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Rebecca Bates Click to enlarge. Express your love with plants, flowers

By Rebecca Bates

Horticulturist
MSU Extension Service

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, many people start thinking of giving roses to their sweetie, but they often worry that their choice will send the wrong message on this day dedicated to love.

Valentine’s Day has many legends surrounding its origin, but the truth is, no one really knows much about its beginnings. Some say St. Valentine of Rome is the saint associated with this holiday, while others claim it is St. Valentine of Terni. Both died on Feb. 14.

Savvy gardeners know they can share a message from the heart this Valentine’s Day with the flowers they give. Tradition says red tulips tell the recipient, “I love you.” (Photo by Scott Corey) Click to enlarge
Savvy gardeners know they can share a message from the heart this Valentine’s Day with the flowers they give. Tradition says red tulips tell the recipient, “I love you.” (Photo by Scott Corey)

One thing we do know is that Valentine’s Day did not become associated with love and romance until sometime between the 11th and 13th centuries.

While the day’s origin may be a mystery, the meaning is unmistakable. Valentine’s Day is the day we choose to honor the ones we love most.

Flowers, plants, cards or jewelry are all acceptable gifts at my house, but more times than not, plants or flowers become the gift of choice. My husband and I are both horticulturists, so we can’t go wrong giving each other a plant or flower our heart has been yearning for.

In case you didn’t know, plants and flowers have a language of their own. They are considered a perfect replica of human life – planting, growth, bloom, withering.

While doing some research on plants, I was amazed at the number of varieties that are known for their sentiment of love or passion.

In honor of St. Valentine’s Day, here are a few plants you may want to consider giving to the passionate gardener on your list of loved ones:

For you guys or girls who have a hard time expressing your feelings -- let the flower speak for you. A yellow tulip will say “there’s sunshine in your smile”; a violet says “I’ll always be there”; or a white camellia tells the recipient “you’re adorable.”

Do you want to declare your love? A bouquet of red tulips or red roses will do the trick. If the love of your life isn’t a gardener, include a little note that helps him or her understand the message of the flowers you give.

Most importantly, enjoy the day. Have fun and remember the ones you love this Valentine’s Day with plants or flowers.

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Released February 4, 2010
Contact: Rebecca B. Bates, (601) 835-3460
301 South First Street Room 201, Brookhaven, MS 39601

Editor's Note: Ideal publication dates of Southern Gardening columns are within one month of their release. Editors should examine older columns carefully for any information that could be time sensitive.

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