By Kathleen Karlsen, MA

Origin of the Language of Flowers

Although the legendary associations and religious meanings of flower symbolism have existed for centuries, the use of the language of flowers to represent emotions was developed to a high degree during Victorian times.

Due to the strict protocol of the times, emotions, wishes and thoughts were not openly expressed between men and women. Instead, an elaborate language based on flower symbolism was developed. Gifts of either single flowers or bouquets conveyed clear messages to the recipient.

With increasing complexity of flower symbolism and the language of flowers, handbooks were written to guide the understanding of flower meanings. The first book written on flower symbolism in modern times was Le Language des Fleurs by Madame Charlotte de la Tour in 1819. The most popular book on flower symbolism, which remains a prominent resource today, is Kate Greenaway's Language of Flowers (1884).

Flowers as a Decorative Motif

During the Victorian era, flowers adorned nearly everything--hair, clothing, jewelry, home decor, china plates, stationary, wallpaper, furniture and more. Even the scents of flowers had their own meanings in the language of flowers. For example, a scented handkerchief might be given in place of actual flowers.

Flower Names for Girls

The beauty and feminine quality of flowers also inspired the tradition of naming girls after flower names. This tradition has existed in many cultures throughout history and continues today. Popular girls' names related to flowers include Rose, Daisy, Lily, Holly, Violet, Heather, Fern, Jasmine, Myrtle, and Lavender.

 

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©2007 Living Arts Enterprises LLC

See other articles related to flower symbolism:
Garden Flower Symbolism
Flower Symbolism and the Mary Garden
The Symbolism of Apples and Apple Blossoms
Flower Symbolism Guide
List of Flower Names

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RESOURCES:

Books
Jone, Julia. Country Diary of Garden Lore. NY: Summit Books, 1968.

Lehner, Ernst. Folklore and Symbolism of Flowers, Plants and Trees. NY: Tudor Publishing C., 1960.

Greenaway, Kate. Language of Flowers. 1884.

Websites
http://en.wikipedia.org
http://www.santacruzpl.org
http://www.britannica.com
http://www.theflowerexpert.com
http://www.arthistory.suite101.com
http://www.proflowers.com
http://www.victorianbazaar.com
http://www.pioneerthinking.com
http://www.growerflowers.com
http://gardencards.biz