Nanny to Mommy

The display of various flowers at weddings, special events, and in our homes is an age-old tradition that we still incorporate in our lives today. Despite the apparent beauty it creates, most blossoms and plants are associated with specific actions, ideas, and emotions. 

Expressed in floriography (flower language) lies the delicate art of flower symbolism that varies on the color, amount, and type of flowers given. In essence, every plant comes with its own unique meaning, and encompassing yourself with those that symbolize the things you value or want will help create a more positive environment. 

Being knowledgeable on plant symbolism will help you pick out gifts and décor that are more personalized and meaningful. The next time you want to send a thank you flower bouquet, you'll know which flowers and colors to choose to convey the intended message correctly. 

To better explain plant symbolism, we'll take a closer look at its history as well as the meaning of some of the most popular flowers. 

Evidence suggests that plant symbolism in folklore, art, and literature date back to the Ancient Greeks and other comparable early civilizations. The symbolic meaning of flowers and plants appears throughout history in the Bible and other religious texts. It's also used in abundance in literature and artwork during the Renaissance and Middle Ages right through modern-day culture. 

Joseph Hammer-Purgstall's publication of the "Dictionnaire du language des fleurs" (dictionary of the language of flowers) in 1809 formalized flower and plant symbolism research, making it a popular subject to study. 

Even though the Turks are given much credit for the development of flower symbolism in the 17th century, the Victorian era is most commonly associated with floriography. During Queen Victoria's reign from 1837 to 1901, strict etiquette prevented people from openly communicating their feelings. As a substitute, they used the language of flowers to do so instead. 

With a wide variety of blossoms to choose from, a person needs at least some form of guidance to help them make the right decision. So, to assist you in making the right choice, we've compiled a list of flowers, each suitable for a unique occasion. 

According to Greek mythology, when the two gods, Zephyr and Apollo, fought for the attention of a young boy named Hyankinthos, they accidentally killed him in the process. The flower that sprouted from where his blood was spilled was christened a hyacinth, honoring his memory. 

Many people believe that it's for this reason that purple hyacinths, to this day, represents regret, sorrow, and forgiveness. 

White Tulips are associated with showing worthiness and seeking forgiveness, making them the perfect flowers to give if you're trying to apologize to someone. 

These flowers are a common sight at funerals as they symbolize sympathy, innocence, and purity. 

Statice flowers are typically associated with sympathy and remembrance, yet, they can also symbolize success. 

The poppy carries one of the best-known flower meanings as many people that celebrate Remembrance Day buy paper ones every year as a symbol of consolation and commemoration. 

Peach roses are perfect for bridesmaids as they're typically associated with demureness and modesty. They're also ideal to be given to someone to show how much you're missing them. 

If you desire to show someone appreciation, gratitude, and admiration, pink roses should be your first choice. 

The hydrangea is a symbol of gratitude, thanking someone for understanding you. Yet, these flowers are also associated with anything that's sincerely heartfelt. 

Happiness. What other meaning can possibly be associated with the sunflower’s big, cheerful heads? 

Daffodils typically appear as one of the first signs of spring. Therefore, it's no surprise they symbolize new beginnings, good fortune, and rebirth. Yet, if you give only one daffodil, it represents misfortune. 

These delicate flowers, symbolizing purity and sweetness, achieved new acclaim after being incorporated in Meghan Markle and Kate Middleton's royal wedding bouquets. 

Being a favored addition to congratulations, thank you, and bridal bouquets with floral wrapping papers, these blush-colored buds represent admiration, gratitude, joy, and happiness. 

In contrast to the morbid meaning of the purple hyacinth, this variation symbolizes playfulness. 

Traditionally, the yellow tulip was associated with hopeless love, but as times changed, so did this flower's meaning. Today they're seen as a representation of reflecting sunshine and cheerfulness. 

Traditional romantic ballads depicted Sweet William as a lovelorn and noble hero. It would make sense then, that these flowers, being one of the few to symbolize masculinity, are associated with gallantry. 

Should you find someone to be exceptionally beautiful but also value that person beyond their physical appearance, these flowers would make a perfect choice. 

Lavender roses are most suitable for a blossoming romance as it signifies love at first sight and enchantment. 

The general meaning of the camellia flower is admiration, affection, and love. However, the white ones signify adoration, while the pink variety is symbolic of longing. 

Historically, the ancient Greeks favored orchids as a symbol of masculinity. Today, though, these highly distinctive flowers take on a significantly more feminine meaning as they're associated with rare and delicate beauty. 

Typically associated with Valentine's day, the red rose, often referred to as "the lover's rose," symbolizes enduring love. Giving a single flower represents love at first sight, whereas a dozen says "be mine." 

In general, carnations signify distinction, fascination, and love. Yet, the color you choose slightly alters the meaning: 

Pink symbolizes the undying love of a mother

Dark red represents deep love and affection

Light red is associated with admiration

White expresses good luck and pure love 

Dahlias are ideal for anniversaries as it demonstrates the commitment and lasting bond between two people. 

In general, Tulips are an ideal gift for that special person in your life as it means perfect love. Red tulips embrace this meaning by taking it a step further to symbolize true love. 

If you wish to show your deep desire, passion, and love to someone special, red camellias would be the obvious choice. 

The lady's mantle, meaning comforting love, is the perfect gift when you want to show someone important that you're there for them. 

The delicate freesia flowers are typically associated with innocence and thoughtfulness. 

Yellow roses represent joy and friendship, making it the perfect gift to give to a special friend without the worry of conveying a message of romance. 

Although these flowers are typically associated with friendship, they also signify fortune, prosperity, and wealth. 

These pretty flowers are the ideal gift to give to your best friend as they symbolize bonds of affection, a happy life, and lasting beauty. 

The symbolic meaning behind flowers and plants are as vast as the different species of flora. So, whether you're looking to expand your garden, enhance your interior décor, or merely send a bouquet to someone special, knowing the symbolism behind the plants you intend to grow or send will add more depth to your gift choice, garden, or decorations.