Best Anniversary Flowers by Year and Their Meanings

An anniversary celebrates the memories you've created together and the years still ahead. While roses are always a romantic choice, did you know that many wedding anniversaries also have traditional flowers associated with them?

From carnations for a first anniversary to roses for a 15th, choosing flowers connected to an anniversary year can make your gift feel even more meaningful.

At My Floral Shop, we help customers celebrate anniversaries with fresh flower delivery throughout Colorado Springs. Whether you're celebrating your first year together, a milestone anniversary, or simply another wonderful year with someone you love, flowers are a beautiful way to say, “I'd choose you all over again.”

Why Give Flowers for an Anniversary?

Flowers have long been associated with love, affection, admiration, and commitment.

They're also easy to personalize. You can choose an arrangement based on your spouse's favorite flowers, wedding colors, favorite color, or a flower connected to the number of years you've been married.

You don't have to follow traditional anniversary flower meanings exactly. Use them as inspiration to create a more personal gift.

1st Anniversary: Carnations

The traditional flower associated with the first wedding anniversary is the carnation.

Carnations often symbolize love, admiration, and fascination, making them a fitting choice for couples celebrating their first year of marriage.

They come in many colors, including pink, red, white, and other shades, and work beautifully on their own or in a mixed arrangement.

For an even more romantic first-anniversary gift, consider combining carnations with roses and other seasonal flowers.

2nd Anniversary: Cosmos

Cosmos are traditionally associated with the second anniversary.

Their delicate appearance can symbolize harmony and the beauty of a relationship that keeps developing.

Cosmos may not always be available from a florist, depending on the season and current flower supply.

If they're unavailable, don't worry. Choose an arrangement in a similar romantic color palette or select your partner's favorite flowers instead.

The meaning behind the gift matters more than following tradition perfectly.

3rd Anniversary: Sunflowers

Bright and cheerful sunflowers are traditionally associated with the third anniversary.

Sunflowers naturally turn toward the light as they grow, which has made them symbols of loyalty, positivity, and devotion.

Their bold yellow color makes them especially appropriate for someone with a cheerful personality.

Sunflowers are seasonal, so availability can vary.

4th Anniversary: Geraniums

Geraniums are traditionally connected with the fourth wedding anniversary and can represent friendship, comfort, and togetherness.

Because geraniums are more commonly enjoyed as plants than as traditional cut flowers, they may not be included in everyday florist arrangements.

A colorful mixed floral arrangement can be an excellent alternative.

5th Anniversary: Daisies

The traditional fifth-anniversary flower is the daisy.

Daisies symbolize happiness, loyalty, innocence, and simplicity.

Their cheerful appearance makes them a wonderful choice for celebrating five years together.

A mixed arrangement featuring daisies can create a bright, relaxed anniversary gift that's particularly appropriate for someone who prefers cheerful flowers over a traditional arrangement of red roses.

6th Anniversary: Calla Lilies

Elegant calla lilies are associated with the sixth wedding anniversary.

Their distinctive shape gives them a sophisticated appearance, making them an excellent choice for a romantic milestone.

Calla lilies may symbolize beauty, admiration, and devotion.

Availability and colors can vary, so check with your florist if you want calla lilies in your anniversary arrangement.

7th Anniversary: Freesia

The traditional flower for the seventh anniversary is freesia.

Freesia is often associated with friendship, trust, and thoughtfulness—qualities that grow more important as a marriage deepens.

Freesia also has a lovely fragrance and, when available, can add delicate color and texture to mixed floral designs.

8th Anniversary: Clematis

Clematis is traditionally associated with the eighth wedding anniversary.

The flower is often connected with intelligence and mental connection, making it an interesting symbol for a relationship that has grown stronger and deeper over time.

Clematis isn't a flower you'll necessarily find in a typical florist's cooler throughout the year, so consider the traditional flower an inspiration rather than a requirement.

9th Anniversary: Poppies

The traditional flower for a ninth anniversary is the poppy.

Poppies can represent imagination and remembrance.

Availability can vary considerably, so if fresh poppies aren't available, consider choosing flowers in rich red, orange, peach, or other colors inspired by them.

10th Anniversary: Daffodils

Ten years together deserve a cheerful celebration.

Daffodils are traditionally associated with the tenth wedding anniversary and can symbolize new beginnings, happiness, and renewal.

That makes them especially meaningful after a decade of marriage: you're celebrating everything you've built together while looking forward to what's next.

Because daffodils are primarily a spring flower, availability will depend on the season.

11th Anniversary: Morning Glories

Morning glories are traditionally associated with the 11th anniversary.

They can symbolize affection and the enduring nature of love.

Morning glories aren't commonly used as cut flowers in everyday floral arrangements. If they're unavailable, use their beautiful blue, purple, and violet colors to inspire your anniversary arrangement.

12th Anniversary: Peonies

The peony is associated with the 12th wedding anniversary.

Peonies are among the most romantic flowers, with large, lush blooms that can represent romance, happiness, and prosperity.

They're especially beautiful for anniversary arrangements.

However, peonies have a limited natural season and aren't always available. If you're set on them, ask your florist about availability well in advance.

13th Anniversary: Chrysanthemums

Chrysanthemums are traditionally associated with the 13th anniversary.

Available in numerous colors and styles, mums can symbolize happiness, loyalty, and longevity.

They work beautifully in mixed arrangements and pair well with roses and other flowers for a more romantic anniversary design.

14th Anniversary: Dahlias

The traditional flower associated with the 14th anniversary is the dahlia.

Dahlias are dramatic flowers available in an impressive range of shapes and colors.

They're often associated with commitment, strength, and lasting bonds—an appropriate message after 14 years together.

Dahlias are seasonal, so availability may vary.

15th Anniversary: Roses

After 15 years, we arrive at perhaps the most famous romantic flower of all: the rose.

Roses have represented love and romance for generations.

Red roses are the traditional romantic favorite, but they aren't your only choice.

Consider:

Red roses for romantic love and passion
Pink roses for admiration and appreciation
White roses for elegance and devotion
Yellow roses for happiness and friendship
Lavender roses for enchantment and something distinctive

You can also combine multiple rose colors to create a more personal anniversary arrangement.

What About Anniversaries After 15 Years?

You don't have to stop using anniversary flowers simply because the traditional annual list becomes less consistent after the first 15 years.

For major milestones, you can create your own tradition.

For a 20th anniversary, consider flowers in the colors from your wedding.

For a 25th anniversary, incorporate white or silver-toned accents to recognize the traditional silver anniversary.

For a 30th anniversary, recreate the flowers you used at your wedding, if possible.

For a 40th anniversary, rich red flowers can complement the traditional ruby theme.

For a 50th anniversary, yellow and golden flowers are especially appropriate for a golden anniversary.

What matters most isn't following a rule—it's choosing flowers that mean something to the couple.

Are Roses Always Appropriate for an Anniversary?

Absolutely.

You don't have to select the traditional flower for a particular anniversary year.

If your spouse loves roses, send roses.

Red roses are a classic expression of romantic love, while pink, lavender, white, peach, and other rose colors can create something different.

You can also pair roses with lilies, hydrangeas, carnations, daisies, or seasonal flowers for a more varied arrangement.

INTERNAL LINK: Link “roses” or “rose delivery in Colorado Springs” to your Rose Delivery page.

Choose Flowers Based on Your Partner, Not Just Tradition

Traditional flower meanings are fun, but the recipient should come first.

If your spouse has always loved yellow flowers, don't feel obligated to send red roses.

If your wedding bouquet contained pink roses and white lilies, recreating those colors may carry far more meaning than following an anniversary chart.

Consider:

• Their favorite flower
• Their favorite color
• Your wedding flowers
• Flowers from your first date
• Flowers you've given them on previous anniversaries
• A color with special meaning to both of you

Personal details transform an attractive floral arrangement into a meaningful anniversary gift.

What Color Flowers Are Best for an Anniversary?

There's no single correct anniversary color.

Red

Red is traditionally associated with romantic love and passion.

Pink

Pink can communicate affection, appreciation, admiration, and romance.

Lavender and Purple

Lavender and purple flowers can create an elegant and distinctive romantic arrangement.

White

White flowers can symbolize devotion, elegance, and lasting love.

Yellow

Yellow communicates happiness and friendship—an important part of a lasting relationship.

Mixed Colors

A colorful arrangement is perfect for someone who loves bright flowers or for couples who prefer something less traditional.

What Should You Write on an Anniversary Flower Card?

The card makes your flowers personal.

You don't need to write a long message.

Try something simple and sincere:

“Happy Anniversary to the love of my life. I'd choose you all over again.”

“Another year together and another year of wonderful memories. Happy Anniversary!”

“Happy Anniversary! I'm grateful for every year we've shared.”

“Here's to us and all the adventures still ahead. Happy Anniversary!”

“I love you more with every year we spend together.”

For a milestone anniversary:

“Twenty-five wonderful years and so many beautiful memories. Happy Anniversary!”

Use your normal voice. A personal message will almost always mean more than something overly formal.

Don't Forget the Delivery Details

If you're sending anniversary flowers as a surprise, double-check the recipient's address and telephone number before ordering.

For workplace deliveries, include the company name and any suite or department information.

If you're ordering for same-day delivery, place your order as early as possible. At My Floral Shop, our same-day ordering cutoff is 1:00 p.m., subject to availability and delivery capacity.

INTERNAL LINK: Link “same-day delivery” to your Same-Day Flower Delivery Colorado Springs page.

Anniversary Flower Delivery in Colorado Springs

Whether you're celebrating one year together or fifty, flowers are a beautiful way to recognize the person who has shared the journey with you.

At My Floral Shop, we create romantic floral arrangements for anniversaries throughout Colorado Springs. Choose classic roses, colorful mixed flowers, soft pastels, or an arrangement that reminds your partner of a special moment you've shared.

Explore our anniversary and romantic flowers to find a beautiful way to say “I love you.”

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Frequently Asked Questions About Anniversary Flowers

What flowers should I give for a first anniversary?

Carnations are traditionally associated with the first wedding anniversary. However, roses or your spouse's favorite flowers are also excellent choices.

What flowers represent a 5th wedding anniversary?

Daisies are traditionally associated with the fifth anniversary and can represent happiness and loyalty.

What flowers represent a 10th anniversary?

Daffodils are traditionally associated with the tenth wedding anniversary and can symbolize renewal, happiness, and new beginnings.

What flower represents a 15th anniversary?

Roses are traditionally associated with the 15th wedding anniversary and remain one of the most popular romantic anniversary flowers.

Do I have to send the traditional anniversary flower?

No. Anniversary flower traditions are simply inspiration. Your partner's favorite flowers, wedding flowers, or another personally meaningful choice can make an even better gift.

What color roses are best for an anniversary?

Red roses are the classic romantic choice. Pink represents admiration and affection, white can convey devotion and elegance, and lavender offers something distinctive and romantic.

Can I have anniversary flowers delivered in Colorado Springs?

Yes. My Floral Shop offers local delivery of anniversary and romantic flower arrangements throughout our Colorado Springs delivery area.