Choosing the right flowers for Valentine’s Day

Whatever your relationship status, whoever or however you love, there's a flower for that (or them!) It's all down to a little something called floriography or the language of flowers. You see, every flower has a hidden meaning to help you spell out your love, particularly helpful on Valentine's Day! But don’t worry if you’re feeling a little less than fluent when it comes to flower speak, that’s where we come in. In preparation for Valentine’s Day we’ve put together a bumper guide to flowers that signify love in all its glorious forms, so you can be sure you’re special someone (or someones) have blooms that are just right for them.

Perfect Valentine's Day flowers for a new relationship

Red Roses

A classic for a reason, red roses are the iconic symbol of love and romance. But did you know the number you send is also symbolic?

A single red rose = love at first sight

Six red roses = infatuation

12 red roses = be mine

23 red roses = I’m yours

More than 24 = they really want to impress!

For a new love opt for a single, six, or a dozen. And remember not all red roses were created equal. Our florists only use the highest quality roses (a cut above the supermarket kind) meaning they have a long stem, bigger head, higher petal count and more luscious hue. Or to put it in other words, they’re picked to wow.

Ranunculus

With its swirly petals ranunculus is the more affordable peony, and to be frank, it’s just as beautiful. And it’s the perfect bloom for a new love on Valentine’s because it means ‘dazzled by your charms’. Handier still, ranunculi come in red if you’d like to stick to the classic colour of love. Delight them with a bunch of straight up ranunculus or ask your florist for a mixed bouquet featuring these dainty blooms.

Best flowers for a long-lasting love

Blooms for love that’s survived ups, downs, round and rounds. Here are the Valentine's Day flowers we recommend for a love that’s tried, tested and still going strong.

Red roses

Yep, them again. Good for new loves and old ones, sometimes you can’t beat a red rose. For a love that’s stood the test of time go big and send 23 (which mean ‘I’m yours’) or even more, for a really showstopper gesture.

Peonies

These fluffy fabulous blooms will set you back a little more on Valentine’s Day as they’re out of season, but they do symbolise a happy marriage, so might be worth splashing out on.

Gerberas

The bigger, brighter daisy gerberas are a long-lasting delight. And they symbolise loyal love too making them a great pick for an old love on Valentine’s.

Flowers to give a best friend or galentine

February is the month of love but who says that has to be all love hearts and cupids? In fact it’s a month to celebrate love in all shapes and sizes, so let’s hear it for the flowers that symbolise friendship.

Alstroemeria

These gorgeous blooms come in jewel-like colours and last for ages, making them a strong choice whatever the occasion. But they also symbolise friendship and devotion – brilliant for celebrating your besties.

Yellow roses

Symbolising friendship, buttery yellow roses are beautiful and meaningful. They’re also great for brightening up the days in February when the grey might be stretching on a bit.

Stocks

How we love stocks! They smell gorgeous, come in all sorts of sweet pastel shades and they symbolise a long, happy life and lasting bonds of affection. How delightful.

Flowers for family

Maybe your mum used to send you Valentine’s cards, now’s your chance to return the favour. Here are the best blooms for your clan.

Carnations

These flowers get a bad rap as filler flowers but some varieties are just charming (your florist will have this sussed don’t worry). Plus they last a long time and come in all sorts of wonderful shades. As for symbolism, they’re said to represent fascination – and haven’t we all be fascinated by our families at one point or another?!

Sunflowers

You can probably guess the meaning of these bright beauties – they represent happiness and joy, making them just right for the one in the family who always puts a smile on your face.

Pink roses

You’d think they represent romance, but pink roses actually symbolise gratitude and admiration. They’re a great choice for someone in the family who’s given you some extra TLC or support the past year.

Flowers from a secret admirer

Think carefully before sending blooms surreptitiously, not everyone is a fan of a surprise delivery. But if you’re sure they’ll love something special from a secret admirer, here are some blooms to consider.

Red roses

The Valentine’s icon, send six to signify your infatuation or a classic dozen to show them you’re serious.

Orchids

Exotic and striking, these will certainly make a statement. They symbolise passion and fiery love so save them for the Valentine’s that’s got your knees knocking.

Pink Camellia

The soft pink symmetry of the camellia is a delight. They signify longing, love and admiration – spot on for a sneaky surprise Valentine’s.

Valentine's Day flowers for someone who doesn't like red roses

Okay so they're not Cupid’s number one fan, but that doesn’t mean they have to miss out on a little loveliness. These blooms are perfect for showing your admiration, without the clichés.

Red tulips

Skip the traditional roses and opt for vibrant red tulips. Signifying perfect love they’re a great fit for Valentine’s as well as hailing the coming spring.

Hydrangeas

A gorgeous statement flower, hydrangeas represent gratitude or heartfelt feeling – an understated Valentine we can really get behind.

Still stuck? Count on your florist!

Hopefully you’re a little more clued up on the lovely language of flowers, but don’t panic if all those meanings are muddled – you can always rely on your florist. With years of expertise and knowledge, our fabulous florist community will pick just the right blooms to help you express your love, your way.