Sending or giving flowers to your dad on Father’s Day is still a bit controversial. But if you’d seen the surprised smiles I have when dads get flowers that mean something to them then you would know it works.
So I’m going to show you some flowers that are perfect for Father’s Day and that your dad will appreciate.
Forget What You Think You Know About Father’s Day Gifts
When Father’s Day rolls around most of us think of things like ties, tools or tech gadgets when it comes to getting a gift. Flowers don’t even make the list.
But your dad isn’t a stereotype. And his gift doesn’t have to be either.
I’ve seen a stereotypically manly man construction worker tear up when his daughter brought him a potted bonsai for his birthday. So don’t jump straight to thinking flowers aren’t going to work.
The truth is simple: flowers aren’t gendered. And the right arrangement can speak volumes to any dad.
Men today are different. Times have changed. They’re planting gardens, following plant accounts on social media and many have their own houseplant collections.
Why Flowers Actually Make Perfect Father’s Day Gifts
- They’re unexpected (and dads appreciate surprises)
- They bring nature indoors
- They don’t collect dust like a lot of traditional gifts
- They can reflect your dads personality
- They show thought
- A lot of dads like gifts that break from tradition
What to Look for in Father’s Day Flowers
Not all flowers give off the same vibe. When choosing them for your Dad you need to think about their structure and the presentation as much as the flower itself.
The fist thing many people will think if they’re choosing flowers for their dad is “something not too feminine”. Which is definitely possible.
You can choose flowers with a limited colour pattern, use lots of shapes and vertical elements and come up with something that wouldn’t be considered feminine.
What to Consider
- Structure and Form: Look for flowers with strong shapes and architectural elements.
- Color Choices: Bold doesn’t have to mean bright. Deep blues, rich burgundies and forest greens can create a sophisticated palette. Or you can go bright with sunflower yellows and orange if it fits your dad’s personality better.
- Symbolic Meaning: Some dads might appreciate knowing the flower you chose represents strength, wisdom or respect. Others couldn’t care less – you know your dad best!
- Presentation Style: Think about how the flowers are arranged. A single dramatic stem in a whiskey bottle might work better than a traditional vase arrangement for some dads.
Top Flower Picks That Your Dad Will Appreciate
Sunflowers
If your dad is known for being bright and upbeat then choose flowers that match his energy. In this case that would be sunflowers. You can’t look at them without smiling and they last a surpassingly long time in a vase.
My own father, who is a practical man, once returned a “useless” (in his words) decorative item I gave him. But he did keep a sunflower arrangement until the last petal fell. Even a man’s man who is skeptic so about flowers will find something to like about the optimist sunflower.
Why they work:
- Symbolize loyalty, longevity and adoration
- You can make dramatic arrangements with them because of their height
- They feel different from traditional and more feminine flowers
- Something about them feels distinctly American
Orchids
Orchids are impressive and slightly exotic. It almost feels like they’re a little decadent and represent the finer things in life. So if that sounds like the sort of thing your dad would be in to then an Orchid is the right choice.
They’re also quite hard to kill (despite their reputation). So they’re great for dads who claim they can’t keep plants alive.
One of my friends bought a blue orchid for her father who was a retired engineer. Six months later she tells me he has become obsessed with orchids and caring for them. So much so that he joined a local horticulture society. So don’t underestimate getting the right plant.
What makes them special:
- The blooms last a long time (up to 3 months with the right care)
- Clean and architectural lines
- Available in colors that are more than the typical pink (try greens or blues)
- Might even become a hobby for the right dad
Birds of Paradise
Birds of Paradise aren’t typical flowers. They look just like exotic birds taking flight (hence the name).
If your dad loves travel or appreciates unique designs these flowers make a statement he won’t forget.
Why they stand out:
- Very recognizable shape nothing like traditional flowers
- A good height that draws attention
- Brings a tropical feel and reminds you of vacations
- Last up to two weeks in water
Anthuriums
Anthuriums have wonderful glossy, plastic like flowers that make them look more like a sculpture than a flower.
If you want something that has a contemporary edge, and thats what your dad will like, then Anthuriums may be the right flower for his Father’s Day.
What makes them work:
- Waxy, tough blooms that last for weeks
- Strong colors, especially reds and deep purples
- Don’t need a lot of care
- Modern, almost industrial look
Chrysanthemums
Don’t let how common they are fool you. If you get the colors and arrangements right chrysanthemums can be surprisingly masculine and impressive. They symbolize longevity in a lot of Asian cultures and are respected for that reason.
Tips for making them work:
- Stick to single colors as it gives more of an impact
- Choose darker shades like burgundy, bronze or deep purple
- Spider Chrysanthemums have a more interesting texture than the rounder varieties
- They’re budget friendly when you want size and impact
Roses
Don’t be fooled into thinking roses should only be used as romantic flowers. They can be so striking and appropriate for Father’s Day if you get the right colors and arrangement.
How to make roses work for Dad:
- Choose unexpected colors – burnt orange, yellow or even green
- Avoid red (as it’s too romantic) and pink (too feminine)
- Focus on the structure of the arrangement
- Pair them with different elements like wheat, branches or even small tools
Proteas
If you want something a bit more unusual then proteas is the way to go. They look like something from a sci fi film rather than a traditional flower. They also last for weeks, which is a nice extra.
What makes them perfect:
- Conversation starting appearance
- Extremely long lasting (up to 3 weeks)
- Have a more masculine texture
- Available in interesting colors
Succulent Blooms
Many people don’t realize that succulents bloom and that when they do their flowers have a sort of beauty that many dads will appreciate. And after the bloom fades he still has the succulent plant.
Why they work:
- Unexpected and make for good conversation starters
- Low maintenance for busy dads
- Connect to outdoor landscapes
- Continue growing long after Father’s Day is over
Plants He Might Like Over Cut Flowers
A living plant sometimes makes more sense than cut flowers for a dad. They’re more practical to care for and they last longer than flowers.
Bonsai Trees
If your dad would prefer to look after something over time then a bonsai is ideal. Bonsai trees are more than just plants. They’re like a hobby and piece of art all in one.
What makes them special:
- They symbolize patience and wisdom
- Provide a fun hobby
- Are available in varieties that match your dads personality
Snake Plants
Is your father the type who forgets to water plants? Then get him a snake plant. They are virtually indestructible and have a strong, architectural form that works in almost any decor.
Why they’re dad approved:
- Nearly impossible to kill
- Clean, modern lines
- Air purifying benefits
- Grow slowly and only need minimal repotting
Peace Lilies
Despite having quite a feminine sounding name peace lilies have a strong, tropical appearance that many men appreciate. And they’re happy with not much in the way of care.
Why they Work for Dads:
- Their white flowers stand out against the dark leaves
- Tell you when they need watering by drooping (but perk up again quickly after watering)
- Do well in low light conditions
- Clean indoor air
Potted Herbs
If your dad is big on cooking then a potted herb garden is a good combination of beauty with utility. A sturdy rosemary plant (which produces tiny blue flowers) or flowering basil can live on a sunny windowsill and provide fresh flavors all year long.
Best herbs for Father’s Day:
- Rosemary (is a symbol of remembrance)
- Basil (especially the purple varieties)
- Thyme (easy to grow indoors)
- Mint (for the dad who likes mojitos or mint tea)
How to Personalize Your Floral Gift
Your flowers are more likely to go down well with your dad if you personalize them as a gift. How do you do that though? Well this is how to make your floral gift thats made especially for him.
Containers That Work for Him
Don’t use a glass vase and instead think about what your dad actually likes. I’ve arranged flowers in everything from hollowed out books to vintage camera cases, fishing tackle boxes and even clean paint cans.
Container ideas:
- His favorite whiskey bottle (empty, of course)
- A new coffee mug that has something to do with his interests
- A small tool box or ammo box
- A camping mug if he’s outdoorsy
- An older container that is related to his job
Add Something Unexpected
Flowers don’t have to come on their own. Adding a small, thoughtful gift along with them can make the whole thing something more than a simple gift.
Ideas to improve your gift:
- Put a mini bottle of his favorite spirit in the arrangement
- Wind a fishing lure or golf tee as part of the design
- Include a gift card to his favorite coffee shop
- Add a small hand written note with a specific memory
The Presentation Matters
How you give flowers to your dad also sets the tone. Think about his personality. Would he prefer a public gift or a moment in private?
Where to Find Flowers
Not all florists understand how to create arrangements that work for men. If you want to find the best options try these:
Local Florists
Call ahead and specifically ask if they do Father’s Day arrangements. A good florist will understand what you want and offer suggestions thats more than the standard options.
Questions to ask:
- “Do you have experience with creating arrangements for men?”
- “Can you create something structural and bold rather than soft and rounded?”
- “What containers do you have that age more than standard vases?”
Online Specialists
Some online flower companies have caught on to the Father’s Day market and offer appropriate options for dads. Look for those that specifically mention Father’s Day rather than trying to use regular arrangements.
DIY from Farmers Markets
For a really personal touch visit a local farmers market, choose the flowers that remind you of him and arrange them yourself. Even a simple bunch of local sunflowers tied with twine can make a more of an impact than something more standard.
Final Thoughts
Giving your dad flowers for Father’s Day may seem a little odd but it’s a great way to do something different and not stick to the same boring gifts.
Most fathers will be receiving the same types of gifts year after year. And many privately admit they’ve got drawers full of unused ties and World’s Best Dad mugs. So some well thought out and chosen flowers can be a welcome change.
Don’t overthink it though. Trust your instincts about what your father would like, go for quality over quantity and remember that the gesture itself can mean as much as the flowers you choose.
And if you’re worried? Put a good bottle of whiskey in the arrangement. Some traditions are worth keeping.