Meaning Of Carnations

With a history that dates back more than 2,000 years, it’s not surprising that carnations are rich with symbolism, mythology and even debate. While some scholars suggest that their name comes from the word “corone” or “coronation” because of its use in Greek ceremonial crowns, others propose that it’s derived from from the Latin “carnis” or flesh referring to the flower’s original pinkish-hued color or “incarnacyon” (incarnation), referring to the incarnation of God-made flesh.

Today, carnations can be found in a wide range of colors, and while in general they express love, fascination and distinction, virtually every color carries a unique and rich association.

• white carnations - suggest pure love and good luck
• light red - symbolizes admiration
• dark red - represents deep love and affection
• purple carnations - imply capriciousness
• pink carnations - carry the greatest significance, beginning with the belief that they first appeared on earth from the Virgin Mary’s tears – making them the symbol of a mother’s undying love

Carnations have traditionally worn on Mother’s Day, Teacher’s Day, St. Patrick’s Day (in green, of course) and at weddings in the U.S. This hardy, sweetly fragrant flower is also the state flower of Ohio, the January birth flower and the 1st wedding anniversary flower.

Some Interesting Facts about Carnations

• Carnations were known as "Jove's Flower" in ancient Rome in honor of their beloved gods
• In Korea, red & pink carnations are used to show gratitude toward parents on Parents Day
• Carnations are the national flower of Spain
• The state flower of Ohio is a scarlet carnation.
• Green carnations are for St. Patrick's Day and were famously worn by the Irish writer Oscar Wilde
• Carnations are the official flower of the Gamma Phi Beta sorority

Carnations are applied to the species Dianthus caryophyllus, but the name Carnation is also often applied to other species of the genus Dianthus where there are over 300 species of flowering plants native to the Mediterranean region.

View our list of Carnations

Fresh Cut Carnations: How to Care for Carnations

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