About Carnations
Carnations are beloved for their ruffled petals, spicy fragrance, and exceptional longevity. These versatile flowers have been cultivated for over 2,000 years and are among the most popular cut flowers worldwide. Their long vase life and affordability make them practical choices for any occasion.
Available in a rainbow of colors, carnations can be found in single blooms or spray varieties with multiple smaller flowers per stem. Their meaning varies significantly by color, making them versatile messengers of emotion.
Primary Meanings
- Love: Fascination, distinction, and deep affection
- Gratitude: Appreciation and thankfulness
- Remembrance: Honoring memory and devotion
- Distinction: Admiration and respect
Carnations Colors and Their Meanings
Pink Carnations
Gratitude, mother's love, never forget you
Red Carnations
Deep love, admiration, affection
White Carnations
Pure love, innocence, good luck
Yellow Carnations
Disappointment (historically), joy (modern)
Purple Carnations
Capriciousness, unpredictability
Green Carnations
Good fortune, St. Patrick's Day
Popular Carnations Types
Large-Flowered
Single large bloom per stem
Spray Carnations
Multiple smaller blooms per stem
Dwarf Carnations
Compact plants for containers
Malmaison Carnations
Large, very fragrant varieties
Care Instructions
Water
Change water every 2 days, use flower food.
Trim
Cut stems between nodes at a 45-degree angle.
Temperature
Cool location, avoid ethylene gas sources.
Remove Leaves
Strip lower foliage below waterline.
Longevity
Can last 2-3 weeks with proper care!
Best Occasions for Carnations
- Mother's Day: Pink carnations are the official Mother's Day flower
- Anniversaries: Red carnations for enduring love
- Weddings: Affordable and long-lasting for bouquets
- Sympathy: Express remembrance and sympathy
- Teacher Appreciation: Show gratitude and respect
Interesting Carnations Facts
- Carnations are the birth flower for January
- The name comes from "coronation" for their use in Greek ceremonial crowns
- Carnations can last up to 3 weeks in a vase
- Pink carnations became associated with Mother's Day in 1907
- Carnations are edible and sometimes used to decorate cakes
- They're one of the oldest cultivated flowers, dating back 2,000 years