The Language of Flowers

The language of flowers was very popular during the Victorian era in the nineteenth century. With limitations on what was polite and acceptable when courting, a young man could express his true feelings with a gift of flowers.

Each flower had a secret meaning so that an admirer could send a message without any words actually being spoken. For instance, if a posy or bouquet of flowers was given that included red roses, it meant l am professing my love for you.

And then, if the lady receiving the flowers was interested, she could return a message by including one or more solid coloured carnations, which meant Yes  I'm interested and return your feelings'. If she wasn't interested she could include striped or variegated carnations which meant 'Sorry' I'm not interested,  you're not my type'.

Moving into the twenty-first century, when Kate Middleton walked down the aisle to marry Prince William, she carried a bouquet with flowers incorporating the language of flowers:

• Hyacinth - love
• Ivy leaves - fidelity
• Lily of the valley - return of happiness
• Myrtle - emblem of marriage and love
• Sweet William - gallantry

This has launched a renewed interest in the meaning of flowers and many brides may wish to use flowers with significant meanings for their wedding day.

Flower Meanings