Flowers have long been cherished for their beauty and fragrance, but did you know they've also been used as a form of communication? The "language of flowers," or floriography, allows individuals to convey messages and emotions through specific floral selections. This practice has deep historical roots and plays a significant role in traditions like gifting bouquets on Valentine's Day.
The Origins of Floriography
The concept of assigning meanings to flowers dates back centuries and spans various cultures. In Ottoman Turkey during the early 18th century, a tradition known as "sélam" involved sending messages through arrangements of objects, including flowers, each symbolising a particular sentiment. This practice captured the imagination of Europeans, especially after Englishwoman Mary Wortley Montagu introduced the idea to England in 1717. The first popular book on the subject was Charlotte de la Tour’s 1819 "Le Langage des Fleurs," which laid out meanings for particular flowers to be used in making bouquets. By the time La Tour’s book was translated into English, it had already inspired several British and American writers. Each author laid out their own version of the language, drawing from different sources of inspiration and bringing their own preferences to the trend.
Floriography in Victorian England
The language of flowers truly blossomed during the Victorian era (1837–1901). In a society where expressing emotions openly was often discouraged, floriography provided a discreet means for lovers and friends to communicate. Each flower, and even its colour, carried specific meanings. For instance, a red rose symbolised deep love, while a yellow rose indicated friendship or jealousy, depending on the context. Victorians often exchanged small "talking bouquets" or "word poesy," called nosegays or tussie-mussies, which could be worn or carried as a fashion accessory. These arrangements allowed individuals to convey complex messages without uttering a single word.
The Connection to Valentine's Day
Valentine's Day, celebrated on February 14th, has its origins in ancient Roman festivals and Christian martyrdom stories. However, it wasn't until the 19th century that the holiday became widely associated with romantic love and the exchange of tokens, including flowers. The rise of floriography during the Victorian era coincided with the popularisation of Valentine's Day as a romantic holiday. Lovers seized the opportunity to send bouquets imbued with specific meanings, allowing them to express feelings that societal norms might have otherwise suppressed. The act of giving flowers became a cherished Valentine's tradition, a practice that continues to this day.
Modern-Day Floriography
While the intricate language of flowers isn't as commonly known today, the tradition of gifting flowers on Valentine's Day remains strong. Red roses continue to symbolise deep love and passion, making them a popular choice for romantic gestures. Other flowers also carry meanings that can add depth to your bouquet:
- Tulips: red tulips declare love, while yellow ones convey cheerful thoughts.
- Lilies: white lilies symbolise purity and sweetness.
- Orchids: denote beauty and strength.
- Sunflowers: represent adoration and loyalty.
Understanding these meanings can make your floral gifts more personal and meaningful.
Choosing the Perfect Valentine's Bouquet
When selecting a bouquet for your loved one, consider the sentiments you wish to convey. A mix of flowers can express a range of emotions, and understanding their traditional meanings can add a thoughtful touch to your gift.
Conclusion
The language of flowers adds a rich layer of meaning to the act of giving bouquets, especially on occasions like Valentine's Day. By understanding the historical significance and symbolism of different flowers, you can create a gift that speaks volumes, conveying your feelings in a timeless and elegant manner.