African Flower Arrangements

African flower arranging is a rich continental pastime.

African flower arranging dates back to the ancient Egyptians, who used plant materials for decorative purposes. Though the civilization was built in a dry, desert climate, ancient Egyptians had a deep love of nature. They showed their respect for nature, which was the gods' gift to humanity, through cultivation of elaborate gardens.

The Nile valley, which provided most of ancient Egypt's life, is home to a vast array of plant life. Ancient Egyptians held feasts in honor of the river, celebrating its natural offerings. During these feasts, garlands were often worn on a person's head and neck. Guests were presented with a single flower as they entered highly ornamental homes decorated in wreaths of native flora.

African flower arranging was the chief decoration in houses. Homes often were sparsely decorated except for ornate vases celebrating an array of wildlife. Flower bases and stems provided motivation for columns and inspired ornaments.

During the holiday season, traditional African flower arranging is known as Kwanzaa free-flowing style. These flower arrangements are large and are meant to have a free, wild look. Palm leaves and rubber foliage, both natural flora available in Africa, are used in addition to an abundance of green foliage.

A main theme of Kwanzaa is the celebration of crops and nature. Seven principles lay the groundwork for Kwanzaa: unity, self-determination, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, faith, and collective work and responsibility. During the holiday season, seven candles representing these principles are placed in a Kinara candleholder. The Kinara is surrounded by flowers in the traditional Kwanzaa colors green and red.

Red and green flowers comprise most African flower arrangements during Kwanzaa. Garlands made of fresh flowers are placed on the mantle. Coupled with scented candles, these flowers complement African homes during the sacred holiday season.

African flower arranging is also done for traditional weddings. Wedding feasts can be held in enclosures of acacia branches. Bush-willow pods are sometimes thrown in place of America's traditional rice.

In Sudan, a bridegroom is welcomed to the wedding site by the mother of the bride who gives him a garland of flowers meant as a symbolic familial welcoming. After the ceremony, dancers shower the bride and groom with flowers. This gesture is thought to ensure the couple's fertility.

African flower arranging is a historically rich cultural pastime. Its purposes have evolved over time to incorporate a myriad of traditions, including feasts and weddings. The symbolism of each African flower arrangement contributes to the customs and beliefs of each civilization over time living throughout the continent.