The meaning of flowers

19 Jun

Flower meanings are steeped in history. Recognised for centuries throughout Europe and Asia, they even play a leading role in many of Shakespeare’s works! Myths, sonnets and folklore are sprinkled with flower and plant symbolism. So we thought it would be fun to explore some different flowers and their meanings.

Flowers as language throughout history

Birth flowers

Good to know for any upcoming birthdays or new arrivals for adding an extra special thought with your flower choice. For January births it’s carnations and snowdrops; February, violets and primrose; in March could it be anything other than the cheery daffodil; April birth flowers are daisies and sweet peas; fragrant May is lily-of-the-valley and hawthorn; June’s birth flowers are roses and honeysuckle; larkspur and water lily belong to July; August has gladioli and poppies; colourful asters and morning glory for September; October marks births through marigolds and cosmos; November’s birth flower is chrysanthemum; and December ends the year with, of course, holly!

A rainbow of emotions

There are no prizes for guessing that red symbolises love, romance and desire! But what about other colours? Orange is perfect for sending joy, warmth and happiness while yellow sends a message of friendship and good health. Green is all about harmony, wellness and youthfulness, and blue flowers offer serenity and peace. Deep indigo expresses wisdom, integrity and sincerity, where purple associates with pride, success and wealth. Finally, popular pink means grace, happiness and innocence, and white flowers will always speak of purity, honesty and perfection.