National Flower Of Finland

The National Flower of Finland is the Lily of the Valley (Convallaria majalis), known as Kielo in Finnish. Officially recognized for its delicate beauty and intoxicating fragrance, this flower symbolizes the purity and renewal of Finnish nature. Blooming in late spring, it captures the essence of Finland’s serene forests and meadows, making it a beloved symbol of the nation’s connection to its natural environment.

The Lily of the Valley, Finland’s national flower, is a symbol of the country’s stunning natural landscapes.

In this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind its selection and its significance to Finnish culture.

Known for its simple yet elegant appearance and its presence in Finnish forests, the Lily of the Valley represents the beauty and purity of nature in Finland.

Join us as we delve into the story of this modest but remarkable flower.

Let’s dive in and get started!

What Is the National Flower of Finland?

The national flower of Finland is the Lily of the Valley, known scientifically as Convallaria majalis.

This delicate and fragrant flower is cherished for its pure white, bell-shaped blossoms that bloom in the spring.

The Lily of the Valley holds a special place in Finnish culture and is celebrated for its subtle beauty and enchanting aroma.

Its widespread presence across Finnish forests and gardens during the blooming season makes it a symbol of the country’s pristine natural landscapes and the arrival of spring.

The flower’s simplicity and elegance resonate deeply with Finnish aesthetics and values, making it a fitting emblem of the nation’s connection to its environment.

When Was the Lily of the Valley Chosen to Be the National Flower of Finland?

The Lily of the Valley was officially chosen as the national flower of Finland in 1967.

This selection followed a vote organized by Yleisradio, the Finnish national broadcasting company, reflecting the flower’s deep-rooted significance in Finnish culture and tradition.

The Lily of the Valley, with its delicate white blossoms and enchanting fragrance, symbolizes the purity and renewal of Finnish nature, particularly in spring.

Its selection in 1967 marked a celebration of these qualities, aligning with the nation’s appreciation for its natural beauty and the flower’s historical and cultural resonance within Finland.

How Was the National Flower Chosen?

The Lily of the Valley was chosen as Finland’s national flower in 1967 through a public vote organized by Yleisradio, the Finnish national broadcasting company.

This democratic process allowed Finnish citizens to participate in selecting a flower that resonated with their national identity and cultural heritage.

The Lily of the Valley, known for its delicate white flowers and sweet fragrance, emerged as a favorite due to its widespread presence in Finnish folklore and its embodiment of the pristine Finnish landscape.

The vote reflected the collective preference of the Finnish people, emphasizing the importance of nature in Finnish culture and the desire to have a national symbol that truly represents the spirit of the country.

Who Was Responsible for Choosing the National Flower of Finland?

The selection of the Lily of the Valley as Finland’s national flower was facilitated by Yleisradio, the Finnish national broadcasting company, which organized the public vote in 1967.

This initiative was part of a broader effort to engage Finnish citizens in choosing a national symbol that resonated with their cultural and natural heritage.

Yleisradio played a key role in this process, providing a platform for public participation and ensuring that the choice reflected the collective will of the Finnish people.

The decision to involve the public in selecting the national flower underscores the democratic values of Finland and the importance of nature and cultural identity in Finnish society.

Why Was the Lily of the Valley Chosen to Be the National Flower of Finland?

The Lily of the Valley was chosen as Finland’s national flower for several reasons that resonate deeply with Finnish culture and nature:

1. Cultural Significance: In Finnish folklore and tradition, the Lily of the Valley is a symbol of purity and humility. Its presence in poetry, songs, and art highlights its cultural importance.
2. Natural Beauty: The flower’s delicate white bells and sweet fragrance embody the pristine beauty of the Finnish landscape, particularly in spring when it blooms abundantly.
3. Symbol of Renewal: Blooming in May, the Lily of the Valley represents the renewal of life and the end of the long Finnish winter, symbolizing hope and new beginnings.
4. Public Choice: The democratic process of selection through a public vote organized by Yleisradio in 1967 reflects the flower’s popularity and significance among Finnish people.

The Lily of the Valley’s selection as the national flower is a testament to its deep-rooted place in Finnish culture and its representation of the nation’s natural beauty and values.

What Is Another Name for the Lily of the Valley?

The Lily of the Valley, known for its delicate and fragrant white flowers, is also commonly referred to as “May Bells” or “Mary’s Tears.”

These alternative names reflect the flower’s traditional blooming period in May and its droplet-like shape, which is reminiscent of teardrops.

In Finnish, the Lily of the Valley is called “Kielo,” a name that is deeply ingrained in Finnish culture and often used in literature and folklore to symbolize purity and the beauty of nature.

These various names for the Lily of the Valley highlight its significance and the affection with which it is regarded in different cultures and contexts.

What Is Lily of the Valley in Finnish?

In Finnish, the Lily of the Valley is known as “Kielo.”

This name is deeply embedded in Finnish culture and is as evocative as the flower itself.

Kielo holds a special place in the hearts of Finns, symbolizing the arrival of spring with its delicate white blossoms and enchanting fragrance.

The name Kielo is often mentioned in Finnish poetry and songs, reflecting the flower’s significance not just as a botanical species, but as an integral part of Finland’s cultural and natural heritage.

Its simplicity and elegance resonate with the Finnish appreciation for nature, making Kielo a beloved and iconic symbol of the Finnish landscape.

Where Can You See the National Flower of Finland?

The Lily of the Valley, or Kielo, can be found across Finland, particularly in woodland areas, symbolizing the country’s deep connection with nature:

1. Forests and Woodlands: Kielo thrives in the shady, moist conditions of Finnish forests and woodlands. During spring, its white blossoms are a common sight in these natural settings.
2. Gardens and Parks: Many gardens and public parks in Finland cultivate Lily of the Valley for its beauty and fragrance, making it accessible for everyone to enjoy.
3. Countryside: The flower also grows naturally in the Finnish countryside, often found in rural areas and along country paths, adding to the scenic beauty of these landscapes.
4. Cultural Sites: As a symbol of Finnish heritage, Kielo is sometimes featured in cultural and historical sites across Finland, celebrated for its significance in Finnish folklore and tradition.

The widespread presence of Kielo in Finland makes it a unifying symbol of the nation’s love for nature and its commitment to preserving natural beauty.

Why Is the Lily of the Valley So Special?

The Lily of the Valley, or Kielo in Finnish, holds a special place in Finland for several compelling reasons:

1. Symbol of Spring and Renewal: Kielo’s blooming in May marks the end of the long Finnish winter, symbolizing the renewal of life and the beauty of spring. Its arrival is eagerly awaited and celebrated as a sign of warmer days ahead.
2. Cultural Resonance: The flower is deeply ingrained in Finnish culture, featuring prominently in folklore, literature, and art. It represents purity, happiness, and the simplicity of nature, aligning with Finnish values and aesthetics.
3. Distinctive Fragrance and Appearance: Kielo is renowned for its sweet, intoxicating scent and delicate white bells. This combination of fragrance and visual appeal makes it a beloved flower among Finns and visitors alike.
4. Representation of Finnish Nature: The widespread growth of Kielo in Finland’s forests and woodlands symbolizes the country’s pristine natural environment. It reflects Finland’s commitment to preserving its rich biodiversity and natural heritage.

Kielo’s special status in Finland goes beyond its botanical characteristics; it embodies the nation’s connection to nature, cultural identity, and the joy of seasonal change.