Carnations: Rich in History and Beauty

The carnation is a flowering plant that has been cultivated for the past 2,000 years. Originally its color was a pinkish hue, however many cultivars have been developed since, including reds, whites, yellows and even green.

Pink carnations have the most symbolic and historical significance. According to Christian legend, the Virgin Mary shed tears at Jesus' plight and carnations sprang up from where her tears fell. Thus, the pink carnation became the symbol of a mother's undying love and in 1907 was chosen by Ann Jarvis as the emblem of Mother's Day.

A red carnation may be worn if one's mother is alive, and a white one if she has passed.

Carnations are also worn on special occassions and at weddings. They were known as "Jove's Flower" in ancient Rome as a tribute to one of their beloved gods. In Korea, a young girl places three carnations in her hair to tell her fortune. If the top flower dies first, her last years of life will be difficult; if it is the middle flower, her earlier years will bring the most grief. Worst of all, if the bottom flower dies first, the poor girl will be miserable her entire life.

For the most part, carnations express love, fascination and distinction. Light red carnations express admiration, while dark red denotes deep love and affection. White carnations indicate pure love and good luck, while striped carnations symbolize regret that a love cannot be shared.

Send someone a special gift of carnations today!