Assignment 201 – task B SYMBOLISM C&G Level 2 Award, Certificate and Diploma in Floristry Gaynor Couturier

Symbolism relates closely to flower type, flower colour, culture and emotion Funerals are one of the areas where people hold on to floral symbolism, but these days most steer away from lilies because it makes them think of death Culture plays a part, for example Greek people won't use purple flowers because purple is a symbol of death for them. http://www.smh.com.au/lifestyle/life/the-secret-code-of-flowers-20110329-1ce0q.html#ixzz2mEsvWWcS

Calla lily The Calla lily has some underlying meanings and is a symbol of death in some cultures, so if you are to recommend it to a customer, make sure that the person understands the meaning and that they are ok with it.

GREEN Green was a sacred colour to the Egyptians representing the hope and joy of Spring. • Green is a sacred colour to Muslims.

PURPLE Variations of purple convey different meanings: Light purples are light-hearted, floral, and romantic. The dark shades are more intellectual and dignified. The negative meanings of purple are decadence, conceit, and pomposity. Purple is also a colour of mourning. One of the most significant aspects of purple’s symbolism is the generational divide. There’s a huge difference of opinions about purple. It all depends on age. Most young people view purple as a happy colour. Older adults view the colour through a broader perspective. Furthermore, purple takes on new meanings in many cultures.

Early traditions also used white roses as a symbol for true love, an association which would later become the hallmark of the red roses. However, white roses continue to endure and retain their symbolism of innocence. White roses are now used to express a number of different sentiments. Also known as the bridal rose, the white rose is a traditional wedding flower. In this sense, they are a representation of unity, virtue, and the pureness of a new bond of love. White roses are also a symbol for young love, which further strengthens the association, and makes them ideal for marriages. Bridal bouquets are often comprised of white roses and other white flowers. White roses are also associated with honour and reverence, which makes them a fitting memorial for a departed loved one. Funeral and sympathy arrangements traditionally incorporate white roses as a part of the tribute. As a symbol of remembrance, the white rose represents heavenliness and is an expression of spiritual love and respect.

WHITE While white represents death in many Asian cultures, it is simultaneously a symbol of purity and innocence in many European and American cultures