Article by: Kiersten Brackelman, Contributing Writer

The language of flowers, or floriography, has been present in many eras throughout history. It was most popular in Victorian England as an outward expression of emotions that were usually deemed inappropriate in public. However, the use of other flowers’ meanings to express emotions in gift-giving is now antiquated. 

Today, expressions of emotions are not viewed as unseemly as before, but it can still be fun to know the more unique meanings of flowers beyond a simple red rose, the flower that stands out amongst the rest every Valentine’s Day. Its popularity does not rest solely on the holiday, but more as a symbol of love for any special occasion, like birthdays, anniversaries, etc. While the rose is the classic icon of love and romance, it is not the only flower with special significance. Here are ten alternative flower choices for your significant other this Valentine’s Day: 

1. Aster: love, daintiness
2. Banksia/White honeysuckle: long-lasting love and endurance
3. Camellia: longing for you (pink), you’re in my heart (red), you’re adorable (white)
4. Dahlia: lasting love and steadfast devotion
5. Forget-me-not: true love memories, do not forget me
6. Gypsophila/Baby’s breath: innocence and lasting love
7. Heliotrope: eternal love, devotion, faithfulness
8. Jasmine: sweet love, amiability, grace, elegance
9. Tulip: passion, declaration of love
10. Yarrow: everlasting love

While it is important to know what flowers express positive emotions, it is equally important to know what flowers may send the wrong message. Someone who knows about the language of flowers may take offense if you gift them one of these:

1. Yellow carnation: rejection
2. Butterfly weed: let me go or leave me
3. Cyclamen: resignation, diffidence, goodbye
4. Foxglove: insecurity, secrets
5. Lavender: distrust
6. Snapdragon: deception or presumption
7. Sunflower: haughtiness, false richness
8. Tansy: hostile thoughts, declaring war
9. Thistle: unwanted intrusion and misanthropy
10. Crab apple blossom: ill nature

So this Valentine’s Day, or for any upcoming special occasion, you should try to avoid using these flowers. Or maybe you should use them. I don’t know your situation.