Malayalam is a Dravidian language spoken predominantly in the Indian state of Kerala and in some parts of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and other neighboring states. Kerala is known as the “Land of Flowers” due to its rich biodiversity and the presence of various species of flowers. Flowers hold a significant place in the culture and tradition of Kerala, and they are an integral part of many religious rituals and celebrations.
Malayalam, the native language of Kerala, has unique and beautiful names for various types of flowers found in the region. The flowers name in Malayalam are a blend of Sanskrit, Tamil, and Malayalam words, making them unique and rich in meaning. These names have been passed down through generations and are still widely used today.
Some of the commonly known include Chembarathi (Hibiscus), Thulasi (Holy Basil), Mullapoovu (Jasmine), Poovu (Flower), Thumbapoo (Golden Shower), Chethi (Ixora), Pookkalam (Floral Rangoli), Manjal Poovu (Turmeric Flower), and so on. Learning the flowers name in Malayalam not only helps to appreciate the beauty of the language but also adds to the cultural knowledge and understanding of the people of Kerala.
- Popular Flowers name in Malayalam
- 1. Chembarathi (ചെമ്പരത്തി) – Hibiscus
- 2. Thulasi (തുളസി) – Holy Basil
- 3. Mullapoovu (മുല്ലപ്പൂ) – Jasmine
- 4. Thumbapoo (തുമ്പാപ്പൂ) – Golden Shower
- 5. Chethi (ചെത്തി) – Ixora
- 6. Aripoo (അരിപ്പൂ) – Lily
- 7. Shankhupushpam (ശങ്ഖുപുഷ്പം) – Conch flower
- 8. Pookkalam (പൂക്കളം) – Floral Rangoli
- 9. Manjal Poovu (മഞ്ഞൾ പൂവ്) – Turmeric Flower
- 10. Ambal Poovu (അമ്പൽ പൂവ്) – Cosmos
- 11. Mullakka (മുള്ളക്ക) – Jasmine
- 12. Mantharam (മന്താരം) – Chrysanthemum
- 13. Nandyarvattam (നന്ദ്യാർവട്ടം) – Marigold
- 14. Thamara (താമര) – Lotus
- List of 30 Flowers name in Malayalam and English
Popular Flowers name in Malayalam
Malayalam, the native language of the Indian state of Kerala, has a rich vocabulary for different types of flowers. Knowing the flowers name in Malayalam not only adds to one’s vocabulary but also enhances their understanding and appreciation of the rich cultural heritage of Kerala. Some of the popular flowers name in Malayalam are:
1. Chembarathi (ചെമ്പരത്തി) – Hibiscus
Chembarathi, commonly known as hibiscus, is a vibrant flower with large petals in shades of red, pink, yellow, and white. In Malayalam, it is also known as “Japa Pushpam” because it is believed to be a favorite of Lord Vishnu, who is also known as Japa. The flower is also used in Ayurvedic medicine for its therapeutic properties. The leaves and flowers of the hibiscus plant are used to make herbal teas and oil extracts that are beneficial for hair and skin.
2. Thulasi (തുളസി) – Holy Basil
Thulasi, also known as Holy Basil or Tulsi, is considered a sacred plant in India and is commonly found in many households. In Malayalam, the plant is known as “Tulasi” or “Thulasi” and is worshipped as a manifestation of the Hindu goddess Lakshmi. The leaves of the plant are used in Ayurvedic medicine for their medicinal properties and are believed to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties. It is also used in cooking and is believed to enhance the flavor and aroma of food.
3. Mullapoovu (മുല്ലപ്പൂ) – Jasmine
Mullapoovu, commonly known as Jasmine, is a fragrant flower with small white petals that bloom at night. In Malayalam, it is also known as “Mulla” and is used in various religious ceremonies, especially in Hindu weddings. The flower is also used in Ayurvedic medicine for its therapeutic properties, and its oil is believed to have a calming effect on the mind and body.
4. Thumbapoo (തുമ്പാപ്പൂ) – Golden Shower
Thumbapoo, commonly known as Golden Shower, is a bright yellow flower that grows on a large tree. In Malayalam, it is also known as “Kani Konna” and is considered the state flower of Kerala. The flower is used in various religious ceremonies and is also used as a natural dye for textiles. The tree is also known for its medicinal properties and is used in Ayurvedic medicine for treating skin diseases and digestive disorders.
5. Chethi (ചെത്തി) – Ixora
Chethi, also known as Ixora, is a small bushy plant with clusters of small flowers in shades of red, pink, and yellow. In Malayalam, it is also known as “Chethi” and is widely cultivated in Kerala for its ornamental value. The plant is also used in Ayurvedic medicine for its medicinal properties, and its roots are believed to have astringent and antiseptic properties. The flower is also used in Hindu rituals and is believed to have a purifying effect on the mind and body.
6. Aripoo (അരിപ്പൂ) – Lily
Aripoo, commonly known as Lily, is a flower with large showy petals in shades of white, pink, and yellow. In Malayalam, it is also known as “Ari” or “Arivu” and is widely cultivated for its ornamental value. The flower is used in various religious ceremonies, especially in Hindu weddings, and is believed to symbolize purity and devotion.
7. Shankhupushpam (ശങ്ഖുപുഷ്പം) – Conch flower
Shankhupushpam, commonly known as a Conch flower, is a small blue or purple flower that grows in wetlands and marshy areas. In Malayalam, it is also known as “Shankhapushpam” and is used in Ayurvedic medicine for its medicinal properties. The flower is believed to have diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic properties and is used for treating various ailments, including urinary tract infections and fever.
8. Pookkalam (പൂക്കളം) – Floral Rangoli
Pookkalam, also known as Floral Rangoli, is a decorative pattern made using flowers during the Onam festival in Kerala. In Malayalam, the word “Pookkalam” literally means “a carpet of flowers.” The tradition of making Pookkalam dates back centuries and is believed to symbolize the arrival of King Mahabali, a mythical king who is revered by the people of Kerala.
9. Manjal Poovu (മഞ്ഞൾ പൂവ്) – Turmeric Flower
Manjal Poovu, commonly known as Turmeric Flower, is a small white flower that grows on the turmeric plant. In Malayalam, it is also known as “Manjal Poo” and is considered auspicious in Hindu rituals. The flower is believed to have a purifying effect and is used for decorating Hindu deities during festivals and religious ceremonies.
10. Ambal Poovu (അമ്പൽ പൂവ്) – Cosmos
Ambal Poovu, commonly known as Cosmos, is a flower with pink, purple, and white petals that bloom in the fall. In Malayalam, it is also known as “Ambal Poo” and is widely cultivated for its ornamental value. The flower is also used in Ayurvedic medicine for its therapeutic properties, and its leaves and flowers are believed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
11. Mullakka (മുള്ളക്ക) – Jasmine
Mullakka, also known as Jasmine, is a small white or yellow flower with a sweet fragrance. In Malayalam, it is also known as “Mallika” or “Mullapoo” and is widely cultivated for its ornamental value and its essential oil, which is used in perfumes and cosmetics. The flower is also used in various religious ceremonies, especially in Hinduism, where it is believed to symbolize purity, devotion, and love.
12. Mantharam (മന്താരം) – Chrysanthemum
Mantharam, also known as Chrysanthemum, is a flower with a range of colors, including white, yellow, and pink. In Malayalam, it is also known as “Shavanti” or “Sevanti” and is widely cultivated for its ornamental value. The flower is used in various religious ceremonies and is believed to symbolize optimism, joy, and happiness.
13. Nandyarvattam (നന്ദ്യാർവട്ടം) – Marigold
Nandyarvattam, also known as Marigold, is a bright orange or yellow flower that blooms all year round. In Malayalam, it is also known as “Chethi” or “Chethikkoduveli” and is widely cultivated for its ornamental value and its medicinal properties. The flower is used in Ayurvedic medicine for its therapeutic properties and is believed to have anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and analgesic properties.
14. Thamara (താമര) – Lotus
Thamara, also known as Lotus, is a large aquatic flower with a pink or white color. In Malayalam, it is also known as “Kamalam” or “Padmam” and is considered sacred in Hinduism and Buddhism. The flower is used in various religious ceremonies and is believed to symbolize purity, enlightenment, and spiritual awakening. The lotus plant is also used in Ayurvedic medicine for its therapeutic properties, and its seeds are believed to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging effects.
List of 30 Flowers name in Malayalam and English
Flowers have always been an integral part of Indian culture, and Malayalam is no exception. With a rich history of floral traditions, the language boasts a vast vocabulary when it comes to naming flowers. Whether you’re a florist looking for inspiration or simply someone who enjoys nature’s beauty, this list of 30 flowers in Malayalam and English will keep you captivated.
| No | Malayalam Name | English Name |
| 1 | Chembarathi | Hibiscus |
| 2 | Thulasi | Holy Basil |
| 3 | Mullapoovu | Jasmine |
| 4 | Thumbapoo | Golden Shower |
| 5 | Chethi | Ixora |
| 6 | Aripoo | Lily |
| 7 | Shankhupushpam | Conch flower |
| 8 | Pookkalam | Floral Rangoli |
| 9 | Manjal Poovu | Turmeric Flower |
| 10 | Ambal Poovu | Cosmos |
| 11 | Mulla | Rose |
| 12 | Kurinji | Neelakurinji |
| 13 | Kurumulaku | Black Pepper |
| 14 | Neelambaram | Bluebell |
| 15 | Thaamara | Lotus |
| 16 | Thamizhthamarai | Gladiolus |
| 17 | Parijatham | Night-flowering Jasmine |
| 18 | Kanikonna | Golden Shower |
| 19 | Poovarasu | Queen’s Flower |
| 20 | Aththipoo | Shoe Flower |
| 21 | Mandharam | Chrysanthemum |
| 22 | Nandyarvattam | Marigold |
| 23 | Kurinjilavu | Lilac |
| 24 | Kakkapoo | Cockscomb |
| 25 | Manjaltharamezhuthum | Purple Viper’s-bugloss |
| 26 | Chamanthi | Chrysanthemum (Garden Daisy) |
| 27 | Mukkutti | Little Ironweed |
| 28 | Mullilavu | Wild Rose |
| 29 | Kasthuri Manjal | Wild Turmeric |
Flowers for different occasions and their names
Religious flowers are used for offering to the deities during religious rituals and ceremonies. Wedding flowers symbolize purity, love, and new beginnings. Funeral flowers are used to pay homage to the deceased and express condolences to the family. Here are more details about the flowers for different occasions and their names in Malayalam:
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Wedding Flowers
- Mukkutti – Also known as ‘little tree’ or ‘little pearl,’ this flower symbolizes beauty, happiness, and prosperity.
- Kanakambaram – Also known as ‘golden flower,’ this flower represents elegance, grace, and purity.
- Thumbapoo – Also known as ‘tuberoses,’ this flower symbolizes deep love and romance.
Funeral Flowers
- Mullappoo – Also known as ‘jasmine,’ this flower symbolizes purity and innocence.
- Karimkurinji – This flower is also known as ‘Strobilanthes kunthiana,’ and it represents memories, grief, and sympathy.
Religious Flowers
- Sankhu Pushpam – This flower is also known as ‘conch flower,’ and it symbolizes purity, spirituality, and devotion.
- Karuka – Also known as ‘Pongamia pinnata,’ this flower represents purification and is offered to Lord Vishnu.
- Arali – Also known as ‘oleander,’ this flower is used in the worship of Goddess Kali and represents beauty and strength.
Importance of learning flower names in Malayalam
Flowers are a beautiful creation of nature, and they have been appreciated by humans for centuries. In the southern Indian state of Kerala, flowers play a significant role in the culture and traditions. Therefore, learning flowers name in Malayalam is essential for individuals who want to understand the language and culture. Learning flower names in Malayalam has several benefits, including:
Understanding the culture and traditions of Kerala
- Flowers play an important role in the culture and traditions of Kerala.
- Knowing the names of flowers and their significance can help one understand the beliefs and practices of the people of Kerala.
- It can also deepen one’s appreciation for the rich culture and heritage of the region.
Communicating effectively with locals
- Knowing the names of flowers in Malayalam can help one communicate more effectively with the locals.
- It can also facilitate better understanding and cultural exchange.
- By speaking the local language, one can build stronger relationships with the people of Kerala.
Appreciating the beauty of nature
- Kerala is known for its lush greenery and diverse flora.
- By learning the names of flowers in Malayalam, one can appreciate the beauty of nature more deeply.
- It can also help one identify different species of flowers and understand their unique features and characteristics.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, learning the names of flowers in Malayalam is an essential aspect of understanding the culture and traditions of Kerala. It helps one communicate more effectively with locals and appreciate the beauty of nature in the region. Whether it is for religious ceremonies, weddings, or funerals, flowers play a significant role in the customs and beliefs of the people of Kerala.
By knowing the significance of each flower and its Malayalam name, one can gain a deeper understanding of the customs and traditions of the region. Therefore, taking the time to learn the names of flowers in Malayalam is a valuable investment for anyone who wants to fully immerse themselves in the culture and traditions of Kerala.
FAQs
Why is it important to learn the names of flowers in Malayalam?
Learning the names of flowers in Malayalam is important for understanding the culture and traditions of Kerala, communicating effectively with locals, and appreciating the beauty of nature in the region.
What is the Malayalam name of blue Colour flowers?
The Malayalam name for blue color flowers is “Neelakurinji”
What is an orange flower called in Malayalam?
The Malayalam name for the orange flower is “Komalam” (കൊമളം).
What is the Malayalam name of gypsy flower?
The Malayalam name for the gypsy flower is “Kudamullangi” (കുടമുള്ളങ്ങി).
How do I say “flower” in Malayalam?
The word for flower in Malayalam is “Poo”.