Floriography, great word.

Visit the following website for all sorts of information on flower meanings. A short extract is below: http://www.ecbdflowerstore.com/108085.php

Meanings of different flowers

You'll find a version of this list of flower meanings on hundreds of different websites; it's taken from the Victorian-era study of floriography where romantics used flowers to convey secret messages to one another.

The rose's association with love stems from this period, but most other meanings have fallen by the wayside, so next time you get a bunch of flowers don't try and decode them using this list as you may end up starting a war, at at the very least, some sort of domestic disturbance. There is no 'original list' of flower meanings as floriography, like language itself, has evolved over time and with many authors, but the first widely accepted book of flower meanings Le langage des fleurs was published in 1819 by Charlotte de Latour, and most other complilations, including this one, owe something to that work.

Take the meanings with a grain of salt though, as they often contradict each other!

Flower color meanings a cheat-sheet guide

• Blue: While Light Blue is a symbol of anxiety over problems such as money and health, Turquoise can mean fulfilment for those with great intelligence.
• Dark Red: Symbolises constancy, continuity and immortality.
• Green: Expresses joy and optimism.
• Lilac: Represents a sincere love, without the need for anything in return. It can refer to the love felt for lovers, family or friends.
• Orange: A colour that symbolizes the joy and satisfaction for a success already obtained. On a more sentimental note it may also represent a love that has already been consolidated and gratified.
• Red: Too hot to handle, red is the expression of burning, passionate love, great courage and desire. But beware because it's also the symbol of anger.
• Rose: The colour Rose (or pink) is a symbol of youth and expresses a new love or admiration.
• Violet: Expresses feelings of modesty, generosity and humility. The shrinking violet refers to its symbol of insurmountable shyness.
• White: Is the symbol of purity, innocence and modesty and expresses a sincere feeling. White can also be used when someone is waiting for news.
• Yellow: Though commonly associated with unfaithfulness and treason, don't depair if you come home with yellow petals because it can also be the symbol of luxury, pride and success.

Occasions and reasons to give flowers include:

when you're making an apology, when your spouse isn't feeling well, birthdays, date nights & anniversaries. Remember, flowers are always appreciated! There is a special joy in receiving that unexpected bouquet.

When it comes to decorating a cake you can ask for what you would like and flowers can be hand crafted in sugar to suit the style of cake and look completely in keeping with the iced surface.

A totally sugary presentation. Flowers can be made whatever colour/s you like.

It is wise to steer clear of using fresh flowers on cakes unless you know their growing conditions. For instance they may be treated with poisonous chemical sprays and not be safe around food.

You would be lucky to find a cake decorator willing to take the risk of putting fresh flowers on a cake, if you really want fresh flowers it will be up to you and your florist to reach an agreement.

Popular Flower Meanings

• Roses: Roses are classic and beloved among married couples. Each colour holds its own special meaning. Red roses signify love and passion. Light pink signifies sweetness and grace. Yellow roses represent joy. White and red roses, when presented together, express unity.
• Stargazer Lilies: The Stargazer lily is a widely enjoyed flower, characterised by a light, yet bold, aroma. White Stargazers symbolise purity and virtue. Pink Stargazers symbolise romance and prosperity.
• Calla Lilies: The Calla lily is a flower of elegance signifying magnificent beauty. Express admiration for your spouse's beauty with a large bouquet of Calla lilies.
• Orchids: Orchids represent rare beauty and strength.
• Hydrangeas: Hydrangeas symbolise an overflow of heartfelt emotions for one's love.
• Tulips: Tulips are a declaration of love, symbolising perfect love. Red tulips represent this and also symbolise fame. Yellow tulips give tribute to a spouse's sunny smile.
• Lilacs: Lilacs symbolise first love and youthfulness.
• Carnations: The white carnation is a good choice to give within the marriage relationship, as it represents faithfulness and fascination.
• Alstroemeria: Alstroemeria, sometimes known as the Peruvian Lily, represents love and devotion; and is also representative of wealth.
• Sunflowers: Sunflowers sing a song of radiant life, as they are a flower that turns to constantly follow the sun. Sunflowers express happiness and a true adoration of your spouse.