Interestingly, there isn't a lot of science behind this symbolic gesture. In fact, much of my searching resulted in various websites who sell flowers touting the importance of sending them (regularly, of course) to your significent other.
From what I gather, the history of giving your loved one (Valentine’s Day) flowers comes from the old-fashioned custom of sending floral bouquets to pass on non-verbal messages. Introduced in the 18th century by Charles II of Sweden, each flower had a specific meaning attached to it, making it possible to have an entire conversation using only flowers.
The Society of American Florists has compiled multiple lists of flowers meanings from a variety of sources. Here are ten of my favorite:
- Amaryllis: dramatic
- Begonia: deep thoughts
- Carnation (yellow): cheerful
- Dekphinium: boldness
- Larkspur: beautiful spirit
- Peony: healing
- Star of Bethlaham: hope
- Sunflower: adoration
- Sweetpea: shyness
- Tulip (yellow): hopelessly in love
At any rate, today people continue to send flowers on special occasions or to express sentiments of love, admiration, sympathy - or simply "just because." Do you know the language of flowers? Feel free to share your personal sentiments, experience or favorite flower in your logs.
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