Tulips

Tulips have many of meanings — and each differs depending on the color you choose. Purple represents royalty, for instance, while red is for romantic love. Pink is often said to represent affection and white could either represent cheerfulness or it could be given as an apology. And there are so many varieties of tulips — fringed, parrot, French, lily-fringed, and many more — each one as unique as mom. No matter what color or variety you choose, tulips are the quintessential spring flower, sure to bring your mom a bit of joy!

Orchids

The orchid is the flower to get for the trendy mother, the woman who loves new fashions, exotic stylings, and bold colors. They are considered the most “highly evolved” of flowering plants, and come in a wide variety of sizes and colors. They’re an easy houseplant to care for, too. If you’re wondering which color to get, try pink, which represents elegance, poise and femininity.

Carnations

Carnations are the flower that started it all. In 1907, Anna Jarvis, the founder of Mother’s Day, sent 500 white carnations (her mother’s favorite flower) to every mother at her West Virginia congregation on the anniversary of her mother’s death. And there are as many meanings as there are colors. The pink carnation specifically represents a mother’s love, but white, which symbolizes pure or unconditional love and good luck, is another good choice. As a bonus, carnations are one of the longer lasting cut flowers that you can buy, which means your gift will last.

Peonies

Coming in shades of white, pink, red, and sometimes even purple, peonies make a great arrangement for Mom. These flowers represent a variety of things, from honor and good fortune to happy marriages — perfect if you want a gift that also gives a nod to the father of the family. Best of all, peonies can grow quite large, which means a bouquet of these blooms is certain to make a showy centerpiece. And they smell wonderful!

Roses

Roses are a classic, which makes them a great gift for the mother who tends to be traditional. Skip the red, which is typically associated with romance, and instead opt for pink, which represents appreciation, love, and gratitude. White is another good option because it symbolizes purity, and cream-colored roses are for thoughtfulness.