Carnations are part of the impatiens family, and they are beautiful additions to any flower bouquet. They are also a great choice for making a boutonniere because they come in a variety of colors. Whether you’re getting them to send to a friend or to use in your own floral arrangements, it’s easy to understand why they are so popular. 

In this article, we will look at the meaning and symbolism of carnations, as well as the different types of carnations and how to care for them.

The Meaning of Carnations  

Carnations represent various things, depending on the color of the bloom and the part of the bloom that you are looking at. For example, white carnations are the most popular and they are characterized by their full, round blooms. They are often used as wedding flowers because they represent purity. However, they also represent the passing of time and the changes that we go through over the course of our lives, as well as being a reminder of death. White carnations are also great for funerals, both to represent remembrance and as a wreath of remembrance.

The popular saying of “red means love,” holds true with carnations as well. The red color of a carnation represents passion, admiration, and desire. The same holds true in reverse as well – a white carnation means innocence, purity, and a desire to be as pure as the white carnation itself. A carnation that has all of its petals colored red or orange can be representative of an individual’s desire to be noticed and their need for admiration. Carnations that are pink or have just a few red petals can be representative of a partial confession of love, or a lover that is unsure of the recipient’s feelings. Finally, a white carnation with a green stem can be representative of a love that is unrequited. 

The Symbolism of Sending Carnations

Carnations are not only used as a gift between lovers, but they are also used as a way to commemorate births, deaths, and other special occasions. Below are just a few of the many different occasions for which a carnation would be a great gift.

Births

Carnations are often sent to friends, family members, and acquaintances when they have a new baby. For example, you may send them to members of the hospital staff that assisted in the birth as a ‘thank you’ gift.

Funerals

Carnations are also sent to friends and family members when someone has passed away. Sometimes, they are sent with a sympathy card and a note that says, “For your loss.”

Engagements

If you are close with a family member or friend that is getting married, it’s common to send them a boutonniere and/or a corsage with carnations in them.

Easter

It is also common to give carnations as a gift during the Easter holiday. For example, you may give them to a friend or family member that is celebrating Easter with you.

Carnation Care

Whether you are using the carnations to send to a loved one or you’re using them in your own flower arrangements, they will last longer if you take the proper care of them. Carnations should be kept out of direct sunlight and away from other flowers that are known to have a bad odor. They should be kept in a cool location and should not be refrigerated. You should also place them at an angle on the stem that is just above the water. Finally, you should change the water every few days to keep them shiny and hydrated.

Conclusion

Carnation is one of the most popular and widely used flowers around the world. It’s no wonder that we have so many flower meanings and symbolism that are associated with this little flower. If you have any questions about the care of carnations or the type of carnation you should choose for your arrangements, you may ask your local florist for help. 

April Flora is a flower shop in Bangkok that specialises in assorted flowers such as roses, orchids, tulips, lilies, daisies, cymbidiums and carnations. Let us provide you with different carnation flower arrangements for any type of occasion. Browse through our beautiful collection today!