Why Some Chinese Recipients Avoid Burlap in Flower Bouquets – And What You Can Do Instead

Why Some Chinese Recipients Avoid Burlap in Flower Bouquets – And What You Can Do Instead

At Best Bloom Buddy, we believe flowers are more than just gifts—they’re a heartfelt language that speaks through colors, textures, and thoughtful presentation. But sometimes, a well-meaning bouquet can send the wrong message—not because of the flowers, but because of the wrapping.

One common example? Burlap wraps.

While popular in many Western countries for their natural and rustic charm, burlap or linen-like wraps can carry a completely different meaning in Chinese culture—a meaning that might surprise you.

What Is Burlap, and Why Is It Used in Flower Wrapping?

Burlap (or jute) is a coarse, woven fabric that adds an earthy, elegant touch to bouquets. In Western floral design, it’s often used to evoke feelings of simplicity, countryside charm, or sustainability. It pairs beautifully with fresh flowers and gives off a handmade, artisanal vibe.

But cultural interpretation is everything.

In Chinese Culture, Burlap = Mourning Cloth

In traditional Chinese customs, coarse fabrics like burlap or natural linen (麻布 – má bù) are closely associated with mourning and funerals. These materials are often:

  • Worn by grieving family members during funeral rites
  • Used as ritual coverings or decorations in Buddhist or Taoist ceremonies
  • Seen in white, beige, or dull brown, symbolizing grief and loss

So when a bouquet wrapped in burlap is received—no matter how vibrant the flowers—it can unintentionally remind someone of sorrow instead of joy.

Real Experience: A Gift of Roses That Needed a Cultural Touch

We recently had a Western customer order a luxurious bouquet of red roses for his girlfriend of Chinese descent. The bouquet was beautiful—lush, full, and wrapped in natural burlap.

Shortly after the delivery, the recipient called us. She was gracious but firm: the burlap needed to be removed immediately. To her, the wrapping looked like mourning cloth, and it completely changed the feeling of the gift.

We immediately replaced the wrap with rich red layers and soft textures. The flowers stayed the same—but the meaning was transformed.

What Wraps Are Culturally Appropriate for Chinese Recipients?

If you're sending flowers to someone who is Chinese or comes from a Chinese family, here are a few friendly tips:

✅ Best Colors for Flower Wraps:

  • Red: The ultimate symbol of love, happiness, and good luck
  • Gold: Wealth and celebration
  • Pink: Romantic, gentle, and well-loved by many
  • Pastel tones: Soft and elegant

✅ Best Wrap Materials:

  • Smooth premium paper with a satin or pearl finish
  • Decorative mesh or organza in bright tones
  • High-quality cellophane or clear wrap (layered tastefully)
  • Textured paper with floral prints or auspicious patterns

Avoid wraps that look rough, dull, or too natural in tone—especially unbleached linen, burlap, or anything resembling handmade cloth in beige or brown.

Understanding Cultural Symbolism: Why It Matters

In Chinese culture, symbolism is everywhere—especially in colors and materials.
Here are just a few beliefs that influence how gifts, including flowers, are received:

  • White is worn at funerals (not weddings)
  • Odd numbers of flowers (like 3, 5, 9) are preferred for celebrations, while 4 is avoided due to its similarity to the word "death" in Chinese
  • Red is the color of prosperity and love, making it ideal for romantic gifts

Understanding these cultural cues helps avoid misunderstandings and ensures your gesture is received with the warmth and intention you meant to convey.

So, Is Burlap Bad?

Not at all.
Burlap can be stunning—it adds character, warmth, and elegance to flower arrangements. But like all forms of beauty, its meaning shifts depending on the cultural lens through which it’s seen.

When gifting flowers across cultures, especially in a country as rich in traditions as Thailand, being mindful of cultural preferences can bring joy to both the sender and the receiver.

At Best Bloom Buddy, we’re here to help you bloom across boundaries—with flowers that speak the right language in every petal and ribbon.

Planning to send flowers in Thailand?

We offer same-day delivery across Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket & more.
Let us help you send meaningful, beautifully wrapped bouquets that speak from the heart—and respect the culture of the person who matters most to you.

👉 Visit us at www.bestbloombuddy.com
Let flowers do the talking—beautifully and respectfully. 💐

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