flower feature–carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus)

One of the most common flowers and one with a bad rep (old woman, old fashioned, too traditions, too common). But it really isn’t so. My cousin introduced me to her love for carnations and with her reasoning, I have grown to love using them in designs (those reasons are below).

There are some great meanings with carnations. For the most part, carnations express love, fascination, and distinction, though there are many variations dependent on color.

• Light red carnations represent admiration, while dark red denote deep love and affection.
• White carnations represent pure love and good luck, while striped (variegated) carnations symbolize regret that a love cannot be shared.
• Purple carnations indicate capriciousness. In France, it is a traditional funeral flower, given in condolence for the death of a loved one.
• Pink carnations have the most symbolic and historical significance. According to a Christian legend, carnations first appeared on Earth as Jesus carried the Cross. The Virgin Mary shed tears at Jesus' plight, and carnations sprang up from where her tears fell. Thus the pink carnation became the symbol of a mother's undying love.
• Carnation is the birth flower for those born in the month of January.

source: wikipedia.org

source: marthastewartweddings.com – bellethemagazine.com – thesaltypineapple.com – google.com

What we love about carnations:

• carnations come in any color! Not only so many naturally, but you can dye them to be any color you want! Blue anyone?
• they are hardy! This means that they can handle being handled and used in more novel designs like wreaths (bottom left), leis (upper right), pomanders (center left), crowns (upper left), and garlands (center left)
• an easy flower to come by at any time of the year
• carnations are easy on your wallet and therefore can help you stay in budget
• they can be used to add more volume in a design without costing you a lot
• carnations are a great filler flower or a main flower in designs
• such a girly soft texture
• carns have a sweet smell that brings good memories