Carnations and Their Meanings: A Classic Mother's Day Bloom
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When you think of Mother’s Day, there’s one flower that often comes to mind — the humble yet deeply meaningful carnation. Across many cultures, carnations have been closely linked to love, admiration, and gratitude — the perfect emotions for celebrating mothers around the world.
In Thailand, where Mother’s Day is traditionally celebrated in August, white jasmine is the most iconic flower. But for the international Mother’s Day celebrated every second Sunday of May, carnations are a beautiful and meaningful choice.
Let’s explore the symbolism behind these blooms and why they remain one of the top picks for Mother's Day gifts.
A Brief History of Carnations
Carnations have a long and rich history. Ancient Greeks and Romans used them in ceremonial crowns, and their name is thought to derive from the Latin word "carnis," meaning flesh, due to their natural pinkish hue. Over time, carnations have been cultivated into a variety of colors, each carrying its own special meaning.
What Carnation Colors Symbolize
- Pink Carnations: Symbolize a mother’s undying love. Legend says that pink carnations first bloomed from the Virgin Mary's tears, making them the traditional Mother's Day flower.
- White Carnations: Represent pure love, innocence, and remembrance. In some cultures, they are worn to honor a mother who has passed away.
- Red Carnations: Signify admiration and deep affection — perfect for showing appreciation to a living mother.
- Yellow Carnations: Convey disappointment or rejection, so they’re generally avoided for celebratory occasions like Mother's Day.
Why Carnations Are a Top Choice for Mother's Day
- Long-lasting: Carnations are known for their impressive vase life, staying fresh longer than many other cut flowers.
- Beautifully Fragrant: Their subtle yet sweet fragrance adds an extra touch of warmth to any bouquet.
- Affordable and Accessible: You can create stunning arrangements without needing a large budget.
Celebrating Mother's Day in Thailand with Carnations
If you’re an expat living in Thailand or sending flowers to a loved one here, carnations offer a lovely way to connect with the Mother’s Day tradition in May.
You can even pair them with traditional Thai elements like a small garland (พวงมาลัย) for a culturally blended and heartfelt gift.
Looking for a perfect Mother’s Day bouquet?
Check out our Pom Pom Love - Carnation Bouquet — a soft and sweet arrangement designed to capture the spirit of love and appreciation.
Ready to make her day extra special?
At Best Bloom Buddy, we offer beautiful carnation arrangements and customizable options to make your gift truly memorable — with same-day delivery available across Bangkok and major cities in Thailand.
Order your Mother's Day flowers today!