Friday, September 30, 2016

FTD Blog: Carnation Meaning and Symbolism

Carnation Story and Origins

Carnations are also called pinks because of their spiky petals that look like they were cut with pinking shears. There are several theories about how the carnation got its name. Some believe that it comes from the word coronation because it was used in Greek ceremonial crowns. Others think that it originated from the Latin wordcarnis, meaning flesh, because early carnations were typically pink.

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Carnations scientific name is Dianthus caryophyllus. Some believe the name Dianthus originated from the myth of Diana. There are a few variations of this story. In one variation Diana, goddess of the hunt, was returning from an unsuccessful hunting trip. She stumbled upon a shepherd playing a flute and blamed his music for spoiling her hunting.

In a fit of rage she attacked him and plucked out his eyes. Once she cooled down, she regretted her actions. Where the eyes fell, red carnations grew as signs of innocent blood.

Others believe that Dianthus was named after Zeus, as Zeus in Greek is dios and flower is anthos. Carnations are also referred to as the flower of the gods.

Carnation Meaning

The carnation means fascination, distinction, and love.

According to a Christian legend, carnations grew from the Virgin Mary’s tears as she watched Jesus carry the cross. This is how they became associated with motherly love.
In the Netherlands, white carnations are worn to remember veterans and the country’s resistance to World War II.
In France, purple carnations are the traditional funeral flower.
In some countries, red carnations are worn on May Day to symbolize socialism and the labor movement.

Carnation Symbolism & Colors

Carnations grow in a wide variety of colors including pink, white, red, yellow, and scarlet. They are popular flowers for dying, so if you can’t find a natural color you like you can create it! Each color has a different meaning.

White carnations symbolize purity and luck.
Light red carnations symbolize admiration.
Dark red carnations symbolize love and affection.
Pink carnations symbolize gratitude.
Yellow carnations symbolize disappointment or rejection.
Purple carnations symbolize capriciousness.

Carnation Cultural Significance

Carnations have inspired many artists, poets, and authors. British composer Joseph Mazzinghi wrote a song entitled “Ye Shepherds Tell Me”, which told of a beautiful girl wearing a wreath of flowers.

A wreath around her head,

Around her head she wore,

Carnation, lily, lily, rose,

And in her hand a crook she bore,

And sweets her breath compose.

Esteemed artist John Singer Sargent was influenced by this song, and created a painting entitled Carnation, Lily, Lily, Rose, which depicts two girls playing with lanterns in the garden.

Carnation Facts

The scarlet carnation was adopted by the state of Ohio in 1904 to honor the late President William McKinley.
The first carnations in the US were shipped from France to Long Island in 1852.
Carnations are the January birth flower.
Carnations are given on 1st anniversaries as a sign of love and commitment.
They’re the second most popular cut flower after roses.
Carnations are the national flower of Spain and Slovenia.

Carnation Uses

Carnations have a history of being brewed into tea to help reduce stress and restore energy. Carnation tea has also been used to reduce fever and treat stomach aches. In addition to tea, carnation oil is used in beauty products to moisturize skin, minimize wrinkles, and treat skin conditions.

The 20 Most Beautiful Flowers in the World ( P4)

Chrysanthemum

Chrysanthemums (Chrysanthemum indicum) originated in China where they’ve been cultivated since 15th century BC. Not only are their flowers beautiful with their densely layered petals and wide array of colors, they have plenty of medicinal properties as well, and are used as an herbal remedy. Due to their long history,chrysanthemum meanings are deeply symbolic and are used to communicate: love and deep passion, loyalty, and a get well wish. Buy Flowers for Under $35 at FTD. Buy Now!

Passion Flower

Passion flowers are one of the most exotic flowers you can grow in your garden. There are over 400 species of passionfruit vines, but the most popular is Passiflora edulis which is the only one that can produce passionfruit. Native to the Americas, passion flowers are usually purple, lavender, or blue.

Peony

Peonies are one of the most sought after flowers in the world due to their beauty and fragrance. They are native to China where they are highly valued, and are known as the “king of flowers.” Peonies are incredibly lush flowers that have densely packed petals that open up gradually over time layer by layer. They are available in a wide variety of colors ranging from light pastel pinks and whites to bright and bold reds and magentas, and are one of the most popular flowers used in wedding decor.

Protea

As the national flower of South Africa, the king protea (Protea cynaroides) is one of the most spectacular species of protea. It is the largest protea species and has a massive bloom size that can reach almost 12 inches in width. With long pink petals that surround a furry center, it is typically the star of the show within a bouquet.

Rose

The classic rose deserves the number one spot as the most beautiful flower due to its timeless beauty. An international symbol of love and romance, there are thousands of different types of roses that can be found in nearly every color. From the classic red rose, to the popular Juliet garden rose, there’s a rose that can suit anyone’s taste.

From the timeless rose to the exotic lily, it’s certainly difficult to ignore the sheer beauty of flowers. When you’re having a bad day, sometimes looking at something beautiful like a flower is just enough to perk you up. That’s why we created a wall art printable to remind you to see the beauty in all things.

Inspired by someone who definitely knows a thing or two about beautiful flowers, we included one of the most famous quotes by Matisse, the French Impressionist painter known for his colorful depictions of flowers. The quote says, “There are always flowers for those who want to see them.”

Hang the art print on your wall, or put it in a standing frame for your desk to help you see the beauty in any situation. Simply click here, or on the image below, to download the 8” x 10” print.

The 20 Most Beautiful Flowers in the World ( P3)

Lotus

The lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) is an aquatic plant known for producing large flowers. Native to Asia, the flower grows abundantly from India to China. The lotus is considered a highly sacred flower in both Hinduism and Buddhism and carries several meanings including: harmony, enlightenment, and rebirth. They are available in many beautiful colors, including dark and light pink, white, and purple.

Anemone

There are many species of anemone, the most stunning of which are Anemone coronaria, a species that’s native to the Mediterranean region. Also known as windflowers, their name is derived from the Greek word “anemos” which means wind. The fall blooming varieties are taller with cup-shaped blossoms, while the spring blooming varieties grow lower to the ground. They grow in a variety of colors including pink, red, purple, and white.

Cherry Blossom

Cherry blossoms are one of the world’s most beautiful flowers. During the spring, the cherry blossom tree (Prunus serrulata) erupts into pink clouds composed of tiny blossoms. Every year, the Cherry Blossom Festival is held in Japan where tourists from all over the world come to marvel at the sight of these stunning trees. The United States has its own cherry blossom festival as well which is an annual celebration that takes place in Washington, DC. It commemorates the gifting of 3,000 cherry blossom trees which were given to the United States by the Mayor of Tokyo in 1912 as a gesture to strengthen ties between the two nations.

Orchid

Orchids are one of the most exotic flowers that you can grow in your own home. There are over 20,000 types of orchids, with the most popular domestic species being the moth orchid, or Orchidaceae phalaenopsis. These large orchid blooms are popular for the size of their blooms and are native to the tropical regions of Africa, Asia, and America. Orchid meanings include: elegance, love, and fertility. Save up to 25% OFF on Sympathy & Funeral Flowers. Save Now!

Magnolia

Another popular southern flower is the magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora). This tree grows wild in the southern United States and is the official state flower of Mississippi. They produce large creamy white blooms that can reach impressive sizes, up to 15 inches wide. They are popular for attracting bees due to their sweet perfume, however, magnolia flowers have a short lifetime and can only last for a few days.

The 20 Most Beautiful Flowers in the World ( P2)

The 20 Most Beautiful Flowers in the World

Plumeria

Plumerias (Plumeria rubra) are native to the subtropical Americas, including Hawaii, and are a popular flower used in leis. They give off an intensely sweet fragrance and are also great as cut flowers to freshen up your home. Plumerias have gorgeous blooms with colors that include, pink, white, yellow, and red.

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Dahlia

The dahlia (Dahlia hortensis) is a flower that is known for its layered petals and showy blooms and are highly cultivated and hybridized by breeders to create the most beautiful flowers. It is an annual that begins to bloom from midsummer until the start of winter and is native to South America, Mexico, and Central America. Dahlias are available in almost every color in the rainbow, with the most popular colors including: fuchsia, pink, orange, and red.

Tulip

Tulips are popular due to their unique shape and wide variety of colors and are native to Africa, Asia, and Europe. From bright reds and yellows to nearly black purples, there seems to be a tulip for every color of the rainbow. They bloom from spring into early summer and are popular around Easter. Red tulips are great for weddings because they symbolize true love, and yellow tulips symbolize cheerfulness.

Iris

Another popular springtime flower is the iris (Iris germanica). Known for its bright purple and violet flowers, these flowers symbolize wisdom, hope, and trust. The iris’ beauty has allowed them to be iconic subjects in fine art, as is evident in one of Vincent Van Gogh’s most famous paintings, Irises. They are native the Eastern Mediterranean and their peak bloom time occurs in May.

The 20 Most Beautiful Flowers in the World ( P1)

Flowers are one of mother nature’s most beautiful creations. For centuries, flowers have been idolized as objects of beauty by nearly every civilization in the world. To honor the beauty of flowers, we’ve picked the 20 most beautiful flowers from around the world. We also created visuals with interesting facts about each flower, including its native origin, botanical name and popular colors. From classic flowers such as roses and peonies to exotic blooms such as the king protea and lotus flower, you’re bound to fall in love with at least one of these stunning blooms.

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Sweet Pea

Sweet peas are best known for their sweet fragrance and delicate flowers. These flowers are native to the island of Sicily where they’ve been cultivated for the last 300 years. This ornamental pea species go by the botanical name Lathyrus odoratus, and are available in pink, red, purple, and white.

Stargazer Lily

Also known as the oriental lily, the stargazer lily (Lilium ‘Stargazer’) is known for its large star-shaped blooms that give off a sweet perfume. Their petals are colored in hot pink with textured freckles that decoratively dot each petal. Although they are beautiful, they are one of the most poisonous plants to have around pets. The stargazer lily is the most recent addition to the oriental lily family, which is native to Japan.

Hydrangea

Hydrangeas are one of summer’s most bountiful blooms. Known for their large globe-shaped flower heads, they are available in a variety of colors ranging from blue and purple to white and pink. There are many types of hydrangeas, the most common being the mophead hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla). Hydrangeas are native to Southern and Eastern Asia, particularly Japan, China, and Indonesia.

Daffodil

Daffodils are a symbol of friendship and are one of spring’s most popular flowers. Known as Narcissus pseudonarcissus, their botanical name is derived from Narcissus, a figure in Greek mythology who was a hunter that fell in love with his own reflection. The downward bending shape of the daffodil represents him gazing down at his own reflection. Native to western Europe, the daffodil is known for its bright yellow colors that grow abundantly throughout the countryside.

Begonia

Begonias (Begonia tuberhybrida) have attractively large rose-like flowers and are popular amongst avid gardeners. The first documented discovery of the begonia was by Charles Plumier, a Franciscan monk, who found begonias in Brazil in 1690. They bloom in the summer and although they may not be the easiest plants to care for, their beautiful blooms and attractive foliage make them a great addition to any garden. They’ve been bred to include many colors, the most popular of which are red, yellow, and orange.

Camellia

One of the most popular flowers in the Southern United States, the camellia (Camellia japonica) is originally from eastern and southern Asia. There are more than 3,000 types of camellias which are available in white, pink, and red in varying hues. They have delicately layered petals and are commonly used as an ingredient in floral perfumes due to their sweet fragrance.

Friday, September 23, 2016

5 Thanksgiving Centerpiece Ideas Using Fall Flowers

Thanksgiving tables are always bedecked with the most gorgeous and scrumptious food, so sometimes it's a little difficult to come up with a centerpiece that measures up to the decadence. Incorporating fall flowers into your centerpiece is a great way to create a rustic and seasonal look that you'll love showing off to your family and friends.

Here are five ideas for making an amazing tabletop Thanksgiving centerpiece using fall flowers:

A Rustic Box

For a centerpiece that nobody will have seen before, repurpose a vintage-looking wooden box or a rustic window planter as table decor. Fill the box with short vases of varying flowers, surrounded by pine cones and acorns. For a country-looking fall arrangement, try using bright aster and helenium interspersed with sprigs of goldenrod and colorful leaves. If you don't have a box, making one is easy, or you can use a pretty basket instead!

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A Different Container

Your flowers don't have to be arranged in a vase - put them in a pretty pitcher or a ceramic serving bowl for a centerpiece that fits in perfectly with the beautiful food on the table. Pick a pitcher or bowl in fall colors, and fill it with brightly colored mums, roses and sprays of Russian sage.

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Pretty Pumpkins

Pumpkins and other gourds are the perfect autumn decorations because they're both pretty and seasonal. You can use miniature pumpkins in your centerpieces in many ways - scatter them across the table or even hollow one out and use it as a vase. A large hollow pumpkin full of sunflowers would make a show-stopping centerpiece, and guests will love the creativity.

A Flowery Cornucopia

Traditional cornucopias are full of fruits, vegetables and gourds to signify prosperity, but the inclusion of fall flowers will make any cornucopia pop that much more. Buy or make a cornucopia and fill it with various flowers and plants, like stalks of wheat, perennial sunflowers, crocuses and more, to make it look like you've just gone flower picking in the meadow.

A Kid-Friendly Centerpiece

For a kid-friendly centerpiece, incorporate a cute character into your flower arrangement. Make a turkey using a large pinecone by fanning colorful leaves in the shape of tail feathers around the wider end of the cone and attaching them with glue. Then fashion a head and neck out of construction paper, glue them on the other side of the cone, and place the turkey in a bowl of pinecones, acorns and mums.

AUTHOR:
This article is brought to you by Michelle Farrell

5 Winter Seasonal Flowers to Send Your Sweetie

Sending flowers has long been a way to show love, thoughtfulness and appreciation. A beautiful bouquet can brighten someone's day and make them feel cherished, so flowers are perfect for romantic gestures. If you're interested in sending flowers to your sweetie this winter, keep in mind that some blooms are much better suited for delivery during the winter season than others. Take a look at these five winter seasonal flowers to gift to your partner over these next few months:

1. Roses

For having such a fragile beauty, roses are surprisingly sturdy throughout most of the year. While rose bushes planted in gardens need some special tending over the winter, the popular flowers thrive indoors, and they're hardy enough to survive delivery in the cold weather. In fact, white and red roses are a very popular flower for wedding arrangements for just that reason. Plus, roses are the epitome of a romantic bouquet.

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2. Lilies

Lilies are another very popular flower to send over the winter, especially when white, due to their elegant trumpet-shaped buds and long stems. While lilies come in many different varieties, Calla lilies are the most popular during the winter, followed by stargazer and casablanca lilies, which have different shapes and colors. Calla lilies are traditionally white, and are often used in white winter weddings along with roses.

3. Phalaenopsis Orchid

Orchids are a stunning gift, and since they're a flowering plant, they can can last much longer than an average bouquet if cared for properly. Phalaenopsis orchids generally bloom in the winter or very early spring, so the colder season is the perfect time to send them as a gift to a loved one. Plus, orchids traditionally symbolize love and beauty, so they're a thoughtful way to share your feelings with your love.

4. Gerberas

Gerbera daisies are some of the more colorful winter seasonal flowers, so they're a wonderful gift for dreary winter days. The beautiful blooms look great as part of a combination bouquet or with other Gerberas in different colors. Plus, they're robust flowers that can stand up to harsh winter temperatures and will last weeks in a vase with proper care.

5. Amaryllis

Sometimes receiving a potted plant can be just as exciting as getting a bouquet – especially since potted plants can last for years! Amaryllis is a flowering plant that blooms over the winter, making it popular as a festive gift. Gift an amaryllis to anyone over the holidays, and they'll love the thoughtfulness.

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You can buy cheerful birthday blooms, thoughtful Mother's Day arrangements, romantic Valentine's Day bouquets and more. We offer a large selection for sympathy and funeral, including funeral bouquets, casket sprays and sympathy floral baskets for the home. With a huge variety of everyday arrangements, bestselling plants, centerpieces for a special party, wreaths and trees for a Christmas celebration, floral baskets and gourmet food baskets - you'll be sure to find the perfect gift for anyone on your list. You can shop for arrangements by type – does your recipient love Roses, Carnations, Daisies, Tulips or Lilies? You can shop by occasion, make a beeline for Best Sellers, or use our recipient guide to help you find the perfect gift. If you need help writing cards & messages our guide can help you pen the perfect sentiment. For ideas & inspiration, visit the meaning of flowers glossary.

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Looking for the best online promotions and deals? Send a Deal of the Day bouquet and feel confident knowing a local floral designer will create an unforgettable arrangement with their own signature style and flair. Designs will vary as our artisan florists work with the freshest, in-season blooms and their own personal inspiration - but you can be sure your bouquet will delight!

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Lily Meaning, Symbolism & FTD Promo Code 2016

Liliesmost commonly mean devotion or purity, though meaning can vary by type of lily, culture, and color.

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Because of the Greek myth of Hera and Zeus, lilies are associated with rebirth and motherhood.
In China, lilies are used in weddings because they are tied to 100 years of love. They are also tied to good luck.
Assyrians and Babylonians associated lilies with the goddess of fertility, Ishtar.
Christians associated lilies, especially Madonna lilies, with the Virgin Mary.

Lily Symbolism & Colors

Lilies commonly grow in white, yellow, pink, red, and orange.

White lilies symbolize purity and virtue.
Pink (stargazer) lilies symbolize prosperity and abundance.
Red lilies symbolize passion.
Orange (tiger) lilies symbolize confidence, pride, and wealth.
Yellow lilies symbolizes thankfulness and desire for enjoyment.

Lily Cultural Significance

William Blake, an influential Romantic poet, wrote a poem entitled “The Lily” that encompasses its sweet and innocent beauty.

The modest Rose puts forth a thorn,

The humble sheet a threat’ning horn:

While the Lily white shall in love delight,

Nor a thorn nor a thread stain her beauty bright.

Lily Facts

The lily is the 30th anniversary flower, which is fitting because it means devotion.
Lily is the most popular of all flower names for girls.
They are extremely toxic to cats.
Lilies are very fragrant, and are often used in perfumes.
Lily bulbs should be planted in during the fall, as they require a cold, dormant period. They bloom during the summer.

Lily Uses

Lily roots and bulbs have been used for medicinal purposes. They were boiled into teas to treat stomach disorders, fevers, and assist women in labor. They have also been used topically to treat sores and burns.

Friday, September 16, 2016

FTD's Blog: September Birth Flower 2016

The aster is the September birth flower. Part of the daisy family, it is a composite flower, which means that it is made of a central core of tiny flowerheads surrounded by long petals. The aster is a wildflower with more than 600 species, with colors range from white to red and orange. However, the aster is known best for its striking bluish-purple color. This September flower is also one of the most colorful flowers of fall.

According to the ancient Greeks, the aster flower came to be when the Greek god, Astraea, was saddened by how few stars were in the sky. One night, she was so upset that she began to cry. As the tears streamed down her face and hit the ground, they turned into beautiful star-shaped aster flowers. In Greek, aster means “star.”

Aster Meanings and Symbolism

As the September birth flower, asters are known to symbolize wisdom, valor and faith. Different aster colors can also carry different meanings:

Purple asters symbolize wisdom and royalty. Historically within European civilizations, members of the royal family wore purple to signify their nobility. Purple asters are the most popular color.
White asters symbolize purity and innocence, as well as new beginnings.
Red and pink asters symbolize undying devotion.

September Birthstone

The sapphire is the official birthstone of September. Named for its rich blue color, sapphire means “blue” in Greek. It is a classic stone that symbolizes trust and honesty, making it one of the most popular engagement gemstones — second only to diamonds.

Blue is the classic color of the sapphire, the more rich and pure the blue color, the more valuable the gem. Few people know that there are other colors that sapphires have, including: pink, coral, yellow, orange and violet.

The most valuable sapphires come from Burma, where the gemstone is prized for its symbolism of faithfulness. According to Burmese legend, there was a monk who visited the temple of Lao-Tsun everyday, where Tsun-Kyan-Kse, a sapphire-eyed goddess presided. Every day, the monk was accompanied by his green-eyed Siamese cat, Sinh.

One day, the temple was attacked by thieves, and Sinh jumped on the monk’s chest to protect him, saving the day by scaring away the attackers. As a gift, the goddess Tsun-Kyan-Kse offered the green-eyed cat her sapphire blue eyes. To this day, blue-eyed Siamese cats still protect the temple — a phenomenon since the original eye color of this cat species is actually green.

September Zodiac Horoscope

According to the zodiac horoscope, both Virgos and Libras are born in September.

Virgos are characterized as loving, sympathetic, sensual, faithful, moody, and instinctive. Virgos born between September 1st and the 22nd will carry on the tendencies of the preceding astrological sign, the Leo. Therefore, those born on the Virgo-Leo cusp are known to be intellectual with a bright outlook on life. September Virgos require validation and recognition for their hard work and are not shy to step out and take full credit for it. Their introverted and extroverted qualities allow them to easily associate with many types of people.

Libras are characterized by as refined, social, artistic, and communicative. Libras born between September 23rd and the 30th fall on the Libra-Virgo cusp. The September Libra will exhibit the analytical qualities of the Virgo, making it difficult to form relationships with others. Additionally, the Libra is a sign of health, and Virgo is a sign of sociability so juggling between these two disciplines is a challenge.

Famous Birthdays In September

Beyonce, Grammy-award winning artist, September 4th.
Adam Sandler, famous comedian, September 9th.
Will Smith, Oscar-nominated actor, September 25th.
Malcolm Gladwell, economist and author of The Tipping Point, September 3rd.

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