Orchids have had a noteworthy impact on a wide variety of cultures and eras, from ancient Greece to modern-day Japan. Throughout the past 26 to 110 million years, the meaning of orchids has flourished between its cultural significances and special utilizations. Discover more as our floral experts here at Gordon Boswell, the best florist in Fort Worth, dive into the history and symbolism of the wonderous orchid. 

The Greeks are credited for officially giving orchids their name, including the Cymbidium Orchid (from the Greek word “kymbos”) and Dendrobium Orchid (meaning “life in tree”). However, when it comes to the Phalaenopsis Orchid, Swedish Naturalist, Peter Osbeck is credited for its nickname. As he gazed out his window in the mid-1750s,  he believed he saw a cluster of moths in a field, but what he actually saw was the rare Phalaenopsis. Still today, the nickname “moth orchid” remains.

Shop Orchids

Historical Meaning and Symbolism of Orchids

Ancient Greece

In ancient Greece, a strong connection was made between orchids and fertility. As the word “orchid” translates to “testicle” in the Greek language, it describes the orchid’s tuberous roots. Aside from its physical appearance, this symbol of fertility was used by the ancient Greeks to control the gender of babies. If men consumed a large tuberous orchid root, it was believed they would have a son. If the women consumed a smaller tuberous root, they were expected to give birth to a daughter. Pink orchids are still the perfect gift for expecting