Wednesday, November 26, 2008

The Meaning Of Flowers

Many different flowers have their own particular meanings. Before you send flowers to anyone else, it is important to consider just what message you are giving to another person. What are you trying to say? For example, nothing says you love someone as much as a red chrysanthemum.

A flower can be sent as a message to others, from love to disgust to boredom. Many of these messages have been forgotten over the course of time, but if there's something you want to subtly (or not so subtly) say to someone, here's a good way to do it.

INSULTING FLOWERS

Almond - means stupidity or indiscretion.

The African Marigold means a vulgar mind.

Balsam - impatience, whilst Red Balsam means don't touch me!

Basil - hatred

FLOWERS AND PRAISE

Angelica - inspiration

A pink acacia means elegance.

Amethyst - admiration

Cactus - warmth

Clematis - mental beauty

Yellow daffodil - chivalry

Fennel - worthy of praise


FLOWERS AND POSITIVE THOUGHTS

Flowering almond means hope.

Allspice - compassion

American Starwort - welcome to a stranger

Indian Azalea - true to the end

Balm - sympathy

White daisy - innocence

FLOWERS AND NEGATIVE THOUGHTS

Amaryllis - pride

Apple - temptation

Apocynum - deceit

Begonia - dark thoughts

Bramble - envy

Creeping cereus - horror

Crownhill - envy

Dogsbane - deceit

Flytrap - deceit

FLOWERS AND LOVE

Ambrosia -means love returned.

The American Linden -means matrimony

Cedar Leaf - I live for you.

Red Chrysanthemum - I love

White Chrysanthemum - Truth

Yellow Chrysanthemum - slighted love

Forget-me-not - true love

So next time you pop off to get some flowers for a friend, wife, husband or other, think about the message you are sending them!




By Winnie Jones

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Monday, November 24, 2008

The Sentimental Meaning Of Flowers


For me certain types of flowers bring back a flood of memories. I remember in my early teens visiting my best friend who had moved to the country. We would spend hours in the field next to her property, talking and picking the petals of daisies in a game played by many, he-loves-me, he-loves-me-not.



This memory can rushing back two days ago when I was waiting in line at the supermarket and happened to glance at the bouquets for sale. Amongst the mixed bouquets, there were daisies. This flower has special meaning in my heart. I associate it with my best friend who I lost to a car accident when we were both 17.



Flowers definitely bring an emotional response and we remember our happy and sad times through them.



The first time I inhaled the sweet fragrance of a carnation I was enthralled. It happened when my father, took us to Greece to visit his parents. As a 7 year old, this strange land captivated me. I vividly remember my first response when we made our way up the hill where my grandparents house was, to find myself staring up at the handing grapes from the porch roof and the carnations which were planted along the edge of the porch.



Blood red, I can still recall their sweet aroma. They were the pride and joy of my grandmother who nurtured them and allowed me to help care for them. I had been instantly impressed by this glorious flower, not having seen it before.



If you are a woman, most of your flower memories may be romantic ones. Can you recall the first time you received flowers? Or the time when you were impressed the most with your date's thoughtfulness?



The first time I received flowers was at the early stages of the internet. I loved meeting and chatting with people from around the world and one such person was Rowan from London. We hit it off right away and till this day have remained good friends.



I was at work when a courier came in with a gigantic bouquet of flowers. When the receptionist came into my office to usher me to the reception not for a minute did I think they were for me. But they were. The gesture was so unexpected, so thoughtful, it will remain in my heart forever.



What are your flower memories?





By Gina Stathopoulos

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Sunday, November 23, 2008

The Special Meaning of a Yellow Rose

The meaning of a yellow rose signifies strong feelings of pure joy, gladness, happiness and platonic friendship, in Germanic countries the meaning of a a yellow rose is different - they're used to convey jealousy.Friendship is the main meaning of the yellow rose but it also signifies familiar love and domestic happiness. Yellow roses also symbolize fun and freedom.Today, the yellow rose is used to embrace a new beginning, apologize or express sympathy, and to say, "remember me" , "I am sorry', or "I care." Yellow roses are appropriate for marking the beginning of a new life together or for starting all over again.The Language of FlowersThe language of flowers, sometimes called floriography, was a Victorian-era method of communication. Floriograpghy, in which various flowers and floral arrangements were used to send coded messages, allowed individuals to express feelings which otherwise could not be spoken. The meaning of the color of flowers was most commonly communicated through Tussie-Mussies (floral arrangements), a creative art form which continues today.Though most popular in the Victorian period, the symbolic use of flowers dates back to antiquity. In Medieval and Renaissance culture flowers were often given moral meanings. This is most apparent in art in which saints are often depicted with flowers, symbolic of their virtues. Liana DeGirolami Cheney notes that "some of the Christian symbols for Virginity or Chastity are the white rose, the myrtle, a vessel or vase, the lily, and the unicorn"

The Color Meaning of RosesDifferent color roses symbolize different things and the meaning of different color roses is show here:Red: love, used to say "I love you," but also stands for courage and respect.Red & White Together or White Roses with Red Edges signify unity and togetherness.Pink: symbolizes grace, sophistication and elegance. Also symbolizes gentle feelings of love and friendship.Dark Pink: Gratefulness and appreciation.Light Pink: Admiration, sympathyWhite: Innocence, purity, secrecy, friendship, reverence and humility.Yellow: Often akin to joy and deep friendship or platonic love. In German speaking countries, however, they can mean jealousy and infidelity.Yellow with red tips: Symbolizes a gesture of falling in love.Orange or Coral symbolizes enthusiasm and desireBurgundy: BeautyBlue: MysteryGreen: CalmBlack: used to signify death (black being the color of death) often of old habits. In a positive light it signifies rebirth after death. Also, slavish devotion (as a true black rose is impossible to produce).Purple: protection (paternal/maternal love)Rose Types Also Convey Meanings TooRose (thornless) - Love at first sightRose (single, full bloom) - I love you; I still love youRose bud - Beauty and youth; a heart innocent of loveRose bud (red) - Pure and lovelyRose bud (white) - GirlhoodRosebud (moss) - Confessions of loveRoses (bouquet of full bloom) - GratitudeRoses (garland or crown of) - Beware of virtue; reward of merit; crown ; symbol of superior meritRoses (musk cluster) - CharmingRose (tea) - I'll always rememberRose (cabbage) - Ambassador of loveRose (Christmas) - Tranquilize my anxiety or anxietyRose (damask) - Brilliant complexionRose (dark crimson) - MourningRose (hibiscus) - Delicate beautyRose leaf - You may hopeAbout: Brant Florist has been owned and operated by The Bolt family since 1977. Doyle, Tim, Elaine and Ken Bolt treat every customer the way they would like to be treated. Staff are well trained, have years of experience and are always professional. The shop has been processing internet orders since 1996 with a computerized network to manage and record all orders. The shop was originally established in 1961 by Mr. and Mrs. Jones. That is over 45 years of successfully serving customers like you.
By Ken Bolt

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Saturday, November 22, 2008

The Sentimental Meaning Of Flowers

For me certain types of flowers bring back a flood of memories. I remember in my early teens visiting my best friend who had moved to the country. We would spend hours in the field next to her property, talking and picking the petals of daisies in a game played by many, he-loves-me, he-loves-me-not. This memory can rushing back two days ago when I was waiting in line at the supermarket and happened to glance at the bouquets for sale. Amongst the mixed bouquets, there were daisies. This flower has special meaning in my heart. I associate it with my best friend who I lost to a car accident when we were both 17. Flowers definitely bring an emotional response and we remember our happy and sad times through them. The first time I inhaled the sweet fragrance of a carnation I was enthralled. It happened when my father, took us to Greece to visit his parents. As a 7 year old, this strange land captivated me. I vividly remember my first response when we made our way up the hill where my grandparents’ house was, to find myself staring up at the handing grapes from the porch roof and the carnations which were planted along the edge of the porch. Blood red, I can still recall their sweet aroma. They were the pride and joy of my grandmother who nurtured them and allowed me to help care for them. I had been instantly impressed by this glorious flower, not having seen it before.

If you are a woman, most of your flower memories may be romantic ones. Can you recall the first time you received flowers? Or the time when you were impressed the most with your date's thoughtfulness? The first time I received flowers was at the early stages of the internet. I loved meeting and chatting with people from around the world and one such person was Rowan from London. We hit it off right away and till this day have remained good friends. I was at work when a courier came in with a gigantic bouquet of flowers. When the receptionist came into my office to usher me to the reception not for a minute did I think they were for me. But they were. The gesture was so unexpected, so thoughtful, it will remain in my heart forever. What are your flower memories?
By Gina Stathopoulos

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Friday, November 21, 2008

The Meanings Attached to Flowers

Every year, as January wears on and February approaches, Beth Hentschel has a small but steady stream of customers coming to her flower shop with the same concern."They concerned about roses. They want to give flowers for Valentine's Day, but for a wide variety of reasons, they don't want to purchase the glorious red ones. They'll say 'I know that means love,' " Hentschel notes.Indeed, we all know that red roses connote a deep form of love. While that isn't the right sentiment for all occasions, other flowers are certainly a possibility.Hentschel keeps a handy list so she knows, for example, that while chrysanthemums in general show friendship or a wish for the person to be cheerful and well, specific colors can be trickier. Yellow chrysanthemums, for example, signify slighted love, while white ones stand for truth, and red ones (like their rose counterparts) stand for love.Other flowers may send mixed messages. Lavender heather, for example, can stand for admiration, but it can also symbolize solitude as well. How does a person interpret that? "You're wonderful, but only from a distance?"Other flowers' meanings are very clear and specific. Give a bouquet of viscaria, for example, and the message is in the form of a question: "Will you dance with me?"Of course, cultural background plays a role in the interpretation.

While orchids represent beauty and refinement, in Chinese culture, they are a symbol for having many children, indicating that the background and expectations of the recipient can be just as important as the choice of flower itself.Then there are those who are just plain mean, and have already figured out the meaning of a flower for themselves."Some people do ask for black roses. Actually, I had a guy ask the other night. He wanted them for his ex-girlfriend, but then he laughed. He appeared to be joking, but he was asking."Many, however, are looking for the romance red roses inspire, but are also hoping to send such a message in a non-standard, unique way.Hentschel offers such seekers of originality plenty of options. "A lot of the time, they will do cala lilies or lily of the valley, gladiolas, orchids, things that are a bit different," she explains. Or, finishing the floral arrangement with something special will make it stand out. "Queen Anne's lace is sometimes used, particularly in really elaborate arrangements," she adds.
By Carol Anne Carroll

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Thursday, November 20, 2008

The Meaning Of Flowers And The Language Of Love

Flowers and plants have a rich folklore of symbolism and meaning. The Victorians developed a whole language of them to help express their deepest thoughts and feelings.Using specific flowers to express one’s thoughts and feelings preoccupied many a proper young lady and gentleman in times gone by. While the practice seemed to reach its modern apex in Victorian England, they were hardly the first society to evolve an entire language of flowers. The Persians had actually done it centuries earlier.But today, it is the Victorian language of flowers that is best known, partly because much of it was written down – not just in the musings of young ladies in their daily journals, but gathered together in several books, including “Flower Lore: The Teachings of Flowers, Historical, Legendary, Poetical and Symbolic.” It was written by a Miss Carruthers, of Inverness and published (in England) in 1879. The tome became popular on both sides of the Atlantic and grew to become one of the standard sources for flower folklore and symbolism in England – and America.The movie, “Kate and Leopold” of some years ago, even featured a scene, where Leopold – always the noble gentleman – advised Kate’s brother on how to build the perfect bouquet to win his lady love. It worked!The following rough guide comes from that text:* White Poplar or Abele – Time* Acacia – Secret Love* Almond – Hope, Haste, Watchfulness

* Amaranth – Faith, Imortality, Unfading Love* Anemone – Brevity, Expectation* Beech – Prosperity* Belladonna – Fatal gift to a man* Birch – Grace, Meekness* Camelia – Excellence, Loveliness* Carnation – Admiration* Cherry Blossom (single) – Education* Cherry Blossom (double) – False Hopes* Clover – Fertility* Columbine – Folly* Cowslip – Pensiveness, Wining Grace* Crocus – Youthful gladness* Cypress – Mourning (note how many of the “Mourning” prints, needlework* Pieces and even gravemarkers of the era featured the cypress)* Daffodils – Regard* Dahlia – Instability* Daisey – Innocence* Dandlion - Oracle* Edelweiss – Daring, Courage, Noble Purity (remember the song from the “Sound* Of Music?”)* Eglantine – Poetry* Elder Flower – Zeal* Ferns – Fascination* Forget-me-not- what else…Remembrance* Grass – Usefulness* Hawthorn – Contentment* Holly – Good wishes* Hyacinth – Games, Sport, sometime Woe* Iris – Hope, Message, Light, Power, eloquence* Ivy – Fidelity* Jasmine – Admirability* Lavender- Distrust* Lime – Conjugal Love* Marigold – Jealousy, Avarice* Myrtle – Love* Oak – Hospitality* Pansy – Thought* Peony – Lowliness, Bashfulness* Primrose – Early youth, Lover’s doubt or fears* Rosemary – Remembrance* Rue – Mercy, Pity* Sage – Domestic virtues* Sunflower – Constancy, Devotion* Sweet Pea – Departure* Sweet William – Gallantry* Tulip – Ardent love* Violet – Steadfastness* Willow – Forsaken love* Zinnia – Thoughts of absent friends
By Rick London

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Wednesday, November 19, 2008

The Language of Flowers

Flowers have played an integral part throughout history. They have been depicted in various religions and sources of mythology and folklore in many cultures. Some served as food while others possessed healing properties and were used as medicine. Flowers held symbolic meanings and beliefs within various cultures, and they were also considered to be decorative. In fact, some ancient civilizations believed that they could appease the spirits by decorating tombs with certain flowers.The symbolism behind certain flowers often pointed towards one’s intentions. People could pass on messages to each other without having to say a word. Depending on the specific plant, they could express messages of love or dislike. This is still practiced today; in fact, flowers are often sent to others as an expression of love, grief, honor, and health. Do you know what you are saying when you give flowers or plants to others or what they are saying to you? The rose has long since been a symbol of love and desire. During the Renaissance, this flower was often associated with the beauty of Venus and scratches by rose thorns were associated with the wounds of love. In Christian symbolism, the red rose represents the blood of a martyr as well as love. The white rose is a symbol of purity, charm, and innocence. Pink roses often signify happiness. The lily is a symbol of chastity and virtue and often depicted within religion. Lilies are also a symbol of death in some cultures, while in others, they are thought to have healing properties and are used as treatment for fever, an ointment for wounds, and pain reliever for arthritis.

Ancient people believed that the odor from the burnt leaves of asters drove away serpents. Asters were also once laid upon the graves of French soldiers to symbolize the wish that things had turned out differently. Generally, asters have the symbolic meaning of a lucky charm. Calendula has often been associated with religion and healing. Calendula blossoms were once used in wine to soothe indigestion. The petals were also utilized in ointments for skin irritations, jaundice, sore eyes, and toothaches. This was considered the most sacred flower of ancient India due to its healing properties; however, in other cultures, this flower represents jealousy. Chrysanthemums were considered noble plants by the Chinese. The chrysanthemum is a symbol of the sun in many cultures; however, in Italy these flowers are associated with death. Normally, if you are given a red chrysanthemum, it means ‘I Love You’ and a white chrysanthemum represents truth. Daisies are symbolic of innocence and gentleness. One Celtic legend states that the spirits of children who died in childbirth scattered daisies on the earth to cheer their sorrowing parents. Did you know that the bulbs of tulips were once traded like stock? People actually paid for these with parcels of land or other property. In Greece, women once thought that if the father of their unborn child ate large tubers, she would have a boy while ingesting small ones produced a girl. Red tulips usually signify to the recipient that he or she is the perfect lover. Sunflowers represent longevity or pride; baby's breath, which is most often accompanied by roses, symbolizes a pure heart and sincerity. Carnations hold various meanings. A pink carnation means someone is unforgettable, a red one depicts admiration, and a white carnation signifies a pure and ardent love. Want forgiveness? Send some hyacinths. Is it your first love? Try a lilac. Do you wish to instill hope or faith? An iris meets this regard. Thinking of others who are missed? Consider sending them some sweet peas or zinnias. Flowers have been around for centuries and perpetuate significant meaning to others. Next time you send or receive flowers, especially those from other cultures, consider what message is being conveyed. A particular flower may mean one thing to you and something quite different to someone else.
By Nikki Phipps

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Tuesday, November 18, 2008

Meaning of Rose Flower Colors

The rose flowers represent love and romance as it meanings. However, all rose flowers have its own attributed meanings depending on the color it possesses. The meaning of rose flower colors used to deliver various messages to people either between friends or lovers. This tradition had originated during the strict era of Victorian age where passionate and romantic messages between lovers are interchanged through the forms of innocent looking bouquet of rose flowers with different colorsAs the years passed by, the meaning of rose flower colors have evolved throughout the time. It had turned to into some advanced languages and intricate messages that are shaped into different floral arrangements. Other factors are also modified and enhanced giving deeper interpretations of the message to be passed on. One of these factors is the number of rose flowers either fully bloomed or rose buds that are included in every floral arrangement. For a single rose that is red combined with some white rose buds, the message would be "I love you but you are too young". For a dozen of red roses, the message would represent an ultimate sign of love to the recipient.The rose flower colors include white, red, purple, pink, yellow, orange, peach, deep burgundy, green, black and blue. However, not all of these colors are naturally grown. Some of these are artificially made color for the rose flowers to give more enhancements and modernizations for the meaning of rose flower colors. Pale rose colors no matter what shades may represent friendship. The white roses represent bright and pure affection, which literally means that "you are heavenly", and the suitor respects and looks upon to you.

The red roses in bouquet arrangement or combined with white roses give the meaning and symbol of love and unity. It also represents kinship and loyalty. The purple roses symbolize love and enchantment at first sight. Pink roses are generally concluded to represent elegance and refinement.It may come in different shades such as cerise tone or deep pink, which means appreciation and gratitude, and very light pink signifies sympathy. Yellow roses that come in bouquet arrangement mean "trying to care". For a new beginning, eagerness and enthusiasm, orange roses are the best epitome. Peach roses epitomized that something had been reached or achieved. A deep burgundy color of rose flowers represents the message of "you are so beautiful without even knowing it" or literally means unconscious beauty. Green roses have been into existence since 1856 as it symbolizes fruitfulness and fertility. Black roses represent death while the blue roses signify mystery.The meaning of rose flower colors can be interpreted in many ways. Rose flowers have always been very attractive and historical to many people. It even symbolizes virtue, optimism and hope to some people. More importantly, rose flowers will always play a significant role in our lives as humans in whatever time.
By Candis Reade

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Monday, November 17, 2008

Legends and Meanings of Flowers

Flowers are beautiful, fragrant and suitable for all occasions. They are also very meaningful in more than one way. There are numerous occasions for which we buy flowers such as birthdays, anniversaries, weddings and even funerals. Wouldn’t it be nice to know the meaning behind the types of flowers you choose to express your feelings? You can also send flowers by choosing ones associated with the recipient’s birth month. Although there are too many different flowers to list in the scope of a brief article we’ll take a look at a few of them.Carnations are the flowers associated with the month of January. Carnations are popular flowers and are often favored by many. In general, carnations symbolize fidelity although different meanings have been given according to color. Pink symbolizes remembrance while red is a symbol of love. White indicates purity while yellow is said to mean friendship. Carnations are also known as Jove’s Flower. According to Christian legend carnations grew from the tears of Mary. February’s flowers are iris and violet. Iris is a lovely flower favored by the ancient Romans. It symbolizes faith, wisdom and valor. The lovely violet has a positive connotation all around with the blue variety symbolizing faithfulness and love while the white violet represents hope. Violets are also considered good luck. The flower for the month of March is the daffodil. This flower is usually associated with rebirth and new beginnings. It has also been said to be a symbol of unrequited love. According to Greek mythology, daffodils grew in the Underworld.

It was daffodils that Persephone had stopped to pick when she was carried away by Hades in his chariot. Daisy is the flower associated with the month of April. This lovely wildflower is a symbol of love and it is best known for the “He loves me, He loves me not” rhyme that most of us have played at one time or another to try and determine the feelings of someone we’ve been infatuated with.May’s flower is Lily of the Valley. This beautiful flower symbolizes sweetness and happiness. It is said to lift the spirits and bring cheer to one’s heart. Just gazing upon this serene and lovely flower can bring a sense of calm and peacefulness.June’s flower is the beautiful rose. Roses are probably the most popular and most admired of all flowers. It is also one of the oldest known flowers. The rose is an emblem of England. It is also the flower of the Virgin Mary. In general, roses symbolize love and beauty although the color meanings that apply to carnations are often given for roses as well. The flowers associated with the month of July are larkspur and sunflower. Larkspur symbolizes lightheartedness although it is also thought to mean fickleness. Sunflowers are a symbol of adoration but it is also believed to mean haughtiness. It seems to depend upon a person’s perspective when defining these two lovely flowers. Sunflowers always face the sun. This flower was revered by the Incas as a symbol and physical representation of the sun god. The sunflower is also a Chinese symbol of longevity. The flower associated with August is gladiolus. The meaning of this flower is sword and the gladiolus represents admiration and strength of character. According to Greek legend this flower sprung from the blood of the warrior Ajax. Gladiolus has also been revered for its medicinal properties. Aster is the flower for September. Aster symbolizes patience. According to Greek legend, Aster was a favorite flower of the gods and was placed on temple altars to honor the gods during festivities. According to folklore, if you desire love grow aster in your garden.The month of October is associated with the flowers calendula and snapdragons. Calendula symbolizes grace or winning grace. It is a sacred flower of India. Calendula is known for both its medicinal and culinary uses. Snapdragons are thought to mean gracious lady and are said to be a symbol of presumption. According to folklore, this flower is thought to protect against curses and treachery.Chrysanthemum is the flower associated with November. Chrysanthemums are a symbol of friendship, love and truth. Chrysanthemums are beautiful flowers with a rich heritage. This lovely flower is thought to have many meanings including long life, happiness and ease.The flowers associated with December are the orchid and poinsettia. The orchid symbolizes love and beauty. Orchids are lovely flowers that have long been given as a token of love. Poinsettias are known as the Christmas flower. They are a symbol of cheer, which is a good reason to give them during the holiday season.In case your favorite flower isn’t one of those covered throughout the months, a few more will be briefly listed here.Fragrant gardenias are a symbol of beauty. Tulips stand for love and enchantment and their presence is as enchanting as their meaning. You may want to send petunias as a get-well flower since they symbolize healing. Express your affection by choosing zinnias or morning glory since that is what they symbolize. Sweet Pea and orange blossom are symbols of remembrance and eternal love. A nice way to let someone know you’re thinking of them is to send pansies since they are a symbol of pleasant thoughts. Recognize the efforts of others by sending them lavender which represents acknowledgment. Make someone happy by giving him or her jasmine, which is the symbol of happiness. Breathtaking baby’s breath symbolizes a pure heart and aromatic honeysuckle is a symbol of fidelity. No matter what flowers you choose, a gift from the heart is always the most meaningful.
By Darlene Zagata

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Sunday, November 16, 2008

Learn The Meaning Of Different Flowers

Here are some common meanings of flowers, so that you will have an easy reference guide for sending flowers to your loved ones.Alstromeria: Devotion, Wealth, prosperity, fortune, friendship, pleasantries. Origin & History: Alstromeria is named after the Swedish botanist Baron Klas von Alstroemer. This South American flower's seeds were among many collected by von Alstroemer on a trip to Spain in 1753.Aster: Symbol of love, Daintiness. Origin & History: The English called asters both "asters" and "starwort"; Aster, Latin for "star," referred to the flower's star-like shape, while wort meant "root," which then applied to plants with healing properties. There are over 600 species of aster, the most popular being the Monte Casino.Azalea: Take care of yourself for me, Temperance, Fragile Passion, Your blush has won me, Moderation, Chinese Symbol of Womanhood. History & Origin: The different between Azaleas and Rhododendrons could be a subject open to debate. The name Azalea comes from the Greek word, azaleos meaning dry which is actually a contradiction of the plant. Most azaleas do not thrive in dry ground and need to be well watered because of the shallowness of their rooting system.Bachelor Button: Hope and love, Hope, Single Blessedness, Celibacy, Hope in love, Felicity, Delicacy.Bird of Paradise: Freedom, Magnificence, Good perspective. Origin & History: Botanists are divided on how this remarkable flower got its name. Some maintain that the flower's brilliant orange and blue blossom, which resembles a bird in flight, is named after the bird of paradise itself - one of the most beautiful bird species in the world. However, since this flower is also known as the strelitzia, some believe that it was named after England's Queen Charlotte.

Calendula (Mary's Gold): winning grace. Origin & History: The calendula's genus name, wor calendae, means "throughout the months." A member of the marigold family, calendula was valued historically for its medicinal and culinary uses. An ancient beverage made from a mixture of calendula blossoms in wine was said to soothe indigestion. Calendula petals were used in ointments that cured skin irritations, jaundice, sore eyes, and toothaches. The Romans used calendula mixed with vinegar to season their meat and salad dishes.Camellia: GENERAL-Admiration, Perfection, Good Luck Gift To A Man; PINK-Longing for You; RED-You're A Flame in My Heart; WHITE-You're AdorableCarnation: GENERAL-Fascination, Woman's Love; PINK-I'll Never Forget You; RED-My Heart Aches For You, Admiration; PURPLE-Capriciousness; SOLID COLOR-Yes; STRIPPED-No, Refusal, Sorry I Can't Be With You, Wish I Could Be with You; WHITE-Sweet and Lovely, Innocence, Pure Love, Woman's Good Luck Gift; YELLOW-You Have Disappointed Me, Rejection. Origin & History: The carnation - originally called dianthus by the Greek botanist Theophrastus - is native to the Near East and has been cultivated for the last 2,000 years. Some scholars believe that the name "carnation" comes from "coronation" or "corone" (flower garlands), as it was one of the flowers used in Greek ceremonial crowns. Others think the name stems from the Greek carnis (flesh), which refers to the original color of the flower, or incarnacyon (incarnation), which refers to the incarnation of God made flesh.
By Tom Sample

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Saturday, November 15, 2008

Flower Meanings - What You Are Saying with Your Gift of Flowers

The meaning of flowers can impact the message that your gift makes. From the type of flower to the color of the flower, the thought that goes into the flowers you give is more important than the money spent on them. From Valentine's Day to Mother's Day to birthdays, weddings, funerals and get well wishes, send more than a bouquet of flowers, send a message with them as well. In this article, we will explore the meanings of just a few various flowers and their colors. Roses - Red: A staple for Valentine's Day. Red roses are the traditional symbol for love and romance, and a time-honored way to say "I love you." Purple: Signify that the giver has fallen in love with the recipient at first sight. Pink: As a symbol of grace and elegance, the pink rose is often given as an expression of admiration. Pink roses can also convey appreciation as well as joyfulness. Yellow: The bright, sunny color expresses a feeling of warmth and happiness. The yellow rose is an ideal symbol for joy and friendship. White: Represent innocence and purity and are traditional for marriages and new beginnings. The white rose is also a symbol of honor and reverence, and white rose arrangements are often used as an expression of remembrance. Carnations - The meanings of carnations include fascination, distinction, and love. As with roses, the different colors also have different meanings.

Light red carnations: Often used to convey admiration. Dark red carnations: Expresses deeper sentiments of love and affection. White carnations: Associated with purity and luck. Pink carnations: Often given as a sign of gratitude. In the early part of the 20th century, carnations became the official flower of Mother's Day. Gerbera Daisies When you want to send the gift of cheer, gerbera daisies are your perfect choice. These have large flowering heads that closely resemble those of sunflowers. Gerbera daisies come in a vibrant rainbow of colors. Bright pink, snow white, sunny yellow, and ruby red are just a few of the gorgeous colors that these happy flowers boast. The gerbera daisy holds an added meaning of cheerfulness, which stems from the assortment of colors available. An assorted bouquet of gerbera daisies can lift the spirit and sending one is an ideal way to brighten someone's day. These are just the perfect message for many different occasions such as birthdays, get well, congratulations, thank you among other cheerful messages. Iris There are over 200 varities of Iris in a rainbow of colors. The most popular is blue. Named for the Greek goddess Iris, she acted as the link between Heaven and earth. Purple irises were planted over the graves of women to summon the Goddess to guide the dead in their journey. Athough the Iris is a good choice for the grieving, it has a history that includes many other meanings as well. This flower is the perfect choice for corporate gifts, sympathy, get well, thinking of you, and birthday. Tulips The meaning of tulips is generally perfect love. Again, as with many flowers the different colors of tulips also often carry their own meaning. Red tulips: Associated with true love. Purple tulips: Symbolize royalty. Yellow tulips: Once represented hopeless love and now they are a common expression for cheerful thoughts. White tulips are used to claim worthiness or to send a message of forgiveness. Variegated tulips: Very popular due to their striking color patterns, represent beautiful eyes. With so many flowers, so many colors, so many possible combinations, take some time to convey the message that you are trying to send with your gift of flowers by combining colors, textures and varities. How about a red rose with a pink carnation for true love and the gratitude you have for having found your true love? It never has to be a big expensive bouquet that gets your message across but it does have to have more meaning that the number you see on your credit card bill.
By Rhonda Earley

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Friday, November 14, 2008

Find The True Meaning Of Coloured Flowers

ColourRed: love. They can also carry connotations of respect, and a promise of courage for trials to be faced in the future.Pink: admiration and love in its earliest stages. A very pale pink, particularly in a carnation, can mean sympathy, whereas the darker shades tend to imply gracefulness and the admission that one has ‘fallen in love.’Yellow: joy. They can also mean a generally happy, excitable person who is well-loved, although some books record this rose as a rose of unsteady affections.White: innocence. They are also associated with humility, awe of the lover, a respect for the purity of the lover and is also a rose of secrecy and silently recognised affection (they could therefore be used as anonymous deliveries to an office or workplace).Orange: enthusiasm and lust for life. An energetic or eccentric lover would probably appreciate the vibrant colours, as this is the sort of personality denoted by the shade.Dark red or burgundy: passion and recognition of intensity and beauty.Personal Attachments Some flowers that should not be given to a lover unless there is a personal attachment to the species:Begonia: ‘Be careful of my affections’ Purple Carnation: CapriciousnessStriped Carnation: a refusal of a lover’s attentions

Yellow Carnation: rejectionCyclamen: goodbye foreverGeranium: ‘I am making a mistake’Hydrangea: heartlessnessLarkspur (pink): ficklenessLotus: an estranged loverMarigold: Jealousy, griefSnapdragon: an admission of deceitSize and Number of RosesRosebuds are generally given to younger, or more innocent lovers. They can also be used as the first confession of love, although white rosebuds indicate an affection that the suitor cannot declare openly because the lover is too young or innocent.A single rose indicates the simple message ‘I love you.’A bunch of roses represents gratitude or great admiration for the recipient.Two roses with their stems twisted together suggest engagement; this symbol was sometimes used as a subtle hint before a proposal of marriage.A thornless rose indicates love at first sight.
By Marc Lindsay

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