Flower Meanings and Anniversary Flowers

For thousands of years meanings have been attached to flowers by many different cultures, with some of those meanings still being considered relevant today. Though the most important meaning is the thought behind each floral gift, flowers selected for their traditional symbolism and historical significance can speak to the recipient in a special way. In anniversary flowers, this tradition is taken even further by assigning particular flowers to each year of marriage. Though flower meanings vary from culture to culture and source to source, here are a few favorite flower choices for anniversaries to help you express your love throughout the years.

1st anniversary Pansies - Thought, remembrance Carnation - Joy, commitment, admiration (red), purity (white), never forget (pink)

2nd anniversary Cosmos - Modesty Lily of the Valley - Happiness, purity of heart, humility, devotion

3rd anniversary Fuschia - Taste Sunflower - Strength, warmth, nourishment. Signifies a 'Devout admirer'

4th anniversary Geranium - Comfort, gentility Hydrangea - Gratefulness, pride, appreciation

5th anniversary Daisy - Innocence, loyal love, 'I'll never tell', purity. 'You have as many virtues as this flower has petals'

6th anniversary Calla/Calla Lilies - Magnificent beauty, transition, growth

7th anniversary Freesia - Trust, fidelity, honorable love. The antidote to the proverbial thought that the seventh year brings restlessness

8th anniversary Clematis - Clever, intellectual Lilac - 'The emotions of young love'

9th anniversary Poppy - Imagination Bird of Paradise - Magnificence, splendor. 'Celebrating the unexpected side of romance'

10th anniversary Daffodil - Regard, rebirth, unrequited love, chivalry. 'You're the only one'

11th anniversary Tulip - Elegance, grace. 'The most romantic of flowers' Morning Glory - Loves you

12th anniversary Peony - Good life, happy marriage, prosperity

13th anniversary Hollyhock - Ambition, fruitfulness Chrysanthemum -Abundance, loveliness, fidelity

14th anniversary Orchid - Love, beauty, wisdom, thoughtfulness

15th anniversary Rose - Love, passion, perfection. Roses have been a symbol of love since ancient times

20th anniversary Aster - Patience, elegance. Known as the 'Talisman of Love' Day Lily - Coquetry

25th anniversary Iris - Promise, faith, hope, wisdom, valor. Also, 'My compliments' and, 'Your friendship means so much to me'

30th anniversary Lily - Devotion, pride, beauty Sweet Pea - Lasting pleasure, blissful pleasure. Also, 'Thank you for a lovely time' and, 'I think of you'

40th anniversary Nasturtium - Conquest, victory in battle Gladiolus - Sword. Also, 'You pierce my heart'

50th anniversary Yellow Roses - Inner light. 'The beauty of a long, prosperous marriage' and Violets - Modesty, faithfulness, virtue, understated beauty

All flowers express love and caring, and some have special meanings to help you convey just the right message. So, whether you choose a particular flower based on its traditional symbolism, a special memory, or just your own personal style, you're always sure to find a beautiful way to express your love with flowers.

From the Fresh Flowers Family at 1-800-Florals, third-generation family florists, with thanks to Teleflora and About.com. For additional information visit Anniversary Flowers online.