Carnation Flowers
Name : Carnation Flowers
Latin Name : Genus: Dianthus (Dianthus caryophyllus)
Carnation Description
Carnations are botanically classified as Dianthus caryophyllus, (Clove Pink) in the genus Dianthus with approximately 300 species, from the Family Caryophyllaceae. Carnation flowers are native to the Eastern Hemisphere and are found naturally in the Mediterranean region but its exact range is unknown due to extensive cultivation for the last 2,000 years. Modern Carnation varieties are grown in greenhouses and in fields in all parts of the world.
It is believed that the Carnations were used for the first time by Greeks and Romans in the form of garlands. Commercial cultivation as a flower crop started in 1954.
The origin of the name “Carnations” is a debated issue. Some suggest that their name comes from the word “corone”, meaning flower garlands or “coronation” because of its use in Greek ceremonial crowns, while others propose that it’s derived from the Latin “carnis” (flesh) referring to the flower’s original pinkish-hued color or “incarnacyon” (incarnation), referring to the incarnation of God-made flesh.
Carnations are herbaceous perennials that grow to a height of about 80 cm. Their leaves are greyish green to blue-green and slender; up to 15 cm long. Blossoms are produced singly or up to five together in a cyme. Carnation flowers are about 3–5 cm across, and sweetly scented.
The original natural flower colour of carnations is bright pinkish-purple, but cultivars have been developed in shades of red, white, yellow and green.
There are several kinds of Carnations, out which the three most common are:
Annual carnations
Border carnations
Perpetual-flowering carnations
Carnations are beautiful flowers with traditionally 5 petals however Border Carnation cultivars may have double flowers with as many as about 40 petals. Their petals are clawed or serrated. Carnations grow big, full blossoms on strong, straight stems. Carnations can grow to 6-8.5 cm in diameter and bloom simply or in a branched or forked cluster.
Carnation cultivars occur in all sizes and shapes: Large flowered Carnations that have one large flower per stem. Spray Carnations or Mini Carnations with lots of smaller flowers. Dwarf flowered Carnations with several small flowers on one stem.
Carnations propagate easily from stem cuttings. They require well-drained, neutral to slightly alkaline soil, and full sun.
Carnations happen to be one of the most popular flowers in the world. Carnations have a long vase life, about 10-15 days and are very popular in corsages, as boutonnieres, bouquets, and in a wide range of floral arrangements.
Carnation Meaning
The history of Carnations dates back almost 2000 years. Hence carnations have quite a few symbolic meanings in different cultures around the world. Carnations broadly symbolize Love, Distinction, Admiration, Gratitude and Fascination.
Virtually every colour carries a unique and rich association:
White carnations depict Pure Love and Good Luck
Light red Carnations are for Admiration
Dark red for Deep Love and Affection
Purple carnations signify Capriciousness
Pink carnations carry the greatest significance, starting with the belief that they first appeared on earth from tears of the Virgin Mary which makes them the emblem of A Mother’s Undying Love.
In France, Carnation is a traditional funeral flower, given in condolence for The Death of a Loved One.
To the Indians of Mexico, Carnations are the "flowers of the dead," and their fragrant blossoms are piled around corpses being prepared for burial.
Carnations are worn on countless special occasions like Mother’s Day, St. Patrick’s Day (in green, of course), Teacher’s Day and at weddings.
Koreans use red and pink Carnations for showing their Love and Gratitude toward their parents on Parents Day.
This enchanting, sweetly fragrant flower is also the state flower of Ohio, the January birth flower and the 1st wedding anniversary flower.
Carnation happens to be the national flower of Spain as well and is also the symbol of the Portuguese Carnation Revolution.
Oxford University students traditionally wear carnations to all examinations; white for the first exam, pink for intermediate exams and a red for the last exam.
Carnation Mythology
Carnations were named “Dianthus” by the Greek botanist Theopharastus. When translated, Dianthus caryophyllus means “flower of love” or “flower of the gods” as "Dianthus" comes from two Greek Words “dios", referring to the god Zeus, and "anthos", meaning flower. Hence Carnations are "The Flowers of God". In ancient Roman culture, Carnations were known as "Jove's Flower" in tribute to one of their beloved gods.
Carnations are beautiful flowers that have inspired many a minds, these enchanting blossoms find their due share of lime light in art as well, being painted by Redouté.
