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Flower Meaning
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Flower meaning first began to appear in about the 17th century when
it became fashionable for women to carry a small posy of sweet smelling
flowers with them as an alternative to perfumes. As small posies became
popular as a gift, a natural development was to attach a meaning to a particular
flower and so send a message, and no doubt a flower meaning was used
to send many a secret message. The main flower meaning that has endured
right through to this day is a gift of red roses.
Flower Meaning in Different Cultures
Because a flower meaning originated from many people in many different
localities, and each attaching their own particular meaning to a flower,
we sometimes have a different flower meaning for the same flower. This is
often just a variation of a theme but somtimes it can be quite different.
Colour is one aspect that may have quite a different meaning in different
cultures, and if you are sending flowers overseas as a gift, it may be wise
to avoid specifying a particular colour unless you are familiar with the
customs in the recipient's country. If you advise the florist of the particular
occasion, a local florist would naturally prepare flowers that are suitable.
A flower meaning has been greatly diminished in today's world, and
while the recipient of a gift of flowers may not have the romance
and excitement of deciphering a hidden message, the florists are free from
constraints and are able to create a beautiful work of art by concentrating
on the use of complementary colours and flower varieties.
The Meaning of Some Common Flowers
Aster - daintyness, a symol of my love
Azalia - take care, fragile
Babysbreath - innocence
Balsam - ardent love
Bells of Ireland - good luck
Bluebells - gratitude
Camelia - admiration, perfection
Camelia, pink - longing
Camelia, white - loveliness
Candtuft - indiference
Carnation - devoted love
Carnation, pink - I will always remember you
Chrysanthemum - You are my good friend
Cornflower - refined, delicate
Daffodil - respect
Dahlia - dignity, elegance
Daisy - I will never tell
Daphne - I want to please you
Everlasting - I will remember you
Freesia - trust
Iris - promise of love, hope
Jonquil - affection returned
Lavender - love, devotion
Mignonette - good health
Pansy - thinking of you
Petunia - I want your company
Phlox - we are one
Poppy, red - happiness
Poppy, yellow - riches
Poppy, white - I am sorry
Ranunculus - you are wonderful
Rose, red - love
Rose, orange - fascination
Rose, pink - secret love
Rose, yellow - jealousy
Snapdragon - strength
Violet - modesty
Zinnia - lasting affection
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