I have to admit that I’m pretty much addicted to the new Flower Shop Network Flower Dictionary. It’s awesome! It accompanies the FSN flower meanings page but enhances it. For people like me that want to know something quirky or trivial about everything, it’s the cat’s meow.

For starters, I love flower meanings. I know several of them by heart and can prattle them off to my friends. Whether they’re listening or not, they’ll remember the conversation when I send them flowers and put the meaning in the enclosure card message. It’s fun to be the sender of a unique gift. Matching flower meanings to an arrangement? Well, that’s cupid’s arrow shot straight to the heart of quirk-lovers like me.

We all know how Generation Y loves to be unique. As it was mentioned to me yesterday, “your generation loves to be heard.” We do. I have to agree. We also love stuff that stands out from the crowd. How can you be heard if your message sounds the same as everyone else’s? Ya can’t. So, flower meanings are a win-win because you get to send a traditional gift of flowers which everyone loves plus the added benefit of making it unique. Ta-da!

Here are a few of my favorite flower meanings to get you started:

• Ambrosia — “your love is reciprocated”
• Bouvardia — “enthusiasm”
• Mini Carnation — “pure love, my heart yearns for you”
• Orange Rose — “fascination”
• Red Rose –”love, I love you”

There are tons more on the FSN flower meanings page so check it out and see if any stand out to you. Florists–feel free to print these off and put them with your FSN Selection Guide. Watch what the unique twist will do when Generation Y visits your store.

To send flowers with special flower meanings, use Flower Shop Network to contact your local florist.

I admit that I was a Quiz Bowl junkie in school and have always been a trivia nut. Reaching 24 years of age this month, I’m relatively fresh to the floral industry. To try to boost my own knowledge of the history of the floral industry, I’ve created this little flowers quiz. It may not get you up to Jeopardy level, but it’s a fun way to spend a few minutes. Don’t forget to log in to the Bloomin’ Blog and let us know how you fared!

The Flower Shop Network Floral Industry Trivia Quiz

(1) What does “S.A.F.” stand for?

(a)    Society for Advanced Floristry
(b)    Society of American Florists
(c)    Special American Florists
(d)    Social American Florists

(2) What is the most popular cut flower?

(a)    Carnation
(b)    Daisy
(c)    Chrysanthemum
(d)    Rose

(3) Which guest writer for FlowerShopNetwork.com wrote the famous Flower Shop Mystery series?

(a)    Kate Collins
(b)    Kate Costas
(c)    Kate Winslet
(d)    Kate Heigl

(4) Which word from the French “boschet” was introduced to English by Lady Mary Montague in 1716?

(a)    Bouvardia
(b)    Bouquet
(c)    Boutonniere
(d)    Basket

(5) What is the most commonly preserved arrangement of flowers?

(a)    Vase Arrangements
(b)    Wedding Bouquets
(c)    Groom’s Boutonniere
(d)    Prom Corsages

(6) What does “A.I.F.D.” stand for?

(a)    American Institute of Floral Design
(b)    American Insurance for Floral Designers
(c)    American Institute of Floral Designers
(d)    Accreditation In Floral Design

(7) To what nitrogen/phosphorus/potassium (N-P-K) ratio does “balanced liquid fertilizer” refer?

(a)    30-20-10
(b)    20-30-10
(c)    20-20-20
(d)    10-30-20

(8) The word “manure” is derived from which language’s expression for manual meaning “of or belonging to the hand”?

(a)    French
(b)    German
(c)    Latin
(d)    Spanish

(9) The translation of the French words “fleur de lis” literally refers to which stylized flower?

(a)    Lily
(b)    Laurel
(c)    Daisy
(d)    Lilac

(10) Which style of design was originally used by upper class members to show their opulence and wealth?

(a)    Flemish
(b)    Victorian
(c)    English Garden
(d)    American Colonial

(11) In classic literature, which novel holds a reference to the fleur de lis as a symbol used for branding criminals?

(a)    The Hunchback of Notre Dame by Victor Hugo
(b)    Les Miserables by Victor Hugo
(c)    The Three Musketeers by Alexandre Dumas
(d)    Madame Bovary by Gustave Flaubert

Answers: 1. B      2. D     3.A     4.B     5.B     6.C     7.C     8.A     9.A     10.B     11.C

Special thanks to: The Society of American Florists, The American Institute of Floral Designers, Dictionary.com, and Kate Collins.

They’ll flip when you send them a bouquet featuring lots of amaryllis.

So how did I get from dramatic to amaryllis? Easier than you’d think. The flower meaning of amaryllis is “dramatic”. Now while I wouldn’t recommend sending this to a drama queen as they may get offended and cause a storm of entertaining evenings, this is a really fun gift for someone who has been going through a rough or trying time and needs a pick me up.

The unique flower meaning of amaryllis also makes it easy to recognize that someone has been struggling to have an “even keel” day once in a while. Something always comes up or they never catch a break. I know plenty of people like that, my sweetheart and mother included. Both work their tails off to please and provide for other people with little gratitude in return. If I want them to know what I’m thinking, I’ll make sure amaryllis helps me say it.

Other flowers with special flower meanings that will go well with amaryllis are:

"Melody of Flowers" with Alstroemeria

• Pink carnations (gratitude)
• Black-eyed susan (encouragement)
• Cosmos (peaceful)
• Gardenia (joy)
• Gladioulus (strength of character)
• Lisianthus (calming)
• Pansy (loving thoughts)
• Star of Bethlehem (hope)
• Pink tulip (caring)

There are many other flower meanings as you might have imagined. These are just some of the beautiful flowers that represent a special sentiment that will help cheer up your friend or loved one. A sweet card message mentioning their meaning will be a sweet reward for someone very deserving of positive attention. When you contact your local florist for a pick-me-up treat for your friend, ask about using flowers with special meanings for an extra special, meaningful bouquet.

Celebrate Unity With Red & White Roses

Red and White Roses Represent Unity

Red and white roses are gorgeous. They are beautiful whether variegated in these colors or bunched together. With the fourth of July approaching, why not celebrate independence and unity at the same time with a red and white bouquet of roses?

The flower meaning of red and white roses is what drew me to them this July. With a patriotic spirit, I came across “unity” and knew that this flower meaning would be one of the most important yet. Political views aside, we can all agree that a very critical need in this country is the sense of unity.

Many of our forefathers declared “united we stand, divided we fall” and knew exactly what it meant. Having separated from a country once loved, the spirit of patriotism began with those brave people who knew that to be free we must be one force with one mind, one common goal, and one heart.

White Roses Help Express Unity

Unity will never go out of style. Patriotism will never be out of fashion. This Independence Day, celebrate not just with fireworks and funnel cakes but also with red and white roses. Let it be a symbol of the unity that keeps this country great and not the petty differences that divide people. Have a loved one in the military who is serving overseas? This Independence Day is especially important to them because they are fighting for our right to be unified and independent.

There are many ways to show appreciation for the troops. Wear a white rose next to a red rose on your shoulder or a rose corsage. Send a red rose to your loved one away from home. Even if it’s a picture sent via email, you can still celebrate with them by wearing the same or complementing color on your shoulder. Later, send them a picture of  you with wearing your rose. What an excellent way to share a meaningful moment.

Have an idea for how to wear a red or white rose? Let us know how you plan to celebrate the holiday by commenting below!

Flower Meanings of Hydrangea & Stargazer Lilies

"Glorious Magenta" Hydrangeas & Peonies

Many trials face us in life, but thankfully we have friends and family to encourage us through them. I know from personal experience what it is like to need encouragement or a dose of happy but have nowhere to turn. It’s remember these moments that make me love the flower meanings of stargazer lilies and hydrangeas. These are the absolute perfect gifts for someone needing a boost.

The hydrangea flower meaning is “perseverance.” Know someone struggling to get through their next big trial? Perhaps it’s something as simple as passing a difficult exam or getting through the night at a job that they dislike. Maybe your loved one was recently given a poor diagnosis at their physical exam. Whatever the issue, these times call for encouragement. If we can’t get it from friends, where can we turn? When you know someone facing a situation that calls for perseverance, embolden them with the gift of hydrangeas.

"Stunning Stargazers" Arrangement of Lilies

Stargazer lilies also have a particular flower meaning that caught my eye. These lovely flowers mean “ambition.” The drive to succeed is inbred within all of us. We all want to make more of our lives than futility. Someone facing a situation that calls for them to use their ambition will appreciate the flower meaning of sunflowers.

Perhaps you have a friend that is moving to another city for the first time. Maybe a friend is starting college or a new job. These are excellent opportunities to share in the richness of ambition. Send flower arrangements with stargazer lilies and watch the richness unfold.

If you’re happy with the hum-drum, this flower isn’t for you.

"Flower Garden" Arrangement with Alstroemeria

When looking at flower meanings this month I ran across alstroemeria. I was impressed right away and instantly thought of someone that I wanted to give these flowers to. The flower meaning of alstroemeria is “aspiring.” You know what that says to me? It says that it is time to celebrate someone moving out of the hum-drum and into the ta-da!

I have a friend who just received a promotion. I think her work and her attitude have improved exponentially since starting with that company so I want to let her know how proud I am. There really is no holiday to speak of but there doesn’t have to be. Instead of sending a holiday message to her, I’m making it more personal by sending flowers with a special meaning. This occasion calls for flowers that motivate people with the drive to move forward. She’s that kind of woman so she deserves alstroemeria!

“Aspiring” can mean a lot of things though. This thoughtful gift can be sent to a little boy or girl going through a graduation at school. Many schools have elementary graduations that recognize children moving into junior high. What a perfect time to give flowers! A bouquet of alstroemeria and a kiss on the cheek are enough to make your baby the king or queen of the class.

Alstroemeria

“Aspiring” can also work for a suite mate in the dormitory who is a drama major (aspiring actress/actor), business major (aspiring executive), or even a zoology major (aspiring Steve Irwin).

Whatever your friend or family member is into, let them know how proud you are with alstroemeria. Celebrate their ability to move forward in life, to make something of themselves, and to make everyone proud.

Know the meaning of your favorite flower? Share it below along with why this flower is your favorite. Not really sure what the flower meaning is? Ask away! Simply log in and comment below.

Stuck Inside All Winter? Celebrate Spring With Gardenias!

It’s no secret that being inside all winter can be a bummer. Sometimes winter weather isn’t as fun as it could be. Well, good news! Spring is in full affect now. I’m sure you’re dying to know how I plan on celebrating it. I know I would be if I were you. (Just kidding.) I’m celebrating with gardenias.

Why gardenias you ask? The flower meaning of gardenias is “joy.” Pure and simple. Joy is one of the most wonderful feelings ever. Anyone who has ever felt a second of joy knows that it’s a feeling to be craved and sought. I want to surround myself with joy and joyous people. Now that winter has gone into hibernation and spring has sprung, it’s time to kick off my joyful shoes so I’m buying potted gardenias from my local florist!

Flowering plants are well and good (I love them!!) but sometimes it’s more fun to send flowers to put a spring in the step of a friend. When you want to celebrate spring with your buddies, consider sending flowers such as casablanca lilies. This the meaning of this premium flower is “celebration.” Perfect!! Perhaps you’re wanting something more festive. Believe it or not, “festivity” abounds with baby’s breath. There are many arrangements that incorporate these flowers. It’s easy to get the party started for Spring with arrangements like these from a local florist.

Know the meaning of your favorite flower? Share it below along with why this flower is your favorite. Not really sure what the flower meaning is? Ask away! Simply log in and comment below.

The Flower Meaning of The Red Rose

Probably the most widely recognized flower in the United States is the red rose. It is beautiful and floods the street on Valentines Day. Anniversary flower arrangements also carry a lot of red roses. Any romantic evening begins with a bouquet of red roses. Ever wonder why this is?

Express Passionate Love With Red Roses

The flower meaning of the red rose is “passionate love.” You almost expect to hear something like that when talking about the flower meaning of the red rose. It’s so much in our minds when selecting something sweet and special that choosing something else seems inept.

Just think about it for a second with me. When people discuss putting flower petals around a jacuzzi or on a bed, what type do they usually opt for? Roses. All of us can easily finish this phrase. “I would like a dozen _____.” While “donuts” is probably just as appropriate, the answer here is “roses.”

I’ll finish this blurb by saying that the flower meaning of red roses was aptly chosen. This is just one more reason why sending a bouquet of roses is a great way to tell your sweetheart that you have passionate love for him or her. When it comes to talking about feelings, sometimes it’s just easier to show it. Roses help express one of the best feelings ever–passionate love.

What do you think about red roses? Do you have a romantic or funny story about receiving/sending red roses? Please share! It’s simple! Just log in and type your comment below.

Know anyone like this?

One of the characteristics that I like to see in people is boldness. Not to be confused with ego or bravado, the type of boldness that I consider appealing is that daring ability to be courageous in the face of danger or adversity. It is having strong enough character to admit convictions that go against the flow or to express opinions that may or may not be the desired ones. I am this kind of person to my friends and I expect the same in return.

The reason that my rant turns to this today is because I was reviewing a list of flower meanings associated with certain blooms that florists use. Delphinium caught my eye then captured my attention with “boldness” listed beside it. When you think about it, how bold do you have to be to remain one of the only true blue cut flowers in a florist shop? Pretty bold I imagine.

I believe that part of the beauty of delphinium comes from its striking color but another part is just how rarely seen that color is in a florist’s grand scheme of things. Pink, red, yellow and green flood the floral industry. They are all gorgeous colors but sometimes I want to see something on the opposite end of the spectrum. That’s where delphinium comes into play.

Do you know someone that is bold or tends to stand out but in a really cool, rather charming way? The next time that gift giving comes around, ask your local florist to include delphinium in the arrangement. Your sweetheart or friend will love the flowers and even more appreciate the card message detailing why you chose delphinium. Your florist can dream up the arrangement while you author the card message but don’t miss the chance for an awesome gift idea like this. It’s why flower meanings are so cool in the first place!

See how blue delphinium makes this arrangement pop?

Ask the Expert: What does the fern and lilac mean spiritually
Received these plant and flower from someone  Crystal

Reply:

Crystal,

Many plants and flowers have symbolic meanings, in this case when someone sends a fern the following meanings that can be implied are magic, fascination, confidence and/or shelter.  The meaning for lilac, the plant (Syringa) not the color, symbolizes youthful or innocence.  Keep in mind that not everyone knows the symbolic meanings that are associated with plants.  So, you might need to ask.  DO they mean to say, they had confidence that these items would give magical shelter to your youthful innocense.  Just my interpretation.  They could just mean that they are facinated with your innocense.  Of course, you can probably tell from the meanings what the send was trying to say.