When looking for flower meanings associated with heartbreak or parting, check the source and period as well as the flower’s name. Here are three examples from a historical account. They are not a code that every recipient will understand or a list of meanings used by every florist today.
Three examples from a historical account
These examples appear in English Heritage’s article on nineteenth-century British flower language.
- Yellow rose: fading love.
- Striped carnation: rejection.
- Marigold: despair.
Do not infer someone’s intended message from a photograph or the color of a bouquet alone. A historical association and the intention of a person choosing flowers today are different things.
Read a meaning within its source
The account also describes differences between authors’ meanings. The examples above do not establish a rule used by every present-day florist or sender.
If another book or website gives a different meaning, look at the period, place and sources it discusses. Avoid treating each flower as if it could represent only one emotion.
Heartbreak, rejection and sadness are different themes
Wanting to end a relationship, feeling sad, expressing thanks and keeping a memory are distinct purposes. Finding one historical association does not mean it has to represent everything you feel.
You can use a meaning as a creative reference. If it does not fit, liking a flower’s appearance or color is enough reason to choose it.
Our withered rose interpretation is a separate idea
At doraifurawa, we associate a withered rose with the memory of an ended relationship. This is an artistic theme in our Night Chapter, not a definition derived from the historical examples above. See our explanation of withered rose meanings.
The existing images in this article show rose-and-letter compositions. They are not identification pictures for the three flowers in the historical list.
Use words if you want to communicate a decision
We do not suggest using flower meanings alone to announce a breakup or make someone feel guilty. Express what you want to communicate in words, and separately consider whether a gift is welcome.
See whether to send flowers after a breakup for the gift decision. For words you keep without sending, consider an unsent letter or another private farewell form.
A meaning can interest you without requiring a purchase
Reading flower meanings and buying flowers are separate choices. You can simply enjoy the subject. If you want flowers at home, see choosing for your preferences, space and care.
The Night Chapter guide offers other entries for symbolism, letters and gifts. Choose a meaning for your purpose, while respecting a recipient’s preferences if someone else is involved.