Flower Language

Flowers and language -that pretty much sums up my favorites, so I was thrilled when my mother read us the history of flower languages when I was home schooled in 7th grade. As I remember, sending messages through a bouquet became most popular during the Victorian age. Through carefully chosen combinations of foliage and bloom one could say anything from “Congratulation on your new baby” to “I’m sorry, please forgive me?” Even the way the flowers were presented carried meaning. It’s a bit late too rush out and get your valentine an elaborate bouquet, but keep them in mind for birthdays or Mother’s Day (maybe a few gladioli or sunflowers to praise her strength of character or loyalty?). Here are just a few examples of flowers and what they symbolize…

Roses
Red- true love
White- silence, purity/innocence
Yellow- friendship
Pink- gracefulness and admiration
Purple/Lavender- young love/enchantment
Orange- joy/enthusiasm
Red and White- unity
Rosebud- beauty of youth

Carnation
Pink- I’ll never forget you
Violet- whimsical
Red- admiration
Yellow- disappointed
Solid color- yes
Striped- no

Alyssum- worthy beyond beauty
Arbor Vitae- true friendship
Aster- daintiness
Aster- patience
Azalea- take care of yourself
Baby’s Breath- pure in heart
Bird of Paradise- splendor
Bluebell- humility
Buttercup- childhood
Chamomile- endurance/patience
Cherry blossom- good education
Chrysanthemum (white) – truth
Cilantro- hidden worth
Cowslip- deep thought
Daffodil- regards
Daisy- simplicity
Dogwood- durability
Edelweiss- noble courage
Fern- sincerity
Fir- time
Gladiolus- strength of character
Hazel- reconciliation
Heather- solitude
Hibiscus- delicate beauty
Holly- happiness in the home
Iris- message
Ivy- fidelity
Jasmine- elegance
Lavender- devotion/loyalty
Lilacs- first love
Marigold- honesty
Mint- virtue/wisdom
Morning Glory- affection
Myrtle- marriage
Orange blossoms- chastity
Pansy- thoughtfulness
Phlox- sweet dreams
Star of Bethlehem- atonement
Sunflower- loyalty
Sweet pea- farewell
Variegated tulip- beautiful eyes
Violet- modesty
Yarrow- health