Guide to Flowers in Egyptian Hieroglyphics
Ancient Egyptians used flowers not only in art and religious rituals but also represented them in their writing system—hieroglyphics. Flowers were often linked to gods, rebirth, the Nile, and the divine order of the world (ma’at). Below are the most significant flowers found in Egyptian hieroglyphs.
1. Lotus (Blue Lotus / Nymphaea caerulea)
Hieroglyph:
Often depicted as a long-stemmed flower with an open bloom or bud.
Gardiner Sign List Code: M12Symbolism:
Rebirth and creation
Associated with the sun god Ra, as the lotus opened with the sunrise
Linked to the god Nefertem, god of beauty and healing
Use:
Found in religious texts, offering scenes, and royal tomb art.
2. Papyrus Flower (Cyperus papyrus)
Hieroglyph:
Tall, triangular stem with tufted top
Gardiner Code: M13Symbolism:
Symbol of Lower Egypt
Represented fertility, creation, and the Nile
Associated with the goddess Wadjet, protector of Lower Egypt
Use:
Often paired with the lotus (symbol of Upper Egypt) to symbolize unified Egypt.
3. Sedge and Bee (Symbolic but botanical)
Hieroglyph:
Sedge: A type of grass/flower head (Gardiner Code M23)
Bee: Symbol of kingship (L2)
Symbolism:
Together they form the phrase “He of the Sedge and the Bee,” a title of the Pharaoh
Represent Upper and Lower Egypt
4. Lily (possibly a type of white lotus or water lily)
Hieroglyph:
Appears similar to the lotus but sometimes stylized differentlySymbolism:
Purity and protection
Frequently seen in offering scenes
Use:
Appears in decorative motifs and garlands used in ceremonies and tombs
5. Bouquet / Flower Garland
Hieroglyph:
Bundled lotus or papyrus stems tied togetherCommon in offering scenes
Symbolism:
Celebration and offerings
Eternal life and honor of the dead
Additional Notes
Colors mattered:
Blue: divine, celestial
Green: life, regeneration
White: purity
Combination in art: Lotus and papyrus together often represented unity between Upper and Lower Egypt.
