How Flowers and Culture Tailor the Meaning of Carnations

There’s trend of carnations these days. Before you choose one, know its importance. The exact meaning of the carnations depends on the circumstances and color symbolism. However, Love, Fascination, and Distinction are the most common meanings that apply to all carnations.

No doubt every different carnation is a symbol of love and affection. The color of flow attached to it carries a different meaning. Before presenting carnations to someone you love, you should know their meaning.

• Red flower: Admiration and Deep Love
• Pink flower: A Mother’s Love
• White flower: Good Luck and Pure Love
• Striped flower Regret or: Rejection
• Yellow flower: Disappointment or Rejection
• Purple flower: Unpredictability or Capriciousness

Every culture, be it ancient Roman, Chinese, Korean, Victorian or Japanese, has its own meaning. Let’s dig them out.

According to them, the carnation flower came into existence after the Crucifixion of Christ. When mother, Mary, wept at the demise of her son, her tears fell upon the earth. The carnations came out of each spot the tears stained on the earth.

In Korea, the carnation is sued for foretelling the fortune of young girls. Young girls place three freshly cut carnations in their hair. They observe which of the three dies first. In case the top flowers die, it is the indication of coming years of the girl’s life will be filled with strife. If the middle flower gets faded first, it is believed the first will have turmoil during her youth. On the death of the lower flower, the girl is supposed to face great challenges throughout her entire life.

Chinese people use carnation in weddings. Carnation is the most common flower used in wedding ceremonies in China.

For Japanese people, red carnation is the epitome of love. It is the most common flower for Mother’s Day.

In the Victorian Era, flowers were often used to send a secret or coded message to a suitor or secret admirer. At times, people would answer secret questions by presenting carnations. Here are the color codes:
• A solid colored carnation meant the answer was ‘yes.’
• A yellow carnation was the symbol of “No”.
• A striped carnation would address feelings like I’m sorry, but I cannot be with you.

In the United States, carnations are considered the official flower. They’re given on Mother’s Day. They also wear it in corsages and boutonnieres for prom and other special events. The green carnation is typically worn on St. Patrick’s Day. It’s also believed to be the birth flower for January.

While all carnation or bulk carnations symbolize love, you should pick the color in order to tailor your message. Besides, choosing a carnation, make sure in which country you want to send it. As, every different culture has different purposes of carnation.