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Carnations are one of the world's most beloved and historically significant flowers. Cherished for their ruffled petals and graceful form, they are celebrated for their versatility in colour and rich symbolism.
This guide will explore the fascinating meanings behind these blooms, helping you choose the perfect carnation to convey your message.
General Symbolism of Carnations
Let's begin with the overarching symbolism of these cherished flowers. Historically, carnations represent deep love and admiration, and they are also associated with fascination and distinction.
These meanings apply not just to the standard variety but also to the many different types of carnations, from large-flowered to spray carnations. That's why they are often featured in various cultural ceremonies, artworks, and gifting traditions across the world.
Colour-by-Colour Carnation Meanings
The colour of a carnation is a powerful tool for communication, with each hue carrying its own distinct message. Here’s a breakdown of the meanings of each colour:
Red Carnations
Red carnations are the classic symbol of deep love, affection, and admiration. Their vibrant colour makes them a popular choice for romantic occasions, such as anniversaries and Valentine's Day, where they are used to express heartfelt emotions.
White Carnations
Symbolising purity, innocence, and luck, white carnations are often used in weddings and religious ceremonies. They are frequently seen in bridal bouquets and are also a respectful choice for expressing condolences or best wishes for new beginnings.
Pink Carnations
Pink carnations hold a special place in the hearts of many, being closely associated with Mother's Day. They symbolise gratitude and a mother's undying love, making them a perfect way to show appreciation for the maternal figures in your life. With a variety of hues available, from deep pinks that signify passionate admiration to softer shades that convey gentleness and affection, you can choose the perfect colour to express your unique feelings.
Yellow Carnations
While they traditionally symbolised disappointment or rejection, the meaning of yellow carnations has evolved. They are now more commonly associated with friendship and cheerfulness, making them a great gift to brighten a friend's day or simply convey platonic affection.
Purple Carnations
Purple carnations are a captivating and intriguing choice as a gift since they symbolise capriciousness, spontaneity, or unpredictability. They can be gifted to someone with a whimsical personality or used to add an element of creative and artistic flair to a floral arrangement.
Striped Carnations
Striped carnations, with their variegated colours, hold a unique and specific meaning. They have historically been used to symbolise refusal or regret, often conveying a sense of sorrow or a message of "I cannot be with you." Their distinct pattern serves as a clear, unspoken communication.
Carnations in Cultural & Historical Context
As mentioned earlier, carnations boast a rich history that stretches back thousands of years and crosses land and sea. Originating in the Mediterranean, their scientific name, Dianthus caryophyllus, comes from Greek words meaning "divine flower." They were a staple in ancient Greek and Roman ceremonies, used in garlands and ceremonial crowns, a testament to their early status as a highly regarded flower.
The flower also holds deep symbolism in Christianity, where a legend says that pink carnations bloomed from the Virgin Mary’s tears as she wept for Jesus, forever linking them to a mother's eternal love.
This religious connection is believed to have influenced their use in various national traditions. For example, in Korea, carnations are worn on Parents' Day to honour and express gratitude. Meanwhile, in Portugal, the red carnation became a powerful symbol of the 1974 Carnation Revolution, representing a peaceful transition to democracy and showing the flower's lasting cultural impact far beyond its religious associations.
Modern Uses of Carnations
Today, carnations are celebrated for their affordability, longevity, and versatility. They're used in countless ways to express nuanced emotions through colour and arrangement, from simple thank-you gifts to elaborate event décor.
For weddings, carnations are used in everything from bridal bouquets to boutonnieres and floral arches, lending their classic elegance to the ceremony. Their resilience and ability to withstand heat also make them ideal for outdoor festivals and celebrations, ensuring the arrangements stay fresh for hours.
Carnations are also a fantastic choice for home decoration. They can be presented in elegant, single-stem vases or paired with other blooms like roses or lilies to create a rich, textured bouquet. Their resilient nature is perfect for brightening up any room for days.
The flower's spicy, floral, and subtle, clove-like fragrance has also made it a key ingredient in perfumery, where it adds a warm and inviting depth to a scent profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do carnations symbolise in love?
Carnations are a classic symbol of love and fascination. Red carnations, in particular, convey deep love and admiration, while pink carnations symbolise gratitude and a mother's affection. Their long-lasting nature also represents a love that endures and a deep, specific devotion.
Which colour carnation is best for expressing gratitude?
Pink carnations are the most widely recognised colour for expressing gratitude. Their association with a mother's undying love makes them a powerful way to express gratitude and show appreciation for someone's care, support, or kindness. They can also be paired with white flowers for a bouquet that symbolises both gratitude and purity.
Are carnations good luck flowers?
Yes, in many cultures, white carnations are considered a symbol of good luck. That's why they are often given to someone embarking on a new journey, such as a graduation or a new job, to wish them good fortune and a fresh start.
What do striped carnations mean?
Striped carnations typically symbolise refusal or regret. In the Victorian language of flowers, they were used to convey a polite but firm "no" to a suitor or to express sorrow and the inability to be with someone.
Do carnations last long when delivered in Singapore?
Yes! Carnations are known for their durability and long vase life. At Floristique, we ensure every bouquet is freshly prepared and delivered promptly across Singapore so your carnations stay vibrant for days.
Can I customize a carnation bouquet for special occasions in Singapore?
Absolutely. Floristique allows you to create personalized carnation bouquets for birthdays, anniversaries, or corporate gifting. You can choose the colors, sizes, and wrapping to make your bouquet truly special.
Does Floristique offer same-day delivery for carnations in Singapore?
Yes! Floristique provides same-day delivery for carnations across Singapore. Even if you order last-minute, your bouquet will arrive fresh, beautifully arranged, and on time.
