Enjoying a global popularity, the Carnation is amongst the oldest flowers on Earth, its name being mentioned in legends, mythology, biblical references and even folklore. On a more scientific note, the Carnation belongs to the Caryophyllaceae family and to the Dianthus genus, being botanically referred to as the Dianthus caryophyllus. Most people call it simply the carnation and it’s easily to recognize because of its simple and uncomplicated flower. The Carnation’s originating place seems to be the Mediterranean region and the flower is known to be enjoying over 2000 years of extensive cultivation.
In the Greek culture the name of this flower can be translated as the “flower of Zeus” and it’s also a symbol for mesmerizing charm and devoted love.
Measuring up to 80 cm in height, the stem of the Carnation produces a cyme sweetly scented flower at the top, while being accompanied by green to different shades of blue-grayish leaves.
For the proper cultivation of the Carnation, it is required a well-drained and rich in resources soil which can sustain the Carnation’s need to expand in height. The Carnation is amongst the most cultivated plants and also, amongst the best-sold flowers in the United Kingdom. The original color of the Carnation was pink, but nowadays cultivators have managed to obtain colors such as white, green, yellow and red. Also, combinations of these colors are possible.
Although highly cultivated worldwide, the Carnation is not a plant easily nurtured as it’s threatened by certain plant diseases. Some of these diseases are of bacterial nature (Bacterial leaf spot, Crown gall, Fasciation), or they can be fungal, parasitic or viral diseases susceptible. If they are well nurtured and cultivated within the highest standards of luminosity and humidity, the Carnations can grow into becoming beautiful flowers not only appreciated for their appearance, but also for their scent.
The symbolism surrounding this flower is amazing. The flower is known to express different things in different cultures, for instance, in eastern European countries they are bought at funerals of the beloved ones to express regret, while in the Western cultures they are bought as a gift to express one’s devotion, respect and admiration for the beloved ones and offered to when celebrating national days such as the Mother’s day or the Teacher’s. The flower represents also the emblem of many fraternities in the United States and it’s also the chosen state flower of Ohio. The symbolism of this flower depends also on its color, one example being the Canadian people who wear a red Carnation if their mother is still living, and a white one if their mother has passed away.
The charming appearance of the Carnation makes it eligible for special flower arrangements and for decorative purposes at special events and occasions.
Carnation Pictures Gallery
