At Bunches, we take great pride in the flowers we use for our bouquets. From Carnations to Snapdragons, Alstroemeria to Roses, we know that each bloom has its own special beauty. But what is less well known is what each flower symbolises!

Carnations are one of our most popular blooms, and our customers are in good company – according to the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust, Carnations were one of Shakespeare’s favourite flowers, too!

Also known as Dianthus Caryophyllus, Carnations come in two forms: a single-flower stem, or a stem with multiple buds (called a Spray Carnation).

The meaning of this in-demand bloom is ‘strong and pure love’, says Flowers and Their Meanings by Karen Azoulay. However, Karen goes on to tell us that there are variations on this depending on the colour of the Carnation’s flowers:

• A red Carnation represents pure and ardent love

• Pink is for a woman’s love

• Mixed coloured petals mean pride and beauty

• Striped blooms represent refusal

• White is for a young girl

• Yellow translates as disdain

Although these days flower meanings are more about the occasion, if you want to make your gift extra special, why not look at our range of Carnation-based collections? You might be able to sneak in an extra meaning to your giftee – just be careful with striped Carnations if you’re replying to a proposal!