The Meaning of Flowers

The meaning of flowers is as old as civilisation itself, and has been used as an expression of emotion for centuries.

The language of flowers started in the harems of the Middle East, where secrecy between lovers was essential.

Each flower had a meaning and secret messages could be exchanged.

The Victorians took this language to their hearts and produced several dictionaries of the language of flowers.

The Romans honoured their heroes with laurel wreaths and the Ancient Greeks adorned their palaces with flowers.

Bouquets of flowers were carried during ancient feasts and festivals.

The following list describes the emotions associated with a selection of flower types; this may be helpful when considering what to send:

Name

 

Meaning

Alstromeria   Devotion / Friendship
Amaryllis   Pride / Beauty
Anemone   Unfading love / Sincerity
Babys Breath   Everlasting love / Happiness
Bells of Ireland   Good luck
Birds of Paridise   Magnificence
Carnation Pink   I'll never forget you
Carnation Red   Admiration
Carnation White   Innocence / Pure love
Carnation Yellow   You have disappointed me
Chrysanthemum   Cheerfulness / You're a wonderful friend
Cornflower   Delicacy / refinement
Daffodil   Respect / Unrequieted Love
Dahlia   Good taste
Delphinium   Airy
Eucalyptus   Protection
Forsythia   Anticipation
Gardenia   You're lovely / Secret love
Gerbera   Regard
Gladiolus   Generosity / Strength of character
Heather white/pink   Good luck
Holly   Good will
Hyacinth Blue   Consistancy
Iris   Wisdom / Eloquence
Ivy   Friendship / affection
Jasmine   Grace/ Elegance
Jonquil   Love me / Desire
Lavender   Devotion
Lilac   First love
Lily (Calla)   Beauty
Lily (White)   Purity
Lily of the Valley   Sweetness / Humility
Mimosa   Sensitivity
Narcissus   Stay as sweet as you are
Orchid   Love / Beauty
Peony   Bashfulness
Phlox   Sweet Dreams
Poinsettia   Good cheer
Rose Red   I love you / Passion
Rose White   Eternal love / Heavenly
Rose Yellow   Joy / Friendship
Rose Pink   Perfect happiness
Stephanotis   Desire / Happiness in marriage
Sunflower   Loyalty
Sweet Pea   Goodbye / Blissful pleasure
Tulip General   Declaration of love
Tulip Red   Believe me
Tulip Yellow   Hopeless love
Violet   Modesty

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