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The tradition of gifting yellow flowers on September 21: origins and customs

On September 21, the exchange of yellow flowers is celebrated in various parts of Latin America and Europe, marking the start of spring.

Archive photo: The tradition of gifting yellow flowers on September 21: origins and customs
Archive photoPhoto: Kletaaaaaaa · Wikimedia Commons · Public domain

September 21 is a day when several countries have the custom of giving yellow flowers, especially in Peru, where it coincides with the beginning of spring. This tradition has spread across various contexts, becoming a gesture among couples, friends, and family. The popularity of this custom has been largely driven by the character Floricienta, played by actress Florencia Bertotti, leading to the celebration of this day in youth culture.

However, not all regions celebrate this exchange of flowers on the same date. In some parts of Europe, the act of gifting yellow flowers is not restricted to September 21, highlighting the diverse nature of this tradition. There are other specific dates in different countries that may commemorate this gesture, thus emphasizing its cultural particularities.

In Lima, symbolic activities such as the planting of yellow flowers will take place to mark the beginning of spring, reaffirming the local significance of these flowers as symbols of renewal and joy. These community initiatives aim to celebrate the change of seasons and highlight the natural beauty of the city.

Archive photo: The tradition of gifting yellow flowers on September 21: origins and customs
Archive photoPhoto: Alturas Oceanicas · Flickr · BY

EsSalud, a health institution in Peru, has warned about the risks of offering certain varieties of yellow flowers, indicating that some may pose dangers. This warning serves as a reminder of the importance of knowing the characteristics of the flowers chosen for this exchange, supporting a safe and enjoyable practice among those participating in this tradition.

On the other hand, the phenomenon of exchanging yellow flowers is not limited to Peru but is also common in Argentina and other Latin American countries. In Argentina, the tradition derived from a popular song that helped solidify the gesture of giving flowers with the arrival of spring. This type of exchange highlights the emotional connection that the population has with the arrival of this season.

With the rise of social media, September 21 has become a day for sharing phrases and messages, creating a festive atmosphere around the celebration of yellow flowers. Furthermore, multiple dedications have been written to enrich the act of giving, reflecting the importance of words and feelings in this everyday gesture.