The Language of Flowers

And the Garden of Love

Though the Victorians did not invent the language of flowers, they certainly revived it and lavish boquets were often presented as love letters, that carried a specific message.   In 1837, when Queen Victoria took the throne, Godey's printed Flora's Interpreter and in later years; small, decorated floral dictionaries were presented as advertising premiums, so that everyone would be informed.

HERE ARE A FEW

Baby's Breath......................................................... Pure of Heart White Camellia......................................... Loveliness; Admiration Carnations..................... Joy; Impulsiveness; Fascination; Fidelity Red Carnation............................................................ Admiration White Carnation......... Pure and Ardent Love; Disdain; Good Luck Pink Carnation.............................. Remembrance; Woman's Love

Red Chrysanthemum........................................... I Love You White Chrysanthemum............................................... Truth Yellow Chrysanthemum............................... Hope; Optimism Crocus............................. Youthful Exuberance; Cheerfulness Daffodil...................................................... Regard; Affection Dahlia........................................................ Elegance; Dignity Daisy........................................ Innocence; Gentleness; Purity Forget-Me-Not............................ True Love; Don't Forget Me Gardenia...................................................... Secret Love; Joy Geranium..................................................... Gentility; Peace Scarlet Geranium............................................... Consolation Rose Geranium..................................................... Preference Gladiolus....................................... Strength; Splendid Beauty Iris.......................... Message; Friendship; Valor; Faith; Hope

Lilac................................................................... First Love Lily........................................................... Devotion; Purity Lily of the Valley...................... Return of Happiness; Purity Morning Glory...................................................... Affection Orchid................................... Beautiful Lady; Love; Beauty Peony........................ Shame; Happy Marriage; Bashfulness Petunia.............. Anger and Resentment; Keep Your Promise Rose........................................................................... Love Pink Rose.......................... Perfect Happiness; Believe in Me White Rose.............. Charm; Innocence; Purity; I am Worthy White Rosebud.................................... Innocence; Girlhood Deep Deep Red Rose............................... Shame; Mourning Red Rose.................................................... Love and Desire Red Rosebud.............................................. Pure and Lovely Tulip................ You Are the Perfect Lover; Good Luck; Fame

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