Floriography Explained: The Meaning Behind Every Flower

Introduction

Floriography, also known as the flower language, is the art of conveying messages through blooms. This enchanting form of communication has long been capturing the hearts of cultures around the globe.

In this fast-paced society, where digital interactions often overshadow personal connections, the timeless tradition of floriography offers a refreshing way to express love, sympathy, gratitude, and joy. Each flower carries its unique meaning and symbolism, enabling individuals to articulate emotions, intentions, and sentiments that might otherwise go unexpressed. Keep reading for further insights.

A History of Flower Meanings

Floriography has been practised for millennia across Europe, Asia, and Africa. Its history and origins add depth and intrigue to our understanding of flower significance.

Historical Context of Floriography in the Victorian Era

The practice of floriography gained immense popularity in the 19th century, particularly in France, the United Kingdom, and North America. This era, often referred to as the Victorian period, saw the flower language flourish as a significant aspect of social and domestic life.

The Victorian language of flowers was primarily a code for romance and courtship. Contrary to being a standardised language created by academic or scientific traditions, floriography was a sentimental interpretation of floral symbolism. This whimsical form of communication not only defined Victorian culture but also revealed insights into the personal lives of key historical figures, such as Queen Victoria herself. Through her affection for flowers, we gain a glimpse into the emotional landscape of a monarch who shaped an era.

While the concept of floriography was already familiar in the early 1800s, Queen Victoria's affinity for flowers made it a fashionable cultural trend. Her deep love for Prince Albert was reflected in their exchange of flowers and flower-inspired gifts. Notably, one of the first gifts Prince Albert sent Queen Victoria was a brooch fashioned after a spring orange blossom, which served as an emblem of chastity and love.

The Victorian Era: A Floral Code

During the Victorian era, the flower language blossomed into a sophisticated language, allowing people to convey nuanced messages through carefully chosen flowers.

• Single Flower

A single flower represented simplicity and clarity. For example, a red rose expressed powerful emotions such as love and passion, in a straightforward way.

• Bouquet

A bouquet combined multiple flowers to deliver a more complex message.

• Presentation

The manner in which flowers were presented — whether as a single bloom or a lavish bouquet — added yet another layer of meaning. This artful demonstration enabled senders to communicate even more nuanced sentiments, creating a rich dialogue with the receiver.

Ancient Influences and Myths

Many flower meanings were rooted in ancient myths and legends. They often cited traditions from Roman, Chinese, and Middle Eastern cultures.

• Ancient Greek Associations

In ancient Greece, flowers fostered deep connections with the divine, often representing specific characteristics associated with various gods and goddesses:

(i) Roses symbolise love, as they were dedicated to Aphrodite, the goddess of beauty and desire.

(ii) The daffodil was linked to Demeter, which embodied fertility.

(iii) Ivy was related to Dionysos, the god of wine.

• Significance in Eastern Religions

Flowers signified various deities in Eastern religions. In Hinduism, the lotus flower was sacred to Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, symbolising prosperity and purity. Likewise, in Buddhism, chrysanthemums were valued for their representations of peace and purity. Beyond symbolism, these faiths incorporate flowers into spiritual practices; for example, Hindus utilise marigolds in both weddings and funerals, while Buddhists offer colourful lotus blossoms at temples as tributes to their gods and goddesses.

• Religious Associations

The symbolism of flowers predates religious associations, with ancient cultures employing blooms for various practical and mystical purposes. For example, the Egyptians perceived that specific flowers could predict the future or repel misfortune. Some were placed in tombs to protect the deceased whereas others were used as incense or brewed into teas for healing.

According to the Greeks, consuming anemones could alleviate depression. Daisies were thought to provide strength during challenges whereas ivy was believed to grant longevity and ward off evil spirits.

Literature and Art Work

Classical literature also played a pivotal role in shaping the language of flowers. English botanist Henry Phillips, in his 1831 guide titled Floral Emblems: or a Guide to the Language of Flowers, compared floriography to a language of pictures, similar to hieroglyphics. However, the historical accuracy of these associations is sometimes nebulous, as the flower meanings have evolved over time.

One notable inspiration for Victorian floriography was a Turkish tradition known as selam, a language of flowers and objects. Lady Mary Wortley Montagu, an English writer and traveller, introduced this concept to the English aristocracy after her travels to Turkey in the early 18th century. Her published letters described how people would send flowers or objects to share their feelings, thereby laying the groundwork for the British interpretation of floriography.

Codifying the Language of Flowers

Floriography almanacs and flower dictionaries played a part in boosting the popularity of this unique language. After the 1830s, numerous publications began to emerge, providing definitions for various flowers and instructions on deciphering floral messages.

While some meanings remained constant, others varied across different texts. The rose is a good example. It has maintained its association with love throughout the years but floriography has distinguished it between various colours to signify different nuances of affection.

One of the most celebrated floriography almanacs was published in 1884 by Kate Greenaway. Her beautifully illustrated book, The Language of Flowers not only provided definitions but also stunning artworks that depicted every flower and their meanings. These resources became portable works of art, capturing the beauty of flowers while exploring their meanings.

Flowers and Their Meanings

To help you navigate this expressive form of communication, here’s a summary of 30 common flowers and their traditional meanings:

• Rose: Love, passion, beauty
• Lily: Purity, virtue, devotion
• Daisy: Innocence, new beginnings
• Tulip: Perfect love, elegance
• Sunflower: Adoration, loyalty
• Orchid: Exotic beauty, strength
• Carnation: Love, fascination
• Iris: Faith, wisdom, hope
• Peony: Prosperity, good fortune
• Daffodil: Rebirth, new beginnings
• Hyacinth: Sincerity, constancy
• Lilac: First love, youthful innocence
• Marigold: Joy, warmth, creativity
• Poppy: Restful sleep, consolation
• Chrysanthemum: Friendship, joy, honesty
• Jasmine: Sensuality, grace, elegance
• Violet: Modesty, humility
• Forget-Me-Not: True love, memories
• Camellia: Admiration, perfection
• Gerbera Daisy: Cheerfulness, innocence
• Anemone: Anticipation, fragility
• Calla Lily: Elegance, purity
• Zinnia: Thoughts of absent friends
• Snapdragon: Graciousness, strength
• Gladiolus: Strength of character
• Sweet Pea: Pleasure, gratitude
• Primrose: Young love, eternal love
• Bluebell: Humility, constancy
• Aster: Patience, elegance
• Lavender: Serenity, calmness

Flowers for Specific Emotions

Whether you are gifting a bouquet to your special one or a friend, the right choice of blooms can perfectly capture the feelings we wish to express. In this section, we will discover unique flowers for different emotions and how they can add a personal touch to any occasion.

Love

• Red Roses: Their flower symbolism includes enduring passion and endless love, which make them ideal for romantic gestures.
• Red Tulips: Represent perfect love, making them a delightful gift for partners.
• Red Carnations: Convey deep affection and admiration to celebrate milestones.
• Dahlias: Symbolise lasting bonds and commitment, a beautiful choice for anniversaries.

Friendship

• Yellow Roses: Bright and cheerful, they signify joy and friendship. You can gift them to a dear friend.
• Freesias: Represent trust and thoughtfulness, a lovely way to show you care.
• Alstroemeria: Symbolise mutual support and strength, particularly meaningful in celebrating close friendships.
• Chrysanthemums: An emblem of longevity and happiness, making them great for lasting friendships.

Gratitude

• Pink Roses: Express appreciation and admiration, perfect for thanking someone special.
• Hydrangeas: Represent sincere gratitude, making them a thoughtful gift.
• Sweet Peas: Symbolise thankfulness and bliss, a lovely choice for expressing your gratitude.
• Iris: Reflect hope and trust, making them a meaningful gesture of appreciation.

Sympathy

• White Lilies: A traditional symbol of purity and rebirth, white lilies are often used to express sympathy and offer comfort during difficult times.
• White Roses: Signifying reverence and honour, white roses are a classic choice to express condolences and respect for someone who has passed.
• Gladiolus: An equivalence of strength and moral integrity, these flowers are a meaningful tribute to a loved one who showed great courage and character.

Joy and Celebration

• Sunflowers: Symbolising happiness, optimism, and vitality, sunflowers are a great choice for celebrating joyous occasions like birthdays or new beginnings.
• Gerbera Daisies: Known for their vibrant colours and cheerful disposition, gerbera daisies convey happiness and light-hearted fun. They are ideal for any festive celebration.
• Orange Roses: With their bright and bold hue, orange roses represent enthusiasm, energy, and excitement. They’re meant for moments of celebration and to mark happy milestones.

New Beginnings

• Daffodils: Often associated with new beginnings, daffodils are a great gift for someone starting a new chapter in their life. This may be starting a new job or moving to a new home.
• Lotus: In many cultures, the lotus flower mirrors rebirth and enlightenment. It’s often related to personal growth and overcoming challenges.

Creating an Exquisite Bouquet with the Right Number of Flowers

Did you know that flowers aren’t just about pretty colours and sweet scents? Beyond their type and hue, even the number of flowers you give can send a secret message! In fact, giving a bouquet is like slipping someone a love note – but in petal form. So, before you hand over those blooms, let’s decode what the number of flowers in your bouquet is really saying.

• 1 Flower: The One and Only

Giving just one flower says, "You're my one and only" – it’s the ultimate declaration of unity. It is suitable for those “love at first sight” vibes or a classy minimalist move.

• 3 Flowers: I Love You

Feeling romantic? A bouquet of three flowers means just one thing: "I love you." It’s like giving someone the petal version of heart emojis – quick, sweet, and straight to the point.

• 5 Flowers: High Fives for Happiness

A bouquet with five flowers says, “I’m sending you good vibes and happiness!” Some cultures say, “Five blessings on your doorstep” when gifting a bunch of five. Talk about flowers that bring all the luck!

• 10 Flowers: You’re a Perfect 10!

If you want to shout, "You're absolutely flawless," send over 10 flowers. This bouquet screams admiration – a perfect "you're ten times golden, ten times amazing" kind of gift.

• 11 Flowers: One Heart, Two Souls

Planning to impress your spouse? A bouquet of 11 flowers is the ultimate message of love, symbolising two people with one heart.

• 12 Flowers: Love You All Year Round

Got a special anniversary coming up? Give 12 flowers. This bouquet says, “I love you every single month of the year.” It’s perfect for celebrating first dates, weddings, or even that Netflix binge-watch anniversary you both secretly honour.

• 16 Flowers: Wishing You All the Happiness

If you're gifting 16 flowers, you're saying, “I wish you all the happiness!” It’s a thoughtful pick for friends or family to brighten their day.

• 19 Flowers: Together Forever

This bouquet marks lifelong togetherness. Whether you’re wishing someone a lifetime of love or just reminding them to never hog the remote, this one’s perfect for couples.

• 21 Flowers: True Devotion

A bouquet of 21 flowers says, "You’re my everything." This one is reserved for when you’re deeply in love.

• 25 Flowers: Love Confession Incoming!

A bouquet of 25 flowers is a big, bold declaration of love. It’s like a megaphone for your heart.

• 27 Flowers: Love You, Wifey!

Impress your wife by giving her 27 flowers. This bouquet says, "I love my wife!" Loud and proud.

• 29 Flowers: Forever and Always

Planning to be romantic forever? A bouquet of 29 flowers is all about everlasting love. Think of it as the flower version of the infinity symbol.

• 36 Flowers: Joy Every Day

Thirty-six flowers? Now that’s a party! It means, “May every day be full of joy.” Send someone a mini celebration with each stem.

• 101 Flowers: You’re My One in a Million!

Want to make a grand gesture? 101 flowers is the way to go. This bouquet shouts, “You’re the one!” – basically, it's the romantic equivalent of shouting from the rooftops. Ideal for big moments like proposals, anniversaries, or when you’ve left your socks on the floor too many times and need to make up for it!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can different colours of the same flower have different meanings?

Yes, the meaning of flowers can vary by colour. For example, red roses symbolise love and romance, while yellow roses represent friendship and joy.

2. Can I create a bouquet with multiple meanings?

Absolutely! You can combine different flowers to convey multiple emotions or messages. For example, pairing red roses (love) with white lilies (purity) could express a sentiment of deep, sincere love.

3. Is the language of flowers the same across cultures?

No, flower meanings can vary between cultures. While some flowers carry universal meanings, like red roses symbolising love, other interpretations can differ.

4. How can I learn more about the language of flowers?

There are many books, guides, and online resources dedicated to floriography. Victorian-era flower dictionaries are especially rich in detail.

5. Can I send a message using only flowers?

Yes, in the past, people often used specific flowers to send secret messages without words. Today, this gift can still be a beautiful and thoughtful gesture.

Conclusion

Floriography, the flower language, offers a timeless and elegant way to express your thoughts. The right blooms can bring a deeply personal and meaningful touch to any occasion. Embrace the rich tradition and beauty of flowers to transform simple gestures into heartfelt expressions.

At JM Flower, we understand the joy that comes with both giving and receiving flowers. Discover our thoughtfully curated arrangements, designed to capture the essence of your special moments.

Contact us to learn more.