The Meaning Behind Those Beautiful Valentine’s Day Flowers

It doesn't surprise me that this is the most popular flower on Valentine's Day. It could be because red roses symbolize love, romance, beauty and perfection. The iconic flower is also known for being pricey—according to Michael Gaffney, Director of the New York School of Flower Design, “flower growers hold back their rose bushes for months in order to have them bloom in time for February 14th—and then they raise the prices, giving roses that sought-after reputation.” There is nothing like a beautiful rose to show your love.

Daisies are known for symbolizing beauty, innocence and purity. The Gerbera variety, recognizable by their large flowering heads, is available in an assortment of cheerful colors, which gives them the additional meaning of cheerfulness. The happy buds are “always a favorite to receive,” according to Kate Law, Product Design Manager at ProFlowers.com.

Tulips stand for perfect love. The elegant and easily identifiable blooms are one of the most popular flowers in the world. They convey comfort and warmth, says Law, and are a good Valentine’s Day pick since they’re classic and affordable.

Alstroemeria is also known as Peruvian lilies. They have long-lasting, attention-grabbing petals, that represent friendship and devotion. They’re native to South America and feature multiple blooms per stem, which make for voluptuous arrangements. Perhaps best of all, they’re easy to find in most neighborhood supermarkets.

These white Oriental lilies typically stand for beauty, class and style. “A man who creates a bouquet with these dramatic—and expensive––lilies is sophisticated and knows his partner well.” And, notes Law, people love these stunning blooms’ heady fragrance.

Orchids are a rare blossom that symbolize love, beauty, luxury and strength. Plus, they send the message of exotic seduction. “If someone gives you orchids, they’re a little wilder than the person who goes for a dozen roses.” Orchids also hold up well over time, says Law, both in bouquets and pots.

These often misunderstood ruffled blooms stand for fascination and new love. “For some reason, carnations get a bad rap,” says Gaffney. “But I love them; they’re marvelous flowers.” Even better, these cheerful blooms are hearty and very affordable. And in my opinion they smell beautiful.

Like the sun they’re named for, these blossoms represent warmth and happiness, says Law. They also stand for loyalty. Though the bright yellow blooms scream summertime, these spirit-lifting flowers are available all year round.

In some parts of the world, dark blue or purple irises indicate royalty. No matter their color (they’re most commonly seen in blue, white and yellow), they stand for faith and hope. They are often mixed with red tulips or daisies for a striking combination.

These flowers are loaded with fragrance! They are elegant flowers that signify purity and joy, and connote deep, old-fashioned love. “The man who buys these likely has a history with the woman he’s buying them for.” Because they’re pricey and are sold as single blooms, they’ll definitely make a statement on the holiday.