How nice, in the middle of winter, to get flowers from a loved one on Valentine's Day. But did you know that for centuries, specific flowers have carried special meanings? Just what is that bouquet trying to say?

The Meaning of Roses

The most popular Valentine’s Day flowers, have always symbolized love. Meaning can also vary with color. Red roses mean true love. Pink roses show admiration and gratitude. White roses are a symbol of purity, while peach roses connote shyness. Purple roses indicate enchantment, and orange roses mean the giver is fascinated with you. Sadly, yellow roses have historically been associated with infidelity or given to say, “Let’s just be friends.”

The Meaning of Irises

Iriseshow faith and hope. Purple irises, like purple tulips, are meant for royalty, so be sure to request (or demand) them if this holiday brings out the princess in you.

The Meaning of Gerber daisies

Gerber daisies shout cheerfulness. They can also symbolize innocence or purity. And historically, they’ve meant “we understand each other.”

The Meaning of Tulips

Tulips represent perfect love, but, like roses, their meaning shifts with their shade. Red tulips indicate love, purple roses are for royalty, while yellow roses are meant to give compliments, specifically “your smile is beautiful."

The Meaning of Peonies

Peonies are symbols of beauty, romance, good fortune, and a happy marriage. They can also indicate bashfulness.

The Meaning of Daffodils

Daffodils can mean either new beginnings or chivalry. Daffodils are also associated with happiness and wealth. But beware the gift of a single daffodil: it is said to foretell misfortune.

The Meaning of Carnations

Carnations symbolize new love. Carnations are another flower whose meaning varies depending on their color: dark red ones mean deep love and affection, pink ones are said to indicate gratitude or motherly love, and white carnations show pure love. Beware the gift of yellow or striped carnations: historically these have meant a refusal of love or infidelity!

The Meaning of Sunflowers

Sunflowers are a symbol of warmth and happiness. They are also said to represent pure thoughts, adoration, and dedication. While roses are elegant, sunflowers are cozy and comfortable—they show a love with a lot of friendship mixed in!

And if you're looking for some ideas on using essential oils to make Valentine's Day extra special, take a look at our post 4 Seductive DIY Aromatherapy Valentine's Day Ideas!