Language of Flowers
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Interest in the symbolism of flowers became very popular in Victorian England as a way of communicating through the use of flowers. Flowers have been symbolic for thousands of years with different meanings being given in different regions of the world. The 'Language of Flowers' can be traced throughout Europe, Asia and the Middle East.
During the 19th century in the US and England, people gave gifts of specific plants and blooms that were sent as cryptic messages, to express their feelings in secret. They would even send tussie-mussies (small talking bouquets like corsages) which would be worn as fashion accessories that held a special message for the recipient.
daffodil
Scientific Name: Narciddus
Common Names: Daffodil, Daffadowndilly, Narcissus and Jonquil.
Family: Amaryligaceae
Higher Classification: Narcisseae
Order: Asparagales
Kingdom: Plantae
Symbolism:
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Rebirth and new beginnings (synonymous with Spring).
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The daffodil is the 10th wedding anniversary flower as well as the March birth flower.
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Giving a bunch of daffodils to someone is said to ensure happiness, however giving a single daffodil can foretell misfortune.
Around the World:
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In Wales the daffodil is a lucky emblem and if you spot the first daffodil of the season it is a sign of prosperity and wealth throughout the coming year.
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In China there is a legend that if a daffodil bulb is forced to bloom during the New Year (Chinese Spring Festival), it will bring good luck to your home.
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In France the daffodil is a sign of hope.
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In the Middle East they believe that the daffodil can cure baldness as well as being an aphrodisiac.
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In the US it symbolises hope for a cure.
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In Europe in medieval times it was thought that if a daffodil drooped when you looked at it, it was an omen of death.
This is an ongoing series that will continually grow.
To come..
