What is your favorite flower? For me, it’s daisy. The daisy flowers might be small and don’t capture much attention. But they match with almost any flower in a bouquet. They can either shine on their own or be the perfect support role.

And for you, you may identify yourself with other types of flowers. From rose and carnation, which represent true love, to orchid and cherry blossom that symbolize strength, flowers are not just a gift but a personal statement.

As much as we love flowers, they don’t last very long. Most cut flowers would last for a week or so. And seeing them wither is always the hard part. But there’s a way to make it permanent. And that’s why flower tattoos have always been popular around the world.

If you haven’t decided which flower is perfect for you, here are the most popular flower tattoo ideas and their meanings. Keep scrolling on, and you’ll find the one that complements your body and tells your story.

Disclaimer: This tattoo collection is for inspiration only. Please do not copy the artwork. If you love these tattoos, follow artists and show them some support.

Stunning flower tattoos with meaning

Table Of Contents

• Lotus tattoos
• Rose tattoos
• Lily tattoos
• Red spider lily tattoos
• Stargazer lily tattoos
• Waterlily flower tattoos
• Daisy flower tattoos
• Cherry blossom tattoos
• Dandelion tattoos
• Sunflower tattoos
• Chrysanthemum flower tattoos
• Orchid tattoos
• Daffodil flower tattoos
• Poppy tattoos
• Carnation tattoos
• Tulip flower tattoos
• Wildflowers tattoos
• Leaves and vine tattoos

Lotus tattoos

Though it’s not a common flower you’ll see in a shop, the lotus has been an important cultural and religious symbol worldwide, especially in eastern countries.

Lotus tattoo meanings

The spiritual meaning of lotus in Buddhism is calmness, as the flower sits on water undisturbed. Besides that, a lotus tattoo may also mean:

• Spiritual awakening and enlightenment in Buddhism and Hinduism
• Purity, as it grows from the mud but blossom pure and clean
• Yoga and meditation because the Lotus Pose is common in both practices
• Rebirth, as the lotus flower submerges into the water at night and re-blooms the next day

A lotus tattoo reminds us to stay calm in the chaos and to stay true to ourselves. If the flower speaks your mind, you may relate to these lotus tattoos.

Gradient Lotus arm tattoo

@maro_ink

Tiny and simple purple lotus tattoo

@noul_tattoo

Red lotus shoulder tattoo

@seolheetattoo

Unique white lotus tattoo

@anna_katlinskaya

Lotus and unalome symbol tattoo on the back

@varni_tattoo

Realism lotus shoulder tattoo

@alexleedestroyer

Small minimalist lotus symbol tattoo

@sukza__art

Resilient simple lotus tattoo

@raquelromantattoo

Lotus mandala chest tattoo

@anais_chabane

Lotus and symbols forearm tattoo

@juanitattt

Rose tattoos

Roses, probably the most loved flowers on the planet, has a long history across cultures. Before it’s a gesture of love, it has been a symbol of war and royalty. And it was used in the production of medicine and perfume.

Rose tattoo meanings

As more roses are grown in different parts of the world, they also take on different meanings. But generally, they represent love and romance. So if you want to say “I love you” to someone, a bouquet of roses will do the job.

It’s worth noted that roses in different colors might express different feelings. If you want to get a colored rose tattoo, here is what each one means:

• Red roses: Romantic love, the perfect gift for Valentine’s day
• Pink roses: Femininity and gratitude
• Orange roses: Passion and energy
• Blue roses: Unrequited love
• Green roses: Rebirth and growth
• White roses: Purity, unconditional love, and peace, often used on weddings
• Yellow roses: Friendship and joy
• Black roses: Death, end, and closure, used on funerals

If you admire the beauty of roses, these rose flower tattoos will inspire your next ink.

Pink rose and butterfly tattoo

@pchantattoo

Triple color rose tattoo

@tilda_tattoo

Tattooist Tilda has created a collection of gorgeous and sophisticated tattoos. We chatted with her recently and she talked about her inspirations and tips for choosing the right design for you. Check out our interview with her to learn more.

Black rose hand tattoo

@timor_tt

Black and red rose tattoo

@arona_tattoo

Small and stunning blue rose tattoo with name

@donghwa_tattoo

Watercolor roses and lighter tattoo

@songe.tattoo

Small purple rose arm tattoo

@siyeon_tattoo

Blood red rose tattoo

@tattooist_zela

Lily tattoos

Liliums, also commonly known as lily flowers, come in various colors and shapes. Most lilies have six large trumpet-shaped petals. But for some species in the family, the petals may also look like funnels, cups, bells, or bowls.

Lily tattoo meanings

In Chinese, the name of lily flowers is Bai He, which means a couple’s love would last for a century. Thus it’s often used on weddings as decor.

While most lilies represent purity and femininity, their meanings may vary by color:

• White lily: Purity and eternity
• Yellow lily: Optimism and joy
• Red lily: Intense love and happy marriage
• Orange lily: Energy and wealth

If lilies are your spiritual flower, you will find your next ink in these lily tattoos.

Lily and carnation matching flower tattoos with names

@donghwa_tattoo

White lily forearm tattoo

@moggtattoo

Matching lily tattoos for couples

@emmaflorestattoo

Read also: 78 Romantic matching tattoos for couples

Black and white lily arm tattoo

@jku_tattoo

Flowers and clock tattoo

@davidbaisatattoos

Lily flower and cross arm tattoo

@vanya_tattoo

Red spider lily tattoos

The red spider lily, also known as hurricane lily or resurrection lily, is special in the lily family. The petals of the flower radiate outwards like the claws of a spider. And the bulbs contain poison, which gives the flower a feeling of mystery and danger.

Red spider lily tattoo meanings

In Japan, the flower is named Higanbana, which means the other side of the Sanzu River.

In Japanese folklore, the dead have to cross the river to reach their afterlives. Thus the Japanese associated the flower with death and used them in memorials of their ancestors.

Unlike most flowers, red spider lilies don’t have an enlightening symbolism. But because of their identifiable shape and stunning red color, it is a popular element in flower tattoos, especially for those who have lost a loved one. In western culture, “beautiful but not available” is the message behind a red spider lily tattoo.

If an elegant but badass tattoo is what you aim for, here is a list of unique red spider lily tattoos you’ll adore:

Red spider lily arm tattoo

@victoriaatattoos

Red spider lily flower and butterfly tattoo

@tattooist_yun

Red spider lily and dragon tattoo

@kikiraventattoo

Read also: 38 Elegant dragon tattoos for women

Stargazer lily tattoos

Another popular type of lilies, the stargazer lily gets its name from petals that bloom towards the sky.

Just like lily in general, stargazer lilies signify purity. But due to its unique shape, a stargazer lily tattoo can also mean prosperity and abundance.

@abii_tattoo

Waterlily flower tattoos

Similar to lotus, waterlily is a beautiful pond plant with large green leaves floating above the water. Most waterlilies have white petals. But they can also be pink, red, yellow, purple, depending on the region.

Waterlily tattoo meanings

One thing that makes waterlily so special is how they grow. They go underwater and transform into green fruit, wrapping the seeds inside. The special process gives the waterlily flower the symbolism of rebirth. And besides that, waterlily tattoos may also mean:

• Good luck according to traditional Feng Shui theories
• Youth, as waterlilies mostly bloom in spring
• Innocence and beauty, due to the white colors of most waterlilies

In addition to its cultural and religious symbolism, the flower is just gorgeous. And the next waterlily tattoos perfectly capture the beauty and its meaning behind the look.

Black and white waterlily thigh tattoo

@honma_tat

Blue waterlily sleeve tattoo

@comotattoo

Dandelion and waterlily thigh tattoo

@lian.tattoo

Bloody waterlily

@oozy_tattoo

Norigae waterlily moon tattoo

@heeyatattoo

Daisy flower tattoos

In China, daisies are called Chu Ju (雏菊), meaning baby chrysanthemum, because of their similarities in shape and colors. And that’s why in eastern countries, daisies are often related to birth, youth and innocence. And they sometimes represent young girls in literature.

Daisy tattoo meanings

Daisies can also represent a crush on someone. If you are unsure whether someone likes you back, you pluck the petals of a daisy flower, and each petal represents yes or no. And you have the answer when you reach the last petal.

Though most daisies are either white or yellow, they also come in various colors carrying different meanings. A daisy tattoo in color may symbolize:

• White daisy: Hope, a new beginning, and youth
• Yellow daisy: Good luck, joy, and fun
• Orange daisy: Optimism and health
• Blue daisy: Loyalty and trust
• Pink daisy: Romantic love and love for family

Daisy tattoos will be perfect for you if you are opting for something simple and small. And if that sounds like you, you’ll love these daisy flower tattoos.

Cute daisy and elephant tattoo

@sara.commodi

Small and simple daisy foot tattoo

@keenetattoo

Stunning blue daisy shoulder tattoo

@foret_tattoo

Read also: 64 Beautiful shoulder tattoos for women

Unique daisy hand tattoos

@flowersforyourhead

Purple daisy on the inner arm

@xiso_ink

Small daisy finger tattoo

@leyla_sam_tattooer

Read also: 67 Beautiful and dainty finger tattoos

Half daisy arm tattoo

@keenetattoo

White daisy ankle tattoo

@yezottt

Cherry blossom tattoos

Cherry blossom, also known as Sakura in Japanese, has a deep root in oriental cultures and religions. Alone, these tiny pink flowers might not capture attention. But they usually bloom on cherry blossom trees on a large scale, creating spectacular scenery.

Cherry blossom tattoo meanings

Though beautiful, the blooming of cherry blossom only lasts for less than two weeks. That’s why this short-lived flower is tied to mortality in Buddhism. A cherry blossom tattoo reminds people that time flows and we should live in the present.

Besides the pass of time, cherry blossom tattoos can also represent courage and gratitude. Just like the flowers, many things in our lives may be gone without us noticing. And thus, we should be grateful and cherish the small things we have.

During World War II, Japanese soldiers on suicide missions painted cherry blossoms on their airplanes. Though their lives would be cut short, the act was glorious and courageous.

As a traditional Japanese flower, the cherry blossom is often tattooed with other eastern symbols like dragon and koi fish, which you’ll see in the designs below. If you relate to its beauty or the stories behind it, these cherry blossom tattoos may inspire your next ink.

Cherry blossoms and the samurai sword

@coldchillchild

Sakura – Japanese flower tattoo

@marcelabadolatto

Cherry blossom collarbone tattoo

@donghwa_tattoo

Abstract cherry blossom tattoo

@hktattoo_tina

Cherry blossom and fish Pisces tattoo

@amberstarrartistry

Read also: 54 Dreamy Pisces tattoos and meaning

Cherry blossom note tattoo for music lovers

@handitrip

Initial with cherry blossom sleeve tattoo

@yezottt

Initial tattoos are not only versatile. They can be big, small, simple, or intricate. But they also represent the wearer’s identity or someone they care about. This initial tattoo on the shoulder is decorated with a flower and floral patterns, making it personal and aesthetically pleasing.

Cherry blossom family lettering tattoo

@soho_concept

Dandelion tattoos

Have you ever blown a dandelion and make a wish? I have. These small, fluffy plants hold a special place in many people’s hearts.

Dandelion tattoo meanings

Dandelion gets its name from the French phrase “dents de lion” – teeth of a lion in English due to the shape of dandelion’s leaves.

Across cultures, dandelion tattoos have various meanings:

• Life and the Universe, as the yellow flower resembles the sun, and seeds as stars and puffballs as the moon.
• The flow of time, as the seeds will never return once carried away by the wind.
• Wishes and hope. Some believe that if you can blow all the puff from a dandelion in one breath, your wish will come true.
• Healing, like the wind blowing the puff away, pain and trauma will eventually heal in time.

If you identify with the symbolisms, these dandelion tattoos may be meaningful to you.

Dandelion shoulder tattoo

@heather.tattoos

Matching dandelion wrist tattoos

@zele.tattoo.studio

Simple dandelion tattoo

@fayalicetattoo

Sunflower tattoos

Just like its name, a sunflower is as bright as the sun. The yellow petals radiate energy like the sunlight. Sunflowers are so popular because they will bring liveness and energy to any room or home.

Sunflower tattoo meanings

Sunflowers are happy flowers. And a sunflower tattoo has the equal power to lift one’s spirits. Here are the meanings and symbolisms of sunflower tattoos:

• Positivity, as sunflowers always face the sun and stay on the bright side
• Leo zodiac sign because it’s the sign’s birth flower
• Energy, as the sun is the source of all heat and light
• Hope and a new beginning, just like the sun comes up and brings hope to the new day

The following sunflower tattoos are just as amazing as the flower itself. Scroll on to get inspired.

Always chase sunshine – sunflower arm tattoo

@vanya_tattoo

Balance – one-word tattoo with sunflower

@ju.linhas

Read also: 61 Inspiring and empowering one-word tattoos

Sunflower and the sun tattoo on the arm

@donghwa_tattoo

Sunflower shoulder tattoo

@yxtatt

Chrysanthemum flower tattoos

Though the petals of chrysanthemum may look fragile, these flowers are actually hardy and can survive winter. The flower gets its name from Greek “chrysos” and “anthemon,” meaning golden flower. It is called the Queen of fall flowers in the US because most of them bloom in fall.

Chrysanthemum tattoo meanings

In general, the chrysanthemum flowers represent happiness and joy. But because the flower is popular worldwide, a chrysanthemum tattoo may carry different meanings in different regions.

• In Asia, a chrysanthemum tattoo signifies happiness and honesty.
• In Chinese literature, the flower symbolizes integrity. Because of the fresh scent of the flower, a chrysanthemum tattoo may be a reminder to live a simple life.
• In Western countries, chrysanthemums are used in funerals. But that doesn’t mean it’s inappropriate to wear chrysanthemum tattoos. The flower itself is seen as a protector against evil spirits. And a chrysanthemum tattoo may serve as a talisman that cast away bad energies.

It takes skills and techniques to tattoo the piles of curvy petals in detail. And the artists of the following chrysanthemum flower tattoos nail it.

Chrysanthemum sleeve tattoo

@lazylax

Red and yellow chrysanthemum back tattoo

@danielle.camurca

Chrysanthemum and snake tattoo

@jay_tattooist