Carnations

General Meaning: In Western culture, carnations are often associated with love and fascination, but their symbolism can vary depending on the color of the flower.

Red Carnations: Represent love, admiration, and deep affection. They are often used in bouquets for romantic occasions like Valentine's Day or anniversaries.

Pink Carnations: Symbolize gratitude, a mother’s love, and a reminder of eternal love. Pink carnations are commonly given on Mother’s Day.

White Carnations: Represent purity, innocence, and remembrance. White carnations are often used in funeral arrangements as a way of honoring and remembering the deceased.

Yellow Carnations: These are associated with disappointment, rejection, or a sense of unrequited love.

Symbolism: In Chinese culture, flowers often carry deep meanings. The carnation is generally seen as a symbol of love and affection, much like in the West. However, it can also represent the family and is considered to convey good fortune and prosperity.

Mother's Day: Like in the West, carnations are popular flowers to give on Mother’s Day, symbolizing maternal love and appreciation.

Symbolism: In Japan, carnations are often given as gifts for special occasions, especially for Mother’s Day, where they symbolize deep love and respect for one’s mother. Red carnations represent love, while pink carnations are seen as symbols of admiration and appreciation.

Festivals and Celebrations: Carnations are also a part of various flower festivals in Japan, as they are appreciated for their beauty and vivid colors.

Symbolism: In Italy, carnations are often associated with religious and spiritual symbolism. They are believed to represent the “eternal love of Christ” due to their long-lasting nature and vibrant colors. Carnations are also used in various Catholic rituals and ceremonies. 

Symbolism: The carnation holds a particularly important place in Portuguese history, especially because of the Carnation Revolution (April 25, 1974), which was a peaceful military coup that overthrew the authoritarian regime. The revolution is named after the flowers because the Portuguese revolutionaries wore red carnations in their gun barrels and placed them on the doors of the government buildings. The carnation came to symbolize peace, freedom, and national unity. 

Symbolism: In Spain, carnations are highly valued as symbols of passion, especially red carnations. They are often seen at celebrations like weddings and other significant events. The flower is linked with flamenco dancing, and it is sometimes used as an accessory by dancers to symbolize passion, beauty, and grace. 

Symbolism: In France, carnations are often linked to admiration and love. They are frequently given in the form of bouquets for romantic occasions, though each color holds its own meaning—red carnations for love and respect, white for purity, and pink for affection. 

Symbolism: In Mexico, carnations are traditionally used during Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos) celebrations, where they symbolize the continuation of life after death. They are often included in altars as offerings to loved ones who have passed away, representing both remembrance and the eternal bond between the living and the dead. 

Symbolism: In Turkey, carnations can symbolize respect, admiration, and gratitude. They are often given as gifts to teachers, elders, and individuals deserving of honor. In some areas, the carnation is also seen as a symbol of religious devotion and is sometimes associated with spiritual rituals.