Cleome Flowers - Pictures & Meanings

The cleome flower is a genus of annual flowering plants with 170 species in the cleomaceae family. Cleomes are considered subcosmopolitan and may be seen growing in nearly any warm, mild or tropical area throughout the world; however, these plants are thought to originate in regions of South Africa. Because of their sharp, unique flower clusters, these blossoms got the nickname “spider flower.” The aromatic foliage of this plant is rather prickly, and the strong stems can grow up to six feet in height. The flower heads themselves consist of delicate pink, purple or white racemes which contain long stamens. These blossoms are also considered very easy to grow, as they are generally free of pests, and are considered drought tolerant. Despite that fact, however, they grow their best in moist but well drained soil and full sunlight.

The cleome flower has some interesting associations. Now being considered an heirloom plant, they were once a special favorite of Thomas Jefferson, who included them in his Monticello gardens. Despite this fact, though, the cleome flower took awhile to find its actual place. Now a member of the cleomaceae clan, these blossoms were once considered to be a part of the capparaceae family. After extensive DNA research, though, it was discovered that the cleomaceae genera had a closer association with the brassicaceae family. In the broadest sense, the cleomaceae family has 275 species; however, some genera were later taken from this group, as DNA testing weeded out many species which were later discovered to belong to separate plant families – thus leaving a smaller total of 170 true cleome genera. Certain species of the cleome flower, such as cleome gynandra, are considered culinary delicacies, and are also being tested as medicinal plants. Being a surprisingly nutritional green – consisting of calcium, iron, and vitamins A and C – these plants are commonly mixed with other, more flavorful greens, as they are known to have a faintly bitter taste by themselves. In several areas of Africa, these plants are boiled to create relishes, side dishes and stews; while the dried leaves are ground, and the fresh leaves are mashed and given to weaning children. In medicine, aqueous extracts of both vernonia amygdalina and cleome gynandra are being extensively tested for their uses in reproductive health – both of which are showing promise.

Although most flowers have a multitude of symbolism, the cleome flower only has the one. These flowers have stuck with their old-fashioned expression that asks the recipient to elope, or run away with the giver. Although these flowers can be presented as a proposition between new lovers, they are also a unique gift that can be traded between long married couples – asking each other if they would leave the world behind and get married once again.

Baby’s Breath Flowers - Pictures & Meanings

Best known as a filler bloom, the baby’s breath flower grows in abundance and is easily recognizable. Although most species are similar in appearance, baby’s breath – or soap wort, as it is known in the United Kingdom – boasts a family of over 100 species, all with their own small variations. For example, the “Perfecta” cultivar has slightly larger flowers than the “Paniculata” type; the gypsophila repens tends to creep up walls, while the gypsophila elegans sort tends to be an upright grower. These flowers, which are either a perennial plant or herbaceous annual, are native to areas of north Africa, Asia and Eastern Europe. They come in fairly simple colors of white and dusky pink.

Despite the fact that they are considered a simple filler flower, baby’s breath have a wide variety of other uses. One of the most notable examples is their use in crafting. The baby’s breath flower is considered one of the best and easiest blossoms to dry, and is often placed alongside other dried or fresh flowers in an arrangement. They may also be used in wreaths, woven into wicker decorations, bound together to make Christmas tree ornaments, or pressed and placed into books or jewelry. Baby’s breath is also frequently used in weddings. Although they may often be seen alongside brightly colored, showy flowers, they are sometimes used on their own. You may occasionally see an entire bridal bouquet – or smaller bouquets for bridesmaids – made entirely of baby’s breath. They might be the traditional white, or may be dyed any number of colors – so as to match the wedding theme. In addition to bouquets, they are also placed into boutonnieres, corsages, decorations and centerpieces.

Given their common use in weddings, it is not surprising that the predominant symbol for the baby’s breath flower is everlasting love. In continuation of the theme, they are thought to represent happiness and a purity of the heart. These flowers are sometimes given as gifts to new or expectant mothers, as they often express the joy and innocence of a new baby, especially when they are placed alongside other flowers that symbolize motherhood. Because of their strong connection to love, baby’s breath is also sometimes mixed with other flowers or herbs and given as a love charm.

Aster Flowers - Pictures & Meanings

The aster flower genus – which is a member of the asteraceae family – once carried over 600 species of blooms; however, after much research the genus was divided, and there are now only 180 species that reside in this genus. All the same, the aster flower remains a remarkably varied and flamboyant bloom, regardless of the species. Some of the more common types include Italian aster, which tends toward a light, almost pastel, purple; the Jenny aster, which comes in vivid reds, and the sky blue aster, which, as its name suggests, is a stunning shade of bright blue.

The name of the aster flower is culled from the ancient Greek word for “star.” This is largely due to the shape of the flower’s head; however, it is also because they grow in a spotted abundance and have an appearance similar to that of the stars in the sky. In mythology, asters were said to have grown from the tears of the goddess Asterea while she wept for the lack of stars on earth. Historically, aster flowers have had many uses. One of the best known is their use as a symbol when placed upon the graves of French soldiers; these flowers were meant to represent a reversal of the outcome of their battles. In ancient times these flowers were smoked, as it was thought that the smokey perfume would ward off wicked serpents. Asters may also be used for their strong medicinal properties. Some varieties of this flower are said to help with migraines, general headaches and colds, while others can aid in treating the pain of sciatica and muscle spasms.

In addition to having a wide array of colors to choose from, the aster flower also has a good deal of meaning to go alongside its good looks. In general, the aster is considered a symbol of patience, daintiness, and a love of variety. Others state that this flower is an emblem for refinement and elegance. As a gift, asters placed in a bouquet with complementing flowers can be representative of love and admiration. They are often given to those born in September, or those celebrating a 20th wedding anniversary. As a more unique gift, you might present a single fresh or dried flower to a lover or friend as a love charm, as asters were thought by some ancient Greeks to hold the mystic power of drawing forth affection.

Aspen Flowers - Pictures & Meanings

Populus tremula – better known as the Aspen flower – is a species from the poplar genus, and is native to cool, mild areas of Asia and Europe. The Aspen flower blossoms from a deciduous tree which bears wide, rounded, toothy leaves and catkin flowers that are similar to those found on pussy willow trees. These plants are dioecious – having separate male and female variations. The male plant produces thick, grayish brown catkins that eventually turn yellow when they begin to shed pollen. The female types produce a slightly more colorful variation, with green catkins that develop reddish brown bracts and a gray fuzz that becomes white and wooly in the middle of May.

The Aspen flower is considered very valuable as a medicinal plant. Food grade flower essences are often created by plant extracts to help calm the nerves of those who are experiencing apprehension and anxiety. This essence – which is administered in small doses mixed with water – is often given to small children who are prone to nightmares. In addition to being taken internally, many people use this extract in acupuncture therapy – where it is commonly placed at the “equilibrium middle,” or on the crease just behind the knee. Scientific research has also been done to try to prove the use of populus tremula as an anti-inflammatory. In one such study, aspen flowers were combined with solidago virgaurea and fraxinus excelsior, and placed on the paws of rats with edema and arthritis. The herbal solution reduced the swelling and size of the rat’s paws, and the results were said to be comparable to those of a leading prescription drug. The use of Aspen flower essence also appears in aromatherapy. It is said that if a person with a feeling of fear or anxiousness inhales the scent of this flower while meditating, their psyche will then be calmed, and internal harmony will be restored.

Although the Aspen flower does not contain a good deal of direct symbolism, it is not hard to associate this blossom with calm, peace and protection. Despite the fact that these flowers are quite unusual in appearance, they would almost certainly make a great gift to express the desire to alleviate the stress that the recipient may be feeling at the time. They may also represent a desire to shield the recipient, or give them harmony in their daily lives. Though they may be given on their own, these strange looking blossoms are best presented alongside other, brighter flowers that further express these emotions.

Anthurium Flowers - Pictures & Meanings

The anthurium flower is one of the largest groups in the araceae genus. These exotic flowers are native to areas such as Uruguay, Argentina and Mexico; however, they bloom in many tropical areas, and have even become symbols of certain locations like Hawaii. Despite their decidedly romantic homelands, they have become very popular in homes around Europe and the United States, as they are not only beautiful in appearance, but they also last a long time when clipped and placed into vases – sometimes up to six whole weeks. The anthurium flower – which is lovingly referred to by avid growers as the flamingo flower – blooms from a slender stalk, and develops around a rough, fleshy spadix. What is often thought to be the actual flower head of anthuriums is actually a spathe, which tends to be thick and waxy. The spathe can generally be seen in varying shades of red; however, you may sometimes see them in white, yellow or green hues.

It is understandable why the anthurium flower has become something of a Hawaiian emblem. These flowers were brought from London to Hawaii by S.M. Damon in 1889. With a good deal of care and breeding, these blooms became one of the top decorative flower exports in the state, sending a massive 2.5 million dozen-bouquets around the world by 1980.

In addition to its long-lasting nature, the anthurium flower generally does not require a special season to grow. Their frequent availability is one of the many reasons as to why they have become very popular as gifts. As a symbol, anthuriums are often given to represent a deep romantic attraction. This is due to their beautiful yet unusual appearance – the glossy red spathe, and the open, heart-shaped face. The openness of its blossom is also said to represent hospitality, and many people present these flowers as gifts to friends and relatives. Anthuriums can often be tricky to grow as indoor plants; however, for an experienced gardener, a mature anthurium can make a great and rewarding offering.

Annual Flowers - Pictures & Meanings

Unlike perennial flowers, annual flowers grow continuously throughout early spring to late fall, die at the end of the last season and need to be replanted the following spring. Although this may sound daunting, annual flowers give you the chance to have an entirely new garden each and every year. Some of the most common annuals include Bachelor’s Buttons, Begonias and Pansies. These flowers are often planted in addition to perennial and biennial plants, as they can easily be changed out or rotated to fit the style of their more long-lasting counterparts.

The annual flower is frequently the highlight of many flower shows. One great example of this is the Cincinnati Horticultural Society’s yearly flower show. At this event, people from around the world come to see exhibits, go to events, and enter into a competition that judges not only the flowers, but how they are presented. The Horticultural Society is not the only institution in Ohio who judges annuals. During the yearly Harvest Home Fair, different divisions – from the junior horticulturalist all the way to the expert grower – are given very specific standards on how their annual flowers should be grown, how they should look and how they are presented. Annuals have appeared in many books and stories on mythology, medicine and cooking. For instance, marigolds can be used to make sweet buns, lobelia can be used to treat respiratory ailments, while in Greek mythology the cornflower was used to heal the wounds of Chiron.

Annual flowers, as gifts, can convey a large variety of sentiments. Many people prefer to give annuals as mixed bouquets that express a number of emotions. For instance, baby’s breath combined with California poppies can be given to a new or expectant mother. The bold appearance of zinnias combined with the more mellow-looking morning glory can be given to a dear friend to represent affection. Given the transitory nature of annuals, you might want to give them dried. Doing this ensures that they can be enjoyed for a long time to come. You may still choose to give dried annuals as a bouquet, or you may wish to create a wreath, basket or even a potpourri with whole flower heads. For a long lasting gift that is more natural-looking than dried flowers, you can also give pressed annuals. These can be presented in frames, or as part of home made jewelry or talismans.

Angelica Flowers - Pictures & Meanings

The angelica flower, which is a genus consisting of about 60 species, is a member of the apiaceae family. Natively grown in both subarctic and more temperate areas of the Northern Hemisphere, angelica can shoot up to a tall 4 to 6 feet in height. Their stems are thick, fluted and hollow, and may be either green or purplish in appearance. Their foliage is bipinnate, bright green, and serrated. The flowers themselves are made up of large inflorescences that may be either light yellow, white and green or white and purple in hue. They tend to grow in abundance in well-shaded areas with moist, loamy soil.

The angelica flower is best known for its uses as a holistic medicine. These plants are known to be very effective in aiding the female reproductive system. One of the most frequently used types is angelica sinensis, which is commonly used to urge along delayed menstruation, ease cramps, and – in small quantities – help speed up labor. However, this species of angelica is considered very potent, and women are urged to avoid it during pregnancy. As well as easing female conditions, the angelica flower has long been used as a stimulant for weakness, to ease digestive troubles, and treat bronchitis and cystitis. Taken externally in the form of medicinal mouth rinses and poultices, these blossoms are also used to treat sore throats, mouth ulcers, broken bones and arthritis. The scent of angelica flowers has occasionally been likened to both juniper and musk, and is occasionally extracted and used for aromatherapy – which is said to bring about a feeling and calm, protection, and is thought to bring a sense of equilibrium to the spirit. As well as being very useful in medicine, the angelica flower is also said to be a great addition to many dishes. The seeds and stems of this plant are sometimes used to flavor liqueurs and gin; they are frequently candied and placed atop cakes and pastries, while fresh leaves are sometimes used in salads, spread with butter, or used as a unique side dish that is commonly eaten alongside fish. Herbals teas may also be made with these flowers – either for medicinal purposes, or simply for their strong, licorice-like taste.

The angelica flower is often said to represent inspiration and encouragement, and is often given as a gift to represent just those feelings. They may be given as a sort of muse to a person who is in a slump, or they may be presented to encourage that same person to get out of their slump. These blossoms are also said to be great stress relievers, so in place of the traditional bouquet or fresh cut flowers, you may prefer to present dried angelica in the form of a “dream pillow,” so as to encourage the recipient to be more restful.

Anemone Flowers - Pictures & Meanings

Although closely related and frequently lumped together, the anemone flower is a separate genus from the hepatica and pasque genera. They are similar in appearance, and are all members of the ranunculaceae – or buttercup – family; however, anemones carry a much larger group of species – roughly 120 in number. Anemones grow wild throughout Japan, North America and Europe, and vary in their growth patterns. These flowers are divided into three distinct groups that tend to dictate their growing habits. These groups include the larger fall flowering varieties, which grow from early summer to late fall, and generally have fibrous roots; the spring flowering varieties, which bloom from either tubers or rhizomes; and the tuberous Mediterranean types, which blossom during spring and summer. The heads of these flowers tend to sprout between 4 to 27 sepals and come in colors of red, blue, white, purple and, infrequently, yellow.

The anemone flower is unquestionably one of the more delicate and beautiful blossoms grown today; however, they are also steeped in myth and touted for their uses. The origin of the anemone flower’s name is a perfect example of its place in mythological history. The red anemone flower is often associated with the death of Adonis, who was stabbed by the sharp tusks of a wild boar. Aphrodite – the beloved of Adonis – heard his cry and ran to him. She found that, as he died, the anemones around his body turned from a crisp white to a shocking red. She then named these blossoms the windflower – namely because the same wind that gently opens the flower will also blow away the faded petals, thus representing the transitory nature of her lover’s life. The anemone flower is also considered a medicinal plant. Although these flowers can be poisonous to both animals and humans, they are thought – in small doses – to aid in a variety of ailments. Most notably, a decoction of the flower and roots may be used for delayed menstruation and painful cramps. They may also be used to treat inflammation of the eyes, troubled skin or respiratory problems.

Anemones have a large assortment of symbolism tied to them. They are thought to represent anticipation and unfading love, good luck and protection against evil. As a gift, these flowers may be meaningful in a number of ways, from presenting them to someone stepping into a new stage of life, to telling the recipient that you will always love them.

Amaryllis Flowers - Pictures & Meanings

The amaryllis flower – which is sometimes referred to as the naked lady or belladonna lily – is a monotypic genus, containing only one species, and is indigenous to South Africa. Amaryllis flowers grow from a leafless hollow stem, from the tip of which blooms two to five large, brightly hued heads. The flowers themselves contain three internal petals, and three external sepals, which may appear in a muted shade of white – with unusual red veins – as well as pink, yellow or purple. These bulbous plants are considered to be very easy to grow, and many people like to sprout them both indoors and out. They grow best in rich, well drained soil – so as to prevent rotting below the surface – under full sunlight.

Although it is not exactly known how the amaryllis flower was discovered, one popular story states that the flowers were discovered in 1828 in Chile. It is believed that a young German doctor by the name of Eduard Frederich Poepping was searching the land for new plants. When he discovered the large, trumpet-shaped blossoms, he was said to shout for joy. Later, they reached Europe and were subsequently hybridized – thus producing the far larger version that we see now. According to Greek mythology, a shepherdess by the name of Amaryllis fell madly in love with a rather vain shepherd. He told Amaryllis that he could not return her fervent affections unless she created a flower solely for him. To do as he bade, she pierced her own heart, and the bloom of blood that spread onto her chest became the rich, red amaryllis flower. As well as being fodder for a good deal of fantastic story telling, the amaryllis also has a few uses. For instance, these flowers are thought to have strong antibacterial properties. They are occasionally used in soaps for this purpose, and are well loved as house plants, as they are considered great defenders against environmental ills.

The amaryllis flower is a fantastic option for a variety of expressive gifts. These bold, beautiful blossoms are a symbol of intense beauty, timidity and determination. They are sometimes given to express how stunning the giver feels the recipient to be, or to tell them that they are dead-set on making their relationship strong and long lasting. These flowers are also representative of a hard-earned achievement after a long struggle, and so they make a fabulous present to someone who has persevered – a simple recognition of all that they have accomplished.

Allium Flowers - Pictures & Meanings

Although it was once incorrectly grouped into the liliaceae family, it is now understood that the allium flower is a genus in the amaryllidaceae – or onion – clan. This genus is estimated to consist of roughly 860 species which mostly grow in milder regions of the Northern Hemisphere. These plants, which are herbaceous perennials, can grow in either clustered or solitary blossoms from bulbs. Most plants produce between one and twelve leaves that may be flat, linear or basal blades – some of which will wither away either before or during the flower’s blooming period. The flower heads are made up of tepals which may either be pendent or erect. They have a single pistil and up to six stamens, and come in white, yellow, blue and purple hues.

Although many species of the allium flower have a distinctive onion or garlic scent, many others are thought to have a delicate floral aroma, and so they are often used in perfumes and cosmetics. But their uses do not stop there. The ancient Indians of Peru frequently used this plant for both religious ceremonies and as a folk medicine. This is still true today in many other parts of the world. For instance, allium sativum – better known as common garlic – is considered a potent antiviral and antibacterial agent, and is used around the world for things such as asthma, skin conditions and anemia – just to name a few. Culturally speaking, the use of allium sativum is commonly avoided by many devout Hindus during religious events, while those who follow Jainism avoid consuming this plant entirely, as it is thought to warm the body and bring about undesirable urges. The allium flower also has a place in mythology. In Hindu myth, these blossoms emerged when Sachi – the wife of Indra, king of the gods – tried to sip the nectar of immortality. She could not digest the nectar, and so expelled it to the earth. From this spilled nectar, the allium flower blossomed. In Christian myth it is said that alliums blossomed from the indentations of the devil’s footprints as he left the Garden of Eden.

Although most people will not give the edible varieties of allium flowers as gifts, many of the other species have taken their place as floral tokens of romance. As a symbol, these flowers generally represent unity, and are often traded between married couples or long-time loves. They are also given to express the idea that the giver finds the recipient flawless and elegant in both appearance and manners.

Agapanthus Flowers - Pictures & Meanings

The agapanthus flower is a small genus of between 6 and 10 species which are separated into several different classifications, and is a member of the agapanthaceae family. These flowers – which are sometimes referred to as lily of the Nile – are summer blooming and native to South Africa. Although most of the naturally occurring agapanthus flowers come in shades of blue and white, many hybrids may be seen in a variety of hues, from a light pink to a rich, dark purple. The structure of the agapanthus flower consists of a large, globe-like head – occasionally called a cyme – that can carry up to 100 small, tubular florets. The blossoming cymes grow atop a long, erect scape, from which curved, lance-shaped basal leaves grow.

The agapanthus flower has long been prized as both a medicinal and magical plant. Both the Xhosa and Zulu tribes of South Africa often use this plant for childbearing purposes. The Xhosa women create medicine for prenatal care to ensure healthy children, while the Zulu women mix this flower with other herbs and plants – not only to aid in the healthy growth of their new child, but also to induce labor. In addition to aiding in healthy pregnancy, these flowers are also used to treat heart disease, respiratory ailments, paralysis, fevers and even sore feet. Despite their many strong medicinal properties, it is important to note that the sap of these flowers may cause oral ulcerations and haemolytic poisoning, so it is vital to be cautious when using them. The magical uses of the agapanthus flower mainly consist of the creation of charms. Going back to the Xhosa tribe, many people create earthy necklaces out of the dried root, using them as talismans to bring about strong, healthy babies. Charms are also created as emblems of love, and to protect the meek from vicious storms and thunder.

Given the fact that the name of this flower is made up of two Greek words – agape and anthes, which mean flower and love respectively – it is not surprising that these blossoms are frequently presented as a unique alternative to the usual romance flowers. They are also sometimes associated with fertility and childbirth, and are occasionally presented to new mothers. As well as giving these flowers in a traditional bouquet or arrangement, they may also be presented as beautiful pressed flowers, perhaps alongside a greeting card, love letter or poem.

Acacia Flowers - Pictures & Meanings

The acacia flower blooms from a genus of trees and shrubs that belong in either the Fabaceae family or the Mimosoideae subfamily. Although the majority of acacia species can be seen in Australia, these flowers may be found blossoming in all seven continents. Sometimes referred to as wattles, the acacia flower sprouts in inflorescences made up of many stamens, and miniscule flowers that can number between 3 and 130, depending upon the species. They are most commonly seen in yellow or creamy white hues, but some species also grow in shades of red and purple. Acacias grow their best in warm, humid areas in well drained soil.

The trees of the acacia flower have become an important part of myth, and are also well known for their numerous practical uses. One of the best examples of mythology describes the acacia tree as being something of a shelter to the newborn Egyptian gods. This tree, which was associated with the goddess Saosis, was also thought to have been a part of the boat that carried the sun god Re, and thus, is considered sacred. These plants are thought to be a great food source, the shoots being used in Thailand and Loas as earthy greens which are added to curries, stir fries and soups. The flowers themselves attract many bees, and the honey that is then created is a prized delicacy with a faint, floral flavor. Acacia plants are also known for their potent medicinal uses – most of which are thought to have an actual scientific backing. Gum Arabic, which is produced from the species acacia senegal, is one of the most frequently used parts of this plant. Because this substance coats affected areas, it is often used to treat inflammation. It is also useful for coughs, stomach ailments and colds. In Ayurvedic medicine, the acacia flower has long been thought to be a powerful astringent and a useful sedative. This plant’s cultural uses are also quite varied. For example, the flowers are thought to have magical uses, and are often made into talismans that aid in meditation and promote clairvoyance, as well as being used as an emblem for protection. In addition to that, they are used for dyes and paints, perfumes, and are frequently presented to Italian and Russian women on International Women’s Day.

As a symbol, the acacia flower is most often associated with honor, resurrection and immortality. They are also given as gifts to represent friendship, secret romantic crushes, and chaste, unsullied affections. Although these flowers are frequently given on their own, they also look lovely in large arrangements and small bouquets of complimentary blossoms.

Lupine Flowers - Pictures & Meanings

Lupine flowers, which belong to the lupinus genus, are members of the family fabaceae and subfamily faboideae. These blossoms have a large growth span, reaching from areas of the western United States to South America, and Africa to the Mediterranean. Lupines are mostly made up of perennials, but there are also annual and shrub varieties. These plants can reach between 1 to 10 feet in height – depending upon the type – and contain palmate leaves that resemble thin fingers, which often feature dense, silvery hairs. The flowers themselves are made up of large spikes that may be either whorling or densely clustered. The small pea-like heads come in a vast array of shades, from white, yellow, apricot and pink, to blue, purple, lilac and violet; they may also be bicolored.

Although lupine flowers are known for their uniquely attractive stature, over time they have made a name for themselves as a terrifically useful plant. The first noted example of lupine flowers dates back between 2,000 to 3,000 years, when, in several areas of the Mediterranean, this plant was considered an important food staple. Throughout history, lupine legumes have been soaked in salt water and eaten raw, or made into flour or cooking oil. Today, lupine beans are still used in the same way; however, they are also used to make everything from pasta to pub fare – such as the pickled sweet lupines. In addition to being something of a delicacy, lupine flowers were also used as something of a cosmetic. The English herbalist John Parkinson stated that many women made a concoction of lupine meal, the gall of a goat, and lemon juice to help soften their skin. In more modern times, the extracted oils have undergone extensive research, which has shown that they may penetrate the basal layers of skin and promote cellular activity. This is not surprising, as it has long been known that lupine seeds are high in antioxidants and essential fatty acids. Despite the fact that these plants are generally harmless, some types contain toxic alkaloids which may be harmful to both livestock and humans, and may also cause skin irritation if used in cosmetic products.

In general, the lupine flower is considered the emblem of imagination. As a gift, these plants are frequently given as a token of cheer and lightheartedness, and are often presented on birthdays, anniversaries, and other joyous occasions. Although these blossoms may be given as a potted plant, they look stunning as part of an arrangement or solid bouquet.

Nasturtium Flowers - Pictures & Meanings

Nasturtium flowers belong to the genus tropaeolum, and are members of the small family tropaeolaceae. These blossoms, which are native to regions of Central and South America, may be either annual or perennial, and can bloom as trailers, climbers or bushes. Nasturtiums are very simple in form, being made up of five-petaled flower heads; three distinct pistils; a nectar tube; and rounded, shield-like leaves. What makes these small plants extraordinary is their bold colors – colors that are so intense, they are said to be incredibly difficult to photograph. Their hues range from purple, blue, yellow, pink and red; however, depending upon the variety, they may bear unusual markings, or may be tipped in shades of green.

Nasturtium flowers are undoubtedly one of the most recognizable blooms around. This is not surprising, as their large seeds and ease of care make them a favorite amongst young gardeners-in-training. One fact that many people are unaware of, though, is that nasturtiums are not only easy to grow, but they are also considered quite useful. These plants began wide cultivation during the early 16th century, when seeds were brought to Spain by the Spanish conquistadors. During this time period, it was discovered that these blossoms could be used to treat wounds and help prevent infections. In the later half of the 16th century, nasturtium flowers made their way into Europe. At the start of the 17th century, they were predominantly grown in abbey gardens, and used for a number of medicinal applications. One of the more interesting uses was discovered by the French naturopath Maurice Messengue, who created a hair lotion of the whole nasturtium flower, plus a few nettle and oak leaves, which were all soaked in alcohol until soft; when applied to the head, this potion was said to help prevent hair loss. In more modern times, these plants are still used for medicinal purposes, treating a variety of bacterial, fungal and viral infections. However, they are more commonly seen as a uniquely flavored food staple. They are frequently eaten raw, fried, or pickled; they are also a favorite in soups, salads, stuffed or made into condiments, such as nasturtium vinegar salad dressing.

In general, nasturtium flowers are considered on emblem of conquest and victory; however, they are also representative of charity. As a gift, these blossoms are often given to represent the end of a struggle, or as encouragement during a long journey. Because they are also pretty and easy to care for, they are sometimes given to small children who are fascinated by plant-life. Although small nosegays can be made of nasturtiums, they are best presented as ornate potted plants, or within small flower boxes.