What Kind of Flower Was Once Used as Money

Money makes the world go round.

But did you know that at one point in time, flowers were considered a form of currency?

That’s right, the world once traded in petals and stems instead of paper bills and coins.

History of the Flower Currency

Ancient Greeks and Romans were the first to utilize flowers as money because they thought each type of bloom had a set monetary worth.

A red rose, for instance, was worth 10 cents whereas a sprig of parsley was only worth one penny.

The Tulip Mania that swept across medieval Europe made tulips one of the most prized flowers, and Tulips were traded for outrageous sums of money.

People were willing to pay exorbitant prices for these delicate blooms because they were so charmed with them, which caused a speculative bubble that eventually burst.

The Rise of the Rose As a Currency

But the rose was the flower that actually revolutionized currency, sweeping the globe.

Many cultures, particularly ancient Persia, where they were revered as a representation of beauty and love, used roses as money. In medieval England, where they were a standard at weddings, festivals, and other events, roses were also used as money.

Even a fragrant tea that was said to have therapeutic qualities, was made from rose petals. Additionally, the rose is a common present for important occasions and a priceless item in and of itself because it has long been connected to love.

Why Flowers Were Considered as Currencies?

So why did flowers first start to be used as money?

They were plentiful and simple to cultivate and collect, for starters. They didn’t take up much room and were also simple to move.

And perhaps most significantly, they held symbolic meaning, which attracted people seeking to express their emotions or mark significant occasions.

Final Words

Flowers still maintain a special place in our emotions and our traditions, even though they are no longer utilized as cash.

Therefore, keep in mind that the last time you received flowers, they were worth their weight in gold. And who knows, maybe they will be once more in the future.

The beauty and symbolism of these blooms will always be a tribute to the ageless value of nature and the emotions it arouses.

In conclusion, the world of banking and commerce has advanced greatly since the days of flower currency.

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