Floriography: the language and meaning of flowers
Flowers have been used to convey messages for millennia. Traceable back to the ancient Greeks, Egyptians and Romans, beautiful blooms have acted as thoughtful expressions of emotion for civilisations. Though the natural world has long been associated with symbolism, ‘floriography’ as we know it today is typically attributed to the Victorian era, when flower lovers developed a special language that is still in use in the modern day.
What is floriography?
Simply put, floriography is the language of flowers. It gives each bloom its own meaning, deriving symbolism not just from the flower itself but its variety and colour. Understanding the emotion behind your favourite stems gives them an extra-special meaning, allowing you to select a thoughtful gift for a loved one or a meaningful treat for yourself.
Is flower language still used?
Though it’s not as popular as it was during the Victorian era, there are many cases where floriography is used in the modern day, often without you even realising it. For example, we all associate red roses with love, and they’re often sent on Valentine's Day because of this. While other flower symbolism isn’t quite as widely practiced today, it’s still interesting to learn about and a useful way to help select the perfect flowers for your occasion.
What do different flowers symbolise?
There are so many flowers in the world and each one holds a different meaning. Often, even the colour of a flower can impact the sentiment behind it. We’ve listed a few classic blooms and their flower symbolism below.
For messages of love, look no further than the rose. This timeless bloom has long been a symbol of adoration, but did you know that different colours will convey a different sentiment? Red, of course, is famously associated with romance, while pink roses spread the love to family and friends. Yellow roses are also commonly associated with friendship, as well as happiness. To find out more about this classic bloom, read our complete guide to roses.
There are lots of meanings behind different lilies, but the most common is purity and fertility. Also associated with fresh life and rebirth, these flowers are often used in sympathy bouquets, particularly white lilies. Learn more about lilies and their symbolism in our guide.
The humble daisy is April’s birth flower, and one of the oldest and most abundant blooms in the world. They’ve been around for so long, and there are so many varieties, that there are countless meanings, but a few of the most popular are purity, new beginnings and true love.
It’s no surprise that sunflowers symbolise happiness. Bringing a dose of sunshine whatever the weather, these cheerful blooms are also associated with admiration, loyalty and strength, adding plenty of positive sentiment to bouquets. Explore our complete guide to sunflowers for more insights into these joyful blooms.
Another bloom that has heart at its core, the tulip is known for its associations with perfect and deep love, making it a lovely gift for those who you adore unconditionally. Being a Springtime favourite, this beautiful bloom also symbolises rebirth and, since the Victorian times, has been twinned with charity thanks to its link to a new season and new beginnings.
Having famously bloomed on Flanders Field in World War I, the red poppy is most often associated with remembrance, and is used as a symbol on Remembrance Day on 11th November. It is also associated with sleep, peace, imagination and resilience, and is the second birth flower of August.
The birth flower of January, carnations bring a bright display of colour to winter days. Different hues derive different meanings, but the most popular are associations of love, devotion and distinction.
Gladioli are the first birth flowers of August, and bloom from July to September. Named after the Latin word for sword thanks to their long, linear petals, it’s little wonder strength is included in gladiolus flower symbolism. It also holds meanings of integrity, elegance and success.
Named for the Greek word for star, asters are steeped in symbolism. The September birth flower holds lots of positive connotations, including love, wisdom and faith.
What do different colours of flowers symbolise?
Pondering what each colour flower symbolises? We’ve picked a few of the most popular hues and shared their meanings below.
You won’t be surprised to hear that red flowers symbolise love, romance and passion, but they also represent strength, courage and honour.
Like red flowers, pink blooms speak to romance and love, though they also symbolise family love and friendship, as well as gentility, femininity and admiration.
Purple flowers are associated with royalty, opulence and honour, making them a great option for the person you admire most.
The colour blue is so often associated with serenity, and so it’s little wonder blue flowers symbolise calm and tranquillity.
Echoing their vibrant hue, orange flowers speak to excitement, joy and enthusiasm, making them the perfect choice for a celebration.
Yellow flower symbolism is as positive and cheerful as the hue itself. Representing joy, happiness, hope and friendship, a bouquet with sunshine hues would be ideal is ideal for those in need of a pick-me-up.
White flowers are popular in wedding and sympathy bouquets because of their associations with purity, rebirth and new beginnings.
Flower symbolism for love
For true love, it has to be the rose. Opt for red for romance, or pink for unconditional love.
Flower symbolism for strength
For the person who’s been your rock, or showcased true strength during difficult times, look to red roses, snapdragons and gladioli to echo their courage and determination.
Flower symbolism for friendship
Yellow roses are the classic flower associated with friendship , thanks to their uplifting, cheerful colour and associations with love and admiration. If you can’t find roses, other yellow flowers will work just as well – sunflowers , for example, bring cheer and sunshine, a perfect reflection of your friendship.
