The arrival of autumn and Halloween, more specifically, invites us to lean into the foreboding spirit of the season. The weather gets chillier, the nights get longer, and the veil between this world and the next gets thinner. One way to honor the season’s energy is by displaying flowers with especially dark symbolism or connotations. In addition to black and deep red roses — always perfect for spooky season — the following blooms are ideal for incorporating a frightening vibe into your seasonal decor. From monstrous appearances to eerie symbolism and haunting colors, these autumn stems are perfect for any creepy aesthetic. We’re ready to bring your spookiest ideas to life at Adrian Durban Florist, the best flower shop in Cincinnati, Ohio.
Proteas From Another Realm
Proteas, with their monstrous yet gorgeous appearance — on par with the menacing flower from Little Shop of Horrors — mimic the appearance of otherworldly creatures, aligning well with Halloween’s themes. They have large, bold blooms with intricate structures and textures, resembling something from a supernatural realm. According to Greek mythology, proteas are named after Poseidon’s shapeshifting son Proteus, a mysterious and elusive water god — a fitting connection, given the sheer amount of colors and shapes that the flowers in this family can possess.
Marigolds Have Potent Spiritual Energy
Marigolds come in bright and beautiful shades of yellow and orange, but don’t let the cheery color of these blooms mask their spiritual energy. Marigolds are used in ceremonies and celebrations worldwide to connect the living and the dead when the veil between worlds is at its thinnest, such as Dia De Los Muertos. Often, people use their petals to create a path for their departed loved ones from the cemetery back to the home they left behind when they died. Marigolds also represent dark emotions like jealousy, grief, cruelty, and despair, adding another creepy element to the mix.
Oxblood Dahlias Add a Dark Intensity
Oxblood dahlias have a velvety crimson color not unlike the shade of blood, which resonates with Halloween’s haunting aesthetic. The shape that their petals create resembles the intricate geometry found in spider webs, another spooky element. In this context, these blooms can symbolize the transition from life to death, bringing a dark intensity to your floral arrangements. But along with heavy energy, oxblood dahlias are elegant and add a luxe touch to bouquets, striking the perfect balance between frightening and enchanting.
Spider Mums Resemble Creepy Crawly Creatures
Spider mums are named for their long, tubular petals that resemble spider legs, giving them a distinctive and somewhat eerie appearance that adds spookiness to Halloween arrangements. They come in various colors, including rich shades that align with the season’s palette. These chrysanthemums symbolize transition, remembrance, and honoring our ancestors, which aligns with the season and its focus on the spirit world. Mums also protect us against sinister forces and symbolize the soul’s longevity and immortality.
Deep Purple Calla Lilies Add Mystery and Elegance
Deep purple calla lilies are popular Halloween flowers, thanks to their beautiful dark color that conveys mystery, especially when combined with their elegant bell shape. These “jewels of the night” are connected to the changing seasons and cycles of life, death, and rebirth. In some cultures, dark purple flowers honor loved ones who have passed, reminding us of the temporality of life. They spark curiosity about the beyond and invite us to explore the uncharted territory of the spiritual realm.
Find your favorite spooky blooms and fall arrangements at Adrian Durban Florist. Your Halloween flowers will surely be gorgeous, ghoulish, and perfectly festive for the season.