The language of flowers – Floriography, is an age old form of cryptology that uses flowers as a way to communicate messages that would otherwise be restricted or difficult to speak aloud. Floriography has been recorded throughout history, being at it’s most popular in Victorian England (1837-1901) where blooms, plants, and specific floral arrangements were used to send coded messages that Victorian etiquette deemed unacceptable to share openly. Armed with floral dictionaries, Victorians often exchanged small “talking bouquets”, which could be worn or carried as a fashion accessory but more importantly, to make a statement. Nearly every flower has multiple associations which are listed in the hundreds of floral dictionaries written since the early 1800’s with details on ways to decipher the color, quantity and arrangement of flowers – but a consensus of meaning for most flowers has emerged which often comes from the appearance or behavior of the plant itself. Floriography is still used in modern society where specific flowers are chosen and given to portray feelings and symbolise a status or event.

Flowers celebrated

Camellia – longing for you

Dahlia – commitment

Forget-me-not – forget me not

Honey suckle – devotion

Ivy – fidelity and attachment

Orchid – eternal love and commitment

Orange blossom – eternal love

Pansy – you occupy my thoughts

Rose – love

Tulip – I declare my love to you