can we speak in flowers. // it will be easier for me to understand. - Nayyirah Waheed, Salt
Tulips in Spring. Roses from a lover. Lilies at Easter. Sunflowers sent to cheer an invalid. The hidden nuances of which flowers to send (and when) go as far back as the Ancient Egyptians to Roman mythology to Shakespeare. But the language of flowers really began during the Victorian Era as different arrangements, colors and species of blooms became a way of communication. Here are our favorite flowers with more nuanced meanings:
Iris - Represents hope, named after the Greek Goddess Iris, who was believed to guide people over a multicolored rainbow bridge into the afterlife.
Gladiolus - This flower originates from the Latin name “gladius”, meaning “little sword”. Thus, it is no surprise that this flower was associated with Roman gladiators and symbolizes strengt
Peony - The full and lush blooms of peonies are said to represent prosperity and good fortune
Camellia - In China, this flower was said to represent the union of a man and woman. Unlike a normal flower, the petals and calyx of the flower do not separate when the flower dies but stay together until they fall together.
Bluebell - The little fairy hats that are bluebells represent humility with their little bowed heads and the fact that they humbly cover the ground under trees and other plants.