Mondays at the Manor - Language of Flowers

The Language of Flowers 

The Victorian Era ushered in a time of proper etiquette among the upper class in England. Many of the customs of the day prevented very personal conversations between most people, especially between young men and ladies who were courting (dating).

The very creative Victorian people found a way to communicate – by using flowers and greenery.  Even though the use of flowers to convey messages had been used since the middle of the 18^th century, this custom blossomed after the beginning of Queen Victoria’s reign.  Even dictionaries of “Floriography” were published and studied.

Tussie-mussies or nosegays, were small handheld fragrant bouquets often wrapped in lace doilies. Most often, they were a combination of herbs, each had its own meaning. In the center was a single flower which expressed the meaning of the giver. If a lady raised the nosegay to her nose and held it at heart level, it would indicate that she accepted the attentions of her suitor.  If she held it to her side, it would discourage him from any further attention.

Here are just a few examples of popular modern flowers and a few of their meanings. There are many other, and a collection can be seen in our museum.

Aster contentment and elegance

Baby’s Breath                 festivity

Black-eyed Susan         encouragement

Carnation      pink for gratitude, red for rejection,           white for remembrance

Daffodil             chivalry

Daisy                    innocence

Gladiolus       strength of character

Ivy                   fidelity

Lavender                   distrust

Marigold              desire for riches

Orchid           delicate beauty

Poppy                 consolation

Rose    pink for admiration, white for purity             red for passionate love

Sunflower                      adoration

What is your favourite flower, and what would you tell your special someone?

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