The Hydrangea Dilemma
The Meaning of Hydrangea Flowers
Hydrangeas are also very popular in Bali, as they serve as offerings for religious ceremonies—specifically for canang. Balinese Hindus use canang daily, with an even greater demand for flowers during major religious festivals.
Many Balinese people who use this flower are often unaware of its origins. It was originally introduced from outside Bali as an ornamental plant for home gardens. Its cultivation expanded from the highlands of Tabanan Regency to the upland areas of Buleleng Regency—specifically the villages of Wanagiri, Asah Gobleg, and Gesing.
Hydrangeas hold various meanings based on the beliefs and stories of different regions. Here are some of them:
According to Japanese legend, the hydrangea flower signifies an apology from a Japanese emperor who had neglected the woman he loved due to affairs of state, demonstrating just how deeply he cared for her.
Based on the story above, a bouquet of hydrangeas signifies the giver's heartfelt gratitude and sincere feelings in appreciation of the recipient's understanding.
Some say that this flower signifies arrogance, reflected in its lavish, abundant blooms that yield very few seeds.
This flower is also given to someone who has rejected a declaration of love, serving as a sign that they are heartless and cold. Conversely, it can also be presented to convey a "No, thank you" message of rejection. How could you be so heartless!
In the mid-century, some people believed that young women who cultivated and chose hydrangeas would never find a life partner.
Beyond the discussion regarding the symbolism of hydrangeas, there is an ecological aspect that warrants critical examination: the fact that these flowers are being cultivated on state forest land in the upstream areas of Buleleng Regency. Local communities encroaching upon and clearing the forest for conversion often fail to grasp the forest's true function or the distinction between a forest and a cultivated plantation. Economic considerations and the ease of access to state forest land are frequently exploited by communities living along the forest boundaries.
Differences between a forest and a plantation/orchard
There is a shared understanding and awareness regarding the preservation of natural forest ecosystems. Forests formed over thousands of years are difficult to restore once they have been damaged.
A forest acts like a foam mattress sponge; when it rains, the upper canopy serves as an umbrella, intercepting the rainfall and allowing it to drip slowly down to the lower levels of the trees, with water gradually channeling down via branches and climbing vines. On the forest floor, layers of accumulated leaves absorb large quantities of water, which is then taken up by the humus formed from the decaying foliage.
Excess water is absorbed by the soil. During the rainy season, root and plant growth accelerates water uptake to fuel development. Dense forests retain vast volumes of water—acting much like a sponge that absorbs and stores it—thereby providing a reserve for the dry season.
I no longer use pelung flowers; my regular canang orders use banana leaves and bamboo pins, without the pelung flowers.
We can only change ourselves; we cannot change the world.
