carnation-symbolism

Carnations are among the oldest cultivated flowers, with over two thousand years of history. Even the scientific name (Dianthus caryophyllus) alludes to their rich mythology. Dianthus comes from Greek words dios (god or Zeus) and anthos (flower), or 'divine flower' or 'flower of Zeus'. According to mythology, Artemis, the goddess of hunting, returned from her hunt empty-handed. She blamed a shepherd who played a happy tune and gouged out his eyes. Immediately after that, she felt sorry, and her tears mixed with the blood on the ground, causing carnations to sprout. This happening made carnations a symbol of regret and sorrow. But the symbolism of the carnation is much more complex. Shall we?

Meanings and Symbolism

The name carnation may come from the Greek word for coronation (crowning), as it resembles traditional ceremonial crowns, or from the Latin caro (flesh or meat), thanks to the pale pink hues of its early blooms. Carnations were often used during Greek and Roman ceremonies and festivals, including athletic competitions. They wove their blooms into crowns, garlands, and headpieces for winners, brides, and priests. By the way, the Latin word for crown is corona. Add a few centuries and coronation becomes carnation! For the second possibility (caro, aka flesh), we need to know that wild carnations bloom in gentle pink tones, similar to the skin color of fair-skinned Europeans. For centuries, but especially during the Renaissance, specific shades of pink were called carnation.

We have already mentioned the myth about Artemis, her tears and blood. While Romans often borrowed gods from Greek mythology, carnations are an exception. They are related to Flora, the goddess of fertility, flowers, and spring. Romans held a festival called Floralia in her honor each year, celebrating the return of warm weather and using carnations as symbols of rebirth and vitality.

Madonna of Carnation by Leonardo da Vinci (above) and Madonna with Carnation by Albrecht Durer (below) are two famous examples from the art world.

There's also a Christian explanation. When Jesus carried his cross to Calvary, his mother Mary broke into tears. Tears, fallen to earth, instantly transformed into blooming pink carnations. For this reason, a carnation is also an official flower of Mother's Day. Pink or red carnations (incarnare is Latin for flesh-making) also symbolize God in the form of human flesh (Jesus). The red color is traditionally associated with passion and represents blood. In this case, it stands for the blood of Jesus. The petals resemble the nails used in the crucifixion or the crown of thorns.

We are not over yet! A carnation is a powerful symbol of the working class. Of course, it has to be red. The color represents the working-class blood.  Early worker movements actually used various red flowers, including peonies, poppies, tulips, and especially roses. Eventually, red carnations became a globally recognized standard due to their affordability and durability. Their firm stems make them easy to pin. They stay fresh and sturdy for days. The red carnation's resemblance to a flickering flame when viewed in sunlight is a bonus. It's one of the most important symbols of May Day.

Symbolism of different colors of carnations

We've already mentioned pink and red carnations, but it's only fair to say a few words about every popular carnation color.

Each color carries its own distinct cultural meaning and symbolism:

White

The symbolism of white carnations doesn't differ significantly from that of other white objects or the color white in general. White carnations represent good luck, innocence, purity, and new beginnings. They are often used in wedding arrangements and at memorial ceremonies.

Yellow

Yellow carnations are the most ambivalent. They symbolize friendship, joy, and warmth, yet in the Victorian era, they were also associated with disappointment, regret, and rejection. In the 19th century, sending a yellow carnation to someone in the UK or the USA was considered a mild insult.

Orange

An orange carnation symbolizes creativity, energy, and positive energy. People give them at celebrations to motivate and inspire. Because of their historical neutrality, they are suitable gifts for coworkers and friends.

Pink

Pink carnations represent appreciation, gratitude, and unconditional motherly love. Consider them 'thank-you gifts.' Lighter shades of pink express appreciation, while darker shades convey admiration. They are a classic choice for Mother's Day bouquets.

Red

Red may have the richest symbolism of all colors. Red carnations stand out, too. They play an important role in romances and revolutions. Red generally stands for love and passion, but the meaning can vary significantly depending on the shade of red of a specific flower or bouquet.

• Coral symbolizes mild affection, a rising interest, and a possible beginning of deeper, more serious intentions in a relationship.
• Vermilion stands for enchantement, and fascination. If you want to let someone know you've noticed them, a deep red carnation is the perfect way to do so.
• Light red carnations express admiration, fondness, and respect. They make a great gift for mentors, tutors, and talented coworkers.
• Crimson carnation is a symbol of devotion, longing, and uncodintonal affection. Crimson carnations are a great alternative to red roses for expressing romantic love.
• Ruby carnations stand for powerful bonds and strong desires. They make the most emotional gifts among red carnations and carnations in general. They are perfect for Valentine's Day and Milestone Anniversaries.

Purple

Purple carnations are associated with artistry, individuality, and unpredictability. It celebrates creativity and originality while also warning against whimsy. This unconventional carnation color is used for special occasions, particularly in artistic circles.

Blue

A blue carnation stands out because it doesn't grow in nature. However, florists offer white carnations that have been artificially dyed. A genetically modified species developed in Japan and now grown in South Africa is blue. Blue carnations represent mystery and extraordinary uniqueness.

Green

Green carnations are another example of flowers that were not growing in nature, but were used (dyed) decades before they were developed through hybridization. One of the first promoters of green carnations was Oscar Wilde. They symbolize boldness and decadence. A green carnation is a popular choice for St. Patrick's Day and widely adopted by LGBT communities.

Striped

A striped or variegated carnation is generally understood as a polite refusal. It's also associated with divided feelings and regret. Modern interpretations often see striped carnations as symbols of balance and playfulness.

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