All You Need to Know About Sunflowers - The Happiest Flower on Earth

The majestic sunflowers are said to bag the title of the happiest flowers on earth – and much can be attributed to their brilliant, yellow petals and tall green stems that remind us of the sweet summer sun. Like a pocketful of sunshine, sunflowers can bring warm feelings to our hearts. They stand tall all the time, bravely holding their seedy heads high.  

However, there is more to these vibrant flowers than meets the eye. Keep on reading to find out what makes the sunflower so cheery and why it deserves all the love in the world!

A Brief History of Sunflowers

Sunflowers first originated around 1,000 BC in the Americas. Back in the days, sunflowers were solely cultivated as a source of food for humans, cattle, poultry and other ornamental plants – nothing else. Its popularity only boomed when Europeans started to explore the New World, and more folks grew to appreciate its beauty and sustenance then.

How Did Sunflower Get Its Name?

Why are sunflowers called sunflowers? We have been asked this question a couple of times. Sunflowers are called sunflowers because - well - they love basking in the rays and, thus, are named after the sun.

Like most species of plants, the sunflower has its name derived from ancient Greek. The word “sunflower” comes from the Greek word “Helianthus” – where “Heli” means sun and “Anthus” means flowers.

Why Do Sunflowers Always Turn to Follow the Sun?

 Sunflowers follow the sun across the sky, and it is certainly interesting to know that plants are not the static beings we always thought they were. There is a flurry of research papers on sunflowers and how they use circadian rhythms to track the sun – but we will attempt to sum it all up for you below.

In short, sunflowers have their biological clock (also known as the 24-hour circadian rhythm), which gives them the ability to detect light. When sunflowers are growing, their heads turn back and forth to follow the sun and gain as much energy as they can to stand tall even on the darkest days. However, once sunflowers reach maturity, movement decreases, and they stop tracking the sun.

Sunflower and its Symbolism

If you adore this floral beauty that radiates joy as much as we do, you would be curious to find out the true symbolism of the sunflower and why it is aptly called the happiest flower on earth.

Many people believe that the way sunflowers tend to position themselves toward the sun symbolises unwavering loyalty, whilst their bright yellow petals that shine splendidly scream optimism and all things positive. It is no wonder why sunflowers are the perfect choice of gift for graduations, anniversaries and all happy occasions in between.

For their ability to stay steadfast even on the hottest days of summer, sunflowers have also come to symbolise longevity and vitality in Chinese culture.

The Different Variations of Sunflowers

You will be surprised to know that sunflowers actually come in several varieties! Although uncommon, there are sunflowers with red, orange, white, pink or purple petals.

Where to Buy Sunflowers in Singapore

There are few things in life more cheery than receiving a bright bouquet of sunflowers. Can’t get enough of them? Neither can we! And that is why we place plenty of beautiful sunflower arrangements at your fingertips.

Find the perfect sunflower bouquet for yourself or surprise your loved ones with fresh sunflowers from The Interior Collections today. Be sure to order before 1 pm for free same-day delivery in Singapore!