Thursday, July 3, 2008

Flowers: What Do They Mean?

Flowers are a timeless way of showing affection, saying “I’m sorry”, or wishing someone good luck. But instead of just randomly picking out blooms in a flower shop, wouldn’t you like to know the meaning behind the flowers you’re sending? Then the recipient will not only receive a gorgeous bouquet of flowers, they will receive a handcrafted message just from you. Greeting cards have nothing on flowers; their meanings are ancient, deep, and embedded in their very being. Below are some of the most popular flowers, and what they symbolize. Have fun learning!
Roses
One of the most popular flowers, roses are a classic bloom for gifting. Their soft petals, rich colors, and sweet smell evoke much pleasure when received. Each color of rose has a distinct meaning. Red roses are a symbol of perfection and love, white blooms symbolize purity and innocence, and yellow roses carry the meaning of joy and true friendship. If you want to tell someone you admire them send pink roses, or signal your passionate desire with orange or coral roses. If roses are your flower of choice you have many options amongst the colors in order to send the right message.
Tulips
The perfect cup of a bright tulip waving gently in the wind is a sure sign of spring. Tulips are an ancient flower originating in Persia. Like roses, different colors carry different meanings with tulips. A red tulip symbolizes perfect love, while a white tulip signals forgiveness. Purple tulips are reserved for royalty, and a striped tulip will tell your beloved that you adore their eyes. Tulips are a comfortable flower, never too ostentatious, always just right.
Gerbera Daisies
Gerbera daisies look much like their white cousins in form, but they come in many bright and vivid colors. These flowers, the 5th most popular in the world, symbolize innocence and classic beauty as a member of the daisy family. But unlike their pale relatives Gerbera daisies also represent cheerfulness and a merry heart. Their bright colors will liven up any room, and will surely bring a smile to the recipient’s face.

Iris
The iris is a flower with a rich history stretching as far back as ancient Egypt. The word “iris” comes from the Greek word for “rainbow”, and these exotic looking flowers certainly live up to their name. An iris symbolizes faith, hope, and wisdom, as well as courage and admiration. A bouquet of irises is a wonderful gift for a grandparent, or for mother’s day.
Orchids
The exotic and strikingly beautiful orchid is a favorite both as a cut flower and as a plant. There are over 25,000 different types of orchids, growing all over the world. An orchid carries many meanings, including wealth, love, beauty, and fertility. The Aztecs also believed the flower to have healing properties. Orchids will make a lasting impression, whomever you give them to.
Lilies
The big, beautiful lily is always a striking flower in a bouquet; its sweet scent will always fill a room quickly. The classic white lily represents innocence and purity, and is often used at funerals and sometimes at weddings. Pink stargazer lilies symbolize ambition and prosperity. The smaller, more delicate Peruvian lily represents friendship and devotion. Lilies are a great choice when giving a friend a bouquet, and also mix wonderfully with other flowers to deepen your message.
Whatever flower you decide on, your recipient will be thrilled. Good luck choosing the right flowers, and enjoy customizing a bouquet that says exactly what you want it to.

For help in finding the perfect flowers to send, go to Flower-Finds.com