The Meaning of Flowers
Have you ever wondered why Red Roses are sent on Valentines Day?
The ancient art of floriography (The Language Of Flowers) is said to have been imported to the West from Persia by King Charles II in the 17th Century. During the Victorian era the practice underwent a revival, allowing straitlaced Victorians to send their friends and lovers the subtle messages that protocol would not allow them to speak aloud.
Red Roses, speaking of true love are a perfect fit for a Valentines gift but flowers can say so much more. Choose from some of these other floral ideas.
Of roses :
| Color | Meaning |
| Red | True Love |
| White | Innocence, pure love |
| Coral (orange) | Desire, Passion |
| Yellow | Dying love, friendship |
| Blue | Mystery, Impossible love |
| Burgundy (Red with tinge of purple) | Beauty |
| Light Pink | Desire, passion, joy of life, youth, energy |
| Pink | Gentleness, Happiness |
| Dark Pink | Gratitude |
| Lavender / Violet | Love at first sight |
| Black (actually very dark red) | Tragic romance |
Other flowers with romantic meanings...
| Flower | Meaning |
| Daffodil | Unrequited love |
| Forget-me-not | True love |
| Honeysuckle | Devoted Affection |
| Lime Blossom | Fornication |
| Heliotrope | Devotion |
| Morning Glory | Love in vain |
| Star of Bethlehem | Reconciliation |
| Blue Violet | Faithfulness |
| Red Tulip | Declaration of love |
| Yellow Tulip | Hopeless love |
While love and romance are especially associated with roses, it really helps to vary your approach. Your wife or girlfriend may never tire of receiving roses but tulips, violets and forget-me-nots may send her a message that touches her heart. Practice your floriography!
