Secret Message With Your Favorite Flowers

Flowers are certainly more than their pretty petals and bright colors. These days, giving someone a specific bouquet might represent an act of love, friendship, sympathy, and more.

But in Victorian times, floral meanings were even more specifc. The popularity of flower dictionaries soared during this period, and a "language of flowers" formed. Giving a certain arrangement could represent love, of course, but also "pensiveness," "heartache," "audacity," and so much more. Of course, everyday Victorians didn't use flowers to send each other messages, but the floral symbolism was still important to them.

Recently, the language of flowers is having a cultural resurgence, and who isn't curious about the hidden meaning behind your favorite bloom? You may even think twice before you create your next bouquet. Or better still, just smile at the thought because a pretty flower is always something to be enjoyed. 

1. Pink carnations
These often underrated flowers have a sweet, wistful meaning: "I will never forget you."

2. Chrysanthemums
A reminder that honesty is the best policy, these mean "truth."

3. Daffodils
Perhaps the perfect gift for a new mom, daffodils mean "new beginnings."

 

4. Purple Hyacinths
Feeling remorse? These bold blooms say "please forgive me."

 

6. Peonies
Oddly enough, spring's most-awaited flower said "anger" to the Victorians.

 

7. Petunias
These welcoming container garden flowers are just that: They mean "your presence soothes me."

 

8. Tulips
Give tulips with caution, as they are a "declaration of love."

9. White Roses
Aiming for romance? Stick to red roses (they mean "love"). Their white counterparts reveal "a heart unacquainted with love."

NOTE: Some flowers have more than one meaning — Victorian dictionaries often conflicted — but we used this recently published reference book for some modern-day guidance.