DIANTHUS ( CARNATION )

Long lasting flowers. Many different colors. A flower full of symbolism Dianthus symbolizes romance, passion, and longing. Renaissance painters during the 15th and 16th centuries chose this flower to appear in their engagement scenes. Still, the Carnation is the perfect gift for declaring passionate love. Dianthus, commonly known as the carnation, is a flower steeped in rich symbolism and cultural significance across many traditions. Its name comes from the Greek words "dios" (divine) and "anthos" (flower), meaning "flower of the gods" or "divine flower."

🌸 Symbolism of Dianthus (Carnation)

1. Love & Affection Carnations are best known as symbols of deep love, particularly maternal or romantic love. They are often given on Mother’s Day and in romantic bouquets to express strong emotional bonds.

2. Fascination & Admiration The ruffled petals and vibrant colors convey fascination, attraction, and admiration—ideal for expressing heartfelt sentiments in both friendship and romance.

3. Devotion & Loyalty As long-lasting flowers, carnations represent faithfulness, enduring commitment, and remembrance. They are common in memorials and ceremonies to honor those who are loved or lost.

🎨 Color Symbolism Color Meaning:

Red Deep love, admiration, passion

Light Red Affection, admiration, growing love

Pink Motherly love, gratitude, femininity

White Purity, luck, innocence, and remembrance

Yellow Disappointment, rejection (in older meanings)

Purple Capriciousness, unpredictability Striped Regret or refusal ("I cannot be with you")

Note: Pink carnations are especially significant—they are said to have first bloomed from the tears of the Virgin Mary, symbolizing eternal maternal love.

🕊️ Cultural & Historical Significance Ancient Greece & Rome:

Used in ceremonial crowns and considered sacred to the gods. Christian Symbolism: Particularly the pink carnation represents Mary’s love and sorrow, connecting the flower to themes of grace, sacrifice, and unconditional love. France & Italy: White carnations are used in funeral wreaths, symbolizing remembrance and peace. Social & Political: Red carnations have been symbols of revolution, workers’ movements, and solidarity, such as during Portugal's Carnation Revolution.

🌸💗 Dianthus (Carnation) Cut Flower Care Guide:

  1. Trim the stems: • Cut 2–3 cm off the stems at a diagonal angle using a sharp, clean knife or scissors. • Re-cut every 2–3 days to keep water uptake strong.

2. Use clean, cool water: • Fill a clean vase with fresh, cool water. • Carnations are thirsty flowers — check and refill the vase regularly. • Change the water every 2 days.

3. Remove lower leaves: • Strip off any leaves below the waterline to prevent bacteria and rot.

4. Add flower food: • Use a commercial flower preservative for best results. • It nourishes the flower and keeps the water clean. • DIY option: 1 tsp sugar + a few drops of lemon juice or vinegar.

5. Keep in a cool, bright location: • Ideal temperature: 8–18°C. • Keep away from direct sunlight, heaters, and ripening fruit (which emits ethylene gas that can shorten vase life).

6. Remove wilting flowers: • Take out any wilted or browning flowers to keep the rest fresh longer.

7. Vase life: • Carnations are long-lasting cut flowers and can stay fresh for 10–14 days, sometimes even up to 3 weeks with excellent care. 

🌿 Extra Tip: Carnations are ethylene-sensitive — avoid displaying them near bananas, apples, or other fruit.