The carnation is the birth flower for January, cultivated for its ruffled blooms and favoured for their fragrance and hardiness. The scientific name for a carnation is “Dianthus Caryophyllus”, a Greek word meaning “flower of the Gods”. Carnations carry the meaning of love, fascination and distinction.

Like many flowers, the colour also contributes to differing meanings. Red carnations symbolize passionate love while yellow means disdain, rejection or disappointment. A white carnation carries the meaning of innocence and pure love and a purple flower is whimsical and capricious.

Over 300 species of carnations and hybrids exist, and the flower has been cultivated over the last two centuries within Asia and Europe. Carnations are exotic in Australia but they are grown commercially. Originally, they were grown in the Mediterranean where the Greeks and Romans used them for crowning garlands during important ceremonies.

Carnations are considered an edible flower and the petals are a popular choice for cake decorators. The flower has also been used in the making of the French Liquor Chartreuse since the 17th century, and they are also used to decorate ice cubes and bring flavour to certain salads.

For more floral inspiration, visit our Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melbourneflorist/ And Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/floristmelbourne/ Or come and visit our lovely florists for a beautiful bunch!