The National Flower of Ukraine

The National Flower of Ukraine

The sunflower (Helianthus), called “sunyashnikiis” in Ukrainian, is the national flower of Ukraine. The bright yellow blooms are an integral part of its culture, heritage, and even its economy. Sunflowers were first imported from North America to Ukraine in the 1800s. They took off, and today, the sunflower isn’t just Ukraine’s national flower. Ukraine is also the world’s biggest producer and exporter of sunflower oil and sunflower seeds.

In addition to fields of sunflowers blooming in Ukraine, the flower is also a big part of the country’s culture. Ukrainian girls weave sunflowers into wreaths called “venki” and incorporate them into folk art called “petrykivka.” They’re also embroidered on different clothes and painted on furniture and walls. The bright flower has always represented the sun’s warmth and energy and has been synonymous with Ukraine for some time. This floral industry blog will explore the history of sunflowers, the different types of sunflowers available, and their link to Ukraine and the Ukrainian people. 

History of Sunflowers

Sunflowers originated in the Americas around 1000 BC. In addition to being decorative, they had several uses. From having medicinal uses to being used as a food source and their seeds eaten as snacks, sunflowers have always been incredibly versatile flowers. Additionally, sunflower oil was extracted and used for cooking, skincare, and haircare. Even sunflower stalks were used to help with construction. 

While sunflowers originated in the Americas, they became commercialized in Russia and Ukraine. They became prevalent because the Orthodox Church permitted sunflower oil for cooking during Lent – something that wasn’t extended to butter or lard. 

Because of this global history, sunflowers signify different things in different cultures. In Greek mythology, they symbolize adoration and loyalty. However, sunflowers signify good luck, a long life, and vitality in China. For Native Americans, sunflowers symbolized provision and harvest. Despite the differences from place to place, one thing is for sure – many cultures think of sunflowers as happy, hopeful flowers that brighten moods and improve days. 

Types of Sunflowers

There are many different types of sunflowers available for purchase. From bright yellow to paler shades and even colors like red and orange, there are more than 80 different species of sunflowers. However, they’re most often divided into three distinct groups: short sunflowers, tall sunflowers, and colored sunflowers. 

Short Sunflowers 

While they’re short, these yellow blooms are just as beautiful as their taller counterparts. Our favorite short sunflowers include the Suntastic Yellow, Taiyo, Sundance Kid, and Pacino.

Tall Sunflowers 

Tall sunflower species include the American Giant, Mammoth Russian, Skyscraper, and Sunforest Mix varieties. 

Colored Sunflowers 

Sunflowers also come in various colors, including some very unexpected ones. From Italian White and Little Becka to Chianti sunflowers, there are both pastel and bright colours to choose from.

Sunflowers amid the Russia-Ukraine Crisis

As for Ukraine, sunflowers are more than simply the country’s national flower right now – they’re a symbol of hope and unity. Sunflowers are also a way of showing support for Ukraine during these difficult times, with people worldwide posting sunflowers on Instagram and other social media platforms to show that they #StandwithUkraine and against Russia’s oppression. 

Even SNL returned after a long hiatus and made sure to pay tribute to the crisis in Ukraine. Instead of their usual cold open, the show opened with the Ukrainian Chorus Dumka of New York singing “Prayer for Ukraine.” The chorus was surrounded by a table filled with candles and surrounded by three arrangements of sunflowers, the national flower of Ukraine.

Another reason sunflowers are gaining such momentum is a viral video of a Ukrainian woman telling off a Russian soldier. The video has been watched millions of times and consists of the woman handing a Russian soldier some sunflower seeds. As she does so, she tells him, “Put sunflower seeds in your pocket, so they grow when you die.” 

The powerful video shows the courage of the Ukrainians and their unity in the face of a full-scale invasion. This isn’t the only time we’ve seen sunflowers referenced during battle and war. Female Ukrainian soldiers have also taken to putting sunflowers and blue flowers in their hair since yellow and blue are the colors of the Ukrainian flag. 

Start stocking wholesale sunflowers if you want to stand with Ukraine and offer sunflowers for support. While it’s a small way to support the nation, it’s not just buying a sunflower – it’s standing up to oppression and offering a symbol of hope to not only Ukraine but also people worldwide.