The secret language of Valentine's flowers

Well it's that time of the year again: Valentine’s Day. The day that divides the nation into either eye-rolling contempt or dewy-eyed happiness.

Whether or not you think Valentine’s Day has become a commercial exercise, never underestimate the power of a beautiful bouquet of flowers, but be sure to be aware of the sentiment you’re trying to communicate.

Many flowers have unexpected symbolisms. Lucy Matthewson, Horticulture Buyer at Waitrose Florist said: ‘Developed by the Victorians, ‘floriography’ was commonly used to convey secret messages that etiquette of the day deemed unacceptable to share openly. Over time, opinion and understanding of flower symbolisms has changed and developed, but it’s incredibly interesting to look back at some of the messages our ancestors were trying to give through their bouquets.’

Test your knowledge and see if you know the true meaning of the blooms:

Red roses

The go-to romantic flower of choice, the original symbolism of red roses as is ‘love’. However, different colours of roses have alternative meanings – pink blooms symbolise ‘grace’, orange mean ‘fascination’, burgundy signify ‘unconscious beauty’.

Tulips

Tulips originated in the Middle East, before being brought to Europe in the sixteenth century. Their true meaning is ‘a declaration of love’.

Freesias

Freesias are named after German botanist and doctor Friedrich Frees and were brought to Europe from their native home of southern Africa, in the eighteenth century. They symbolise ‘lasting friendship’.

Orchids

Orchids were well known in the Victorian era, when almost 2,000 species were in existence – coming to Europe from Central America, Africa, India and the Far East. They symbolise ‘refined beauty’ – perfect as an alternative to red roses as a Valentine’s choice.

Lilies

The white Madonna lily is one of the oldest in cultivation and was thought to have been dispersed throughout Europe by Roman soldiers. Some people think lilies mean ‘sympathy’, when in fact, their original meaning is ‘majesty’, which is best described as ‘impressive beauty.'

Pink carnations

Carnations originated as a plant from southern Europe and the Victorians were particular fans. Pink carnations could be a choice for a lost love, or the one that got away – their true meaning is ‘I will never forget you.'

Irises

Irises have been in Britain since the sixteenth century. They have an unusual meaning – ‘message.' In Victorian times, this translated to ‘My compliments. I have a message for you.’

For more information about the Waitrose Florist Valentine’s Day collection, please visit: http://www.waitroseflorist.com/valentines-day