The Hidden Meanings Behind Flowers

How to Decide Which Flowers to Choose for a Gift

Flowers are possibly the oldest means to express affection, love, gratitude, and a host of other emotions. Flowers are also still one of the most touching gifts to receive from someone. Over time, different types of flowers have come to be associated with specific emotions.

The underlying message in a floral gift depends upon which type of bouquet is chosen. There is even a term for this- "florigraphy". Florigraphy literally means "the language of flowers". Take heed when sending a floral arrangement as a gift and make certain that you are sending the appropriate 'message'.

Adoration
Blue Hyacinth- Blue Hyacinth signifies undying devotion.

Evening Primrose- The Evening Primrose stands for a shy type of admiration or devotion.

Heliotrope- Jerry Maguire could have just as easily sent Heliotrope to express "You complete me", but it wouldn't have been as dramatic.

White Hyacinth- White Hyacinth doesn't send as strong a message as the other flowers in this category, but simply states, "I admire you".

Friendship
Bronze Chrysanthemum- Bronze Chrysanthemums deliver the message, "Let's just be friends". It denotes that you value the friendship, but that's all it will ever be.

Pelargonium- Pelargonium means "I would be happy to be your friend".

Pink Phlox- Pink Phlox offers the hope of a new friend.

Pink Rose- Pink roses are sent to friends.

Hope
Magnolia- Magnolia's message is to keep the faith and don't give up.

Hurt
Gladiolus- Send a bouquet containing Gladiolus if someone has caused emotional distress.

Laburnum- If a person sends Laburnum, they are stating that they feel neglected.

Indecision
Goldenrod- If you haven't made a decision, send Goldenrod.

White Geranium- White Geraniums also signal indecision. For extra emphasis, send a bouquet of both Goldenrod and White Geraniums.

Insecurity
Pink Geranium- If someone sends Pink Geraniums, they are expressing doubt. A similar written message would read, "I don't understand. Why are you acting this way?"

Scarlet Geranium- Scarlet Geraniums symbolize distrust.

Love
Gardenia- "I secretly love you".