Monday, August 19, 2013

Honor, Faithfulness and Passion

August's flower, the gladiolus has a history that spans from Africa to the Mediterranean.   To the ancient Romans, a gladius was a sword, and a little sword was a gladiolus -- often used by gladiators. 

The Roman author Pliny the Elder applied the word gladiolus to the flower that is distinguished by its long, sword-shaped leaves, and the name stuck. 

Gladiolus are a romantic choice for weddings both because of their beauty and boldness, but also in meaning.  In the language of flowers gladiolus represent remembrance, strength of character, honor and faithfulness.  




Gladiolus also represent infatuation.  To present a bouquet of gladiolus to a lover is to tell that person that they have pierced your heart with passion and love.





Vase with Red Gladioli (1886) byVincent van Gogh


No comments: