How to Speak Your Heart with Flowers Effectively
What to give when words fail
Roses are red
Violets are blue
Sugar is sweet
And so are you
You might know the first two lines all too well. It’s a very common snowclone that people use during Valentine’s Day. It’s like how everyone knows their flowers. Roses, sunflowers, tulips, orchids — these are some of the most common ones people can easily identify.
Little do they know, these flowers each have their own meaning. This is what’s known as floriography.
Those beautiful flowers you see that bloom in spring? They are more than eye candy. They, too, can express themselves the same way a person does.
Many have taken their time to stop and stare at the flowers for a while. But they fail to lend an ear to the wonderful tales these flowers hold.
It’s just like the last two lines of this poem. Everyone knows it by heart, but no one bothers to complete the original lines of the poem.
Just like the poem and the flowers, there’s always more to a story. Just like a fairytale, it can also have a happy ending.
Let’s find out what they’re saying, shall we?
“My feelings are true”
In floriography, red often symbolizes passion and intense feelings. Tulips express deep love. And when combined, they make the perfect statement when declaring your love for someone.
Red tulips are commonly used in love confessions. Hence, they’ve become a fan favorite among young romantics, alongside roses.
If you want to confess to someone without coming on too strong, red tulips are a perfect choice.
“Thank you for a lovely time”
It’s common to thank your date before parting ways. But if you’re too shy to say it, why not give them a bouquet of sweet peas?
Sweet peas are associated with goodbyes and departures. They’re also associated with gratitude. It’s the best way to thank someone while bidding them goodbye.
They are often seen at weddings in France. Giving a sweet pea to a bride is thought to bring her good fortune.
“Best wishes”
Sunflowers are the poster flower of happiness. It’s bright, it’s yellow, and it radiates positive energy. It’s no wonder Van Gogh made 11 paintings focused solely on sunflowers.
Who wouldn’t want to see or receive them? What’s more, it’s said to bring happiness to its recipient.
If you want to make your lover’s day, give them a sunflower. That’ll surely make them smile and bring them happiness.
“Forgive me”
Purple hyacinths are affiliated with apologies. The flower represents feelings of regret and is almost akin to begging for forgiveness.
It can also mean the other way around. They can also be used when accepting an apology.
Flowers are almost a given when a man wants to apologize to their partner. So if ever you and your partner fall into an argument, make peace by giving them a bouquet of purple hyacinths.
“You’re adorable”
Much like any other flower, Camellias have various meanings. But if you want to give flowers to someone cute, do it with white camellias.
Camellias play a huge role in various cultures. In Japan, they are used in sacred ceremonies as they represent divinity.
In China, it symbolizes a union between lovers. They believe that the parts of the flower — the petals and the calyx — represent the woman and the man, respectively. When the flower dies, these two fall together, which is seen as a symbol of undying love.
“You’re elegant”
When you’re out on a date with someone looking absolutely stunning, asters are the flowers to give.
Aster is named after the Greek word “star” because it resembles the celestial body. They are seen as the flowers of daintiness, elegance, and patience.
These flowers are also seen as a symbol of well-wishes. When you give someone a bouquet of asters, it is implied that you wish them to take good care of themselves.
“You’re lovely”
What better way to tell someone how lovely they are than with a bouquet of gardenias? These white flowers are symbols of joy and purity, but they can also be used to express appreciation.
Some people believe that the gardenia is a mystical flower that attracts positive energy, which makes it an ideal flower for home decor.
“I admire you”
Red carnations are the best way to express admiration. Whether you want to relay a romantic or platonic admiration, these flowers make a fine choice.
Red carnations are the most popular flowers for Chinese weddings. Meanwhile, in Japan, they are the most popular flowers given on Mother’s Day.
This flower was also used for courting during the Victorian era. To accept a suitor, a lady must respond with a red carnation. But if they choose to reject them, a yellow carnation is given instead.
“I devote myself to you”
Chrysanthemums have a variety of meanings — depending on which color you get.
A white chrysanthemum is a symbol of loyalty and devoted love. They can also be used platonically, as most white flowers are associated with friendship.
But in general, they represent happiness, longevity, and love.
“I love you”
Ah, the ever classic red roses. Beloved and seen as the icon of Valentine’s day, the day dedicated to lovers.
The timelessness of giving roses as a gift to your lover will never grow old. Commonly, people will still appreciate receiving roses on special occasions. The sentiment is sure never to be lost. After all, the meaning of this flower is 100% the most well-known one in all of Floriography.
When words fail, offer flowers instead. They are a great way to express your feelings. They make great gifts for almost any occasion.
While you can never go wrong with red roses, it pays off to have a wide array of flowers in your bouquet.
But of course, it’s crucial to understand the meaning behind them. Otherwise, it’ll be pointless. It’s like saying I love you without understanding what it means.
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