Known practically all over the world, the Fourth of July holiday holds great significance in the United States. It is an occasion that marks unity and commemoration of the country's independence. It is a time when Americans come together and celebrate their country's history, values, and freedoms, and many people use this holiday as an opportunity to spend time with family and friends, enjoy the summer weather, and express their patriotism.
The observance of this day is often marked by parades, picnics, barbecues, carnivals, concerts, floral decorations, and fireworks. To express patriotism, Americans often adorn their homes with flowers in shades of red, white, and blue. This combination of colors that are symbolic of, and show the country's most key emblems — its flag — makes for a wonderful choice to celebrate and honor this day.
The Most Patriotic Fourth of July Flowers to Celebrate
One of the most important holidays of the year in the United States, Independence Day, or the Fourth of July, is typically observed with lots of fun and activities. And whether one attends or hosts a 4th of July party, adding some color and style with patriotic flowers is always a good idea.
In addition to the usual reds, whites, and blues, flowers have a symbolic role in the celebrations as well. They decorate the remembrance of the key events that have shaped the country's history. Be sure to stock up on some on this day to make it even more special!
Photo: @theenglishgarden_la
1. Red Rose
One of the most widely recognizable flowers in the world is the red rose, and the color red has huge symbolism in the American flag. Additionally, did you know it is the US National Flower? In 1986, Senator Heflin even wrote about this flower in its support as the country's flower.
Senator Heflin wrote:
"All flowers are fragile, and each one can enliven and amuse, so I believe that no flower should suffer loss. There should be no doubt that the rose is the best option because it is global and has a powerful voice. Therefore, let us shout loudly and announce that the rose is not only lovely but also the national flower of America."
2. Freesia
Another one of the most patriotic Fourth of July flowers is the Freesia. What exactly do they symbolize for this holiday? Freedom. Freesias are robust flowers with fluttery petals that are excellent for cutting because of their prolonged vase life.
As a lovely and patriotic party favor, include them in a patriotic bouquet of Freesia stems and your family members will be very happy!
Photo by @juanka.zgz
3. Edelweiss (Leontopodium)
The Edelweiss (Leontopodium nivale) is a representation of power and bravery, and it also resembles the stars on the American flag. The white Edelweiss' star form is perfect to celebrate the 4th of July. If you go ahead and mix them with flowers like peonies, roses, tulips, or greenery, you'll have the perfect formula to surprise your guests and family members. To create the illusion of 'bright stars through the perilous fight', you may tie a bunch of them with a trailing ribbon.
4. Guernsey Lily (Nerine)
These unusual, but very pretty flowers, also known as 'Nerine lilies', feature towering, spiky stamens encircled by long, curving petals. When grouped, they look like fireworks. Guernsey lilies are a wonderful option to use to commemorate the Fourth of July. They grow in colors such as vivid pink, cozy reds, and white while also representing independence and good fortune.
Photo by @alliamflowers
5. Nasturtium
The Nasturtium flower is an exceptional choice for the 4th of July celebrations due to its attributes and symbolism. Boasting shades of red, orange, and yellow, the flowers give off a cheerful and warm aura. These vivid colors are often associated with the essence of patriotism, mirroring the fervor and passion that define this significant day.
Photo by @sean_anthony_pritchard
Nasturtium flowers also embody various other qualities that resonate with the spirit of the 4th of July. It symbolizes love, loyalty, and strength, reflecting the deep-rooted connection between individuals and their homeland. Incorporating these flowers in your garden or floral arrangements infuses your surroundings with a sense of national pride and unity.
6. Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia)
Black-eyed Susans are the perfect Fourth of July flowers, making them festive for summer gatherings, besides the fact that they symbolize justice. Because of their flexibility, black-eyed Susans are also a symbol of inspiration and reassurance.
Photo by James from Pexels
If you explore your floral options a little and combine them with Dahlias and substantial sunflowers, you can create a lovely floral design for this memorable day.
7. Red Poppy (Papaver)
While red poppies are not traditionally considered Fourth of July flowers, they hold significant symbolism and are often associated with patriotic observances. The connection between red poppies and patriotism can be traced back to the famous war poem 'In Flanders Fields' by Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae, written during World War I. The poem describes how red poppies grew amidst the graves of fallen soldiers in Flanders, a region in Belgium.
Photo by @bradleyacresdesign
Since then, red poppies have become a symbol of remembrance and honoring those who have sacrificed their lives in military service. In the United States, the Fourth of July is a time to commemorate the nation's independence and to pay tribute to veterans and servicemen and women.
8. Hydrangea
Hydrangeas are commonly used in Fourth of July celebrations due to their versatility, bright colors, and long-lasting petals. Red, blue, and white varieties make them a popular choice for incorporating the patriotic colors of the American flag into decorations and floral arrangements.
Photo by @thespilledsugar
The deep red hydrangea petals symbolize strength, courage, and determination, reflecting the values and spirit of the nation. They represent the bravery of those who fought for independence and the resilience of the American people. Blue hydrangeas, on the other hand, signify calmness, serenity, and harmony. They bring forward a sense of unity and stability, embodying the ideals of peace and freedom that are at the core of the Fourth of July celebration.
Photo by @danafalerinteriors
White hydrangeas are often used in Fourth of July celebrations due to their elegance and their ability to complement the patriotic color scheme of red, white, and blue. While red and blue flowers are more directly associated with the American flag, white hydrangeas symbolize purity, grace, and innocence, making them a fitting addition to patriotic decorations and floral arrangements.
9. Tinted Roses With the US Flag
If you're looking to go full-on patriotic, tinted roses featuring the American flag are the ultimate statement flower. These aren't your average red or white roses — they're carefully dyed or airbrushed with stars, stripes, and flag-inspired colors, turning each flower into a miniature tribute to the United States. Often used in parades, military ceremonies, and Fourth of July centerpieces, these roses are designed to evoke national pride in the most eye-catching way possible. Whether displayed solo in a sleek vase or combined with solid red, white, and blue blooms, flag-tinted roses steal the show every time — no interpretation needed. Just raw American energy in floral form.
What's Your Flower?
Which patriotic flower will you make part of your celebration this year? Hopefully, you can even create a bouquet with various types of these to create lasting and special moments with your families. Happy 4th of July to all of those who celebrate it!
Feature image by @danafalerinteriors, header image by @bradleyacresdesign.
