Flower vs Blossom
The term “blossom” often causes confusion, as it literally means flower – such as cherry blossom or plum blossom – but is only used to describe the flowers of some trees. Meanwhile, “flower” is the term used for the reproductive part of all flowering plants. While native speakers typically understand the differences between these two words, those who are not native English speakers may struggle to decide on the correct term to use in a given context. This article will help clarify the differences between flowers and blossoms.
Flower
Flowers are essentially the reproductive parts of all flowering plants. They are often colorful and attractive to humans, as well as aromatic. The seeds and fruits of a tree develop from its flowers, and the main purpose of flowers is plant reproduction. However, humans have traditionally used flowers for various purposes, such as romance, decoration, and religious ceremonies. Some flowers also have medicinal properties, while others have nutritional value. Since plants cannot move from one place to another, insects, birds, and animals serve as vectors, carrying pollen from one flower to another for reproduction to occur.
Flowers have been associated with humankind for a long time, and some flowers have come to represent certain attributes. For example, roses symbolize love and passion, while poppies are used for condolence purposes, and daisies represent innocence. As they are reproductive in nature, flowers have been depicted as female genitalia by many artists across different cultures. Flowers make perfect gifts and presents for virtually every occasion.
Blossom
Blossom is a term typically used for the flowers of fruit-bearing trees, such as plum, apple, cherry, and pear trees. These trees flourish or blossom in the spring. The word “blossom” is sometimes used to refer to the first signs of a flower emerging from a bud. Thus, “to blossom” means “to grow” or “to flourish.” Blossoms of fruit trees are mostly pink, although white blossoms also exist. One distinguishing feature of blossom trees is their tendency to lose flower petals, which can often be seen on the ground underneath the tree.
Key Takeaways
• Flowers are the reproductive parts of all flowering plants, while blossoms are the flowers of fruit trees that flourish in the spring.
• Common examples of blossoms include cherry blossoms and plum blossoms, which are typically pink in color, although white blossoms, such as almond blossoms, also exist.
• The term “blossom” is also used as a verb, meaning to flourish or to flower.
