Everyone knows the phrase: «A rose by any other name would smell like candy» and sure the name of a flower may not represent much symbolism, but the meaning of flowers What you consider to be your favorites can have a significant impact on your Valentine's Day gift or any other memorial day.
Meaning of the Flowers
Probably, you will choose bouquets made up of the species that your recipient likes the most, the ones that look the most beautiful or smell the best. Tulips, for example, are a safe and quick purchase at your local grocery store and roses, obviously, are a romantic gesture for special occasions, but both gifts have important meanings that you should be aware of.
A rose is not just a rose, it carries a powerful message to its recipient that can turn a simple bouquet of flowers into a beautiful expression of love, gratitude or friendship. On the other hand, you probably know that there are different meanings for roses of different colors.
While many flowers are linked to romance and passion, you may be surprised to learn that some of the most popular ones actually symbolize negativity, anger, or loss, and you don't want to mistakenly convey that message in a gift. That is why, below, you will find the meaning of the most popular flowers and others of great interest.
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Lotus
They are very curious flowers, since their development implies that every night they submerge into the mud where they come out and miraculously the next day they bloom again in the morning. In many Eastern cultures, they symbolize rebirth, self-regeneration, purity, and enlightenment.
Lilies
Lily bouquets are some of the most cheerful and have an equally positive meaning. But depending on the color, they will have a unique symbolism, for example:
- Whites symbolize purity.
- Roses, on the other hand, prosperity.
- Reds mean passion.
- Oranges symbolize pride.
- Yellows mean gratitude.
Carnation
These flowers are often used by high school kids who want to express their admiration for that special someone, but secretly. If you pick one of these flowers, choose a white ("sweet and lovely") or pink ("I'll never forget you"). But stay away from other colors, the two-tone version means "I can't be with you" and the yellow ones mean "disdain." Not exactly an admirable sentiment.
Magnolia
These stunning flowers grace the trees as spring arrives, making everyone who sees them excited for the season to come. That is why the logical meaning of flowers in this case symbolizes a love for nature.
Dahlia
These flowers represent dignity and greatness, so they would feel right at home on a momentous occasion like a graduation or a new job.
Iris
These flowers have long symbolized royalty, but also wisdom and respect. So, that means it's definitely a compliment if you get a bouquet of irises.
Red roses
You may not be too surprised by the meaning of flowers on this occasion, however, it must be recognized that red roses are some of the most romantic there are. These are the perfect flowers for Valentine's Day, representing love and desire.
Margaritas
Daisies are the first level of Girl Scouts, so it's fitting that they represent innocence. With its cheerful appearance, the symbolism definitely makes sense.
Sunflower
Legend has it that when Spanish explorers arrived in the Americas, they thought sunflowers were made of real gold. Can you blame them? Of course, they were wrong. That's where the sunflower got its "false wealth" symbolism.
Red Tulips
Red roses aren't the only flower with romantic meaning, so you don't have to spend a lot of money to show your dedication. Red tulips are also considered a declaration of love, and they are especially beautiful in the spring.
Kratom
Depending on their color, they can have several different meanings. For example, blue sage means "thinking of you," but in red, it means "forever mine." So, if you are adding a salvia to your partner's bouquet, you should pay close attention to its shades.
Edelweiss
Fans of Sound of Music, also known as La Novicia Rebelde, already know the song, but did you know that there is a flower with that name? Edelweiss represents courage and devotion, probably because it thrives in harsh alpine conditions.
Amaryllis
These assertive flowers seem to be full of emotion, so they signify pride. In other words, they can symbolize your triumph over getting something and you can't wait to share it.
Myrtus
If you need a special flower to add to a wedding bouquet, look no further than this one. It signifies good luck and love in a marriage, so there is no better flower to carry down the aisle to the altar.
Rosemary
Rosemary means memory, perhaps because it is said to improve memory. Popular medicine emphasizes using a sprig of rosemary on the hair to prevent hair loss or prepare some rosemary tea for the same purpose.
Hibiscus
Hibiscus is not only delicious in teas and desserts, it also symbolizes delicate beauty. Additionally, they are commonly found in Hawaiian hula symbology, as it is the official state flower.
Thought
Derived from the French word «pansee«, this flower means reflection and remembrance. This is why you often see them planted in funeral plots.
Lavender
From its wonderful scent to its beautiful purple hue, a bouquet of lavender is a message of devotion. It also has calming aromatherapy properties, so a bouquet of lavender can make a great gift for a student or anyone who needs a little relaxation.
Chrysanthemum
It may be hard to spell, but there is a simple meaning in these flowers: honesty. At the same time, they look lovely as part of a fall bouquet and because they can withstand cool temperatures, they often appear in the landscape this season.
Black Eyed Susan
The flower's name probably comes from an Old English poem by John Gay about a woman by that name. It is believed to have emerged during colonial times, when settlers were introduced to the wildflower on the plains. Flowers represent justice, a much needed feeling.
Narcissus
The meaning of the flowers on this occasion is a good omen, that is, of good fortune and desire. If you want to give these flowers to someone special, try to do it when you get a new job, have a new home or simply when you are going to receive a new member of your family. Among other words, it symbolizes the “new beginning”.
Zinnia
While they are one of the boldest flowers in a garden, they are actually quite sentimental. In fact, they serve as a reminder to never forget absent friends. Send it to someone you love and lives far away, it will be a nice gift that will make them think of you.
Lilac
The meaning of these beautiful flowers varies depending on the tone. Purple lilacs represent the first emotions of love, while magenta ones symbolize love and passion, perfect for more serious love.
Lilies of the valley
These little bell-shaped flowers carry a message that is as innocent as it sounds. They symbolize purity, happiness, luck and humility. Although they smell delicious, do not be fooled, because they are flowers that you should not eat at all.
morning glory
These early risers greet the day with beauty and will completely take over your yard if you're not careful. They also represent affection.
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Peony
Interestingly, these sweet, many-petaled flowers represented "anger" to the Victorians. Today, however, peonies are linked to romance, marriage, and even shyness.
purple crocuses
They are the first signs of spring, so it makes sense that these flowers symbolize youthful happiness. It's also the way we feel when we see them start to peek through the snow at the first hot moment.
Chamomile
Although it's a symbol of rest and relaxation today (think chamomile tea), this flower meant "energy in adversity" in the XNUMXth century. These days, perhaps you can combine the two meanings as you enjoy your morning cup of tea and prepare to face the day.
snapdragons
Perhaps not surprisingly, given the name, but the symbolism behind it isn't exactly friendly. They represent deception, which is why you may not want to give these flowers to your special someone for Valentine's Day.
red poppy
If you're from the United States, you probably already know this because of Veterans Day. The red poppy represents 'remembrance', which is why people wear poppies on their lapels on that day.
purple hyacinth
The purple version of these flowers means “please forgive me”, originating from the myth of Apollo and Hyacinthus (the former accidentally killing the latter). Therefore, it is the best flower to ask or grant forgiveness.
Yarrow
Another quirky bloom with a traditional message that might surprise you, as it symbolizes love. While its appearance might not seem perfectly suited for a formal bouquet due to its similarity to a marijuana leaf, remember its true meaning the next time someone presents you with some wildflowers.
Do not forget me
Yes, that's his name, believe it or not. The meaning of this flower asks that you do not forget someone, therefore a distant friend would surely appreciate these delicate flowers.
Anemone
These flowers take their name from the Greek word for wind (anemos) since, his life is very short. In modern times they symbolize fragility. Because they are so ephemeral, these little flowers are best viewed in your garden rather than in a bouquet.
Rhododendron
The Victorians labeled this flower "beware", a very appropriate meaning of flowers, due to the fact that they are quite poisonous. If you don't plan on eating them, they make a beautiful addition to your garden.
Tansy
These yellow flowers seem friendly, but they carry a sinister message: "I declare war on you." If you are not ready to fight someone, leave this flower out of your bouquet.
Verbena
Because of their prominent place in religious ceremonies throughout history, these little purple flowers mean "pray for me." They can also represent protection from evil, which may be why they were featured in those ceremonies in the first place.
white clover
Take a second to see the flowers that spring from your clover. They frequently appear in the yard, reminding you that others are always thinking of you.
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Violeta
Loyalty, devotion, fidelity. What's not to love in lovely violet? Those are feelings that almost everyone can appreciate.
Camelia
These stunning, lush flowers were beloved by the Victorians who gave them the meaning of "my fate is in your hands." Adapt the color of the flower to your relationship, that is, the white one should be given to someone you like, instead the pink one is for someone who is lost and the red one is better for another situation that deserves a compliment.
Hyssop
This purple blue flower represents cleanliness and sacrifice. Anyone who has unresolved difficulties knows that these two concepts are completely intertwined.
white jasmine
There's a reason this fragrant flower often appears in perfumes. Its aroma is as powerful as its message: sweet love.
Cornflower
Also called as "bachelor button", it is a specially blessed flower. Give someone these flowers as a good luck charm, because they are especially linked to wealth and good fortune.
Heliotrope
Roses are not the only passionate flowers in your garden. The Heliotrope represents eternal love, in fact, they also appear in perfumes, thanks to their sweet smell.
Mauve
Don't let its delicate appearance fool you, this flower means 'ambition', perhaps because they bloom on tall stems that reach skyward.
Valerian
Although some know this herb for its calming properties, it has a more active meaning: preparation. If you have valerian in your bouquet of wildflowers, it symbolizes that you are prepared for anything.
sweet pea
Delicate, intricate and a bit sensual, it represents pleasure. It has also been used as a thank you flower or as a way to say goodbye to someone after a pleasant visit.
Honeysuckle
These sweetly scented flowers are another sign of devotion, representing strong bonds of love. With its heady scent and sweet center, you can definitely tell where the exotic name comes from.
solidago
It may not be ideal for allergy sufferers, but this flower represents "breath." Perhaps you should encourage your children to leave them alone in the field, to avoid smell problems.
Nasturtium
These unusual flowers carry patriotic meaning, showing that pride can come in many shapes and colors. It can also represent conquest, perhaps due to its celebratory color and shield-like leaves.
The history of floral meanings
The symbolic language of flowers has been recognized for centuries in many countries in Europe and Asia. They even play an important role in the works of William Shakespeare. Mythologies, folklore, sonnets, and plays from the ancient Greeks, Romans, Egyptians, and Chinese are peppered with flower and plant symbolism, for good reason.
Almost every sentiment imaginable can be expressed with flowers. The orange blossom, for example, means chastity, purity, and piety, while the red chrysanthemum means "I love you."
The Victorian Era and the Meaning of Flowers
Learning the special symbolism of flowers became a popular pastime during the 1800s. Nearly every Victorian home had, along with the Bible, guides to deciphering this "language," although the definitions changed depending on the source.
In Victorian times, flowers were primarily used to deliver messages that could not be spoken out loud. In a kind of silent dialogue, the flowers could be used to answer "yes" or "no" questions. A "yes" answer would come in the form of flowers delivered with the right hand; if the left hand was used, the answer was 'no'.
Plants could also express aversive feelings, such as the "smugness" of the pomegranate or the "bitterness" of the aloe. Similarly, if a rose was given declaring 'devotion' or an apple blossom showing 'preference', a yellow carnation served to express 'disdain'.
Additionally, if the flowers were given upside down, then the idea that it was passed on was the opposite of what it traditionally meant. Other examples of plants and their associated human qualities during the Victorian era include: Bluebells and Kindness, Peonies and Shyness, Rosemary and Remembrance, Tulips and Passionflower.
Flowers at weddings
One tradition is to select the flowers for a wedding bouquet based on plant symbolism. As an example, look at the bouquet at Prince William, Duke of Cambridge's wedding to Kate Middleton. His all-white bouquet had lily of the valley (representing trustworthiness, purity), hyacinth (loveliness), myrtle (love in marriage), and ivy (continuity). Together, the meanings of these flowers reveal the hope of a loving and eternal marriage.
We hope that this article on the Meaning of Flowers has been to your liking. Do not forget to visit other articles on our blog, such as: Prayer to Saint Peregrine.