In this enlightening YouTube video by K. J. Rasa titled “History of the Language of Flowers (Floriography)”, viewers are treated to a comprehensive exploration of the rich history and significance of floriography, or the language of flowers.
The video offers valuable insights into how various civilizations have used different types of flowers and their arrangements to communicate symbolic messages.
If you’re intrigued by the symbolism of flowers and their historical and cultural significance, this video and article are worth watching.
How Flower Meanings First Took Root
Floriography, the symbolic language of flowers, has a rich history dating back to ancient civilizations such as Egypt and Greece. In these times, flowers like water lilies symbolized rebirth, whereas poppies were symbolic of sleep and dreams.
The video credits these ancient cultures for establishing the groundwork of floriography, setting the stage for the complex language of flowers that would develop in later centuries.
Engaging with this history can deepen our appreciation for flowers and their symbolism, reminding us that a simple bouquet can carry a wealth of cultural significance.
When Flowers Spoke Louder Than Words
During the Victorian era, the language of flowers evolved into a more complex system of communication. Suitors would meticulously select and arrange flowers, herbs, and other plants to convey specific messages.
The meaning could be altered by the number of flowers, the presence of other flowers in the arrangement, or even the color of the ribbon binding the bouquet.
This level of complexity reveals the depth of thought and consideration that went into creating these floral messages.
The Woman Who Brought Flower Language to England
The rise of floriography in England is primarily attributed to Lady Mary Wortley Montagu, a poet and wife of a British Ambassador in Turkey during the 18th century. Lady Mary wrote detailed letters about Turkish interpretations of flower meanings, thus popularizing the custom in England.
Her influence underscores the significant role individuals can play in spreading cultural practices.
The Authors Who Wrote in Petals and Perfume
The video highlights several authors who played a significant role in the development of floriography through their literary works.
Joseph Hammer-Purgstall introduced Eastern floral symbolism to European audiences, helping to broaden the cultural lens of floriography.
Henry Phillips compiled detailed botanical dictionaries that linked specific plants to symbolic meanings, making the practice more accessible.
And Louise Cortambert, writing under the name Madame Charlotte de la Tour, published one of the first and most influential floriography books in France, transforming the practice into a literary and romantic phenomenon.
Their works gave structure, visibility, and emotional weight to a language once known only through word of mouth.
The Dark Side of the Language of Flowers
While the video dives deep into the romantic and symbolic power of floriography, there’s one sharp little detail it doesn’t cover — and it’s too juicy to leave out.
Some flowers didn’t whisper sweet nothings… they sent clear messages of rejection, distrust, or even hatred.
Yes, in the Victorian era, there was a flower that literally meant “I despise you.” Here’s a quick look at the coldest blooms you could receive:
? Yellow Carnation – “I despise you”
This deceptively cheerful bloom packed a sharp emotional punch. If someone sent you a yellow carnation, they weren’t flirting — they were cutting ties.
? Basil – Hate
Not your typical bouquet flower, but if it showed up, the message was clear: bitterness and hostility.
? Orange Lily – Hatred or pride
Beautiful and bold, but its symbolism was far from friendly.
? Lavender – Distrust
What we now associate with calm was once a flower of suspicion and emotional distance.
? Butterfly Weed – Let me go
Less fiery, but equally cold. This flower was the floral equivalent of ghosting.
Why Flower Symbolism Still Matters Today
The secret language of flowers may not be whispered in parlors anymore, but it’s far from forgotten. ? Today, we still turn to blooms to express feelings words sometimes can’t—especially on meaningful days and milestones.
Here are just a few moments when flower symbolism quietly steps in:
? Valentine’s Day – Red roses for passion and love
?? Mother’s Day – Pink and white carnations for admiration and remembrance
?️ Funerals – White lilies for purity and peace
? Birthdays – Sunflowers for joy and good energy
?️ All Saints’ Day – Chrysanthemums for remembrance and respect
? Weddings – Peonies for a happy marriage and prosperity
? Graduations – Orchids for pride, strength, and beauty
The video also highlights how floral symbolism still blooms in pop culture—The Hunger Games and Game of Thrones are packed with meaningful petals, from rebellion to mourning.
Floriography might not be part of everyday speech anymore, but its roots are still thriving beneath the surface.
Hey fellow Linguaholics! It’s me, Marcel. I am the proud owner of linguaholic.com. Languages have always been my passion and I have studied Linguistics, Computational Linguistics and Sinology at the University of Zurich. It is my utmost pleasure to share with all of you guys what I know about languages and linguistics in general.