The secret meaning behind flowers
From beautiful wedding bouquets and congratulatory flowers at graduation to a bunch offered in remorse, flowers play an important part in our lives. There are many occasions and reasons why we might want to give someone flowers. But did you know that all flowers have meanings behind them? In the Victorian era, flowers were symbols and people gave specific flowers to convey specific messages. As they could not openly express themselves, flowers were almost like a secret language. Here we uncover the meaning behinds some popular flowers so next time you’re picking out some to give to a loved one, you can make sure the message matches your thoughts!
Daffodils
These bright and happy flowers symbolise regard. They are also associated with new beginnings, eternal life and unrequited love. A single daffodil indicates misfortune but a whole bunch of them means happiness.
Peonies
These feminine flowers signal bashfulness. However, when a bride carries them they indicate a happy marriage and good fortune. On the other hand, peonies can also be used to express shame or indignation.
Hydrangeas
This wildflower symbolises understanding. Give them to someone when you want to express gratitude.
Gardenias
The elegant gardenia signifies purity, beauty and sweetness. Unsurprisingly then they are popular at wedding ceremonies. Giving someone gardenias can indicate a secret love or a way of telling them you think they are sweet and lovely.
Carnations
These popular flowers are available in a variety of colours and each one signifies something different. Pink symbolises enduring love – particularly a mother’s love for her child. Purple means unpredictability and red – admiration and an aching heart. White carnations represent pure love and if you ever need to politely decline a lover, striped carnations indicate a regretful refusal.
Rose
Everyone knows red roses mean romantic love but many people don’t know other colours have quite different meanings. Dark red is associated with mourning whereas pink represents happiness. Although very pretty, yellow roses actually indicate jealousy.
Tulips
These popular flowers stand for perfect love. Conveying grace and elegance, giving someone tulips is a declaration of love.
Orchids
These tropical blossoms symbolise exotic beauty. Those looking to make a lasting impression should consider these rare and delicate flowers.
Iris
The meaning of the iris includes faith, hope, wisdom and eloquence. Purple irises are associated with wisdom and compliments whereas blue ones symbolise faith and hope.
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