For those born in January, you will find out that you have two national “birth flowers.” These are the snowdrop and the carnation. Today, your local florist in Hampton, NH, Flowers by Marianne’s, is here to spread the history, symbolism, and meaning behind this month’s flowers. We hope that you enjoy!
The History of the Carnation
The carnation first appeared in America in the 1850s after being imported from the Mediterranean area. Since then, it has been a staple in the flower industry for Mother’s Day and Valentine’s Day thanks to its meanings of remembrance and love. However, it has not always been this way. The carnation is sometimes also called the “Flower of the Gods.” This name derived from the early origins of the flower. Carnations grew wildly on Greek hillsides and were typically used in garlands used as decoration in ancient Greece and Rome.
Meanings and Symbolism
When the flower was first discovered, carnations were mainly found in pink hues. However, over the years, various colors, each with a differing meaning attached to them, began to emerge.
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Light Red - Admiration
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Dark Red - Deep Love
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White - Innocence, Pure Love, or Remembrance
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Pink - Affection or A Mother’s Love
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Yellow - Disappointment or Rejection
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Purple - Capriciousness (Unaccounted Channing)
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Striped (Any colors) - Regret
The History of the Snowdrop
The snowdrop is native to southern Europe’s cooler mountainous, grassland, and wooded regions. However, the flower has since been naturalized in the United States.
Meanings and Symbolism
The genus name for the snowdrop, Galanthus, is taken from the Greek words gala (milk) and anthos (flower). This is made in reference to the pure white appearance of the flowers’ natural state. Unlike the carnation, the snowdrop does not come in different colors. Snowdrops are typically used to express both sympathy and celebration.
During times of happiness, the flower gives optimism and hope. If the flower is given following a death or misfortunate event, the flower is said to give compassion. When a single snowdrop bloom is brought inside, it is believed that the flower symbolizes death. This is because it was traditionally known to grow in graveyards during the time. Now, the flower is many times the first to show through the snow in late winter and symbolizes beauty and hope.
Celebrating the Month of January
Flowers by Marianne’s is your local florist in Hampton, NH. We offer arrangements for any occasion. In fact, we can even make custom arrangements to make sure you find the perfect one for you. Just tell us what you need, and our team will take it from there. Whether you are celebrating a birthday in January or getting something just because, Flowers by Marianne’s is the perfect place to call.
