Many people wonder which flower to give for a particular anniversary.  We have researched the nostalgic meanings of different flowers.  But, when it comes right down to it, any type of flower is beautiful and what counts is the thought behind it. 

My husband while we were dating would give me yellow sweetheart roses.  He said that by the time I got twelve at a time, it would be the time he would ask me to marry him.  Well, it took almost 3 years to get those 12 yellow sweethert roses!!

We are happily celebrating our 25th Wedding Anniversary in May of 2007.  Does this mean I get 25 yellow sweetheart roses this year???? 


While roses are truly the perfect sign of love, during the Victorian era, couples used other varieties of fresh flowers in arrangements to send messages to each other as well—each expressing a another heartfelt emotion. These meanings are carried on today as a way to remember each wedding anniversary through floral gifts. 

From the red carnation that symbolizes admiration, to the white that represents pure and innocent love, to the pink bloom that says “I'll never forget you,” the carnation—with its long lasting qualities and clove-like delicate fragrance—brings happiness and commitment promised for years to come.

Signifying happiness and purity of heart, lilies of the valley have long been associated with humility and devotion. The legend has it that a nightingale's affection for this beautiful flower was so strong that it wouldn't return to the woods until the flower bloomed in spring.

It's said that a gift of sunflowers signifies a "secret admirer." Representing strength, warmth and nourishment—all qualities of the sun itself—the way in which a sunflower turns to follow the sun symbolizes deep loyalty and consistency.

With their luxurious globes filled with a fragile lace of small petals, the hydrangea symbolizes both gratefulness and pride—celebrating heartfelt praise and appreciation.

While the famous legend carried over from Victorian times has it that maidens would pluck a daisy's petals one by one to predict their romantic future, daisies are also known to point to purity and gentleness on behalf of both the giver and recipient, declaring: "You have as many qualities as this flower has petals."

The calla—with its trumpet-shaped blooms and elegant, slender profile—is a symbol of evolution and growth, reflecting the beauty and pride gained in shared wisdom over time.

A symbol of trust and fidelity, freesia is an appropriate answer to the well-known saying that the seventh year of marriage incites restlessness. Representing faithfulness through the seasons, it's a traditional reminder of love's honest character. 

 
  With their heart-shaped, deep green leaves and charismatically fragrant blooms, lilacs have been treasured for generations. Reminiscent of springtime and young love, they are a sign of love's first emotions.

Resembling one of the most outstanding exotic birds in the world, birds of paradise, with its large blue and orange blossoms, symbolizes brilliance and splendor—celebrating romance's unexpected side.
 
IIn nature—as in romance—the daffodil reminds us of renewal and simple pleasures. Possessing a fresh, sweet scent, this lovely bloom symbolizes singular love and gallantry.

Symbolizing a declaration of love, legend has it that the tulip's silky black center represents a lover's heart, darkened by the heat of passion. Believed by many to be the most romantic of flowers, tulips are said to also represent elegance and grace. 

 

  In full bloom, the lush peony symbolizes romance and prosperity. Known as the flower of riches and honor, the peony is regarded as an omen of good fortune and a happy marriage.

While bad luck is frequently associated with the number thirteen, there's nothing ill-fated about a chrysanthemum.  Long associated with profusion and beauty, the chrysanthemum is also a symbol for loyalty.

A pink orchid conveys pure love. The popular cattelya orchid represents mature charm. With a universal message of love, beauty, wisdom and thoughtfulness, the graceful orchid symbolizes affection and understanding. 
 
One of the first flowers known to man, roses are a sign of love, magic, hope and passion. Representing ultimate beauty and perfection, it's said Cleopatra scattered rose petals before Mark Anthony's feet. Exquisite and radiant, they are the ideal message of love.

   Thought to have magical properties, the aster is said to be a amulet of love. Symbolizing patience and elegance, the star-like bloom represents a combination of gained wisdom and good fortune.

Combining many of the best characteristics of a long, happy marriage—faith, hope, wisdom, valor and promise—the iris is, appropriately, also the emblem of France, one of the most romantic countries in the world.
 
The regal status of 30 years of marriage isn't lost on this anniversary's flower. In addition to symbolizing splendor, the sweetly fragrant lily, with its star-shaped bloom, represents devotion, pride and beauty—further testaments to such a significant milestone.

Resulting from the Latin word gladius, meaning “sword,” for the shape of its leaves, the gladiolus signifies commemoration—perfect for an anniversary with so many years to fondly recall. Also expressing vitality and passion, this showy flower tells the recipient that he or she “pierces the heart.”