Flowers are a fantastic way to convey emotion, but are the flowers you’re sending saying the right thing? The world of flowers is beautiful, but often complex. The term for assigning emotions with flowers is referred to as “Hanakotoba” by the Japanese. This marriage between the flowers and feelings is ages old, but with more than 400,000 gorgeous species to choose from, how do you know the one you’ve got your eye on is the perfect one for the occasion? Here, we break down the language of flowers to ensure yours say exactly what you want to say, in just the way you want to say it.

Peonies Flowerspeonies

Dating back thousands of years, peonies are known as flowers of honor and riches. They are thought to embody romance and can serve as a wish of good fortune and marital happiness. A bouquet of peonies makes a stellar gift for a bride-to-be or a close friend or family member embarking on a new journey.

Orchids Flowersorchids

Exotic orchids are a favorite of florists for a number of reasons. This delicate, graceful flower represents beauty, love, luxury and strength. Pink orchids convey affection, making them the perfect gift for a love interest or family member.

Roses Flowersroses

Among the most popular of flowers, roses are associated with  many emotions, differentiated by color. Red, often referred to as a lover’s rose, signifies intense passion and romance. White roses symbolize innocence and humility, while yellow roses stand for friendship and joy. The popular pink rose can mean gratitude and admiration. While each color of rose stands for a distinct emotion, the flower, in general, is a symbol of beauty and grace.

Sunflowers Flowerssunflowers

Sunflowers are a gorgeous addition to any spring bouquet. They represent the sun itself, conveying a sense of happiness and warmth. Send a bouquet of sunflowers to a friend, family member or love interest as a sign of adoration.

Tulips Flowerstulips small image

Each color of tulip carries a different meaning. Yellow symbolizes cheerful thoughts, making them ideal for Get Well and congratulatory arrangements. The color white conveys forgiveness, while purple represents royalty and stunning red tulips symbolize “perfect love”. A suitable choice for a wide range of occasions, lovely tulip bouquets represent grace and elegance, above all else.

Ranunculus Flowersranunculus flower

With a range of colors to choose from, Ranunculus had long been celebrated for their medicinal properties. A bouquet of ranunculus can have many meanings, but these striking flowers are most commonly seen as a declaration of charm.

Lilacs FlowersLilacs

Lilacs, in all their beauty, are considered an indicator of spring as their bloom is thought to signal whether the season will come early or late. These brilliant purple flowers symbolize love, while the white variety stands for youthful innocence.

Hydrangeas FlowersHydrangeas

While some believe hydrangea symbolism is connected to boastfulness and vanity, others suggest a bouquet of this stunning flower expresses an appreciation of understanding. The general consensus states that hydrangeas are a symbol of grace and beauty, making them suitable for a variety of occasions.

Sweet Peas FlowersSweet Pea flower

Small and delicate by nature, sweet peas release a fragrant aroma. They are thought to symbolize blissful pleasure, and remain a much beloved flower for many.

Gladiolus FlowersGladiolus_flowers small

Gladioli received their name from the shape of their leaves. They symbolize strength and moral integrity, but can also be used to signify infatuation and a great sense of passion.

Lilies FlowersLilies

Lilies are revered for different reasons. White lilies symbolize virtue and chastity, while Peruvian lilies represent devotion and friendship. These flowers are often used in sympathy bouquets and funerals as they symbolize that the soul of the deceased has been restored after death.