Top 18 Most Popular Flowers for Vietnam's Traditional Tet Holiday

Da Lat Chrysanthemum is a flower widely grown in the flower-filled region of Da Lat. With its vibrant colors, it is cultivated year-round, with a noticeable increase in quantity during Tet. The flower's beauty and ease of care make it a popular choice for flower buyers. The Da Lat chrysanthemum, available in a variety of colors, offers plenty of options to suit different tastes and spaces. It is commonly used for decorating altars, coffee tables, or TV stands. Have you prepared a vase for Da Lat chrysanthemums this Tet?

Chrysanthemums are a symbol in the traditional Four Seasons painting: Pine, Bamboo, Chrysanthemum, and Apricot. These paintings originate from Confucian culture and symbolize the virtues of a gentleman. Perhaps because of this, chrysanthemums are highly regarded and often used in sacred places, such as altars. Da Lat Chrysanthemums symbolize loyalty, fidelity, and strong bonds. They bring happiness and harmony to the home, helping family members live in peace. This is also a meaningful gift for relatives and friends during holidays or special occasions. In Feng Shui, Da Lat chrysanthemums are a symbol of vitality, resilience, longevity, and prosperity, bringing joy and good fortune to the household.

Giant Chrysanthemum blooms from October to November, with its peak bloom in December, making it a popular flower choice for the Tet holiday. Around mid-December, you'll see these flowers for sale everywhere, as people buy them to offer at the full moon ceremony, to honor the Kitchen Gods, and most importantly, to celebrate the Vietnamese Lunar New Year. These pots of Giant Chrysanthemums bring light and joy to homes, guest halls, front porches, and gates, filling the air with the festive spirit and bringing good luck to every family.

During the New Year celebrations or for housewarming, groundbreaking, and grand opening events, Giant Chrysanthemum is a top choice. Not only does it boast radiant beauty, but it also symbolizes hope for a prosperous and peaceful new beginning. As a result, it brings good fortune and wealth to the homeowner. This flower is considered the flower of the heavens, with its large blooms representing grandeur and strength. Planting this flower in the home will attract positive energy, boosting confidence and vitality for the family. Additionally, it helps create a warm and welcoming atmosphere when you return home.

Gerbera Daisy is a flower that blooms year-round, with its peak bloom during late autumn and early summer. This eye-catching flower comes in a variety of colors and is often grown in small ceramic pots, commonly used to decorate office desks, workspaces, or other important interior spaces. Gerbera daisies are easy to grow and maintain, making them perfect for planting at home to enjoy flowers throughout the year, and they are especially popular during Vietnam's traditional Tet celebrations.

Due to its attractive appearance, people often plant it in white, brown, or black ceramic pots. It is ideal for decorating desks, offices, or home interiors, adding a refreshing touch with its colorful blooms. Particularly, Gerbera daisies enhance the overall aesthetic of a space. This flower symbolizes wealth and prosperity, making it a favorite for many families to display during Tet. It also serves as a beautiful office plant for any workspace, especially during the Lunar New Year.

For a long time, Lilies have been symbols of elegance, nobility, sophistication, and refinement. These flowers not only represent beauty and virtue but also embody pride and express noble, lasting love. Today, lilies are widely available, bringing beauty to any setting. They are commonly gifted to mothers, loved ones, or for special occasions such as holidays, celebrations, grand openings, and graduations. Lilies are magnificent flowers, symbolizing purity and virtue, and are frequently used in home decorations during Tet, especially for worship. They are widely sold during Tet across various regions. Gifting a bouquet of lilies expresses a wish for happiness, peace, and prosperity for the recipient.

Lilies come in white with a touch of green, yellow, or pink with purple stripes, and their delicate fragrance is distinctive. A single lily stem typically has one to five blooms. The petals are thick, with a greenish-yellow hue, and the stem is supported by a bulb beneath the soil, with leaves above the ground. The flower stem is relatively sturdy, making it resistant to breaking from environmental factors. Lilies bloom at the end of spring to early summer, typically in April, and they only stay in full bloom for about half a month. Today, lilies are grown widely across the country and can bloom year-round, with growers expertly timing their blooming to coincide with Tet festivities.

Poinsettias are widely used during Tet as ornamental plants, often referred to as the 'Tet Flower'. The vibrant red color of these flowers is believed to bring good luck and fortune in the new year. Placing a pot of poinsettias during Tet adds a joyful atmosphere to the home. Poinsettias are especially symbolic of good luck, particularly among students, which is why many families with school-aged children display them during significant occasions such as holidays and Tet, wishing their children success in exams and studies.

In Feng Shui, the poinsettia symbolizes achievement and success, bringing a prosperous and successful new year to the whole family. It represents good fortune, excellent academic performance, and career success. The poinsettia is a traditional symbol of educational success in Vietnam, particularly for passing exams. This flower is often chosen as a thoughtful gift for friends and family during Tet and is a popular decoration during the spring festival.

Orchids are renowned for their beauty and symbolic meanings, making them an excellent choice for decorations during Tet. A pot or a branch of orchids, with their graceful and noble appearance, can bring good fortune and prosperity to the home during the new year. For many years, orchids have been admired for their captivating beauty and elegance, attracting attention wherever they are placed. Not only do they add a sophisticated and refined touch to the home, but they also carry deep Feng Shui significance, symbolizing wealth, prosperity, and positive energy for the family during Tet.

An orchid arrangement is an impressive and aesthetically pleasing addition to any home, with its simple yet striking appearance. A multi-branch orchid pot can enhance the vibrancy and beauty of your space. Orchids also make a meaningful gift, offering both material and spiritual significance to business partners, friends, and loved ones. Due to these qualities, orchids have become widely used in recent years, with people placing pots of orchids in various areas of the home, such as the balcony, stair railings, living room, office desk, or garden. During Tet, orchids are particularly popular as they not only beautify the space but also last a long time, adding charm and liveliness to any room.

Azalea is a beautiful ornamental plant known for its exquisite flowers, admired for their delicate beauty and elegant appearance, often compared to the grace of ancient beauties. With over 1000 different species, Azaleas come in a variety of vibrant colors, making them a favorite for garden decorations and interior spaces. Known scientifically as Rhododendron, Azaleas are native to regions like Nepal, where they are grown as ornamental plants that enhance the ambiance of living spaces. In addition to their beauty, Azaleas are believed to symbolize prosperity and good fortune. During the Tet holiday, these flowers are often chosen for display as a wish for a prosperous new year.

Azaleas are commonly potted for interior decoration, placed on shelves, coffee tables, dining tables, or even in corners of rooms. Their vibrant blooms make them a perfect gift for loved ones, and they are especially meaningful when displayed during Tet, adding a touch of warmth and good fortune to the home. Red and pink Azaleas are the most popular colors used during Tet, often displayed in beautiful ceramic pots to bring joy, harmony, and well-being to the household in the coming year.

Gladiolus blooms in a variety of vibrant colors and has a graceful shape, lasting for an impressive 10 to 20 days. This makes it a popular choice for decorating homes during Tet. In Vietnam, Gladiolus is one of the most common flowers used during the festive season. Also known as 'Sword Lily,' in feng shui, Gladiolus is believed to ward off negative energy, bring good luck, and attract positive vibes into the home. Because of these beliefs, Gladiolus is often displayed in homes during Tet to welcome the new year with fortune and happiness.

The name 'Gladiolus' originates from a legend of two brave warriors who, instead of fighting each other, chose to die rather than harm one another. In the end, they were reunited in the embrace of Mother Earth, and their swords transformed into the beautiful flowers we know today. Gladiolus flowers have long, sword-like stems with multiple blooms, creating a striking, elegant appearance. Often used in flower arrangements for vases or combined with other flowers, Gladiolus adds a burst of color and life to spaces such as altars, dining tables, or reception areas, enhancing the festive spirit of Tet.

Each flower possesses its own unique beauty and meaning. Some symbolize love, others friendship, and some represent purity or the noble qualities of women. Carnation is no exception, with different colors conveying various messages. Also known as 'clove pink,' carnations are one of the most popular flowers grown in Vietnam. They are commonly displayed on Mother's Day and during the Lunar New Year celebrations. Carnations have a delicate, soft beauty, yet their elegance is timeless. They suit all types of interior styles, from large open spaces to more compact areas. Carnations come in a wide range of colors, including red, yellow, pink, orange, white, as well as multicolored variations like red-edged, yellow with orange, and white with purple accents.

Currently, there are two main types of carnations: single-stem carnations and branch carnations. Single-stem carnations feature a single large bloom per stem and last longer, often up to a week. Their robust stems and large petals make them a popular choice for long-lasting displays. In contrast, branch carnations have several smaller blooms on one stem, and while their stems are more delicate, they tend to last 4 to 5 days, which makes them less commonly used. Carnations hold deep symbolic meanings: admiration, enchantment, allure, or a woman's love—pride, beauty, and pure, intense, heartfelt affection. These beautiful flowers are cherished by many and are a traditional part of Tet celebrations in Vietnam.

Pussy willow branches are a popular choice for many families during the Lunar New Year due to their symbolic meaning. While these delicate branches may seem frail, they carry profound significance. The term ‘pussy willow’ refers to a plant species from the willow family, scientifically known as Salix, and is not strictly a type of flower, as it is often referred to as 'Tầm xuân' in Vietnam. The name ‘pussy willow’ comes from its soft, fuzzy buds, which resemble the fur of a cat. These buds grow in clusters along the branches, and over time, they sprout bright green leaves, signifying new growth.

The meaning behind pussy willow branches is one of prosperity and vitality. The small, tender buds represent new beginnings and the relentless energy of hope and belief people place in the upcoming year. Moreover, if properly cared for, these branches can last for months, sometimes even up to a year, without wilting. So why wait? Bring home some pussy willow branches for this year's celebration. While smaller vases can be used, large vases are ideal for these long branches. If you prefer a smaller vase, you may need to trim the branches to achieve a more balanced appearance.

A flower of good fortune, the Night-blooming Jasmine is known for bringing wealth and prosperity during the Lunar New Year. Its long, elegant strands of pure white blossoms are often compared to sparkling strands of pearls. These flowers, graceful and delicate, are a favorite decoration for the New Year festival. The night-blooming jasmine’s flowers form long cascading chains, sometimes stretching over a meter, exuding a soft and romantic beauty. Each flower is a perfect circle with five rounded petals, resembling a delicate plum blossom. The pistil extends like butterfly antennae. The small, round buds resemble dew drops, attached firmly to their stems, which are deep purple and gleam like jewels hanging on branches. The pure elegance of the flowers makes them mesmerizing to behold.

The Night-blooming Jasmine is a bushy perennial plant with slender, woody stems. The leaves are long, slender, and pointed, dark green in color, growing on short stems. The plant has a rich, purple-tinged trunk and produces many branches. Looking at this plant feels like gazing at countless glowing pearls swaying in the breeze. Not only is the night-blooming jasmine visually stunning, but it also holds great symbolic meaning in Feng Shui, representing wealth, wisdom, and success. Keeping a pot of night-blooming jasmine in your home will bring good fortune, prosperity, and happiness. The flowers bloom early and last through the winter, making them an ideal decoration for the Lunar New Year.

Roses are a symbol of love, admired for their beautiful colors and enchanting fragrance. They are especially popular during festive occasions such as the Lunar New Year. Roses come in various types, with vibrant colors and intoxicating scents that make them highly desirable. Roses are often arranged in glass vases, used to enhance home decor as needed. In recent years, it has become a trend to grow original rose plants in large pots, placing them on the front steps, near the porch, or in the yard.

The trend of displaying roses during the Lunar New Year has gained significant popularity. With their elegant, graceful appearance and luxurious fragrance, roses, especially those with abundant blossoms, create an attractive focal point in any space. In Hà Tĩnh, many varieties of antique roses are cultivated, such as peach roses, white roses, Vân Khôi roses, and Sapa roses. Additionally, antique rose pots with strong, sturdy roots and modest heights are often planted in decorative ceramic pots, adding an extra touch of vibrancy to the New Year atmosphere.

Eternity flowers symbolize good luck. Though not overly bright, their soft, sweet, and elegant beauty makes them stand out. This flower is particularly beloved in Japan and other East Asian countries, where it represents 'luck.' If someone gives you a bouquet of eternity flowers, it signifies their wish for your life to be filled with peaceful, fortunate, and happy moments. The petals of eternity flowers are soft like silk, and their colors are gentle yet diverse: white, pink, purple, red, and more. Looking at these flowers often brings to mind the tender beauty of young girls blossoming into womanhood.

The gentle and serene beauty of eternity flowers, along with their profound meaning, make them a perfect decoration for the Lunar New Year. Eternity flowers are renowned for being a popular and beautiful cut flower. During the New Year celebrations, they are arranged in vases to highlight their delicate and romantic charm. These flowers can be displayed on altars, windowsills, desks, living rooms, dining tables, TV stands, and flower racks, bringing a vibrant and fresh spring energy into any space. When gazing at eternity flowers, one often imagines the soft, graceful beauty of a young girl in full bloom.

Camellia flowers are scattered throughout northern provinces, typically blooming only during the Lunar New Year. The word "Đường" (meaning a large house) signifies wealth and prosperity, making the camellia a symbol of affluence and fortune—qualities every family hopes to achieve in the new year. This flower represents not only wealth but also family harmony and unity.

With its vibrant colors, blending the rich red petals and the golden yellow stamen, the camellia brings joy and vitality without being overwhelming. Its beautiful, radiant hues capture the essence of spring. Known for symbolizing good fortune, prosperous business, and progress, the camellia also represents unity, harmony, and strong bonds between friends and family. It’s often given as a gift during the Lunar New Year, as its image is associated with promotions, good health, and wealth for the whole family.

During the Lunar New Year, many families in Hanoi often display a daffodil arrangement, placing it in the most honored spot where guests can enjoy tea and admire the flowers. For years, the daffodil has been a refined tradition, requiring deep understanding and appreciation to truly enjoy it. This noble flower, often compared to a jade cup or ivory plate, releases a pure and alluring fragrance when it blooms, exuding elegance and grace. A well-arranged daffodil bowl must balance several elements: the roots, leaves, flower stalks, and blooms. The roots should be long and white, the leaves lush and soft, while the flower stalks should be multi-layered. A perfect bloom has white, translucent petals and a golden stamen. Its pristine beauty makes the daffodil not only a cherished flower but also a popular choice for worship during Tet.

The skillful art of cutting daffodils is considered an important tradition, with some people carefully timing the bloom to coincide with the Lunar New Year’s Eve, believing that it brings good luck to the family. Some also prepare them to bloom during the Day of the Kitchen Gods or the first full moon of the year. During Tet, a blooming daffodil in the home is regarded as a precious gift. Visitors often ask about the flowers after exchanging New Year greetings, and the conversation often turns to the daffodil's role in Hanoi’s floral culture. This flower’s unique characteristics—its white outer petals, golden yellow center, and fragrant scent—bring warmth and serenity to the home, blending perfectly with the incense from the family altar. In Eastern culture, it symbolizes peace, wisdom, and prosperity. In recent years, to meet the growing demand for festive floral arrangements, daffodils have been creatively pruned into various shapes, allowing people to choose arrangements that best suit their home decor. Aside from its elegant beauty, the daffodil is believed to ward off negative energy, bringing good health and fortune to the family.

Every year during Tet, the streets and homes of Vietnamese people are adorned with vibrant yellow apricot blossoms. These carefully selected branches are brought home as offerings to ancestors, symbolizing wishes for a peaceful and prosperous new year. Although originally a symbol of Tet in the southern regions of Vietnam, yellow apricot blossoms are now used for decorations in various settings, such as offices, gardens, and building lobbies. Furthermore, the apricot blossom is believed to bring good luck, prosperity, and represents the Five Blessings of Life. This flower even appears in literary works, such as the famous verse from *The Tale of Kiều* by Nguyễn Du: "The apricot blossom’s essence, like the purity of snow."

Historically, the yellow apricot tree has been deeply connected to Vietnam's rural villages, symbolizing the enduring spirit of the land and its people. The tree takes root in the soil and grows resilient, withstanding storms and harsh weather. Its persistence through the years reflects the strength and vitality of the Vietnamese people, always flourishing in spring to bring beauty and fragrance. For this reason, the apricot tree is often seen as a symbol of virtue, representing unwavering strength and the deep-seated values of gratitude and honor passed down through generations. The tree’s blossom in early spring carries with it a sense of renewal and hope, echoing the sweet scent and bright colors of the new year.

While the yellow apricot blossom is a symbol of Tet in the South, in the North, peach blossoms are a must-have during the Lunar New Year celebrations, often found in nearly every home. These blossoms represent the essence of Northern Tet, marking the season of renewal. The peach tree also carries deep cultural significance, symbolizing love and destiny, often referenced in Vietnamese folk songs. So, this Tet, consider using peach blossoms to decorate your home, bringing warmth, vibrancy, and a touch of spring into your space. Beyond enhancing the festive atmosphere, peach blossoms hold profound meanings. First and foremost, they are considered a symbol of the Five Elements, believed to ward off evil spirits and bring peace and happiness to the household.

Moreover, the peach blossom symbolizes prosperity and new beginnings. Everyone wishes for a year filled with good health, success in business, and family harmony, and the peach blossom embodies these hopes. It is said to inspire faith and optimism for a bright future. The delicate beauty of the flower is also likened to the gentle, graceful, and refined qualities of Northern women. The peach blossom reminds people of enduring love and loyalty. Over time, not everyone may fully understand the depth of its symbolism, but decorating with peach branches has become a cherished Tet tradition.

For the Vietnamese, the chrysanthemum is a beloved flower, deeply rooted in tradition. Not only does it bring warmth and sweetness, but it also symbolizes eternity and longevity. During holidays and Tet celebrations, chrysanthemums are always prominently displayed in homes, often in the most revered spots. Among the many types of chrysanthemums—white, yellow, and marigold varieties—the chrysanthemum mâm xôi (round chrysanthemum) is especially favored. Every Tet season, this flower becomes an essential part of family decorations, adorning gardens and bringing a sense of joy and hope for a bright new year, filled with happiness and good fortune, just like the vibrant blooms themselves.

The chrysanthemum mâm xôi is not just a beautiful flower; it also holds commercial importance. The rounded chrysanthemum, with its uniform petals and vivid colors, is carefully cultivated to create an elegant display. The pots are made from fine ceramics, smooth and glossy, available in various colors and designs to suit any space. Chrysanthemums are a popular decoration for Tet throughout Vietnam, whether placed in living rooms, on balconies, or in front yards. They even look lovely on small tables or office desks, adding a touch of charm and festivity.