Carnation

Carnations have a reputation of a filler, the stem you add around the important flowers. Carnations last longer than most cut flowers and come in a wider range of colours. We feel they deserve more credit than they usually get.

What each carnation colour means and when to gift them

Red carnations mean love and passion similar to red roses, but with a less big occasion feeling. They are the traditional first anniversary flower and represents young.

Pink carnations carry one of the most specific meanings in the language of flowers. In the Victorian era, pink carnations meant "I will never forget you." Pink carnations are a flower of remembrance, affection and warmth. They are also strongly associated with maternal love, which is why carnations are often in Mother's Day flower bouquets.

White carnations represent purity, innocence and luck. They are widely used in sympathy and funeral arrangements as their long vase life makes them practical for services and memorials.

Yellow carnations shout cheerfulness within a colourful and mixed arrangement.

How long do carnations last

This is where carnations take top spot against many other flower stems. With proper care, carnations can last up to 14 days, even longer in cases.

If the person you are sending flowers to tends to forget to change the water or is not particularly attentive with flowers, carnations are ideal.

Their name comes from the Latin coronation, meaning garland or crown and were used in ceremonial wreaths in ancient Greece and Rome, which is also the origin of their botanical name Dianthus, meaning flower of the gods.

How to care for them

Cut the stems at a 45 degree angle on arrival and remove any leaves that would sit below the waterline. Change the water every two to three days and re-trim the stems each time. Keep them away from direct sunlight and heat.

Carnations are available year round and often sent in a beautiful mixed flower arrangement.

Are carnations safe for cats and dogs

Unfortunately, carnations are mildly toxic to cats and dogs.

If you need a pet-safe alternative with a similar ruffled appearance, Lisianthus is the best option and is completely non-toxic to cats and dogs. However, keep in mind Lisianthus is in a higher price category.

When to send carnations

Pink carnations for Mother's Day or for any occasion where the message is lasting affection. 

Red for a first anniversary or a romantic occasion.

White for sympathy or for any context where simplicity and elegance are right.

A mixed arrangement of carnations in complementary colours, blush, white, and yellow, for example is great for sending a little bit of joy to your friends and family.

Carnations are also the traditional birth flower for January, making them a natural choice for winter birthday bouquets when other seasonal options are more limited.

FlowerFix offer carnations as part of mixed bouquets only.

Shop arrangements that contain carnations

This bouquet is designed weekly by our lead florist and loved by fashion magazines like Grazia. Available all year with free UK delivery from £34.

Related guides:

Roses Guide

All flower guides