The Carnation: An Underrated Flower
Carnations don’t always get the spotlight they deserve! While roses and lilies often steal the show, carnations are quietly holding onto centuries of symbolism and their own personal charm. They’re known for their beautifully ruffled petals, sweet fragrance, and long-lasting nature, qualities that have kept them loved for over 2,000 years. What’s even more fascinating is how each color holds its own unique meaning, making carnations one of the most expressive blooms you can give or receive!
Carnation’s History & Symbolism
The name “carnation” comes from the Greek word Dianthus, meaning “flower of the gods.” That alone says a lot about how special these blooms were even during ancient times. They were used in Greek and Roman ceremonies like religious ceremonies, victory celebrations, or in everyday wreaths and crowns! Carnations later became symbols of love, admiration, and remembrance across many cultures.
Carnations Today
Over time, carnations began to carry more personal meanings through their colors. People used them to express feelings when words failed to convey their emotions. Today, that tradition continues, which is why learning the meaning behind carnation colors helps you choose the right one for any moment.
What Each Carnation Color Means
Every carnation color has its own story to tell! Understanding what each shade means can make your bouquet more personal and meaningful. You’ll often see these colorful blooms at neighborhood flower boutiques, each one ready to share its own little message.
Red Carnations: Love and Admiration
Red carnations are all about passion and admiration. A deep red symbolizes romantic love, while lighter shades represent affection and admiration. They’re often given to express heartfelt emotions without needing many words.
Pink Carnations: Gratitude and Motherly Love
Pink carnations (within European Christian culture) are said to have first appeared where the Virgin Mary’s tears fell, making them a symbol of a mother’s love. They’re also used to express gratitude and appreciation, perfect for saying “thank you” in a thoughtful way.
White Carnations: Purity and Good Luck
White carnations represent innocence and pure love. They’re often used to wish someone luck or to express respect and remembrance. Their clean, classic look makes them a popular choice for any heartfelt occasion.
Yellow Carnations: Disappointment or Friendship
Traditionally, yellow carnations symbolized rejection or disappointment. But modern interpretations have softened. Nowadays, they can also represent friendship, joy, and new beginnings, especially when paired with other bright blooms.
These bouquets will include our main character, carnations, and flowers like daisies, tulips, lilies, and roses!
Purple Carnations: Capriciousness or Whimsy
Purple carnations are known for symbolizing unpredictability or whimsical charm. They’re a fun, creative choice for someone who likes to stand out or for an arrangement that’s meant to spark curiosity.
Green Carnations: Health and Good Fortune
Made popular by Oscar Wilde, a famous Irish writer and poet in the 19th century. Wilde wore a green carnation on his lapel (folded part on the front of a jacket or coat) during social events and encouraged his friends to do the same. It became a subtle symbol of individuality, creativity, and nonconformity, values he strongly represented.
While they still carry the same weight today, green carnations also represent health, luck, and a touch of the unconventional. They’re often used for celebrations, bringing a sense of renewal and vitality.
Orange Carnations: Enthusiasm and Energy
Orange carnations are vibrant and full of life. They stand for enthusiasm, excitement, and passion! Perfect for showing support, motivation, or positivity.
Striped or Variegated Carnations: Regret or Remembrance
Striped carnations, with their multicolored petals, traditionally symbolize regret or remembrance. While their meaning might seem sad, they can also serve as a tribute to someone who left a lasting impression on your life.
Best Carnations For Each Occasion
Choosing the right carnation color depends on what you want to express. Here’s a quick guide to help you match the meaning behind carnation colors with real-life moments:
- Romantic gestures: Go for red or pink carnations to show love or admiration.
- Thank-you gifts: Pink carnations are a perfect way to express gratitude.
- Celebrations or milestones: Orange or green carnations add an energetic and joyful touch.
- Good luck or congratulations: White or green carnations send warm, positive wishes
- Remembrance or sympathy: White or striped carnations carry a thoughtful, respectful message.
Now you know the meaning behind carnations' colors runs deeper than most people realize! Each shade tells a story, making carnations one of the most expressive blooms around. Next time you get a bouquet, consider choosing carnations over roses! You might just find they say exactly what you mean.