Lupine: The Flower That Says “You Can Start Over Stronger”

Lupine flowers carry various symbolic meanings in the language of flowers, often derived from their striking appearance and cultural significance through the ages. Most commonly, they’re associated with sentiments of strength, protection, and transformation. Join me as I uncover the impressive symbolic heritage of these statement garden flowers.

Etymological Meaning

It shouldn’t be surprising that the common name “lupine” comes from the scientific name Lupinus.

Lupines got their peculiar name from the Latin word “lupus” (wolf), not because they’re fierce but because early botanists believed these plants “wolfed down” nutrients from the soil!

In reality, these clever flowers do the opposite—they add nitrogen to poor soil, making it richer.

This misunderstanding gave lupines their wolf-like reputation while they were secretly garden superheroes all along.

Myths and Folklore Associated with Lupine Flowers

Throughout history, Lupine flowers have been associated with good luck. However, others believed that they could help ease anxiety or depression. Further, myths and folklore suggest that the petals have magical properties that can ward off negative energy and harmful spirits.

The most common legend and myth about these stunning flowers suggests they first grew wild on Mount Olympus during the Golden Age of Greece. 

Some say that Zeus himself gifted them to mortals as a sign of his favor. Others believe that Gaia (the goddess of Earth) gifted them to Apollo.

The Victorian Language of Flowers

Lupine flowers spread across the United Kingdom during the Victorian era. Victorians prized these plants for their beautiful blooms, which came in various shades of blue, white, and pink.

In Victorian flower language, giving someone lupines acknowledged their hidden strength and tenacity. The message was clear: “I see your power, even when others don’t.” Garden tough love at its finest!

Lupines were often used in artwork or stuffed into vases to add color to any room. To the Victorians, they were positive, emotive flowers that carried sentiments of protection and transformation.

Happiness Skyrockets

Those tall, tapering flower spikes pointing skyward aren’t just for show! Lupines symbolize happiness and imagination reaching new heights.

Native American tribes considered them “sky flowers” because they seemed to connect earth and heaven. Some believed lupines carried prayers upward with their growing spikes. Next time you’re feeling down, spend some time with these floral optimists—they’re literally looking up!

The Storyteller’s Flower

Miss Rumphius, the “Lupine Lady” from Barbara Cooney’s beloved children’s book, spread lupine seeds to beautify her corner of the world. This story transformed lupines into symbols of leaving the world more beautiful than you found it.

Countless children have scattered lupine seeds inspired by this tale, making these flowers living reminders of how small actions create lasting beauty.

The Homecoming Beacon

In parts of England, lupines planted along pathways signaled “welcome home” to travelers. Their bright colors could be spotted from a distance, guiding weary wanderers back to safety.

Families would plant lupines leading to their doorways to create a colorful runway home. Modern garden designers still use them to mark entries and paths, unknowingly continuing this centuries-old tradition of floral homecoming.

The New Beginning Marker

As pioneer plants that restore damaged ecosystems, lupines represent fresh starts and renewal.

They’re often the first colorful flowers to return after forest fires, creating the foundation for other plants to follow. This natural rebuilding role made them symbols of recovery and new beginnings.

Some therapists even recommend planting lupines during major life transitions as living affirmations of moving forward.

The Dream Guardian

Folk traditions claim that placing lupine petals under your pillow brings vivid, prophetic dreams while protecting sleepers from nightmares.

The flower’s connection to wolves (traditional guardians of the night) strengthened this association with dream protection. Sleep specialists won’t prescribe them, but dream journals throughout history mention lupines as catalysts for creative dream experiences and symbolic insight.

Spirituality and Lupine Flowers

These tall flowers have strong spiritual ties too.

Christians use lupines for Easter celebrations. Buddhists, on the other hand, drink tea made from the plant during Buddhist holidays such as Vespers or Vesak Day. Some Hindus believe that the flower has magical properties.

Lupine Flowers and The Zodiac

The astrological and zodiac connections of lupine flowers are subjective. Some people may believe these flowers have links to Gemini or Cancer sign, while others see them as being associated with the Pisces or Aries sign.

Suitable Gifting Occasions

In the language of flowers, Lupine flowers have primarily carried a positive sentiment and are a beautiful addition to any gift basket or floral arrangement. They make great gifts for birthday bouquets, Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, New Year’s Eve, and many other special occasions.

The Final Word

If you’re looking for an easy-to-grow perennial flower that will add color AND fragrance to your garden seasonally, then lupines might be the perfect option! The beautiful Lupine is rich in meaning and symbolism and an excellent choice for gifting or ornamental gardens.