KUALA LUMPUR – Carnations were the undisputed stars of Mother’s Day celebrations, as flower shops across the nation grappled with overwhelming demand.
According to a survey conducted by Scoop at flower shops in Bangsar and Petaling Street, carnations were the most popular choice among customers.
Flower shop proprietors said carnations are cherished for their symbolism of motherhood.

One florist in Bangsar, Nithia Anthony Raju, 37, said that orders for carnations had been sold out since Friday.
“We’ve consistently observed a high demand for carnations every Mother’s Day. People opt for carnations because of their significance to mothers.
“There are various colours available, but red or pink are the most popular choices. Pink carnations symbolise gratitude and affection, making them the preferred option for expressing appreciation to mothers.
“Moreover, you can create a beautiful bouquet without breaking the bank, and they still exude elegance and grace,” Nithia, who works in a shop named Floristika explained.

Isha Fadzroul, 20, a florist employee in Floralife Central along Jalan Tun H.S. Lee noted that those seeking more budget-friendly options for Mother’s Day often opt for roses because they are cheaper than carnations.
“Currently, the price of carnations is a bit steep, so many individuals opt for roses instead.
“The price of one rose is RM3, whereas carnations are RM5 each. Consequently, purchasing them in a bouquet can be quite expensive,” she said.
Isha also highlighted the versatility of roses, which is why they remain a popular choice for Mother’s Day.
“Additionally, roses are readily available and can last for a week.
“As for colour choices, many prefer red and yellow due to their strong fragrance.”
Meanwhile, as a luxurious option for Mother’s Day, orchids are chosen to express appreciation.

Janice Chong, 38, who operates in Orchid Culture in Bangsar Shopping Centre, said that despite the higher price tag associated with these elegant blooms, people are still willing to splurge as orchids symbolise elegance and sophistication.
“Even though they are a bit pricey, they are worth the cost because orchids are relatively easy to care for.
“Orchids thrive indoors, requiring minimal effort for maintenance,” she said.

Janice added that orchids are preferred because they are easy to maintain and only need watering once a week, making them suitable for busy working mothers.
“White orchids, in particular, have a longer lifespan, lasting over a month, whereas typically, orchids last for about three weeks.
“Just ensure they are placed in a suitable location with adequate ventilation to prolong their lifespan,” she said. – May 12, 2024