| Flower | Traditional meaning (per the Old Farmer's Almanac) |
|---|---|
| Rose, red | Love, I love you |
| Rose, dark crimson | Mourning |
| Rose, pink | Happiness |
| Rose, white | Innocence, Heavenly, I'm worthy of you |
| Rose, yellow | Jealousy, Decrease of love, Infidelity |
| Tulip, red | Passion, Declaration of love |
| Tulip, yellow | Sunshine in your smile |
| Carnation | Fascination, Female love, Mother's love |
| Carnation, red | Alas for my poor heart, Deep love |
| Carnation, white | Innocence, pure love |
| Carnation, pink | I'll never forget you |
| Carnation, yellow | Disdain, Disappointment, Rejection |
| Lily, white | Virginity, Purity, Heavenly |
| Lily, yellow | Happy, Gay, Walking on air |
| Lily, orange | Hatred |
| Lily, tiger | Wealth, Pride |
| Chrysanthemum, red | I love you |
| Chrysanthemum, yellow | Slighted love |
| Chrysanthemum, white | Truth |
| Daffodil | Regard, Unequalled love |
| Daisy | Innocence, Loyal love, I'll never tell |
| Hydrangea | Gratitude for being understood, Frigidity and heartlessness |
| Iris | Faith, trust, Wisdom, Hope, Valor |
| Lavender | Distrust |
| Marigold | Grief, Jealousy |
| Peony | Bashful, Happy life, Shame |
| Rosemary | Remembrance |
| Sunflower, dwarf | Adoration |
| Sunflower, tall | Haughtiness |
| Calla lily | Beauty |
| Gardenia | You're lovely, Secret love |
Values marked "See source" have no single authoritative figure; follow the linked source for the latest published data.
Frequently asked questions
What does a yellow rose mean?
In the traditional language of flowers recorded by the Old Farmer's Almanac, a yellow rose has been taken to mean jealousy, decrease of love and infidelity — a very different message from a red rose.
What does a red rose mean?
A red rose traditionally means love: the Almanac records it as "Love, I love you."
Are these meanings a rule I must follow?
No. They are a historical tradition from the Victorian-era language of flowers, not a modern rule. Most people receiving flowers today do not read a strict colour code, so treat these as context, not obligation.
Do the meanings differ by flower colour?
Often, yes. The Almanac gives separate meanings for red, white, pink and yellow carnations and roses, and for red, yellow and white chrysanthemums.
Where do these meanings come from?
From the Victorian-era "language of flowers" (floriography), as recorded by the Old Farmer's Almanac. It is a cultural tradition rather than an objective fact.
Sources
- Flower Meanings: The Language of Flowers — The Old Farmer’s Almanac