The Most Popular Flowers in Ukraine: Top 10 for Bouquets

Which flowers are given most often in Ukraine? Florists' experience shows that tastes change, but the top ten stays remarkably stable: roses, tulips, chrysanthemums, lilies, hydrangeas and a few other favourites. Here are the most popular bouquet flowers — what makes each special, when it's in season, how long it lasts in a vase and who to give it to.

1. Roses — the undisputed leader

Roses are bought for every occasion, from dates and birthdays to anniversaries and weddings. People love their variety — from classic reds to peony-style, spray and garden roses — their year-round availability and their clear language: red means love, white means tenderness and respect, pink means affection. Fresh roses last 7–12 days in a vase. Browse roses with delivery.

2. Tulips — the symbol of spring

From February to May tulips move to the top — no Women's Day on 8 March is complete without them. They're affordable, bright and come in dozens of shades and forms, from simple to double and fringed. Tip: tulips keep growing in the vase, so use a little cool water and trim the stems. Tulips look great in single-variety bouquets of 25–51 stems.

3. Chrysanthemums — the champions of longevity

Chrysanthemums last up to three weeks in a vase — longer than almost any other popular flower. Spray varieties with lots of small flowers, large single blooms, daisy and button types are available all year, peaking in autumn. They're a favourite for colleagues, teachers and business occasions. See our chrysanthemums.

4. Lilies — scent and drama

Large star-shaped flowers and a strong fragrance make lilies a striking gift. They open gradually and last 10–14 days. Tip: remove the anthers, as the pollen stains. Lilies are dangerous to cats, so choose other flowers for a home with a cat.

5. Hydrangeas — volume and abundance

One hydrangea stem replaces several flowers, so bouquets with it look lavish. Hydrangeas love water — see how to revive them in our hydrangea guide.

6. Alstroemeria — long-lasting and affordable

Alstroemeria look like small lilies with speckled petals, last up to two weeks and are available all year. Florists use them as the base of lush mixed bouquets, and customers love their value.

7. Orchids — exotic elegance

Cut orchids — cymbidiums, dendrobiums and vandas — last up to three weeks, and a potted phalaenopsis blooms for months. Orchids are chosen for special occasions and people who appreciate refinement. See our orchids.

8. Calla lilies — elegant classics

The sleek funnels of calla lilies are especially popular in wedding floristry and minimalist bouquets. As well as white, they come in yellow, pink, burgundy and almost black. Callas come from southern Africa; read our calla lily care guide.

9. Peonies — a short but beloved season

Peonies are among the most wanted flowers, but their main season is short: May to June. The buds open into huge fragrant blooms that last 5–7 days in a vase. Out of season, peony-style roses come to the rescue. See our peonies.

10. Gerberas — a smile in a bouquet

Big, bright gerbera daisies lift the mood — they're often given to young women, colleagues, new mothers or just because. Tip: use only 5–7 cm of water, as gerbera stems rot in deep water.

How to choose the perfect bouquet

• Consider the season. Seasonal flowers — tulips in spring, peonies in early summer, chrysanthemums and asters in autumn — are fresher and better value.
• Think about longevity. For a bouquet that lasts, choose chrysanthemums, alstroemeria or orchids.
• Think about the person. Their favourite flowers and colours matter more than any ranking. For tips, see choosing flowers by personality.
• Don't be afraid of mixes. A mixed bouquet of 3–4 varieties often looks more interesting than a single-variety one.

For inspiration, see our selection of the most beautiful bouquets and our guide to types of flowers.

FAQ

What are the most popular flowers in Ukraine?

Roses lead all year round; tulips catch up in spring and chrysanthemums in autumn.

Which flowers last longest in a vase?

Chrysanthemums and cut orchids — up to three weeks; alstroemeria and lilies — about two.

What flowers should I give if I don't know someone's taste?

Soft-coloured roses or a seasonal mix in a calm palette are a safe choice.

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Author: Maria Svitlovir

Graduated from Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Institute of Biology and Medicine (2001). BSc in Biology, MSc in Horticulture. Writes about plants, works at a garden centre selecting and repotting plants, and contributes to plant reference guides.