I've always been interested in learning more about the symbolism of flowers, and recently discovered A Victorian Flower Dictionary by Mandy Kirby. Flower symbolism was especially prominent during the Victorian era. The book indicates that this was thought to have been inspired by the Turkish practice of selam, communicating by using flowers and other objects. There were a number of flower dictionaries published during this time and special flowers were used for special occasions as a result.
So here are some of our flowers from the Struan Farm gardens with their corresponding meanings:
Daffodil: new beginnings
Purple rose: enchantment and red rose: love
Pink rose: grace and Alstroemeria: devotion
Pale peach rose: modesty
Ferns: sincerity
Dogwood: love undiminished by adversity
Dandelion: rustic oracle
Lilac: first emotions of love
Hydrangea: dispassion (oh.oh. we have alot of these...)
Magnolia: dignity
Dahlia: dignity
Calla lily: modesty
Orange rose: facination, Azalea: fragile and ephemeral passion, and Rhododendron: beware! Note: rhodos are poisonous...
And last but not least, Camelia: my destiny is in your hands
I recommend this book, it's facinating reading, and available on fishpond.
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