The Language of Flowers

Spring is here in all its beauty.  Trees are in bloom and flowers are in profusion from all the glorious rain.  As we begin working in our gardens or even just taking a casual walk, those flowers speak to us in a special language.  And, sometimes we like to answer back!

All of these flowers—(or maybe it's the wonderful PBS series, “Victoria”!)  have me thinking about the Victorians and how they used flowers to adorn everything from wallpaper to bonnets.  And it was the Victorians that had an elaborate way of communicating by using their well-loved flowers and plants.

The origin of “the language of flowers” actually predates Victorian times.  Flowers and plants have  had religious, mythological and symbolic meanings for centuries.  The first flower dictionary was written in 1818 in Paris by Mme. Charlotte de la Tour—and it was an overnight sensation.  Then, in 1879, the Victorian lady, Miss Corruthers, wrote an entire book on the subject.  It became the standard source for flower symbolism in England and the United States.

After that, both men and women assigned meanings to flowers—known as “floriography.”  Thus they could express their ideas and feelings within the boundaries of the strict etiquette of the time.  Flowers gave them a “silent language” that allowed them to communicate many sentiments.  Not only were pictures and embroideries methods of letting others know one's feelings—but the scent of a particular plant or flower on a handkerchief could carry the same message.  So much more exciting and expressive than an email, text or tweet!

Because spring is for a bit of folly—just for fun—here is a list of flowers and their meanings.

Match them and see how you would do as a Victorian!

Answers: A-3; B-6; C-9; D-7; E-4; F-1; G-2; H-12; I-8; J-11; K-10; L-5

Score: 2 correct: 1 petal;  correct: 4: 1 blossom; 7 correct: 1 bouquet; 12 correct: an entire garden!

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