When flowers play cupid

In the Western world, Valentine’s Day holds special significance for couples in love. The day is celebrated on February 14 and is actually in memory of a saint who is very popular in England and France. Today Saint Valentine may be forgotten but the day is celebrated as a lovers’ holiday in many countries where the Western influence is seen to dominate.

On this day courting couples give each other candy, flowers and other gifts. Those who are unengaged and wooing somebody do so by sending elaborate love messages, sometimes in verse but always with flowers. The most favorite flower for this occasion is no doubt the rose, particularly the red rose. Red rose symbolizes the passion and love of the giver. It is also believed to be the favourite flower of Venus the Roman goddess of love, which might explain why it is favoured by lovers. But other flowers are equally significant for the sentiment. You will see lilies, lisianthus (which are also suitable as wedding gifts) and tulips dominating flower shops and being sold on streets on Valentine’s Day.

Incidentally, if you give a girl a red rose and she sends you a yellow rose, it means she prefers to be your friend not your lover.

Pink roses are also suitable for the occasion.