Language of Flowers

You may not realize it, but the flowers you choose for a bouquet have meaning. In Victorian times, people would use flowers to send coded messages, based on the symbolic meaning given to each flower, to express feelings they could not verbalize. These small bouquets were called tussie-mussies.

Though not commonly used today, some flowers still are known for their symbolism. Red roses are typically used to convey a passionate love while yellow roses are for friendship. I can remember the first time I received roses from a boyfriend, hoping they would be red and not yellow. Doubt he knew the difference :)

The next time you create a bouquet, think about creating a hidden message. Here are some common meanings of flowers:

Anemone = unfading love

Bells of Ireland = luck

Campanula = gratitude

Daffodil = uncertainty

Dahlia = elegance

Daisy = innocence

Honeysuckle = devoted affection

Hydrangea = frigidness

Ivy = dependence

Lavender = devotion

Lilac (purple) = first emotion of love

Lily (white) = purity

Lily of the Valley = trustworthy

Mallow = consumed by love

Mint = suspicion

Orchid = refined beauty

Peony = bashfulness

Rose (red) = passionate love

Rose (white) = eternal love

Rose (red & white) = united

Rosemary = remembrance

Sunflower = pure thoughts

Thyme = thriftiness

Wheat = wealth and prosperity