Just as there are traditional gifts for each wedding anniversary, there are traditional flowers too. This guide covers anniversary flowers by year and the roses that mark the big milestones.

Best flowers for anniversary

Some of the best-known anniversary flowers by year include:

• 1st anniversary — carnation, for young love
• 3rd anniversary — sunflower, for adoration and loyalty
• 5th anniversary — daisy, for loyal love
• 10th anniversary — daffodil, for renewal
• Any year — roses, the timeless flower of love

Roses for anniversary milestones

Roses are the classic anniversary flower, and their color adds meaning. Red roses celebrate enduring love for any anniversary, while yellow roses traditionally mark the 50th (golden) anniversary. A bouquet with one rose for each year is a romantic way to mark the occasion. See our rose meaning guide for more.

Tips for anniversary flowers

• Match the flower to the traditional gift for that year
• Choose your partner’s favourite flower or color for a personal touch
• Red roses suit any anniversary; yellow roses mark the golden 50th
• Add a stem for each year as a sentimental gesture
• Pair the flowers with the year’s traditional gift

Anniversary flowers FAQs

What flower represents each wedding anniversary?

Many anniversaries have a traditional flower: carnation for the 1st, sunflower for the 3rd, daisy for the 5th, and daffodil for the 10th, while roses suit any year.

What roses are for a 50th anniversary?

Yellow roses traditionally mark the 50th, or golden, wedding anniversary, symbolizing joy and the warmth of a long life together.

What is the 1st anniversary flower?

The carnation is the traditional flower of the first wedding anniversary, symbolizing young, devoted love.

Explore more

See more flowers by occasion, browse flower profiles, or learn about flower meanings.