International Flower Delivery - Send Flowers

International Flower Delivery - Send Flowers Worldwide

Send flowers online. 120 countries available for delivery. Send flowers to someone special outside USA and Canada.

Next business day flower delivery available in most countries (Allow TWO business days for Pacific Rim area delivery).

Florist Designed Bouquet Sunny Surprise Contemporary Dish Garden One Dozen Roses
Florist Designed Bouquet (International Delivery)

Price (delivery not included): $79.90*

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Sunny Surprise (International Delivery)

Price (delivery not included): $69.90*

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Contemporary Dish Garden (International Delivery)

Price (delivery not included): $79.90*

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One Dozen Roses (International Delivery)

Price (delivery not included): $119.90*

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FTD Florist Designed Sympathy
FTD Florist Designed Sympathy (International Delivery)

Price (delivery not included): $149.90*

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Send Christmas flower cheer bouquet

FTD Holiday Cheer Bouquet by Better Homes and Gardens (USA and Canada delivery)

Christmas flower cheer bouquet Christmas flower cheer bouquet wraps all of your warmest holiday wishes together to create the perfect Christmas gift! Red carnations and white chrysanthemums arranged amongst holiday greens; 2 candy canes and berry picks in a designer ceramic vase embellished with a red and white ribbon. Same-day delivery for USA and Canada is available.

Price:$37.90
Delivery:$10.95

TOTAL:


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Flower structure

Flower structure

A flower structure is really nothing more than a shoot (stem and leaves) modified for reproduction. Flowers can arise singly or in clusters called inflorescences. A stem-like structure called a peduncle supports an inflorescence or a solitary flower. Pedicels are the structures which support individual flowers of an inflorescence. The end of the peduncle is often expanded to form a receptacle to which the actual floral parts attach. Flowers can have up to 4 whorls of flower parts. Working from the outside to the inside, the parts that make up those whorls include:

  1. Sepals - often leaflike and green, the sepals protect the flower during the bud stage. Some sepals are modified to look nearly identical to the petals, but they are always located to the outside of the actual petals. The collective whorl of sepals is referred to as a calyx.
  2. Petals - petals are found to the inside of the calyx and are often pigmented and showy in order to visually attract pollinators. Petals may be separate or fused; together, they are collectively referred to as a corolla.
  3. Stamens - stamens consist of a stalk-like filament supporting a pollen-producing anther. The collective arrangement of stamens represents the male part of the plant and is referred to as the androecium ("house of men").
  4. Carpels - carpels are the female floral parts and lie to the inside of the androecium. A carpel consists of 3 parts:
    • ovary - the broadened base of the carpel which contains the ovules;
    • style - an elongated structure extending from the top of the ovary and through which the pollen tubes will grow in order to deliver sperm to the egg;
    • stigma - the often sticky terminal end of the style which receives and adheres pollen grains. The carpels are referred to collectively as the gynoecium ("house of women").

The corolla and calyx together are known as the perianth and represent the infertile parts of the flower while the androecium and gynoecium represent the fertile (sexual) parts. A flower is considered "complete" if all 4 whorls are present and "incomplete" if 1 or more whorls are absent. "Perfect" flowers have both male and female parts present; "imperfect" flowers are either male or female.

When looking at a whole flower, if the floral parts can be arranged so that any cross section of the flower has a mirror image, it is called radially symmetric. If the flower only has only one cross section which produces a mirror image, the flower is described as having bilateral symmetry.

Flowers of Passion

Flowers of Passion - red roses

flowers of passion - red rose

On Valentines Day, if you are lucky, you may receive a bouquet of flowers. For hundreds of years flowers have held hidden meanings derived from mythology, folklore, religious and historical symbolism. Traditionally, red roses are given on Valentines Day as the red rose is the ultimate symbol of love and passion.

As Valentines Day falls in February red roses are not in season and will have to be imported from abroad. However, there are some lovely British grown alternatives which are in season, many with their own poetic symbolism.

Anemone coronaria are available in early spring and the red ones give red roses a run for their money in terms of vibrancy and colour. The meaning associated with the anemone is dying love or forsaken, which perhaps is not the message you may wish to convey, but there are also messages implied when a gift of a particular flower is given. Giving a gift of anemones means 'I trust in my love', which is much nicer!

Similarly, narcissi also available in February, can have a double meaning. Vanity is associated with the flower (oh dear) but a gift of narcissus means 'Don't forget me'. The meaning of daffodils (I know they are all narcissi but you know what I mean) is desire.

Camellia flowers are lush and blowsy with the glamour of roses and a gift of red camellias means 'you are very beautiful' (many brownie points will be earnt with this one) and a gift of pink camellias means 'I am proud of your love'.

Violets mean secret love and modesty, snowdrops mean purity and hope, heather means solid love, and hellebores mean a lively mind.

These messages of love are perhaps a bit more subtle than the red rose, the meaning of which is very clear, but maybe it is more romantic for your loved one to decipher the poetic meaning of your gift of flowers and you may just find that it was worth the effort!

Chinese New Year flowers

Chinese New Year flowers

Chinese New Year flowers

Lunar New Year is one of the traditional festivals in Hong Kong. Before this festival has come, there are many lunar New Year fair stalls for selling huge amount of various goods, novelties and food etc. The customers can buy some interesting products and meaningful flowers in the fairs.

Chinese believe that New Year flowers can bring fortune within a year. The flowers include daffodil, peach blossom, Rock's Peony and calamondin etc. Each kind of flowers contains its own special and fortune meaning. For examples, putting Peach blossom at home can bring fortune of Love; Rock’s Peony contains wealth meaning; calamondin is auspicious etc. Many people would like to buy flowers in Spring Festival especially the elders. Concerning the reasons for buying these flowers, some people want to welcome the coming Lunar New Year and orientate this Spring Festival. Also, someone may buy as an ornament putting at home. The people often put the flowers until Lantern Festivals.

From "Lunar New Year Fairs" by Annie, Shing Ka Yan

Organic Flowers

Organic Flowers

To many Americans, Mother’s Day means 3 things: brunch, a card, and flowers.

Only a few sons or daughters realize that producing those pretty flowers is very poison-intensive. But a growing number of consumers say they only want to buy flowers grown without chemical pesticides or fertilizers.

Organic flowers do not look or smell any different from non-organic ones, but they are better for the environment, and especially for the tens of thousands of workers, most of them young women, who work in floral greenhouses in Central and South America.

The organic-flower industry is still in the stage of beginning, and to grow them at a scale which is big enough to supply retailers is difficult. At the moment there are fewer than 100 such organic producers worldwide.

So, next time you buy flowers for your mother, try to get organically grown ones. In this way you support a healthier environment, healthier working conditions and fair wages paid to workers in floral greenhouses!

Flowers of Thailand

Flowers of Thailand

In former times, Thai ways of life were closely related to nature as evidenced by several Thai sayings that cited various kinds of animals and plants. Likewise, some flowers were designated as emblems of respectable national instituted because of their uniqueness which was ideal to symbolize such organizations or values. To acquaint you with these Thai flowers, we are giving you their underlying meanings as follows:

Ratchaphruek (Pudding Pipe tree or Golden Shower) has been chosen to be the national flower of Thailand because:

  1. This perennial deciduous tree grows well in all parts of the country and blooms about the same time from February to May, which symbolize the unity and harmony of the Thai people.
  2. The yellow colour of its flowers represents the Buddhist religion as well as the birthday of HM King Bhumibol which is Monday.
  3. The name has a noble meaning as ratchaphruek means a royal tree.

This tree contains medicinal properties. Its roots and core are effective in killing worms. Its leaves, flowers, and ods act as a laxative.

The wood of this tree is golden red and hard. That's why it is perfect for making pillars, cart wheel and plough handles.

Bua (lotus) This aquatic plant commonly found in shallow water in tropical and temperate Asian countries, is an emblem of Buddhism. Legend has it that the Lord Buddha was able to walk on his birth, and that when he took his first seven steps in his mortal world lotus blooms opened up from underneath to support the tender soles of his feet.

In the minds of Buddhists, the lotus stands for purity of spirit. Rooting in mud, the plant is able to rise up above the dirty water and yield a flower of such perfect beauty and purity.

The lotus produces different colour of blossoms such as pale pink, purple, yellow and white. But the most popular colour use to pay homage is white. Its rhizomes, young leaves and seeds are edible. Its matured leaves are used to wrap things and its pollen is used to enlarge the blood vessels of the heart.

Phuttharaksa (Canna) is the flower of Father's Day, which is the King's Birthday (5 December) too. Since HM King Bhumibol was born on Monday, the yellow phuttharaksa is used to represent this day.

Normally, this annual plant's flowers have several colours such as red, orange, yellow and pink. Some species have colour dots splashing over the flowers.

The rhizomes of this plant are used to treat hepatitis, dysentery and cough. Its flowers are medicinal against abscessed wounds and can staunch bleeding. Its crushed seeds are used as a compress to relieve headaches.

Mali (Jasmine), apart from being used for worshiping Buddha images in the form of a garland, this white flower of purity and sacredness has been designated to signify maternal love-hence the flower of Mother's Day which is HM Queen Sirikit's Birthday (12 August). People give artificial jasmine to their mothers on this day to show their love and respect.

Mali flowers vary in form. Some have one layer of petals while the others have multiple ones. Moreover, jasmine possesses a cooling scent which is medicinal. Its flowers act as a heart tonic and are extracted to make perfume.

Rak (Crown Flower or Giant Indian Milk weed) is popularly used to make a garland to pay respect to Buddha images or one's senior due to its white colour which stands for purity and sacredness.

This plant is a shrub with a maximum height of three metres. All parts yield milk-like resin which functions as a strong laxative but will cause skin irritation if you touch it.

Phut (Gardenia) is another kind of flowers, other than jasmine, that is often used to make a garland. This is because its young white buds, when put together, form a beautiful shape perfect for use in paying homage to Buddha images.

The Poppy is a reminiscence of war and is the flower for international war veterans including those of Thailand. Its blood-red flowers are the emblem of the Allied soldiers who fell in World War I at the battlefields of Flanders where the British forces confronted the German Army. The battle was very fierce and the number of dead bodies was enormous. Later, at the graveyard of all servicemen, Field Marshal Earl Haig of the British forces was astonished to witness a gorgeous carpet of wild red poppies in full bloom. Since then, the flower has become a token of war veterans.

Khem (Ixora) On "Paying Homage to Teachers Day", Thai students will take Khem flowers together with flowers of egg plants and Bermuda grass leaves to show respect to their teachers.

Khem is a shrub, some varieties of which can grow to a height of five metres. The colours of Khem are such as white, red, yellow and pink. Their roots are medicinal for boosting appetite. But the roots of wild ixora (l.cibdela Craib) are used to kill worms. Low species are boundaries of one's house.

By Miranti
http://www.kpsw.ac.th/

Wedding flower check list

Wedding flower check list

With all the flowers you have to purchase, you don't want to forget any... Here's a helpful checklist:

Bride's Party

  • Bridal Bouquet
  • Tossing Bouquet
  • Bride's Head piece
  • Maid of Honor Bouquet
  • Bride's Maid's Bouquets
  • Flower Girl Halo or Basket
  • Mother's Corsage
  • Father's Boutonniere
  • Grandparent's flowers

Groom's Party

  • Groom's Boutonniere
  • Best Man's Boutonniere
  • Groomsmen Boutonnieres
  • Usher's Boutonnieres
  • Ring Bearer's flowers
  • Mother's Corsage
  • Father's Boutonniere
  • Grandparent's flowers

Ceremony Flowers

  • Alter Flowers
  • Pew Flowers and Ribbons
  • Candelabras
  • Arch Flowers
  • Rose Petals for Runner

Reception Flowers

  • Centerpieces for Tables
  • Head Table Centerpiece
  • Cake Flowers, Cake Table Flowers
  • Buffet Table Flowers
  • Guest Book and Gift Table Arrangements

How to Choose a Flower Delivery Company

How to Choose a Flower Delivery Company

There are so many companies out their in the yellow pages and online that deliver flowers that sometimes, it can be hard to choose one over the other. How can you know whether a flower delivery company is reputable? After all, if you're going to put forth the effort to give someone you care about a gift to express yourself with, you want to make sure the arrangement is memorable and high-quality. Not all flower delivery companies are equal, and choosing the right provider can be the difference between tears of gratitude from the recipient and total disaster.

Here we've listed some of the things to look for in a flower delivery company so that you can be sure to give the perfect gift:

Punctuality. Some flower companies can take days, if not longer, to process your order and send your gift. The best companies will be punctual in their delivery.

Dependability. When you order a certain type of bouquet or flower, you should be guaranteed that what you asked for is what you're going to get. Yet some flower companies have been known to mix up their orders and send the wrong thing. Your flower delivery company should be dependable.

Freshness. No matter how beautiful a species of flower may be, this means nothing if the flower is not fresh. A good flower delivery company will ensure that they're flowers will be sent to you fresh and vibrant.

Variety. Sure, the common bouquet of red roses is popular, but with the thousands of different varieties of thousands of different blossoms and greenery, there's no excuse for a flower delivery company not to offer a huge selection of styles to accommodate for individual tastes.

Information. Most customers are not flower connoisseurs, making it difficult for many buyers to choose just the right kind of flower. A good flower delivery company will offer guides and information, such as flower care, the meanings of different flowers and their colors, and more relevant information.

Florists. A good flower delivery company will have a network of professional florists that can guarantee the flowers being sent to you are high-quality. They will design each flower bouquet for you so that it is artistic and memorable.

Customer Service. All flower delivery companies will have customer service available so that you can get the help you need when you need it. The customer service section of their website will offer you tons of information about the company, and the number you can call will connect you to professionals that can answer all your questions.

Why Flowers on Valentine's Day?

Why Flowers on Valentine's Day?

With so many holidays, each packed with a plethora of traditions, one sometimes has to wonder where all these traditions come from. For example, why are flowers the ultimate gift to give your sweetheart on Valentine's Day?

Flowers have been love tokens ever since ancient Rome. Bacchus, the God of joy and wine, and Venus, the Goddess of beauty and love, were both associated with flowers and their tie to romance. Even in the days of Solomon, rose was the primary flower linked with love.

Perhaps the popularity of rose as a love-flower came from a Roman myth of Cupid. According to the myth, Cupid was carrying sweet nectar in a vase when he spilled it on the ground, and roses grew from the spot of spilled nectar. Because Cupid was a God so heavily involved in love, it's no wonder that roses would also become connected to love.

Roses aren't the only flower linked to romance. The daisy, for example, is also a popular gift, and today it serves as a fortune teller: by picking off individual petals and saying, "He loves me, he loves me not," one can supposedly predict another's feelings. Incidentally, the daisy also originates in Roman mythology. According to the Romans, the daisy was a wood nymph until Vertumnus, the God of the Spring, saw her dancing and fell in love with her. When he went after her she grew frightened and cried out for the Gods to help her, so they saved her by turning her into a daisy.

Violets have a myth of their own as well. Venus supposedly saw a group of lovely women and asked her son, Cupid, if she was more lovely than they were. When Cupid refused to respond, she grew angry and beat the women until they turned blue and became violets.

Nowadays, these stories and legends have given each flower it's own individual meaning, making it easy to express one's emotions by sending just the right mix of different kinds of blossoms. While the rose is a symbol for love, different colors of the rose means different things: red is for passionate love, while yellow is for friendship. White lilies symbolize purity, periwinkle signifies early friendship, and forget-me-nots and tulips are symbols of true love.

Flowers have never been just pretty things to look at. They are packed with meanings and expressions of love, friendship, gratitude, or whatever the case may be. Giving flowers has always been the ultimate way to make a woman swoon. Now we know why to give flowers to loved ones on Valentine's day, but there's one thing we don't know: why not?

Most purchased/gifted flower arrangements for Valentine's Day

It's Valentine's Day and you're thinking of what to get you sweetheart, when suddenly "flowers!" pops into your head. Flowers are the most popular gift for lovers on Valentine's Day. In fact, giving flowers on this special holiday is a tradition from the 1700´s, when the Swede Charles II introduced the flower language to the Persians. But there are so many flowers to choose from… what kind of colorful bouquet should you get your sweetheart this year? Below is a list of the top five flowers that lovers send on Valentine's Day:

Roses. Easily the most popular flower for Valentine's Day is the rose – and it's no wonder! The tradition of giving roses to the one you love is so deeply rooted in Western culture that hardly any woman can smell an aromatic bouquet of roses without smiling and sighing with pleasure. They might seem cliché, but you don't have to stick to the common red-rose routine: there are over 150 kinds of rose to choose from!

Carnations. These darling flowers have a ruffled look, almost like Valentine lace, making them seem feminine and romantic – a perfect gift for any woman. Carnations are also popular because they're sold at discount prices (they're cheaper than roses). Much like the rose, carnations come in a wide variety of colors, allowing for some creativity in your traditional gift.

Lilies. These romantic flowers are elegant and classy, making your gift chic and luxuriant. Because they're not as common as the rose, but still just as romantic, this is a popular way to make your Valentine's gift unique and precious. Lilies come in a variety of colors, such as pink, white, orange, and red.

Alstoemeria. Your darling might not be able to say the name three times fast, but she can definitely appreciate the beauty of these delicate flowers. Alstroemeria is similar to the lily and is often called the "Peruvian Lily." Unlike the lily, however, the alstromeria is often spotted or variegated, guaranteeing that you gift will pack an extra punch of originality.

Tulips. Simple, elegant, romantic… what woman doesn't love tulips? There are more varieties of tulip than just about any other flower. You can give a bouquet of red, pink, and white flowers – a popular choice this time of year – or you can spice things up by mixing and matching any color you can imagine. With the tulip, you'll never be hard-pressed for ideas.

Why Buy Flowers?

Why Buy Flowers?

Flowers has always been a traditional way to express feelings of love, friendship, gratitude, and a myriad of other things to people you care about. Few other gifts bring as much joy and pleasure as a gorgeous, colorful display of flowers. The only question to ask yourself is, for what occasions can you buy flowers? This is an easy question to answer… there are more reasons to buy a bouquet of flowers than you might think.

Anniversary. This is a good gift not only for your own spouse, but for other couples who's marriage is important to you. It's especially meaningful to give flowers to your parents to tell them you appreciate the strength of their relationship.

Birthday. Can't think of a good gift to give a friend for their birthday? A bouquet of flowers is always a good way to go.

Congratulations. Whether someone you care about is graduating, got a new job, got promoted, bought a new house, or whatever the case may be, it's always special that you care enough about their accomplishment to send them flowers.

Corporate Gifts. Sometimes it's easy to get lost in the business side of things. Flowers always adds a personal touch.

Get Well. When sick, a colorful scented bouquet can brighten anyone's spirits.

I'm Sorry. Although saying you're sorry is always nice, it means so much more when you put forth the effort to emphasize your apology by sending flowers.

Just Because. Sometimes you just want to be sweet. You don't always have to have an occasion – but you can always have a wonderful gift idea: flowers are special no matter why they're sent.

Love and Romance. Valentine's day, proposals, or just because you're in love… flowers can express the feelings that words sometimes can't.

New Baby. Everyone buys gifts for the new baby, which is always appreciated, but few people think to buy something for the new mom and dad. flowers are a good gift that the parents can enjoy.

Sympathy and Funeral. When a person loses a loved one, it can be hard to know how to comfort them. Flowers are always appreciated.

Thank You. Sometimes a simple "thank you" isn't enough. Sending a bouquet of flowers always packs an extra punch that your recipient will be grateful for.

Thinking of You. When you want to do a little extra something for someone you're thinking about – whether you haven't seen them in a while, or you just think they'd like a hello – flowers can touch their hearts and make them smile.

There's no end to the reasons to buy flowers for people you know, and when using a flower delivery, giving just the right gift can be easier than ever.

10 tips for buying flowers online

10 tips for buying flowers online

Flowers have always been the most popular way to show someone you care. They can bring a smile to a person's face, whether they're to say "I love you" or to say "I'm sorry," whether they're to celebrate a birthday or sympathize for a funeral. Now the internet had made buying flower arrangements easier, especially if you follow these ten tips:

  1. Find out what flowers are in season or in your region. You can find cheap flower delivery when the flowers are in season because they don't need to be shipped from far away;
  2. Match the flowers to the person. If you are buying the flowers as a gift for someone, you can be sure they will like them if you try to match the style of the flower to the personality of the recipient. Your flowers could also be a guaranteed win if you match the style of the bouquet to the style of the person's home. This will also make the present more personalized;
  3. Find the meaning of the flower. Most flowers have a special significance, which can go a long way to making the present more meaningful to the person receiving it;
  4. Decide in advance when you want the flowers to be delivered. Sometimes your order will take several days to process, and if your flowers need to be shipped from out of state, they may take some time to deliver. Find out how long your gift will take to get to the recipient so that you can order accordingly;
  5. Use the category listings on the website. You might have a specific idea of what kind of flower delivery you're wanting, but if you don't, most websites have all of their flowers listed according to different occasions. Professional florists organize these lists, guaranteeing that you will find cheap flower delivery appropriate for your needs;
  6. Find out how the company sends the flowers. Local florists typically deliver the flowers in a vase or a container so that they are ready to be displayed, while a grower or a distribution center usually delivers the flowers in a box and they have to be arranged;
  7. Consider buying eco-friendly flowers, buying such flowers will support better farming practices;
  8. Make sure Customer Service is available. Customer Service can answer any questions you might have, as well as include any information you'll need before purchasing your flowers;
  9. Compare prices. Before making your purchase, see if there's any added service charges, what the shipping and delivery price is, and whether a vase is included. This will give you a much better idea of whether or not your flowers are a good price;
  10. Read the terms. It's always a good idea to read the company's replacement or refund policy and their freshness guarantee.

Ophelia's Flowers - meanings and symbolism

Ophelia's Flowers - meanings and symbolism

(IV.v.173-183; V.vii.167-171)

Explain the symbolism and meanings of Ophelia's flowers.

The meanings of Ophelia's flowers are more suggested than defined. It is important to remember that each flower has many different meanings and one must consider the meaning that best fits the context of the play. However, the flowers scene is not just a nice, pretty scene in Hamlet; it and the flowers themselves hold deeper meanings.

  1. Are Ophelia's flowers real?
    • Argument exists that Ophelia creates flowers in her imagination and pretends to pass them out.
    • Personal interpretation: flowers are real.
      • Laertes's reaction proves it.
  2. Ophelia's madness in connection with her flowers.
    • "[. . .] her madness reveals the silent woman who is suffering acutely from her passive acceptance of things" (Charney 250).
    • In her insanity, we see an inner sexuality come out in Ophelia.
      • "In her madness Ophelia suddenly comes alive as a character and forces us to reckon with her innuendoes" (Charney 249).
    • Ophelia is very suggestive in the flower scene. This parallels Hamlet's suggestive lines from earlier on in the play: "Lady, shall I lay in your lap?" (III.ii.110-111).
    • Conscious vs. unconscious.
  3. The flowers themselves
    • Flowers generally symbolize people's regard for each other (Costello 61).
    • One must consider that the loss of her father and the loss of her love through rejection have become confused issues within Ophelia's mind because she is mad.
    • Recipients of flowers.
      • Rosemary given to Laertes with meaning of remembrance: "There's rosemary, that's for remembrance—pray you love remember" (IV.v.173-174).
      • Pansies given to Laertes for thoughts; refers back to his earlier thoughts on Hamlet's love for Ophelia: "And there is pansies, that's fro thoughts" (IV.v.174-175).
      • Fennel given to either Gertrude (frailty of women) or Claudius (politician); recipient is disputed. Emblematic of flattery and deceit: "There's fennel for you . . ." (IV.v.179).
      • Columbine also given to either Gertrude or Claudius (recipient disputed). Symbol of ingratitude, of "forsaken lovers," and of cuckoldry (Kerr 49).
      • Rue relates to sorrow or repentance. Recipient depends upon who received both the fennel and the columbine. I believe Gertrude receives the rue and, therefore, that Claudius receives the others. Ophelia also gives herself rue: "There's rue for you. And here's some for me" (IV.v.178-179).
      • Daisy given to Gertrude. Represents innocence.
      • Violet is given to no one. Symbolize faithfulness and connected to death: "[. . .] I would give you some violets, but they withered all when my father died" (IV.v.181-183).
  4. Garland of flowers and Ophelia's death
    • Garland made of crow flowers, nettles, daisies, and long purples (wild orchids)
      • Crow flowers=buttercups=ingratitude
      • Flowering nettles=sharp and stinging
      • Daisies=Ophelia's innocence/virginity
      • Long purples (orchids)=sexual love/testicles
    • Will tree "aslant in the brook" (IV.vii.165).
      • Drooping branches create imagery of tears, sadness, or depression.
      • Site of Ophelia's death
      • "Traditionally a sad tree, whereof such who have lost their love make their mourning garlands, which they then wear or hand up like a trophy" (Jenkins 544).

Flowers and indoor plants

Flowers and indoor plants

African Violet – (Saintpaulia ionantha) (Gesneriaceae) Fuzzy leaves, thick and fleshy, oval to heart shaped with smooth or ruffled edges; flowers in clusters with 5 or more petals, different shades/combinations of white, blue, and red.

Ageratum – (Ageratum houstonianum) (Asteraceae) Tassle flower, white, pink, purple flowers; alternate leaves, ovate (egg shape) to triangular, shaggy with hairs on both sides.

Amaryllis – (Hippeastrum hybrids) (Amaryllidaceae) Trumpet flowers; long, wide fleshy leaves; large scaly bulbs.

Bachelor Buttons – (Centaurea cyanus) (Asteraceae) Alternate leaves, lower leaves entire with few teeth, petioled; upper leaves entire with gray pubescence. Flowers: usually blue…..sometimes purple, white, rose, red, deep wine.

Begonia – (Begonia sp.) (Begoniaceae) Erect or trailing, sometimes climbing. Usually succulent in texture. Leaves are simple, alternate, highly variable in size and shape, characteristically asymmetrical with or without hairs.

Canna – (Canna x generalis) (Cannaceae) Plume-like flowers; large, simple leaves often variegated are alternate to spirally arranged with entire margins; fruit is a rough, three-valved capsule.

Celosia – (Celosia sp.) (Amaranthaceae) Plume flowers or flattened crest (cockscomb), color varies from red to yellow; leaves alternate, fleshy stems with color like the flower.

Chrysanthemum – (Chrysanthemum x morifolium)(Asteraceae) Leaves: simple, alternate, lobed, entire to coarsely toothed, often thick and pubescent with strong fragrance. Flowers: heads of various sizes and shapes, clustered with disk and ray florets; many shades of white, yellow, pink, bronze, and red purple.

Coleus – (Solenostemon scutellarioides) (Lamiaceae) Freely-branching, densely-foliated plant. Leaves of color, simple, opposite with margins which may be crenate, serrate, undulate, lobed, etc.; always have square stems which become woody with age; mint family. May have small bluish flowers on spikes.

Columbine – (Aqualegia x hybrida) (Rannuculaceae) Leaves dissected by 3; claw-like flowers in a variety of color combinations.

Cosmos – (Cosmos bipinnatus, c.sulphureus) (Asteraceae) Flower heads 2-3” across, rays 3-toothed at apex, ray flowers pale gold or golden-yellow, disc flowers yellow.

Crocus - (Crocus) (Iridaceae) Leaves: almost grass-like, dark green, curved, and often with a silver-white stripe down center of each leaf; leaves generally shorter than flowers. Flowers: color varies from white to purple; close at night and remain closed on cloudy days; star-like when open in sunlight. Very small, rather flat bulb.

Cyclamen – (Cyclamen persicum) (Primulaceae) Heart-shaped, serrated leaves with most of leaves veined in silver. Dainty flowers above foliage, no fragrance, nodding. Petals turn back as though flower is inside out.

Daffodil – (Narcissus sp.) (Amaryllidaceae) For trumpet daffodils, leaves are basal, straplike, glaucous green. Flowers usually yellow, but can be white or combination. Bulb: large, scale-like covering; new bulblets form at base of bulbs.

Dahlia – (Dahlia hybrids) (Asteraceae) Leaves: opposite or whorled, simple to pinnately dissected or bipinnate, serrated margins, rounded tips. Flowers: heads horizontal or sometimes nodding, 2-3” across but much larger in double forms; heads in 2’s or 3’s, but only 2-8 on a stem. Flower color varies with cultivar.

Daylily – (Hemerocallis sp.) (Liliaceae) A clumping perennial herb, spreading by fleshy rootstocks which may be evergreen or deciduous. Leaves: more or less linear, wider at the base and tapering gradually to the tip; V-shaped with crease. Flowers: 6-petaled, funnelform to campanulate, born in clusters; various colors.

Dianthus – (Dianthus sp.) (Caryophyllaceae) Evergreen foliage forms a mat-like growth. Gray leaves are 1-4” long, narrow, linear acute and rigid, creating a prominent midrib; margins are finely minutely serrated. Flowers are fringed, single, to semi-double, 1 ½” across, and fragrant in colors of rose, pink, white, or bicolored with a darker center.

Dracena – (Dracena sp.) (Agavaceae) Evergreen houseplant with corn stalk looking stem. Tough, sword-shaped leaves which are narrow to 4” wide, some with white, yellow, or red stripes along margins.

Dumbcane/Diffenbachia – (Diffenbachia sp.) (Araceae) Herbaceous evergreen perennial with thick stems. Large leaves are alternate, usually with white markings or patterns which have a very striking appearance. Petioles are long and cover the stem. Flowers are in spadices with thick spathes.

Ficus – (Ficus sp.) (Moraceae) Evergreen houseplants from trailing, creeping varieties to tree types. Leaves can be thin heart shaped, leathery pointed, waxy, or shiny, solid light or dark green or variegated. Creeping fig, rubber plants, and benjaminas are some of the more common ones.

Geranium – (Pelagonium x hortorum) (Geraniaceae) Leaves are orbicular, undulate and coarsely crenate with a spicy scent. Flowers are in rounded umbels four to six inches across. Individual flowers are five-petaled in reds, pink, white, and salmons.

Gladiolus – (Gladiolus x hortulanus) (Iridaceae) This perennial herb grows from a corm and has erect, unbranched flower stalks. Simple leaves are linear, sword-shaped or cylindrical. They are often rigid with a somewhat papery texture and have prominent parallel veins. Flowers are large (up to 4” across), 6-petaled, (2 rows of 3 petals). Upper three segments are larger than the lower three. Flowers range in color from yellow, white, orange, red, lavender-purple to brown. Fruit is a three-valved, large, flattened or winged capsule.

Gloxinia – (Sinningia speciosa) (Generiaceae) Tuberous plants with oblong-ovate dentate leaves, 6-8” long. Flowers are solitary or few clusters, bell-shaped to 3” long, usually violet or purple, but may be reddish or white spotted.

Hosta – (Hosta sp,) (Liliaceae) Basal leaves, long-petioled, to 10” long, 4-6” wide with 7-9 veins on each side of the midrib, yellow-green glossy. Flowers: white, fragrant, trumpet-shaped flowers, 4” long and borne on 1 ½ - 2 ½’ scapes.

Hyacinth – (Hyacinthus orientalis) Liliaceae) Leaves: 3-4 basal leaves, thick and many parallel veins. Flowers: Various colors. Individual flowers are about 1” long, the 6 perianth segments are wide spreading and reflexed; extremely fragrant; 15-30 flowers per inflorescence.

Impatiens – (Impatiens sp.) (Balsaminaceae) An erect, spreading, succulent annual which is very brittle. Simple leaves are glabrous, alternate, sometimes opposite with serrate margins, green or reddish-green. Flowers are soliary and borne on axillary or terminal racemes; many forms, doubled, semi-doubled, etc. Flowers have a spur which contains nectar; come in purples, variegated whites, yellows, reds, and oranges.

Iris – (Iris sp.) Leaves: Sword-shaped, from ¾” to 3” wide, up to 30” tall, stiff and pointed. Flowers: One or more per stem, perianth divided into 6 segments, the outer 3 (falls) drooping and broad with a beard down center, inner 2 segments (standards) usually erect and arching. Numerous colors and vary with cultivar.

Jade – (Crassula ovata) (Crassulaceae) Small shrub with thick, succulent trunk and branches, resembling a small tree. They are very thick, succulent and often have red edges.

Lily (Easter, Asiatic, Oriental) - (Lilium sp.) (Liliaceae) Many leaves, crowded, narrow. Flowers few to many, nodding, open, and spreading, with colors of white, orange, scarlet, rose, pink, or yellow.

Marigold – (Tagetes erecta, T. patula) (Asteraceae) Densely-foliated, freely-branching, erect, herbaceous annual, with odd-pinnately compound leaves, which are opposite with serrate margins. They have glandular dots on the undersides, and are strongly aromatic. Flowers are dense heads, few to may ray florets, in yellows, oranges, reddish-browns, or multi-colored.

Nasturtium – (Tropaeolum majus.)(Tropaeolaceae) Showy flowers of yellows, oranges, and reds, with 5 petals, or sometimes 8; leaves are rounded, shield-shaped or peltate with petiole center.

Neantha Bella Palm – Chamaedorea elegans) (Arecaceae) A small, fine-textured, single trunked palm usually 4 ‘ high. Leaves are pinnately compound; leaflets are lanceolate, with short, unarmed petioles. Fruits are black and globose, maturing throughout the year.

Pansy – (Viola x wittrockiana) (Violaceae) Grows to 8”; leaves: dark green, oval drooping, with wavy edges; flowers: delicately fragrant 2-3” flowers of five overlapping petals looking like gigantic violets, except that colors are purple, white, blue, dark red, rose or yellow combined with almost endless combinations of stripes and blotches.

Peony – (Paeonia hybrids) (Paeoniaceae) Herbaceous or tree form plants; flowers are single or double blossoms that are white, rose, light pink, or deep red. Plants are like rounded bushes. Leaves are very large, but compound, with smaller leaflets. They are alternately arranged on the stems, and divided into oval to lance-shaped linear leaflets. Buds are large, round and heavy, and are covered by sweet droplets of nectar that attracts ants.

Peperomia - (Peperomia sp.) (Piperaceae) Herbaceous houseplant with a clumping growth habit. Succulent leaves are quite variable in size, shape, and color. Leaves are frequently shiny and ovate. Flower spike are small inconspicuous.

Petunia - (Petunia x hybrida) (Solanaceae) Densely-foliated, trailing, low-growing herbaceous annual. Simple leaves are alternate with upper leaves sometimes opposite; margins are entire, and shape varies; texture is soft and pubescent and feels sticky. Flowers are axillary and solitary to 5” across, funnel-form and are often deeply fringed. Many colors.

Philododendron – (Philodendron sp.) (Araceae) Leaves: medium size, glossy alternate, and heart-shaped. Philodendrons include vines as well as large upright plants.

Rose – (Rose sp.) (Rosaceae) Roses grow on upright bushes or vines. Flowers have many petals or as few as five; fragrant; various colors. Leaves are compound, with 3-7 ovate leaflets. Leaves and branches are always more or less thorny.

Salvia - (Salvia sp.) (Lamiaceae) Herbaceous annual, usually square stems. Simple leaves are opposite, oval or lanceolate. Margins are toothed or segmented. Flowers are borne in clusters, growing from the axils of small bracts which vary in color from scarlet, purple, blue to white, red, and pale yellow.

Schefflera – (Schefflera sp.) (Araliaceae) Upright evergreen tree, often with multiple trunks. It is low-branching with palmately compound spirally arranged leaves of 7-15 oblong leaflets. Leaflets radiate from the apex of an elongated petiole. Leaves are entire or sparsely dentate on the juvenile plant and are glossy green. Long petioles. (Think of chef riding a bicycle).

Snakeplant/Sansevieria – (Sansevieria trifasciata, S. sp.) (Agavaceae) Snakeplants have very distinctive thick, erect, leathery leaves without a visible stem. Leaves are either green or green with creamed colored margins.

Snapdragon – (Antirrhinum majus) (Scrophulariaceae) Leaves: simple. narrow and alternate, with entire margins. Stems: usually covered with short, sticky hairs. Flowers: grow on spikes, have a deep throat and ruffled petals; some have open blossoms and others have closed flowers.

Sweet Alyssum – (Lobularia maritime) (Brassicaceae) Flowers: White or sometimes light pink or leavender, tiny, numerous and fragrant; in loose domes at ends of stems. Leaves: Narrow, linear, unlobed. Grows 1- 10 inches tall, entire plant a cushiony mass.

Tulip – (Tulipa sp.) (Asteraceae) Flowers usually have a deep cup-shape, but may have ruffled double, or “lily-flowered”. Come in many colors. Leaves are broad and often have wavy edges.

Zinnia – (Zinnia sp.) (Asteraceae) An erect, stiff-stemmed herbaceous annual. Simple leaves are oppositely arranged with entire margins, usually clasping the stem (no petiole). They are lanceolate, ovate, or oblong in shape, dark green, pubescent with prominent veins; feel sandpapery. Flowers are solitary heads, borne terminally. Disc and ray florets are often elongated, twisted and tubular. They come in every color but blue, some are multi-colored.

Care and handling of fresh flowers

Care and handling of fresh flowers

Temperatures/facts to know:

  • Water temperature for fresh flowers: 100 – 110 degrees F.
  • Floral preservatives increase vase life: up to 200%
  • Water should have a TDS rating of less than 200 ppm (parts per million). TDS = Total dissolved Solids
  • Containers with bud opening solutions: keep in warm locations - 68 degrees F.
  • Flowers removed from hydrating solution & in a preservative solution: store in cooler at 34 degrees F. – humidity, minimum of 80%.
  • Display unit temperatures: 34-36 degrees F. – humidity, 90-95%
  • Average daily temperature of floral cooler: 38 degrees F. – no more than 5 degrees plus or minus. IDEAL TEMPERATURE: 34-36 degrees F.
  • Exotic flowers: temperatures below 45-50 degrees F. will cause damage
  • Ideal pH of water for fresh flowers and greens: between 3.5 - 4.5 measured after the addition of a preservative
  • Containers for cut flowers and greens: should be plastic NOT metal - metal reacts with the elements in the water supply, rust, and may react with preservatives
  • To clean floral containers use: bleach, hot water and a detergent
  • To kill bacteria in containers: 1 ounce of bleach to 5 gallons of water will kill most bacteria in 5-10 minutes
  • Gases in water: nitrogen and oxygen – the temperature of the water has a direct influence on the amount of gas in the water.
  • Air bubbles: water gases contribute to the formation of air bubbles and can cause blockage & slow water uptake in stems
  • Reverse osmosis: involves a system of filters which remove ions and microorganisms from water – water is then sterile
  • Deionization: water is pure – better than reverse osmosis - water passes through tanks containing chemicals that remove impurities- produces the purest water
  • Soft water: sodium ions in softened water are generally worse for flowers than hard water
  • Fluorescent lights: best for inside a cooler due to giving off very little heat.
  • Cut flowers stored for four days or more: should have their stems re-cut
  • Fruits, vegetables and non-floral items: should not be stored with flowers Reason: they could produce ethylene damage
  • Do not let cut materials remain in the sun!
  • Before using in a design: refrigerate in cooler for six hours to overnight

Preparing flowers:

  1. Remove damaged foliage & foliage that will be below the water line.
  2. Gently strip off lower foliage. (Removing thorns on roses may shorten its life.)
  3. Re-cut the stems using a very sharp knife or scissors – make a diagonal cut.
  4. Re-cut stems underwater – less chance of air getting into stem & blocking water uptake.
  5. Move flowers to a container filled with preservative solution.

Consumer care education:

Care tags attached to every floral product sold are an excellent means of communicating consumer care information.

  1. Include a packet of floral preservative.
  2. Advise customers on the selection of a container for loose cut flowers and greens.
  3. Remind customers to remove the water tubes if the flowers are packaged in them.
  4. Advise purchasers of loose stem flowers to re-cut about one inch off the stems underwater and remove any foliage that will be below the water.
  5. Recommend using warm (100 degrees F.) water to mix the preservative.
  6. Tell customers NOT to place the flowers in direct sunlight, a draft, or any other sources of heat or cold. (Radiators, air conditioners)
  7. For arrangements, advise customers to pick off dying blooms and foliage.
  8. For loose stems of flowers, advise them to remove any dying material.
  9. Advise them to recut flowers UNDERWATER every 4-5 days, change preservative, clean the container.
  10. Advise them not to display flowers near fruits or vegetables or put in the refrigerator due to the ethylene gas they produce.
  11. Tell customers to move the flowers to a cool location at night.
  12. Thoroughly clean vases used for flowers and greens before the next use.

Flowers Symbolism /Meaning Of Flowers/

Flowers Symbolism /Meaning Of Flowers/

Many flowers have important symbolic meanings. The flower symbolism for many flowers has been obscured by time and may remain only as a few key phrases or words. Flowers have been given as gifts for special occasions and to celebrate holidays throughout history. The practice of assigning meanings to flowers is known as floriography. Some of the more common examples include:

FlowerMeaning Of Flower
ACACIAConcealed Love, Beauty in Retirement, Chaste Love
AMBROSIAYour Love is Reciprocated
AMARYLLISPride, Pastoral Poetry
ANEMONEForsaken
ARBUTUSThee Only Do I Love
ASTERSymbol of Love, Daintiness
AZALEATake Care of Yourself for Me, Temperance, Fragile Passion, Chinese Symbol of Womanhood
BACHELOR BUTTONSingle Blessedness
BAMBOOLongevity, Strength and Grace.
BEGONIABeware
BELLS OF IRELANDGood Luck
BITTERSWEETTruth
BLUEBELLHumility
CACTUSEndurance
CAMELLIA (PINK)Longing for you
CAMELLIA (RED)You're a Flame in My Heart
CAMELLIA (WHITE)You're Adorable
CARNATION (GENERAL)Fascination, Woman Love, A Symbol of Betrothal or Engagement.
CARNATION (PINK)I'll Never Forget You
CARNATION (RED)My Heart Aches For You, Admiration
CARNATION (PURPLE)Capriciousness
CARNATION (SOLID COLOR)Yes
CARNATION (STRIPED)No, Refusal, Sorry I Can't Be With You, Wish I Could Be With You
CARNATION (WHITE)Sweet and Lovely, Innocence, Pure Love, Woman's Good Luck Gift
CARNATION (YELLOW)You Have Disappointed Me, Rejection
CATTAILPeace, Prosperity
CHRYSANTHEMUM (GENERAL)You're a Wonderful Friend, Cheerfulness and Rest, The National Symbol of Japan
CHRYSANTHEMUM (WHITE)Truth
CHRYSANTHEMUM (YELLOW)Slighted Love
CLOVERSFour-leafed clovers represent Luck.
CROCUSCheerfulness
CYCLAMENResignation and Good-bye
DAFFODILRegard, Unrequited Love, You're the Only One, The Sun is Always Shining when I'm with You
DAISYInnocence, Loyal Love, I'll Never Tell, Purity
DANDELIONFaithfulness, Happiness
FERNMagic, Fascination, Confidence and Shelter
FIRTime
FLAXDomestic Symbol
FORGET-ME-NOTTrue Love, Memories
FORSYTHIAAnticipation
GARDENIAYou're Lovely, Secret Love
GERANIUMStupidity, Folly
GLADIOLIGive Me a Break, I'm Really Sincere, Flower of the Gladiators
GLOXINIALove at First Sight
HEATHER (LAVENDER)Admiration, Solitude
HEATHER (WHITE)Protection, Wishes Will Come True
HOLLYDefense, Domestic Happiness
HONEYSUCKLESymbol of Love and Generosity.
HYACINTH (GENERAL)Games and Sports, Rashness, Flower Dedicated to Apollo
HYACINTH (BLUE)Constancy
HYACINTH (PURPLE)I am Sorry, Please Forgive Me, Sorrow
HYACINTH (RED OR PINK)Play
HYACINTH (WHITE)Loveliness, I'll Pray for You
HYACINTH (YELLOW)Jealousy
HYDRANGEAThank You for Understanding, Frigidity, Heartlessness
IRISFleur-de-lis, Emblem of France, Your Friendship Means so Much to Me, Faith, Hope, Wisdom and Valor, My Compliments
IVYWedded Love, Fidelity, Friendship, Affection
JASMINE (WHITE)White Flower is a Hindu Symbol for Love.
JONQUILLove Me, Affection Returned, Desire, Sympathy, Desire for Affection Returned
JUNIPERSymbolizes Chastity, Christ, and Eternity.
LARKSPUR (PINK)Fickleness
LILY (GENERAL)Purity, Chastity, and Innocence
LILY (WHITE)Virginity, Purity, Majesty, It's Heavenly to be with You
LILY (YELLOW)I'm Walking on Air, False and Gay
LILY (CALLA)Beauty
LILY (DAY)Coquetry, Chinese Emblem for Mother
LILY (EUCHARIS)Maiden Charms
LILY (TIGER)Wealth, Pride
LILY OF THE VALLEYSweetness, Tears of the Virgin Mary, Return to Happiness, Humility, You've Made My Life Complete
LOTUSThe flower symbolizes Birth and Rebirth; symbol for Fertility, Creation, and Purity.
MAGNOLIANobility
MARIGOLDCruelty, Grief, Jealousy
MISTLETOEKiss me, Affection, To Surmount Difficulties, Sacred Plant of India, Standing under the mistletoe at Christmas gives anyone the opportunity to kiss you.
MONKSHOODBeware, A Deadly Foe is Near
MOSSMaternal Love, Charity
MYRTLELove, Hebrew Emblem of Marriage
NARCISSUSEgotism, Formality, Stay as Sweet as You Are
NASTURTIUMConquest, Victory in Battle
OLEANDERCaution
ORANGE BLOSSOMInnocence, Eternal Love, Marriage and Fruitfulness
ORANGE MOCKDeceit
ORCHIDLove, Beauty, Refinement, Beautiful Lady, Chinese Symbol for Many Children, Symbolizes Perfection
ORCHID (CATTLEYA)Mature Charm
PALM LEAVESVictory and Success
PEONYShame, Happy Life, Happy Marriage
PETUNIAResentment, Anger, Your Presence Sooths Me
PINEHope, Pity
POPPY (GENERAL)Eternal Sleep, Oblivion, Imagination, Symbol of Consolation in Time of Death.
POPPY (RED)Pleasure
POPPY (WHITE)Consolation
POPPY (YELLOW)Wealth, Success
PRIMROSEI Can't Live Without You
PRIMROSE (EVENING)Inconstancy
ROSE (BRIDAL)Happy Love
ROSE (DARK CRIMSON)Mourning
ROSE (HIBISCUS)Delicate Beauty
ROSE (LEAF)You May Hope
ROSE (PINK)Perfect Happiness, Please Believe Me
ROSE (RED)Love, I Love You
ROSE (TEA)I'll Remember Always
ROSE (THORNLESS)Love at First Sight
ROSE (WHITE)Innocence and Purity, I am Worthy of You, You're Heavenly, Secrecy and Silence
ROSE (WHITE AND RED MIXED)Unity, Flower Emblem of England
ROSE (WHITE-DRIED)Death is Preferable to Loss of Virtue
ROSE (YELLOW)Decrease of Love, Jealousy, Try to Care
ROSEBUDBeauty and Youth, A Heart Innocent of Love
ROSEBUD (RED)Pure and Lovely
ROSEBUD (WHITE)Girlhood
ROSEBUD (MOSS)Confessions of Love
ROSES (Bouquet of Mature Blooms)Gratitude
ROSES (Single Full Bloom)I Love You, I Still Love You
SMILAXLoveliness
SNAPDRAGONDeception, Gracious Lady
SPIDER FLOWERElope with Me
STEPHANOTISHappiness in Marriage, Desire to Travel
STOCKBonds of Affection, Promptness, You'll Always Be Beautiful to Me
SUNFLOWERSflowers symbol of Infatuation or Foolish Passion.
SWEETPEAGood-bye, Departure, Blissful Pleasure, Thank You for a Lovely Time
THISTLEIt is the National Symbol of Scotland. Its thorns symbolize both Evil and Protection. In Christianity it represents the Suffering of Christ.
TULIP (GENERAL)Perfect Lover, Frame, Flower Emblem of Holland
TULIP (RED)Believe Me, Declaration of Love
TULIP (VARIEGATED)Beautiful Eyes
TULIP (YELLOW)There's Sunshine in Your Smile
VIOLET (GENERAL)Modesty, Faithfulness, Humility, and Chastity
VIOLET (BLUE)Watchfulness, Faithfulness, I'll Always Be True
VIOLET (WHITE)Let's Take a Chance
ZINNIA (MAGENTA)Lasting Affection
ZINNIA (MIXED)Thinking (or In Memory) of an Absent Friend
ZINNIA (SCARLET)Constancy
ZINNIA (WHITE)Goodness
ZINNIA (YELLOW)Daily Remembrance

Many cultures around the world have a marked tendency to associate flowers with femininity. The beauty and feminine quality of flowers also inspired the tradition of naming girls after flower names. This tradition has existed in many cultures throughout history and continues today. Popular girls' names related to flowers include Rose, Daisy, Lily, Holly, Violet, Heather, Fern, Jasmine, Myrtle, and Lavender.

Source:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flower
http://painting.about.com/cs/inspiration/a/symbolsflowers.htm
http://livingartsoriginals.com/infoflowersymbolism.htm

Fun Flower Quiz

Fun Flower Quiz

Everybody loves flowers. We love smelling them, looking at them and giving them to people we care about. But how much do you know about flowers? Well, take the quiz and let’s find out! Score a 9 or a 10 and you’re really up on your flor. Score five or less and you’ve got some studying to do. Good luck!

  1. What is the national flower of the United States?
  2. What is the fear of flowers called?
  3. In cooking, tulip bulbs are sometimes used in place of what?
  4. From where do nearly 60% of all USA grown fresh cut flowers come from?
  5. What is the world’s largest flower?
  6. What is the world’s smallest flower?
  7. What are the best selling cut flowers in the world?
  8. About how many species of begonia are there?
  9. The Peach Blossom is the state flower of which state?
  10. Which is not another name for snapdragons?

ANSWERS:

  1. The ROSE is the national flower of the United States. It was signed into law by President Reagan on October 7, 1986 in a ceremony that was held, of course, in the White House Rose Garden.
  2. The fear of flowers is called ANTHROPHOBI. Symptoms include breathlessness, dizziness, nausea, heart palpitations, sweating and madness.
  3. In cooking sometimes tulip bulbs are sometimes used to replace ONIONS.
  4. More than half of the cut flowers grown in the United States come from CALIFORNIA.
  5. The largest flower in the world is the RAFFLESIA ARNOLDII. It is found in Indonesia and can grow three feet across and weigh fifteen pounds! When in bloom the rafflesia emits a smell similar to rotting meat, which attracts flies for pollination.
  6. The WOLFFIA is the smallest flower in the worl. It is a type of duckwee. A bouquet of a dozen plants would easily fit on the head of a pin!
  7. The best selling cut flowers in the world are CARNATIONS.
  8. There are about 1,300 species of begoni. And if you are one of the many people addicted to growing these beautiful flowers you are known as a begoniac!
  9. The peach blossom is the state flower of DELAWARE. The flower was adopted in 1895 because of Delaware’s reputation as the “Peach State,” having over 800,000 peach trees at the time. Did you pick Georgia? Gotcha!
  10. There are a lot of colorful names for snapdragons, but MONKEY JAWS is definitely not one of them!