Meaning Of Flowers
- Rose
- Lily
- Daisy
- Gladiolus
- Chrysanthemum
- Carnation
Red roses have been associated with passionate, romantic love since time immemorial. However, the association of roses with the beloved is something that came into being with the Sufi/Iranian culture and literature. In classical Greek and Roman cultures, rose was considered sacred as it was used for the worship of several gods and goddesses, Isis being one of them. On the other hand, in Christianity, the five petals of a rose were associated with the five wounds that Christ received during crucifixion. Rose is also the national flower of the United Kingdom. Roses come in a variety of colors, red, white, pink and yellow being the most commonly available varieties. In popular culture red rose is associated with romantic love, pink rose stands for admiration, a white rose for new beginnings (they are used in bridal bouquets) and yellow rose signifies joy, cheerfulness and friendship.
The lily flower comes in an astonishing variety. Not only are they available in countless colours, but also a variety of usage. According to some stories, the lily was sacred to the Greeks as they thought it sprouted from the Greek goddess Hera’s milk. White lilies are popularly considered as symbols chastity and virtue. White lilies are the flowers most commonly used in Christian funerals. White lilies, in classical Christian culture, were considered to signify the chastity and purity of the Virgin Mary.
The daisy has forever been associated with pastoral innocence. It has been the subject of many a poem and song. It is commonly associated with a young woman’s yearning to be loved by a man. The English countryside is strewn with daisies.
Gladiolus Flowers
The gladiolus flower which grows on long stems and are available in whites, pinks, oranges, yellows, reds and so on, are commonly associated with the fortieth wedding anniversary. The gladiolus flower symbolises moral integrity and strength of character. Some varieties of gladioli also express infatuation.
Chrysanthemum Flowers
In some European countries the chrysanthemum is symbolic of death; in France, Italy, Spain, Belgium, Hungary, Poland and Croatia, to be precise. In these countries the chrysanthemum is only used in funerals. In China and Japan, the chrysanthemum stands for nobility and royalty. In Japan several orders of the throne and government are adorned with the chrysanthemum as an emblem.
Carnation Flowers
The beautiful carnation has several symbolic meanings. Commonly, they are known to express love, fascination, distinction depending on their color varieties. It is also symbolic of the socialist labour movement. In France, however, carnations are known to bring bad luck and misfortune. According to some Christian legends, carnations first bloomed on Earth when Jesus carried His Cross. Therefore, they also stand for a mother's love and tears.