| The source of each flower's symbolic meaning could be
a historical or mythological reference, cultural associations with
a particular color or shape, or even magical notions. In many cases,
the medicinal properties of a plant became the foundation for it's
meaning: for example, rosemary was thought to improve memory, and it
came to symbolize remembrance and fidelity to those one loves.
A quick study of "the language of flowers" shows that these associations
could vary according to time and place, however, and enthusiasts
agree that the best communication still takes place heart to heart.
In recent years, it has nonetheless become fashionable to include
some of the more well-known symbols of love and romance in wedding
bouquets and decorations.
The following is a list of some of the most widely recognized
flower symbols:
- Alstromeria Lily - devotion
- Amaryllis - drama, splendid beauty
- Anemone - anticipation
- Aster - contentment
- Baby's Breath - purity of heart
- Bachelor's Button - anticipation
- Black-Eyed Susan - encouragement
- Bluebell - dependability
- Buttercup - wealth
- Camellia - good luck
- Carnation - pink means "thank you," striped means "no," yellow
means "good cheer," red is "excitement," white is "good humor."
- Daffodil - honor
- Delphinium - bravery
- Daisy - good faith, innocence
- Fern - Sincerity
- Forget-me-not - true love
- Freesia - spirituality
- Fuchsia - taste
- Gardenia - joy
- Gladiola - generosity
- Honeysuckle - devotion
- Jasmine - grace
- Lily - virtue, elegance
- Lily of the Valley - happiness
- Orange Blossoms - fertility and marriage
- Orchid - you are beautiful
- Purple Lilac - first love
- Red Rose - eternal love
- Red & White Roses together - unity
- Rosemary - remembrance, fidelity
- Stephanotis - happy marriage
- Sweet Pea - bliss, pleasure
- Sweet William - chivalry
- Tulip - perfect lover
- Violet - faithfulness
- White Lilac - innocence
- White Rose - worthiness
- Zinnia - friendship
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