National Flowers of the SAARC Countries

National Flowers of the SAARC Countries 

Different countries of the world select their endemic plants or flowers to represent their geographical location. A flower was used primarily by Canada and Australia as the national symbol and later it was followed in many countries of the world. Some countries have followed their centuries old historic or religious significance of any particular flower of plant and adopted that officially. The SAARC ( South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation ) countries including Pakistan, India , Afghanistan, Sri Lanka , Bangladesh , Nepal , Bhutan and Maldives have also declared their National Flowers. Following is the respective detail of the National Flowers of SAARC countries of the world. 

1- National Flower of Pakistan ( Common Jasmine )

Jasmine ( Chameli ) The National Flower of Pakistan

In Pakistan, this flower is called as ‘ Yasmin ‘ which is a Persian word meaning ” A Gift of Nature”. In the local language, Jasmine is also known as ‘Chanbeli‘ . Pakistan has ideal warm and tropical climate for the growth of all of the species of Jasmine. The exotic color of Jasmine is considered as the symbol of peace. With the fantastic fragrance and different petals together, Jasmine symbolizes the unity of the people of different cultures and languages in Pakistan. 

2- National Flower of India ( Lotus )

Lotus : National Flower of India 

Lotus is considered a very sacred flower in India and the evidence for their affiliation with the Indian culture and Hinduism can be found from their history and ancient Indian mythology. According to the Hindu beliefs, the Lotus symbolises divinity, fertility, wealth, knowledge and enlightenment. Although Lotus is commonly known as “Water Lily”, but in India it is known as Lotus. This aquatic plant is grown in small water bodies throughout in India and the flower floats on broad leaves. 

 3- National Flower of Sri Lanka ( Blue Water Lily )

Blue Water Lily:National Flower of Sri Lanka 

Blue Water Lily or Purple Water Lily was declared as the National Flower of Sri Lanka on February 26, 1986. In the local language, this flower is known as Nil Mahanel and the scientific name of this flower is ‘Nympheae Stelleta’. Blue Water Lily symbolizes truth, purity and discipline and it has tremendous significance in Buddhism. Normally this magnificent flower is grown in shallow waters and it is found in all parts of Sri Lanka.

4- National Flower of Bangladesh (White Water Lily)

White Water Lily : The National flower of Bangladesh 

The national flower of Bangladesh represents peace and lovely nature. This is known as “Shalpa” in the local Bengali language. Bangladesh is a land of rivers, lakes and streams. So the White Water Lily is found everywhere in the country. White Water Lily or Shalpa contains numerous petals which represent several rivers of Bangladesh. Shapla is also a favorite food tem for the people of Bangladesh; especially the stem and fruit of this plant are liked a lot for eating.

5- National Flower of Nepal (Rhododendron arboreum )

Rhododendron arboreum : National Flower of Nepal 

This bright and red flower is produced by a small tree which is endemic to South Asia. This is the national flower of Nepal. The name denotes “tending to be woody or growing in a tree-like form”. These shrubs like trees are scattered in the hilly area of Nepal and the beautiful flowers blossom in the Spring Season. This plant is suitable for woodland gardens. The Mountains of Nepal become colorful like red, white or pink during the blooming season of Rhododendron. ‘This flower is known as ‘Lali Gurans’ in the Nepali language. 

6- National Flower of Bhutan (Blue Poppy)

Blue Poppy : The National Flower of Bhutan 

The National Flower of Bhutan is locally knows as “Euitgeal Metog Hoem” but scientifically it called as Meconopsis grandis. Commonly this splendid flower is known as “Blue Poppy” which is grown on higher altitude. The plant of Blue Poppy is a rare species and its growth has been severely depleted. Blue Poppy is a hardy perennial flowering plant. It is herbaceous and blooms in summer. The flowers are huge and are about 4 to 5 inches in diameter. Despite its pretty and delicate appearance the blue poppy has the power to endure harsh weather, especially winter, and blooms to its full beauty in spring. 

7- The National Flower of Maldives (Pink Rose)

Pink Rose : National Flower of Maldives 

The people of Maldives give a high regard to Finifenmaa which is known as Pink Rose in general. From more than 100 species of the family Rosaceae the Pink Rose is also a member and the climate of Maldives is highly suitable for its growth. The Pink Rose is botanically identified as Rose polyantha and it was declared as the National Flower of Maldives on 25th July 1985. 

8. The National Flower of Afghanistan ( Tulip )

Tulip : National flower of Afghanistan 

Tulip is considered the national flower of Afghanistan. Although Tulip is very much associated with Netherlands and other European countries but only few of us know that this magnificent flower was originated in the Pamir and Hindukush mountain ranges of Afghanistan and central Asia. In the Persian empire Tulip was named as “Laleh” and it was grown in Iran, Afghanistan, Turkey and other parts of Central Asia.