In Russia, yellow flowers are a symbol of sadness, deceit, or an impending break-up. So don’t give your date a big yellow bouquet!
Brighter the flowers, stronger the feelings
Red flowers (and especially roses) are often used to represent strong, passionate feelings for a partner. When Russians start dating someone, it is common to start by giving white roses, and then move to pink and then to red roses as your feelings deepen.
Potted plants
Potted plants are usually reserved for older women, or if you know that the woman enjoys keeping houseplants. Of course it comes down to personal preference in the end, but it’s always good to give a low-maintenance houseplant if you’re giving it as a gift.
If you’re able to fit in with the locals and abide by the Russian rules of flower-giving, you will have unlocked an important part of the Russian culture. Understanding cultural norms and traditions will not only help you improve your Russian, but help you to understand why Russians behave as they do. So go out and buy some flowers… whether it’s for a loved one or just for yourself!