The language of flowers

Back in the good old Victorian days when gentlemen carried handkerchiefs and wore top hats, and women's dresses sweeped the floor, a secret language was used to communicate between lovers. Floriography is the language of flowers, and the intention of the message was deciphered by the type of flower and its colour - as well as the way it was delivered.

I had selected shades of yellow and gold for our New Year's Eve dinner as I liked their cheerfulness and according to Chinese culture they would bring wealth and happiness. I guess you could say that I was embracing the local culture while I was shopping at Little Saigon in Footscray.

Not until afterwards did I think to sit down and decipher what I actually did set the table with that day. Generally yellow blooms can have quite negative connotations - relating to jealousy or disappointment, so I preferred to lean towards the positive explanations in this case (but let that be a warning to anyone handing out a bunch of yellow flowers!)

From Left Green Chrysanthemum cheerful and honest Yellow Rose friendship and freedom, the promise of a new beginning Yellow Alstromeria wealth, prosperity, fortune or friendship Yellow Chrysanthemum courage Yellow Calla Gratitude, also considered resurrection and rebirth (fitting for a new year don't you think?) Yellow Carnation friendship and a sweet smile.

Looks like 2011 is going to be a good one!

My sources
Carnations - here and here
Alstromeria
Rose
green and yellow chryssies
calla lilies here and here
Chinese culture