The Victorian's were great believers in symbolism and few jestures proved this more than when receiving flowers. Given that Valentine's Day is tomorrow, I thought it appropriate to include a sampling from The Language of Flowers. Whenever a Victorian lady received a lovely bouquet or even a single flower, she could decode the hidden meanings of the flowers sent to her by her suitors.
The Language of Flowers
Carnation- Fascination
Chrysanthemum- Friendship
Daisy- Loyal love
Orchid- Love and beauty
Lily- Purity and sweetness
Red rose- Romantic love
Pink rose- Secret love
Yellow rose- Friendship
White rose- Innocent love
Rose, Yellow & Orange: Passionate thoughts
Forget-me-not- True love
Baby’s Breath: Happiness
Lilac, Mauve: “Do You Still Love Me”
Honeysuckle - The Bond of Love
Ambrosia: Your Love is reciprocated
Camellia, red: You’re a flame in my heart
Camellia, white: You’re adorable
Forget-me-not: Faithful Love, Memories
Hibiscus: Delicate Beauty
Hyacinth, purple: I am sorry, Please forgive me, Sorrow
Oleander: Beauty and Grace
Periwinkle, White: Pleasures of Memory
partial list and vintage photo found at Art of Manliness
10 comments:
Happy Valentine's Day!
Beautiful flowers with lovely sentiments! Hope you have a love-filled Valentines Day!
Very interesting! Too bad tulips weren't listed. I was surprised with a flower delivery today from my son. I almost cried. Too sweet. Whatever he meant I am thrilled.
Happy Valentines Rebecca!
Rebecca I have a book about this very subject. I wish the meanings of all these flowers were still in practice today, although I know that yellow roses do remain popular as "friendship" bearers.
Forgot to add that your first image is incredibly romantic. I like that near-swooning with love expression on the young lady's visage, and the dog with the cute ears....
Well Rebecca, I'm sending you then virtual Lilies with baby's breath, a yellow rose in the middle and Hibiscus nestled in there too.
Enjoy your V. Day!
Thanks Barb and Steviwren...
The same to you....
Lavinia, I love books like this..-denfinite must-haves...The sweet collie reminds me so much of Lizzie that I had to post this! And yes, the woman's love-lorn expression is so sweet...
M,
I posted your floral delivery from me on your blog...
Thank you so much...The flowers are lovely:-)
I always keep a vase of white lilies in my den and the scent they share is indeed pure and sweet. Such a lovely list. I hope you had a wonderful Valentine weekend!
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