Morning Glory Flower Meaning and Symbolism

The morning glory, with its trumpet-shaped flowers and climbing vines, is a familiar sight in many gardens. Its vibrant blooms unfurl at the start of the day, a characteristic that gives the plant its common name. Beyond its visual appeal, the flower has a history rich with symbolism and meaning. These interpretations vary across cultures and time periods, adding layers of significance to its delicate appearance.

General Morning Glory Symbolism

The primary symbolism of the morning glory is tied to the concepts of love, affection, and mortality. This connection stems directly from the flower’s daily life cycle. The blooms open at dawn and wither by the afternoon, a short-lived existence that serves as a metaphor for the fleeting nature of life and the importance of appreciating the present moment. This daily rebirth also imparts a sense of resilience and renewal.

This transient blooming habit has also led to its association with unrequited or vain love. In this context, the flower represents a love that is beautiful but ultimately short-lived. The various stages of the flower’s daily cycle are sometimes seen as representing the different stages of human life, from youth to old age.

Meanings by Flower Color

The symbolism of the morning glory can be further refined by its color, with each shade carrying its own distinct meaning.

• Blue morning glories are frequently associated with trust, respect, and honesty. This color, reminiscent of the sky and ocean, can also symbolize new beginnings, optimism, and a sense of peace and serenity.
• Purple morning glories traditionally symbolize royalty, beauty, and grace. Historically, purple dye was rare and expensive, linking the color to wealth, eminence, and even themes of resurrection.
• White morning glories are symbols of purity, innocence, and spiritual peace. Like many white flowers, they are used to convey a sense of clarity and new beginnings, and are also associated with peaceful slumber.
• Pink morning glories convey messages of affection, gratitude, and thoughtfulness. This color is often associated with romance, tenderness, and appreciation, or to celebrate a fortunate accomplishment.
• Red morning glories are a symbol of passionate love and a strong heart. The color represents deep emotions, strength, and resilience, and can be used to convey powerful feelings of devotion.

Cultural and Historical Significance

In Victorian England, the “language of flowers,” or floriography, was a popular way to send coded messages. Within this system, the morning glory signified affection, but also love in vain or the fleeting nature of life due to its short daily bloom. It was a way to express romantic feelings that could not be spoken aloud.

In Chinese folklore, the morning glory is connected to the story of the Cowherd and the Weaver Girl. These two celestial lovers were separated and only allowed to meet once a year. The flower’s single-day bloom became emblematic of this brief, cherished reunion, symbolizing a love that must endure hardship.

The morning glory, known as Asagao in Japan, has been cultivated since the 9th century. It is a symbol of summer, admired for its transient beauty that aligns with cultural concepts of impermanence. During the Edo period, it became a symbol of romanticism, with its fleeting blooms likened to the transient nature of love and beauty.

Modern Interpretations

In contemporary times, the symbolism of the morning glory has evolved while retaining its historical roots. Giving these flowers as a gift today can signify affection, resilience, or an appreciation for fleeting moments. The flower’s ability to bloom anew each morning is interpreted as a symbol of hope, renewal, and the capacity to overcome challenges.

The morning glory’s symbolic history makes it a popular choice in art and tattoos. As a tattoo, it can represent love, personal growth, or a reminder to live in the present. The climbing vine is seen as a metaphor for resilience and overcoming obstacles, while the flower itself can be a nod to a deeply felt, even if brief, connection.