Floriography - Symbolic Meaning and Language of Flowers
Sending and receiving a lovely bouquet of flowers is always a joyful experience. But, have you ever wondered what the history and meaning behind those flowers are? Well, we’re here to teach you all about the wonders of modern floriography and what the best flowers are to send for those special moments.
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What is floriography?
Floriography is the language of flowers. All flowers hold different meanings, often based on the type of flower, the color of the flower, or both. And floriography is the art of communicating through different flower types. Once you learn and understand the meaning of flowers, giving flowers as gifts becomes so much more thoughtful as you can convey just how you feel with a bouquet!
History of flower meanings
Technically, floriography has been practiced for thousands of years in many cultures throughout Europe, Asia and Africa. Many flowers derive their meaning and symbolism from ancient myths and legends. A lot of Shakespeare’s work involved flower symbolism too. All of these flowers continue to hold the same meaning attached to its mythology today.
One of our favorite, and a very popular myth, is the story of Narcissus. Narcissus was an extremely beautiful man who one day caught his reflection in the water and fell in love with himself. He adored that reflection so much he never left and ended up wasting away by the lake where the flower narcissus, or daffodil as it’s more commonly known, took his place and now symbolizes requited love, return of affection, sympathy and the coming of spring.
Flower color meanings
Every flower color has its own meaning behind which makes it extra special. So if you’re sending someone a bouquet and want to express how you feel, keep reading to find out what colors you should include.
Red flowers
Red flowers are one of the most popular flower colors to send. With a meaning of passion, love and affection, they should definitely always be included when you’re sending a bouquet to someone you love deeply. Red flowers are also used to symbolize courage, respect and desire too. And, at Christmastime, they’re used a lot to decorate, as red is the universal symbol of Christmas cheer!
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Pink flowers
Pink flowers have many different meanings in different cultures. Typically though, they represent grace, joy and innocence. In Thailand, pink flowers are a symbol of trust, in China, they represent good fortune and in Japan, they symbolize good health. But, in Western cultures, pink flowers are used to represent femininity and playfulness. They’re a wonderful color to send to either friends or romantic interests.
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Yellow flowers
You just can’t help but smile when you see bold, yellow flowers. And with a meaning of joy and lightheartedness, happiness and friendship, it’s no wonder why! Yellow flowers are a fantastic way to brighten up any home and their cheery meanings will make for a lovely gift.
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White flowers
Simple yet beautiful, white flowers have a meaning of purity, humility and innocence and are perfect to use in a wedding or send to someone who has recently welcomed a baby. But, be careful when sending white flowers to people in Asian countries, as over there they symbolize death and mourning, so sending white flowers for an Asian wedding would not go down well!
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Flowers that mean love
Red roses
The classic red rose is often associated with Valentine’s Day as it symbolizes enduring passion and endless love.
Red Tulip
Tulips have a meaning of perfect love, so sending red tulips will indicate that they’re your one true love.
Red Carnation
Carnations are a beautiful flower with a meaning of love and fascination. Sending red carnations will symbolize a deep, affectionate love.
Dahlia
Dahlia’s are a striking flower that has a wonderful meaning of a lasting bond and commitment so these are perfect for anniversary flowers.
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