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The language of flowers was a code invented by the Victorians in England to express their feeling to one another in secret, including condolences for people who have died.
The Language of Australian Flowers, inspired by our own beautiful native flora, was first published in 1867 by an author who, appropriately, used a pen-name: The Spirit Of The Wood.
Why should you read The Language of Australian Flowers?
The Language of Australian Flowers is a fascinating insight into how previous generations interpreted the meaning of flowers and, although we’re definitely less reserved now than they were in Victoria’s day, we still like to say it with flowers. Reading The Language of Australian Flowers can help you choose a bloom that reflects your feelings, whether of love, joy, sadness or condolence.
Many florists offer beautiful commercially-grown Australian natives including leucadendron, banksia and protea in their beautiful casket covers and wreaths. Or maybe our pick from the Australian Language of Flowers, could inspire a trip to a garden centre and a special corner of the yard dedicated to the memory of someone special.
1. “Unfailing devotion”
Damian Hueng/commons.wikimedia.org
Mangle’s Everlasting (Helipterum manglesii)
2. “Wait till the clouds rolls by”
Forest & Kim Starr/commons.wikimedia.org
Maidenhair Spleenwort (Asplenium trichomanes)
3. "Pure love”
John Tann/commons.wikimedia.org
Australian Clematis/Old Man's Beard (Clematis aristata)
4. "Remembrance in absence"
JJ Harris/commons.wikimedia.org
Waratah (Telopia truncate)
5. “Ever my queen”
Pseudopanax/commons.wikimedia.org
Glory Pea (Clianthus puniceus)
6. “I love you above all others/ strong in time of need”
Wikipedia
Wattle (Acacia)
7. “For auld lang syne (old time’s sake)”
Duncan Harris/commons.wikimedia.org
Purple Loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria)
8. “Love has wings”
Jarrah Tree/commons.wikimedia.org
Leek Orchid (Phrasophyllum)
9. “Think of me”
Hedwig Stotch/commons.wikimedia.org
Rocky Daisy (Brachyscome)
10. "A place in thy memory I claim"
John Tann/commons.wikimedia.org
Fringe lily (Thysanotus)
11. “Friend ever true”
John Tann/commons.wikimedia.org
Dolly Bush (Cassinia aculetea)
