Why would it be unlucky to give a woman an even number of flowers?

Giving flowers as a gift is a long-standing tradition. When it comes to celebration, sadness, gratitude, apology and romantic symbols, flowers are suitable for almost any occasion. For thousands of years, we have been sending flowers to each other as a way to express our emotions.

A 2005 rutgers study speculated on something most of us already know: Flowers only make us feel better. The 10-month study provided conclusive evidence of the therapeutic effects of sending flowers to people. Women who received flowers actually reported more positive emotions after a few days. Participants aged 55 and older also reported high mood and even improved memory.

The ancient Romans, Chinese, and Greeks all described flowers in their stories and myths. In the Victorian era, people used flowers to express their feelings, because the society at that time did not encourage open oral expression of emotions. Specific colors represent something: red represents passion, white represents chastity or virtue, and yellow represents friendship. Even the size of the flowers or their arrangement can convey the message.

However, you have to be careful when giving flowers to people from other countries or cultures. Something cute to you may mean offensive or doom to someone else. In Russia, Ukraine, and the former Soviet Union, if you plan to send flowers to a woman on a happy occasion, be sure to send her an odd number of flowers (unlike the even numbers that are usually sent in North America). Even-numbered flowers are reserved for mourning and funerals. This tradition also applies to some Europeans, but also avoid the number 13, as it is considered an inauspicious number. Also, avoid giving women yellow flowers. Yellow is said to represent the end of a relationship. Unless, of course, this is your intention!

Now that you know why giving someone an even number of flowers brings bad luck, let's take a look at some of the other traditions and superstitions associated with flowers in the world.

Peony is one of the most popular wedding flowers in China.

In Asia, giving someone potted plants is unlucky because it means that relationships are restricted.

Flower offerings in Egypt are usually only used for weddings and funerals

The British like to give flowers as a gift from the hostess, but the white lily is a symbol of death.

In ancient Rome, brides carried flowers as a symbol of fertility and a spell against bad luck.

Often, in all cultures, sending flowers to someone is a thoughtful and appreciative gesture. As long as you understand cultural traditions, why not add luster to someone's life? It's just possible to avoid an even number.