Let's face it - carnations sometimes don’t get as much attention as their fancy friends such as Dianthus plumarius and Double Hibiscus. However, carnations hold a rich history and a vibrant language of colors. Basically, there’s a whole lot more to these ruffled flowers than meets the eye. So, buckle up Anthophiles because we're about to dig into the fascinating world of carnation flowers - 

History in Bloom

The carnation's journey through time goes back to ancient Greece and Rome. Back then, these flowers were associated with the gods (divine) and were even used as celebratory crowns. People would weave carnation garlands for their gods, and Romans believed the flower sprouted from the tears of the Virgin Mary.

Fast forward a few centuries, carnations bloomed anew in the European consciousness during the Middle Ages. They would represent different virtues based on their color and became a popular choice for celebrations. 

For example, red carnations spoke of intense love and pink blooms conveyed admiration. This color-coded communication continues to this day, making carnations a versatile and meaningful flower for several occasions. 

A Rainbow of Meanings

As highlighted in the section above, carnations are more than just pretty faces. Their spectrum of colours hold a unique language of emotions. Here's a brief breakdown of what each carnation color signifies -

• Red: The classic symbol of love and affection. Whether it's a passionate romance or a heartfelt apology, red carnations speak volumes.

• Pink: These pretty blooms radiate gratitude and appreciation. A pink carnation bouquet is a thoughtful way to give your thanks to a friend, colleague or anyone who deserves a little floral recognition.

• White: The universal representation of white flowers is that it embodies innocence and sympathy. The same goes for white carnations. You can even send them across to offer comfort during times of grief or express a sense of new beginnings.

• Yellow: Bursting with sunshine energy, yellow carnations represent friendship and joy. These bright blooms are perfect for celebrating a birthday, sending get-well wishes or simply spreading some cheer.

• Purple: With an air of royalty, purple carnations convey admiration and respect. They make a thoughtful flower gift for someone you hold in high esteem, like a mentor, teacher or boss.

Symbolism of Carnation Flowers

Carnations aren't simply beautiful to look at but also hold a special place in different cultures. In Spain, they're the official flower of Mother's Day, while in China, they represent good luck and respect. And do you know? Carnations are actually the official state flower of Ohio, proving that beauty can come in all shapes and sizes (and even states).

How to Care for Carnation Flowers

Now that you're well-versed with these fascinating flowers and would want to keep these beauties close to you, here’s how to take care of them -

• The foundation for long-lasting carnations lies in choosing healthy flowers. Pick firm, tightly closed flower heads and avoid wilting stems.

• Before placing them in a vase, give them a fresh cut at a 45-degree angle. This increases surface area for water absorption and promotes healthy growth.

• Now fill the vase with cool, clean water. If possible, do add a few drops of flower food (not essential, but beneficial) to nourish the flowers and keep the water fresh.

• Opt for a cool, well-lit spot, away from heat sources and harsh sunlight.

• Every few days, replace the water in the vase with fresh, cool water. Get rid of wilting leaves or flower heads to prevent bacteria growth and maintain the overall health of the bouquet.

Summing Up

Now that you're a carnation connoisseur, you can confidently choose them for any occasion. Whether it's to express love, show appreciation or simply brighten your mumma’s day, carnations are a versatile and affordable gift option.