Flowers: More to meaning than meets the eye

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Flowers: More to meaning than meets the eye

February 11, 2008

Since ancient times, flowers have held symbolic significance for many cultures around the world. One of the most famous spins on communicating with flowers came with the Victorians.

They were the brains behind “floriography” – a code that used flowers to send messages. While many of those nuanced meanings are now lost to history, several basic elements remain.

So that you can truly appreciate giving or receiving bouquets this Valentine’s Day, here’s a sampling of what flowers say in contemporary times …

Red roses = Intense love or attraction

Orange roses = Desire

Purple roses, purple lilacs = Love at first sight

Yellow roses = Friendship

Pink roses = Gratitude, appreciation, admiration

White roses = Purity

White roses in square glass vase with stones

White roses in square glass vase with stones

Daisy = Innocence

Tulip = Passion

Bird of Paradise = Joy

Peonies = Happiness in marriage

Pink alstroemeria = Devotion

Pink stargazer lilies = Prosperity

Ivy = Faithfulness

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