Provincial Floral Emblems

Floral emblems are generally selected from among the flora of the country, nation, state, territory or province that they are meant to represent. Tradition dictates that the plant selected be popular and commonly found throughout the region. Floral emblems may thus differ from coats of arms or flags, since the latter are more symbolic in nature (see HERALDRY). For historical reasons, however, a non-indigenous plant or one linked to the founding nation, an industry or a particular landscape may be chosen. The entire plant or only the flower may be represented. The latter is a true floral emblem. The emblem may also be the leaves or branches of a tree. Some countries have both a floral and a tree emblem. Some emblems are adopted officially or legally, others are unofficially recognized by the people for historic, religious or other reasons.

The accompanying table lists the floral emblems of Canada and its provinces and territories, along with the dates adopted (by Act of the provincial or territorial legislature). Because they are known by various common names, French and English, the scientific names, given in italics, are most accurate.

See also EMBLEMS OF CANADA; EMBLEMS, PROVINCIAL AND TERRITORIAL.

Author CÉLINE ARSENEAULT

Links to Other Sites
Sheet Music From Canada's Past: Flowers
Scroll down the page to view a selection of finely illustrated covers of sheet music published in Canada prior to 1921 (click on the images for larger views). Check the menu on the left for links to audio clips and additional information about Library and Archives Canada's collection of sheet music.