Centuries after the Nativity, Christian communities integrated scriptural imagery of flora and botanicals into the evolving celebration of Christmas, imbuing commonplace holiday decorations with profound theological significance. While the Bible does not mandate a floral tradition for the Dec. 25 observance, its pages are rich with references to plants, trees, and fragrant resins that convey core spiritual concepts such as renewal, purity, and enduring hope. This integration of ancient symbols and devotional practice has given rise to the layered meanings behind the lilies, roses, and evergreens that characterize the modern Christmas season.
Tracing the Origins of Sacred Scenery
The shift from scriptural symbolism to Christmas custom was a gradual process, reflecting how early believers sought to connect Christ’s birth directly with God’s established promises. Plants named in the Bible, and even those later inspired by its overarching themes, were adopted by Christian artists and theologians to illustrate the meaning of the incarnation.
For example, Lilies, frequently cited in the Gospels (Matthew 6:28–29) as illustrations of divine provision and trust, came to signify the purity and holiness associated with the Virgin Mary. White lilies often appear in depictions of the Annunciation and Nativity scenes, moving their scriptural role as lessons in faith into a powerful Christmas symbol of moral perfection and divine initiative.
Similarly, the Rose, celebrated poetically in the Song of Solomon and prophetically in Isaiah 35:1 (“blossom as the rose”), became a metaphor for redemption and renewal. Since the Middle Ages, the rose’s unexpected bloom has served as an enduring representation of Christ entering a cold world, with interpretations linking the Rose of Sharon to the Messiah. Its duality—beauty intertwined with thorns—further connects Christmas joy to the suffering promised on the cross.
Evergreens and Enduring Promises
Perhaps the most recognized botanical tie to the season is the Evergreen (including pines, firs, and holly), which fundamentally symbolizes eternal life and resilience. Scripturally, towering trees often represent spiritual vitality and God’s unchanging nature (Psalm 1:3). Evergreens, which maintain their vitality through the depth of winter, were quickly adopted into Christmas tradition—from wreaths to trees—to remind observers that God’s presence and promises remain constant, regardless of the surrounding darkness.
The traditional imagery of Holly draws upon this evergreen permanence, combining it with symbols of future sacrifice. Though not directly named in the Bible, Christians visually connected its sharp leaves to Christ’s crown of thorns and its vivid red berries to his redemptive blood, transforming the plant into a devotional tool that links the Nativity to the passion narrative.
Gifts of Prophecy and Humility
Two of the most direct botanical links to the Christmas story are the sacred tree resins brought by the Magi: Frankincense and Myrrh (Matthew 2:11). While not flowers, these plant products carry clear theological weight. Frankincense, used in temple worship, symbolizes Christ’s divinity and role as High Priest, while Myrrh, used for anointing and burial, foreshadows his mortality and eventual sacrifice.
In contrast, the Poinsettia, native to Mexico, is not scriptural but carries a rich Christian folklore tradition. The plant’s star-like bracts (modified leaves) visually reference the Star of Bethlehem, and its brilliant red draws a connection to Christ’s blood and sacrifice. According to legend, the vibrant plant grew from a humble offering given on Christmas Eve, emphasizing the biblical value placed on simple, faith-filled devotion over material wealth.
These long-standing traditions confirm that the flowers and plants used in Christmas décor are more than mere festive ornamentation. They function as visual encyclopedias, summarizing key biblical truths and bridging the moment of Christ’s birth with the entirety of the Christian redemptive narrative. As these traditions continue, they offer an opportunity for deeper reflection on the spiritual significance underlying the beauty of the season.