The meaning of flowers
One of my hobbies is flower arranging. In my gardens in Kent and France I grow a wide variety of flowers, and I love to brighten and fragrance a room with a vase of freshly cut flowers. There is such simple beauty in a flower, and I find that even the gloomiest day can be lightened with a rose or a lily or an orchid.
In addition, like most women, I love to give and to receive flowers. How my face lights up when I’m presented with a bouquet. But beyond the beauty of a posy, I find the significance of the flowers fascinating. Did you know that traditionally meanings are attributed to different flowers? Floriography, the language of flowers, extends back in history to the times of the Ancient Greeks, Romans, Egyptians and Chinese.
Here’s an overview of the floriography of some common flowers, so that next time you’re making an arrangement or choosing a bouquet or opening your arms to a bunch of flowers, you know the thinking behind each petal and stem.
Baby’s Breath – happiness
Carnation (Red) – admiration of the heart
Carnation (Pink) – remembrance
Carnation (White) – chasteness
Chrysanthemum (White) – truth
Chrysanthemum (White) – reciprocated love
Daisy – gentleness, innocence and loyalty
Daffodil – respect, unrequited love
Heather – admiration
Iris – faith, friendship
Ivy –fidelity, love, friendship and affection
Jasmine – happiness, cheerfulness
Laurel – success in love
Lily (White) – modesty, purity
Lily (Orange) – passion
Mistletoe – affection or love
Orchid – show love, beauty and magnificence.
Rose (Coral) – desire
Rose (Light Pink) – admiration
Rose (Pale Pink) – friendship
Rose (Pink) – happiness.
Rose (Red) – love, desire
Rose (White) – charming, heavenly
Rose (Yellow) – friendship, happiness
Tulip – perfect love
Whatever flower you choose or receive, the message of love is predominant – from a toddler picking a daisy for his mother to a husband arriving home with a bouquet for his wife. That’s why, I think, no one can deny the wonder of flowers, and why we all appreciate the beauty of spring, when the first flowers push up from the barren ground to bring colour and fragrance to the world.
If you’re arranging flowers this month, the following are considered December’s flowers: poinsettia, Holly, Narcissus, Paperwhite. I love Poinsettias for their wonderful warm, passionate colours. As a symbol, they mean good cheer and success, making them an excellent gift for friends at Christmas.
