Birthday
HydrangeasIn Ukraine Mother's Day falls on the second Sunday in May. It's a warm family occasion when mothers and grandmothers receive flowers, cards and attention. Here is the history of the holiday in Ukraine and around the world, which flowers to choose and how to celebrate your mum even from afar.
Ready-made bouquets are in our flowers for mum and flower baskets sections.
The holiday in Ukraine
Mother's Day was first celebrated in Ukraine in 1929 in Galicia, on the initiative of the Union of Ukrainian Women. It was not marked in Soviet times, and in 2000 it was officially established by presidential decree — since then it has fallen on the second Sunday in May.
Around the world
- USA. Anna Jarvis championed the holiday; the first celebration took place in 1908, and the carnation became its symbol. See US flower traditions.
- United Kingdom. Mothering Sunday falls on the fourth Sunday of Lent and has roots in church customs.
- Germany, Italy, Austria and many other countries — the second Sunday in May.
- France — usually the last Sunday in May.
- Thailand — 12 August, the Queen Mother's birthday; jasmine is the symbol of the day.
Which flowers to give on Mother's Day
- Tulips and peonies — seasonal May flowers, peonies especially at the end of the month; see our peony guide.
- Roses — pastel, peach, cream or spray roses.
- Carnations and chrysanthemums — long-lasting, which matters for older mums.
- Hydrangea and lisianthus — soft and generous.
- A potted plant — a gift that lasts for months.
For choosing a bouquet to suit your mum's personality, see which flowers to choose for mum.
Gifts beyond flowers
- A handwritten card is often the most treasured part of a gift. If you're stuck for words, see our messages for mum.
- A basket of flowers with fruit, sweets or her favourite tea.
- An experience — dinner together, a walk, a trip, a photo shoot.
- Time and attention — a call, a visit, help at home or in the garden.
If you live far away
Order flowers with delivery: a courier brings the bouquet at a convenient time, and the florist sends a photo before it leaves. Add a card with your own words so the gift comes from you, not just a delivery service. Order early — demand for flowers soars around the holiday.
FAQ
When is Mother's Day in Ukraine?
On the second Sunday in May.
Are there flowers I shouldn't give my mum?
There are no strict rules. For an older mum, avoid strongly scented flowers such as lilies and heavy bouquets — a box or basket arrangement that needs no vase is more practical.
Can I also congratulate my grandmother or mother-in-law?
Of course — Mother's Day celebrates all the mothers in the family.
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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.
