Most of us would be aware that flowers have meanings associated with them and there are often particular flowers suited, or not suited for specific occasions. For example red roses are symbolic of love and the most appropriate for Valentine’s Day. Yellow roses are known as a sign of friendship but can also hint at infidelity or zealousness. Arum lillies are traditional at funerals and modern day bridal bouquets often contain the captivating and regal calla lillies. But often we give or receive flowers without thinking or even realising that each bloom has a meaning. Below are the meanings of some of the more popular and traditional flowers (beware though as meanings below have been derived from a number of sources and can be, at times, contrary!). Take the meaning as you wish to convey – Azalea – Abundance, Fragile and Ephemeral Passion Begonia – Deep thoughts, Beware I am fanciful! Camellia – Graciousness, Excellence and Steadfastness Carnation – pink – Gratitude. Mother’s Day favourite Carnation – red – Admiration, My heart aches for you! Carnation – white – Remembrance, Sweet love, Innocence Carnation – yellow – Cheerful, Disdain and Rejection Chrysanthemum – white – Truth Chrysanthemum – red – Sharing, I love you Crocus – Foresight, Cheerfulness Daffodil – Chivalry, Unrequited love Daisy – Innocence, Gentleness Freesia – Spirited Forget-me-not – Remember me forever, Faithful love, Memories Gardenia – Joy, I secretly love you Geranium – Comfort, Friendship Gladiolus – Strength of Character, I am sincere Hibiscus – Delicate beauty Hydrangea – Perseverance, Vanity, Frigidity, Understanding Iris – Inspiration, Faith, Wisdom Jasmine – Grace and elegance Lavender – Distrust, Constancy Lilac – First love, youth Calla Lilly – Regal, Majestic Beauty Magnolia – Dignity, Splendid Beauty Marigold – Desire for riches, Jealousy, Cruelty Orchid – Delicate beauty, Magnificence, Refinement Pansy – Loving thoughts, Thoughtful recollections Poppy – Consolation, Imagination, Dreaminess Rhododendron – Beware Rose – pink – Friendship, Thank you Rose – red – Passionate love, desire Rose – white – Purity, Innocence, Secrecy Rose – yellow – Zealous, Infidelity, Friendship Sunflower – Adoration, Devotion Sweetpea – Shyness, Departure Tulip – pink – Caring Tulip – red – Declaration of love, Believe me Tulip – white – Forgiveness Wisteria – Steadfast, Youth
