Carnations are a common sight at all kinds of joyous and solemn occasions. This is because this Eurasian plant is available in varied colours and cultivated widely. Individual flowers may be used as decorations at festivals and parties, serving to brighten up the atmosphere. As far as bouquets are concerned, paradoxically, they may be carried by happy brides at weddings, as well as by mourners at funerals.
- Similar to roses, carnations are useful for expressing all kinds of emotions. For instance, you may pin an individual, long-stemmed flower to your attire on St. Patrick’s Day, Teacher’s Day, Mother’s Day, first wedding anniversary, and so on.
- If you look at the meaning of the scientific name for carnations, that is, Dianthus caryophyllus, it seems to indicate that these blooms depict love. Alternatively, they may also be termed as Flowers of the Gods. This is because of their fragrance, which is akin to that emitted by cloves; their ability to last for a long time; and their ruffled appearance.
- Since these blossoms have existed for 2000 years, or even more, it is rather hard to trace the origin of their name. Possibly, the root word exists in the Greek language. “Corone” refers to a flower garland, wherein “coronation” is a reference to the royal crown. Then again, the label may have originated in Latin. “Carnis” refers to flesh; carnations are rather pinkish in appearance. Alternatively, the name may mean incarnation, being derived from the root word, “incarnacyon.”
Regardless of where the name originated from, it cannot be denied that carnations may be of diverse colours, not just pinkish. Each hue has its associated interpretation.
- Light-red flowers represent a bonding between two people who admire each other. Deep red blooms signify very deep affection and passion.
- Pink carnations are best for mothers; they point towards their undying love for their children. In fact, there is a story behind this colour. It is believed that as the tears flowed from the Virgin Mary’s eyes during the crucifixion of Christ, they gave rise to pink carnations.
- Anything in white stands for purity, innocence, good luck, gratitude, faithfulness, etc.
- Purple is not a very good colour for a gift, since the recipient is supposed to be capricious in character. This individual may be freakish, whimsical, impulsive, etc.
- Once again, yellow is not a good colour. It is rather pessimistic in its meaning, for it reflects rejection, disappointment, or disdain. You may not be happy with the recipient.
- If you wish to convey your inability to fall in with someone’s plans, do so by gifting the person striped carnations. You may opt for any combination of colours.
- Green is not a natural colour; it is obtained by placing the flowers in water. These artificially collared blossoms are great for St. Patrick’s Day.
Obviously, these flowers are fraught with meaning, and therefore, universally adored. If ever you wish to send flowers to someone, you may opt for annual, biannual, or perennial carnations.
