Beautiful in bunches or as part of a diverse bouquet, carnations are the official flower of January, but they’re an appealing flower in every month of the year. The soft ruffles of the carnation are a frequent visitor in wedding bouquets, and it’s common to see these happy flowers featured in seasonal arrangements and floral gifts. Diverse, colorful, and beautifully scented, carnations are a popular offering from Blossom Flower Shops.
The Long History of Carnations
The cultivation of carnations stretches far back into human history with evidence of their appearance in Greek and Roman times. The scientific name for the carnation is dianthus caryophyllus, which can mean “the flower of love,” depending on the translation. Some believe the name of the flower refers to a coronation as it might have occurred in ancient Greece.
Early cultivators enjoyed their carnations in appealing shades of pink, but the centuries have brought us the flower in virtually every color of the rainbow from red to purple to yellow. They are often paired with roses in colorful bouquets of orange, coral, and peach for special events, but they’re also a welcome part of an arrangement given to a loved one “just because.”

How Sweet It Is
Carnations also hold a dear place in the hearts of millions of high schools students because they’re a frequent part of the corsages and boutonnieres worn to prom and other high school dances. They often bring to mind special occasions in our history from those early high school dates to life-changing events like proposals and marriage.
The Meaning of Carnations
Carnations are the official birth flower of January, so they’re a frequent part of bouquets given to friends and family who have birthdays at the beginning of the year. They are also the official flower for a couple’s first wedding anniversary, and they’re often featured in cheerful vases that are perfect for an anniversary gift.

Bright and Cheery
There are also many deeper meanings attached to carnations given in various colors. Similar to roses and lilies, red usually symbolizes true love, and white symbolizes purity and good luck. Some even believe that pink are the most meaningful because of the story of the Virgin Mary, whose tears fell to earth and created the first carnations in a soft shade of pink.
Carnations are a common feature of floral arrangements, but they’re anything but ordinary. Close inspection of this unique bloom reveals layer upon layer of intricate petals and complexity, and they’re an ideal gift for the January birthday for someone you love.