What Is the Meaning of Flowers on Valentine's Day?

On February 14, people around the world celebrate Valentine’s Day. It was originally a feast which honored a Roman priest and martyr of the same name. Flowers are customarily given as a gift and different colors and arrangements mean different things. 

History of St. Valentine

St. Valentine was priest who illegally conducted ceremonies for Roman soldiers who wished to marry. Emperor Claudius II outlawed marriage for soldiers because he did not want his men distracted. When St. Valentine was caught breaking the law, he was executed. Legend has it before he died, St. Valentine sent a red rose to the jailer’s daughter. The modern celebrations of Valentine’s Day have evolved to continue the legend, with many giving flowers as a symbol of love and devotion.

History of giving flowers

Meaning was originally given to flower colors in Persia 300 years ago and known as “floriography”, meaning flower writing. In this time, flowers were frequently sent to express emotions and communicate feelings. Sending love letters was difficult and opportunities to meet were rare. In Victorian Era England, the practice flourished, resulting in several published books on the subject.  

Symbols

The rose is the most popular flower for Valentine’s Day. A red rose stands for deep and abiding love, while pink conveys admiration. Yellow roses stand for warmth and happiness and white symbolizes innocence and purity. A full bunch of fully bloomed red roses is meant to reflect gratitude and deep emotion, while a single bud represents the innocence of true love. A tulip signifies a perfect love, and Peruvian lilies devotion.