Flower of the Month: Carnations, the Underdog of Blooms

Hello, friends! Let’s talk about a flower that doesn’t always get the love it deserves: the carnation. Now, before you roll your eyes and picture those tired grocery store bouquets (you know the ones), hear me out! Carnations are truly the underdog of the flower world—full of beauty, resilience, and a surprising amount of charm.

January’s flower has a fascinating history, rich symbolism, and a versatility that makes it a star in modern arrangements. So, let’s give carnations their moment to shine, shall we?

Fun Facts About Carnations

Did you know carnations have been around for over 2,000 years? These blooms are practically flower royalty! Native to the Mediterranean, their scientific name, Dianthus caryophyllus, means “flower of the gods.” (How’s that for a confidence boost?)

Carnations also come with layers of meaning:

• Love and affection: Perfect for a heartfelt gift.
• Fascination: A little spark of curiosity and intrigue.
• Distinction: Standing out from the crowd—just like carnations do when styled right!

Oh, and let’s not forget their staying power. These flowers are tough cookies—they last longer than most cut flowers, making them a great choice for people (like me) who sometimes forget to refresh the water in the vase.

How to Style Carnations in Modern Arrangements

Gone are the days of boring, single-color carnation bouquets. Today, these blooms are stealing the show in all kinds of chic designs. Here are a few ways I love to style them:

1. Monochrome Magic: Bunch together carnations in varying shades of the same color for a bold and modern look. Think blush pinks, deep reds, or creamy whites—it’s an easy way to make them look luxe!
2. Textural Contrast: Pair carnations with flowers that have different textures, like roses, ranunculus, or eucalyptus. Their soft ruffles add a lovely layer of interest.
3. Petite Charm: Use carnations in bud vases for a minimalist yet whimsical vibe. Place them on a desk, a bathroom counter, or as part of a reception table decoration—they’ll make any space pop!

Here at Twigs, we love working with carnations because they’re so versatile. Whether you’re choosing them for a San Diego flower delivery or as part of a custom arrangement, they bring something truly special to the table.

Why Carnations Deserve Your Love

Carnations are not only beautiful and resilient, but they’re also a thoughtful choice for any occasion. From brightening up an office desk with no windows to sending a meaningful arrangement to a loved one, carnations have a way of making people smile.

So, the next time you see carnations, give them a second look! These blooms have so much to offer—beauty, longevity, and a whole lot of personality.

If you’re inspired to bring some carnations into your life, give us a call or explore our Daily Floral Menu online. Whether you’re in Encinitas, Oceanside, or anywhere in San Diego, we’ll help you discover why carnations deserve a spot in your home or office.

Here’s to celebrating the underdogs and finding beauty in unexpected places! 🌼

Warmly,

Nancy