The Language of Flowers: What Different Flowers Mean

The history of assigning meaning to different flowers dates as far back as the 17th century when the Turks used flowers as a form of communication between people who were illiterate. But, the practice of floriography really took off during Queen Victoria’s reign.

Since this time, the meanings of different flowers and how we choose to exchange bouquets have changed drastically. It’s important to understand what different flowers mean to avoid sticky situations. For example, sending romantic flowers to someone when you simply want to thank them for a favor!

Keep reading as we explore the main sentiments expressed by flowers, and which flowers you can choose from to get the right message across.

Flowers That Signify Love

Let’s start by examining one of the most common reasons for sending flowers: to express your romantic love. Note that these are flowers specifically to be sent between partners, and not for showing familial or friendly love!

Red roses are probably the most famous of all romantic flowers. But the meaning goes a little deeper here. Just one red rose means love at first sight, while a dozen red roses suggests enduring passion. These are typically chosen for Valentine’s Day and anniversaries.

The dahlia is another great option for anniversaries. Dahlias represent commitment and the longevity of love.

Other romantic choices to send to your significant other are red tulips, dark red carnations, and red camellias.

Flowers That Signify Friendship

Next, we can take a look at friendship flowers which are perfect for sending to a friend on their birthday or simply for showing them you care. Stocks are a wonderful option for a friend. As well as being beautiful flowers, they signify bonds of affection and wish the recipient a happy life.

While red roses suggest passionate love, the meaning of yellow roses is friendship and joy. It’s important to pay attention to both the color and type of flower you choose!

Meanwhile, alstroemeria flowers are slightly more unusual which mean wealth, prosperity, and fortune. These would be perfect to celebrate a big change in your friend’s life, such as a new job.

Flowers That Signify Gratitude

If you wish to show someone that you’re grateful, you have several options. Hydrangeas express genuine and heartfelt sentiment, so are perfect if someone has done you a significant favor.

Sweet peas make a beautiful bouquet and have a lovely smell. They signify thankfulness so would make a great choice to bring to a dinner party.

You can also express gratitude with two different shades of roses. Both pink and peach roses express appreciation and that you miss someone.

Finally, irises make a lovely choice when you want to express gratitude. Why not try combining several of these flowers for the ultimate thank you gift?

Flowers That Signify Admiration

Now, let’s take a look at the meaning of flowers which relate to admiration. Admiration is a slightly difficult sentiment as it can be interpreted as romantic admiration or just appreciation in a friendly manner.

Starting with romantic admiration, these make a good choice if you want to express your feelings for someone without the boldness of flowers signifying deep love. One option is the lavender rose. These beautiful flowers indicate love at first sight or a blossoming romance.

You could also choose sweet Williams to give to the man who has caught your eye. They are one of the only flowers to symbolize gallantry and masculinity.

If you wish to show friendly admiration, go for orchids, amaryllis, or pink camellias.

Flowers That Signify Empathy

Unfortunately, one of the most common times to give a loved one flowers is at the time of a funeral or bereavement. This is an especially important time to make sure you are giving flowers with the correct meaning.

Lilies make popular funeral flowers as they are very elegant. They symbolize purity and sympathy. Purple hyacinths and statices are other appropriate flowers for a funeral bouquet.

If you want a pre-prepared selection of flowers for a funeral, you can get flowers at this location that are specifically for showing remorse at a time of death.

Empathy flowers aren’t always about bereavement. Choose white tulips if you simply seek forgiveness.

Flowers That Signify Celebration

Moving to a more positive note, flowers are an excellent way to congratulate someone. If you want to celebrate a graduation, new job, the birth of a baby, or wedding, keep reading.

Peonies signify prosperity and good luck. Send these to someone who has just got a promotion at work!

Gerberas are beautiful flowers that mean innocence, purity, and cheerfulness. These are perfect for celebrating the arrival of a baby.

If you wish to put together some flowers for a wedding, we’d recommend choosing pink roses, lilies of the valley, sweet peas, calla lilies, and lisianthus.

Flowers That Signify Other Sentiments

Finally, there are a few flowers to be aware of that express more singular sentiments. You might want to steer clear of these types of flowers to avoid sending the wrong message!

Anemones are typically sad flowers that are associated with faded hope. This can be difficult to remember as they are often beautiful and brightly colored flowers!

You should also consider how the meanings of flowers can change across regions of the world. While white flowers in the west tend to symbolize innocence, in some Asian countries they are associated with death and mourning.

Finally, tansies are a declaration of war. Make sure you avoid them unless you want to start a conflict!

Now You Know What Different Flowers Mean

Having covered the most common feelings expressed by flowers and what different flowers mean, you can feel confident when selecting a bouquet. Don’t forget that your florist will be able to help you put together a beautiful bunch of flowers that express the right sentiment too!

If you enjoyed this article about the meaning of flowers, make sure you check out the rest of our blog posts!