Hidden Messages Behind Different Flowers

Sure, we all know that red roses for Valentine’s Day mean love and passion (along with a serious lack of imagination!), but what hidden messages do other flowers send? “The red rose is passé,” declares Jennifer Spaziante, floral designer at Arcadia Floral Company in Mamaroneck. “I’ve had some women even tell me that they find them depressing! I try to steer people away from roses in favor of something more unique and personal.” For those in a long-term relationship, Spaziante suggests choosing a bouquet using one type of flower—in abundance—that has meaning to both parties, perhaps something from her bridal bouquet, or a type of flower that brings up memories of a fabulous vacation. (Who says calla lilies or birds of paradise can’t be for Valentine’s Day?) For men who don’t want flowers to convey commitment, she suggests a loose mixed-floral bouquet: pretty with no promises. What if the romance is over? “A fruit basket is something you associate with death and sickness; if I got one for Valentine’s Day, I’d run for the hills.”