Carnations Plants

The name was officially given to the flower by the Greek botanist Theopharastus. The name 'Dianthus' was derived from two Greek words; "dios" which refers to the god Zeus and "anthos", which means flower. Carnations are thus considered "The Flowers of God". The carnation flower comes from a plant native to the East and is known to have been cultivated for the last two thousand years.

Its original natural flower colour is known to have been pinkish-hued, however later dedicated cultivation resulted in other colours, including red, white, yellow and green. The carnation is recognised all over the world as the national flower of Spain.

Although the name 'carnation' is known to be applied originally to the species dianthus caryophyllus, the name is also often applied to some of the other species of idanthus, particularly to garden hybrid varieties and other species in the genus. Research has revealed that the name "carnation" comes from the word "coronation" or "corone". This is because it was one of the flowers used in Greek ceremonial crowns.

There are those also who think that the name stems from the Latin "carnis" for flesh, which refers to the original colour of the flower. There is yet another theory that the name comes from incarnacyon or incarnation, which refers to the incarnation of 'God made flesh'.

The carnation is also the symbol of love, fascination, and distinction. The light red carnations represent admiration, while the dark red denote deep love and affection. White carnations are synonymous with pure love and good luck, while the striped variety symbolize a regret, a love cannot be shared.

Carnations are often worn and flaunted on special occasions, especially Mother's Day and weddings. These flowers were referred to as "Jove's Flowers" in ancient Rome. This was to pay tribute to one of their beloved gods.

In many parts of the world the red and pink carnations are used for expressing love and gratitude toward parents on Parents Day, Mother's Day and Father's Day. Sometimes, you see people wear a corsage of carnations on their left lapels, especially on Parents Day. The flower also honors teachers on Teacher's Day.