By Dr. Elara Davies, Senior Floral Ethnobotanist
Though the liturgical celebration of Christmas developed centuries after the New Testament was written, specific flora, trees, and fragrant resins frequently mentioned throughout Scripture have acquired deep symbolic associations with the Nativity story. Flower enthusiasts and theologians increasingly recognize that these botanical symbols—such as the Lily, the Rose, and Evergreen varieties—carry layered significance drawn from biblical poetry, prophecy, and devotional tradition, illustrating themes of purity, hope, sacrifice, and eternal life connected to Jesus Christ’s birth.
Connecting Scripture to Seasonal Decor
The original biblical texts, particularly the Old Testament, are rich with imagery drawn from nature, using elements like plants and flowers to convey deep spiritual truths—including righteousness, humility, and renewal. As Christianity evolved, believers reflected on these symbols and connected them to the meaning of Christ’s arrival. This synthesis transformed familiar plants into visual theological reminders used during the Christmas season.
While flowers like the Poinsettia or the symbolic use of Holly are not named in the Bible, their adopted significance aligns directly with core Christmas themes, demonstrating how tradition integrates verifiable facts with devotional meaning.
Key Plants Rooted in Nativity Symbolism
Several plants widely used in Christmas decor today carry specific scriptural foundations:
Lilies: Purity and Divine Provision
Scripture, particularly the teachings of Jesus in Matthew 6, uses the lily to illustrate God’s abundant provision and the purity of creation. Lilies are often referenced in Christian art and tradition, especially the white lily, which symbolizes the moral purity and humble obedience of Mary, the mother of Jesus, connecting the flower to the miraculous and holy nature of the birth.
Roses: Prophetic Hope and Redemption
In biblical prophecy, the rose symbolizes restoration and messianic joy, often used to predict a future age of salvation (Isaiah 35:1). The image of the rose blooming in winter became a powerful metaphor in Christian hymns for new life unexpectedly entering a barren world. The rose’s dual symbolism—beauty alongside the pain associated with its thorns—links the joy of Christmas to Christ’s future sacrifice.
Poinsettia: Sacrifice and Humility
Popularized globally, the poinsettia’s association with Christmas stems from Mexican Christian tradition, not direct biblical mention. Its distinct red bracts are widely interpreted as a symbol of Christ’s blood and sacrifice, while its star-shaped structure recalls the Star of Bethlehem. This tradition visually reinforces the importance of humble offerings and God’s ability to transform simplicity into glory.
Evergreen Plants: Eternal Life
Evergreens, such as pine and fir, maintain their life and color throughout winter. In Scripture, flourishing trees often represent spiritual vitality and God’s enduring promises (Psalm 1:3). Christians adopted branches, wreaths, and the Christmas tree itself as powerful symbols of eternal life made available through Christ, a promise that remains active even during seasons of spiritual darkness.
Frankincense and Myrrh: Prophetic Resins
Though not flowers, the aromatic resins given by the Magi are plant-based elements that underscore the theological purpose of the Nativity. Frankincense symbolized Christ’s divinity as a gift fit for worship and ritual purity, while Myrrh, used for embalming, prophetically symbolized His mortality and destined suffering. These gifts emphasize that the biblical narrative integrates the infant’s birth with the entirety of the redemption story.
Deeper Engagement through Botanical Literacy
Understanding the biblical and devotional foundations behind these plants allows for a richer appreciation of the Christmas season beyond secular commercialism. Traditional plants like Holly, with its sharp leaves representing the crown of thorns and red berries symbolizing blood, become visual tools for spiritual reflection. Similarly, the Almond Blossom, which blooms early, reminds believers of God’s active watchfulness over His promises.
As consumers select holiday decor or floral arrangements, engaging with the scriptural roots of these universally recognizable plants transforms simple decoration into tangible storytelling, reinforcing the historical and theological significance of the season. Florists and designers can leverage this botanical literacy to provide arrangements that are not only beautiful but also deeply meaningful.