You might be unfamiliar with the fascinating world of floriography, also known as the language of flowers. However, if you have ever sent or received a bouquet, an arrangement, or even a single bloom, you have unknowingly taken part in this ancient tradition. In the following discussion, we have consulted two seasoned floriography experts to delve into the history and significance of communicating through flowers, as well as uncover the hidden meanings behind some of our beloved blossoms.
**Meet Our Knowledgeable Experts**
Meet Morgan Westerberg-Jackson, a skilled floriographer and the lead designer at Blomstra Floral Co.
Introducing Jessica Roux, the talented author and illustrator of Floriography: An Illustrated Guide to the Victorian Language of Flowers
**The Origins of Floriography**
While floriography is commonly associated with the Victorian era, its roots stretch back much further, as explained by Westerberg-Jackson. “The Victorian era sparked a resurgence in the language of flowers, but its origins can be traced back to ancient civilizations such as Egypt, Greece, China, and others,” she reveals. During the 1800s, the practice of exchanging flowers with specific meanings gained popularity as a subtle form of expression, especially when overt displays of emotion were discouraged, according to Roux. In 1819, author Charlotte de la Tour published Le Langage des Fleurs, a work that documented meanings derived from mythology, religion, legends, and literature. Florists of the time often assigned meanings to their floral inventory, creating a unique form of communication through blooms.
“The Victorians were highly sentimental and utilized these meanings as a means of conveying emotions when words were inadequate or deemed improper,” explains Westerberg-Jackson. “While modern phrases like ‘Netflix and chill’ were non-existent, sending pea blossoms and white roses could convey a message of longing for an intimate rendezvous.”
**The Modern Significance of Floriography**
Although the specific meanings associated with flowers are less common today, some have endured the test of time. “One prominent example is the use of roses to symbolize love, a tradition that has persisted from romantic gestures to weddings and Valentine’s Day celebrations,” notes Roux. Chrysanthemums blooming in autumn are still commonly used to express condolences at funerals and gravesites, preserving their meaning across generations.
**Decoding the Symbolism of Popular Flowers**
Even without expertise in floriography, individuals often gravitate towards specific flowers and colors for various occasions. White blooms are popular for weddings, vibrant oranges and pinks evoke cheerfulness, while reds are synonymous with love. “Each botanical element carries its own message,” says Westerberg-Jackson. “However, this diversity can sometimes lead to multiple interpretations for a single bouquet. It is essential to consider the context to decipher the intended message.”
**Pink Roses: Symbols of Healing**
Roses have retained their symbolic significance
Healing and roses have a practical connection as well. “Throughout history, roses have been associated with healing due to their use in various folk remedies,” explains Westerberg-Morgan. “One of the oldest remedies for headaches involves soaking a cloth in cool rosewater and placing it on the temples. There are over 32 traditional remedies for issues ranging from skin problems to nerve ailments and many more. The choice of pink is significant. Color psychology plays a major role and pink is known to bring grace, healing, and hope.”
Sunflowers are commonly seen as symbols of good luck, deriving from their ability to follow the sun, which is a vital source of energy, clarity, and light. Westerberg-Jackson notes, “This vitality is reflected in sunflowers as they bloom, symbolizing longevity, vitality, and happiness—qualities associated with good fortune.”
Peonies, often depicted in traditional Japanese art, are linked to bravery. According to Westerberg-Jackson, “In a Japanese legend, a samurai appears to a princess in the guise of a peony. The color red is traditionally associated with courage and passion, contributing to the peony’s association with bravery. There are superstitions and folk tales about the protective powers of peonies, believed to ward off evil, storms, and mischievous beings.”
Orchids, particularly phalaenopsis, represent elegance, wealth, and opulence. Westerberg-Jackson explains, “While each type of orchid holds its own symbolism, phalaenopsis, a popular variety, signifies elegance and luxury. Orchids were rare during the Victorian era and associated with the wealthy elite, leading to their connection with luxury and refinement.”
Lilies, especially white Madonna lilies, symbolize purity, with a religious association to the Virgin Mary. Roux notes, “In the Middle Ages, the lily became a symbol of purity, often depicted in paintings of the Annunciation. Different colors of lilies hold distinct meanings, such as orange representing passion and yellow symbolizing happiness.”
Daisies, known for their cheerful yellow and white blooms, symbolize optimism and innocence, reminiscent of childhood purity. Westerberg-Jackson suggests, “Daisies are ideal for bringing cheer to those unwell or facing challenges.”
The link between lilacs and first love originates from the Greek myth of Pan and Syringa. Roux explains, “In this myth, Pan, the god of the forests, pursued Syringa, a nymph who transformed into a lilac bush to evade him. Pan crafted the pan flute from the bush’s reeds as a tribute to his first love.”
How Flowers Acquire Their SymbolismThe act of attributing meanings to flowers is not a precise discipline. According to Westerberg-Jackson, the interpretations that were amalgamated by people in the past to form this intricate language were drawn from Greek, Norse, Chinese, and Celtic folklore. In certain instances, a particular plant is entwined in a tale—such as mistletoe, which came to be linked with love and joy after it was utilized to vanquish the Norse deity Balder. Conversely, in other cases, the correlation is more abstract—like in the legend of Clytie, who spent an extended period yearning for her beloved, the sun god Helios, and consequently metamorphosed into a heliotrope flower, which gracefully swivels to follow the sun’s path.Not all flowers were solely associated with positive sentiments, notes Roux. “Death and grieving were also prevalent aspects of Victorian life, hence there exists an array of flowers designated for solemn occasions. For instance, willows symbolize mourning, and this is evident in their portrayal on Victorian mourning adornments and tombstones,” she elucidates. Numerous plants possess diverse connotations—some uplifting, others less so—and can acquire additional symbolism when combined with other blooms. “As a result, the language of flowers is adaptable and malleable,” explains Westerberg-Jackson. “One can convey virtually any message with flowers. A bride may carry a bouquet comprising wheat, white chrysanthemums, magnolias, and peach roses. What does this signify? ‘I yearn to be by your side eternally. I bestow upon you all that I am—I pledge my everlasting love to you.'”Discovering Fresh SignificanceWith the continual cultivation of new flowers, contemporary floriographers take into account the flower’s background, its hue, and the meanings associated with its botanical relatives to shape the emotions linked to it. Westerberg-Jackson cites toffee roses, which made their debut in 2018, as a pertinent example. “The color does not possess an ancient significance,” she remarks. “Nevertheless, through color symbolism, the general symbolism of roses, and the swirling appearance of the petals, we can fashion a meaning for this rose. Typically, when using this rose, it signifies stability and rootedness. Alternatively, it can denote ‘distinctive beauty,’ a meaning historically reserved for roses with unique hues.”Immerse yourself in the original article found on Martha Stewart
