A Florist’s Guide to Carnation Colours and Their Meanings
Carnations (Dianthus caryophyllus) are one of the most popular flowers in floral arrangements, valued for their long-lasting blooms, ruffled petals, and delightful fragrance. They come in a wide variety of colours, each carrying its own symbolic meaning. Whether you're selecting carnations for a bouquet, a special event, or a heartfelt gift, understanding their meanings can help you choose the perfect shade.
1. Red Carnations – Love & Admiration
Meaning: Deep love, admiration, and affection
Occasions: Romantic gestures, anniversaries, Valentine’s Day
Floral Tip: Pair with white flowers for a classic romantic arrangement.
2. White Carnations – Pure Love & Good Luck
Meaning: Purity, innocence, good fortune, and remembrance
Occasions: Weddings, sympathy bouquets, graduation, new beginnings
Floral Tip: A wonderful choice for bridal arrangements and baby showers.
3. Pink Carnations – Gratitude & Mother’s Love
Meaning: Appreciation, gratitude, and maternal love
Occasions: Mother’s Day, thank-you gifts, celebrations
Floral Tip: A popular choice for Mother’s Day bouquets.
4. Yellow Carnations – Disappointment & Rejection
Meaning: Disappointment, rejection, and sorrow
Occasions: Rarely used for romantic gestures but can symbolize resilience in challenging times.
Floral Tip: If using in bouquets, pair with bright flowers like sunflowers to balance the symbolism.
5. Purple Carnations – Capriciousness & Change
Meaning: Unpredictability, whimsy, and change
Occasions: Celebrations of new journeys, personal growth, and uniqueness
Floral Tip: Ideal for creative and artistic arrangements.
6. Orange Carnations – Enthusiasm & Energy
Meaning: Warmth, excitement, and joy
Occasions: Birthdays, achievements, housewarming gifts
Floral Tip: Combine with red and yellow carnations for a vibrant, cheerful bouquet.
7. Green Carnations – Luck & St. Patrick’s Day
Meaning: Luck, prosperity, and uniqueness
Occasions: St. Patrick’s Day, good luck gifts, special events
Floral Tip: Great for festive arrangements and modern floral designs.
8. Blue Carnations – Mystery & Uniqueness
Meaning: Mystery, intrigue, and uniqueness (as they are often dyed)
Occasions: Unconventional celebrations, artistic events
Floral Tip: A striking addition to contemporary floral arrangements.
9. Striped Carnations – Regret & Refusal
Meaning: Rejection, regret, and a farewell message
Occasions: Often used to convey difficult emotions in personal relationships.
Floral Tip: Best paired with softer colours to balance the symbolism.
Florist’s Expert Tips:
Mixed Arrangements: A bouquet combining different carnation colours can create a layered message of love, appreciation, and joy.
Longevity: Carnations are one of the longest-lasting cut flowers, often staying fresh for two weeks with proper care.
Fragrance: Some varieties have a sweet, clove-like scent, making them perfect for scented floral arrangements.
Carnations are versatile, timeless, and meaningful. By choosing the right colour, you can create a bouquet that perfectly expresses your emotions!
