Red Carnations : A Story of History, Symbolism, and Occasions

Carnations have a long history and a special place in our hearts. They have been a part of our stories, legends, and traditions for centuries, especially the red carnations. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the captivating history of Red carnations, what they symbolize, and the special occasions where they make meaningful gifts. Let’s get started!

A Glimpse into Carnation’s Rich History

Here’s a concise chart with information about Red Carnations:

Carnations have been around for a very long time, making appearances in art, myths, and even religious interpretations. You can spot them in paintings by Leonardo Da Vinci, and they hold a special place in ancient stories. These flowers have even become a symbol for Mother’s Day, showcasing their historical and cultural significance.

Red Carnations in the Ottoman Empire

The Ottoman Empire, which is now modern-day Turkey, had a deep appreciation for carnations. They called them “karanfil” and used them to decorate fine silks and turbans. The combination of the rich red color and gold decorations represented nobility and loyalty. The art of weaving carnations into fabrics was so intricate that it made these flowers incredibly valuable. The Ottomans even used flowers, including carnations, to send secret messages, a practice known as “The Language of Flowers.”

Diana and the Shepherd: A Mythical Tale

Red carnations are also part of the legend of Diana, the Roman goddess of the hunt. In one version of the story, Diana comes across a shepherd after an unsuccessful hunt and, in her anger, takes his life by tearing out his eyes. In another version, a love story unfolds between Diana and the shepherd, leading to the same tragic ending. In both versions, red carnations bloom from the shepherd’s eye sockets as a sign of Diana’s remorse, which is why the French word for carnation is “oeillet,” meaning “little eyes.”

The Impactful Carnation Revolution

The Carnation Revolution in Portugal on April 25, 1974, was a significant event. What makes it even more fascinating is that red carnations played a central role. After the revolution’s success, people took to the streets, placing red and white carnations into the muzzles of guns and rifles as a symbol of peace and unity. These fragrant flowers became an emblem of the revolution, representing the people’s hope for a better future.

May Day and the Fight for Workers’ Rights

May Day, also known as International Workers’ Day, is a day with a deep history in the labor movement. Red carnations became a symbol for this day, signifying solidarity and the struggle for workers’ rights. This tradition dates back to the late 19th century when labor activists fought for an eight-hour workday. On May 1, 1886, a general strike took place across the United States, demanding this important labor reform. People wear or place red carnations as a tribute to the sacrifices made by workers in their ongoing struggle for labor rights.

The Significance of Red Carnations in Spain

In Spain, red carnations are the national flower. They are a part of various traditions and events. People often throw red carnations at matadors during bullfighting events as a sign of respect. This tradition started when a young matador was fatally injured by a bull, and mourners surrounded his coffin with red carnations. Today, many continue to honor him by tossing red carnations. These vibrant blooms also feature prominently at the Feria de Abril, an annual festival in Seville, where flamenco dancers adorn themselves with red carnations.

Red Carnations: What They Symbolize

Red carnations are known for symbolizing love and devotion, just like many other red flowers. But their meaning goes beyond romance. They also represent workers’ rights, socialism, and cultural pride in many countries, especially in Spain. Their scientific name, “Dianthus caryophyllus,” has a special significance, with “Dios” meaning “God” and “anthos” meaning “flower” in Greek. This makes them the “Flower of the Gods” in Eastern religions, symbolizing divinity and faith.

Red Carnations: Perfect for Special Occasions

Red carnations make wonderful gifts on various occasions. They are an ideal choice for expressing love and devotion on Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, and birthdays. You can also give red carnations on Mother’s Day, although some prefer lighter shades of red or white and red variegated carnations for this special day.

Growing and Caring for Red Carnations

If you’re thinking of growing red carnations in your garden, there are some things to keep in mind. These beautiful flowers thrive in well-drained soil with organic matter in USDA zones 6-10. When planting, choose a sunny spot as they love sunlight. Space the seeds about 12 inches apart to ensure proper growth, or start the seeds indoors and transplant them later. Keep the soil consistently moist, but don’t overwater, and remove any weeds to help your carnations thrive.

Taking Care of Cut Red Carnations

Whether you’re growing your own or buying red carnations from a florist, you’ll want to keep them fresh for as long as possible. To do this, trim their stems at a 45-degree angle and place them in a vase with fresh water. Remove any fallen leaves to prevent bacterial growth. Change the water every two to three days, making sure it’s at room temperature. You can also consider adding flower food to extend the life of your cherished red carnations.

In conclusion, red carnations are not just beautiful flowers; they are vessels of history, culture, and symbolism. From ancient myths to modern revolutions, these red blooms continue to captivate our hearts and tell stories that transcend time. Whether you’re gifting them to express love or to honor the struggle for workers’ rights, red carnations are a powerful symbol with a rich and diverse heritage.