“I cannot make speeches, Emma,” [Mr. Knightley] soon resumed; and in a tone of such sincere, decided, intelligible tenderness as was tolerably convincing. “If I loved you less, I might be able to talk about it more.” –Emma, Jane Austen
Undoubtedly countless gentlemen found themselves identical to Mr. Knightley’s distress. What Victorians held in their hearts was not always so easily expressed. Even so, sweet sentiments were not to be neglected.
Etiquette hardly made allowances for improper introductions—let alone grand gestures.
That is how the language of of flowers (floriography) came into being. Feelings that could not be spoken or proclaimed publicly could instead be expressed through blooms.
Victorians sent bouquets to convey messages, especially secretive ones. For the majority, the messages were positive in nature. However, the floral codes also included rejections which ladies weren’t shy to appropriate.
Flowers of Positivity
| Flower | Meaning | |
|---|---|---|
 |
Azalea | Temperance |
 |
Baby’s Breath | Gaiety |
 |
Bluebell | Constancy |
 |
Calla Lily | Magnificent Beauty |
 |
Carnation | Woman’s Love |
 |
Chrysanthemum | Truth |
 |
Daffodil | Regard |
 |
Daisy | Innocence |
 |
Delphinium | Lightness |
 |
Forget-Me-Not | True Love |
 |
Gardenia | Refinement |
 |
Hyacinth | Playfulness |
 |
Iris | I Have a Message for You |
 |
Jasmine | Amiability |
 |
Lilac | Humility |
 |
Lily | Purity |
 |
Lily of the Valley | Return of Happiness |
 |
Magnolia | Love of Nature |
 |
Nasturtium | Patriotism |
 |
Orchid | Beauty |
 |
Pansy | Thoughts Are With You |
 |
Ranunculus | Radiance |
 |
Red Poppy | Consolation |
 |
Rose (Pink) | Grace |
 |
Rose (Red) | Love |
 |
Rose (Yellow) | Friendship |
 |
Sunflower | Adoration |
 |
Tulip | Fame |
 |
Verbena | Pray for Me |
 |
Violet | Faithfulness |
Flower of the Month Bracelet
Ornately etched botanicals derived from rare gardening journals have been applied to pewter bracelets. Each month is a delightful celebration of blooms . . .
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Flowers of Negativity
| Flower | Meaning | |
|---|---|---|
 |
Amaryllis | Pride |
 |
Anemone | Neglected |
 |
Basil | Hatred |
 |
Begonia | Dark Thoughts |
 |
Buttercup | Childishness |
 |
Crocus | Abuse Not |
 |
Dahlia | Instability |
 |
Foxglove | Insincerity |
 |
Hemlock | You Will Be My Death |
 |
Hydrangea | Heartlessness |
 |
Lavender | Distrust |
 |
Marigold | Grief |
 |
Peony | Anger |
 |
Rhododendron | Beware |
 |
Wisteria | Regret |
Never mind meanings. Which flower is most meaningful to you?
For more posts of love and laughter see Paper Hearts: Courtship Correspondence or peruse the scandalous rejections of Vinegar Valentines.
Victorian Trading Co. | Official Blog 
I loved this article – some I knew, but not a lot of them. they are so interesting. thanks!
You’re most welcome! We’re ever so glad you enjoyed it.
Brings new meaning to “suck it up buttercup”
Indeed it does!
Really enjoyed this article. Thank you.
You are most welcome!
It’s quite sad that my favorite flowers are on the negative list.
It truly is. Some of our favourites had unfortunate meanings as well.
A great reference of power of flowers so present in all our lives.
We must confess: As captivating as it is to gather such information, sharing the information with friends like you makes it all the more enjoyable.
Such an interesting article. Thnk you.
We are honored to share. Thank you ever so much for taking a moment to read!
I loved magnolias (and roses) since I could remember!
What a glorious bouquet of the heart!
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