Just a little bit about the history of Valentine's Day:
Romans celebrated on February 15th the feast of Lupercalia.
This spring holiday was held in honor of the god Lupercus, protector
of the herd and crops. The people entreated to Lupercus to protect
their flocks and keep animals and people healthy and fertile through
singing and dancing. On the eve of this festival, young women
would put their names in a ceramic jar and every young man would
pick a name. They would be partners in the festivities and dances,
oft times they would not need to participate in this particular
event the next year.
Christian legends believe that Valentine's Day is the Feast
of St. Valentine, who was beheaded on February 14th under orders
of the Roman Emporer Claudius II. The Emperor believed that if
his men remained single his army would be larger. He wouldn't
lose men to wanting to stay home with the family. Valentine was
arrested and beheaded because he would secretly marry people forbidden
to wed. He became known as the patron saint of lovers.
Believing that Valentine's Day exists to celebrate the memory
of a saint who valued love and romance, many exchange love notes
or Valentines. Other believe that Valentine was later confused
with the Norman French word 'Galantin' meaning "Lover of
Women". Through the passage of time, the two have merged
with the result of St. Valentine being remembered as the parton
saint of lovers.
Aster: Talisman of love
Begonia: A fanciful nature
Carnation, red: Admiration
Carnation, white: Pure and ardent love
Chrysanthemum, red: I love you
Chrysanthemum, white: Truth
Daffodil: Regard
Daisy: Innocence, gentleness
Forget-me-not: True love
Globe amaranth: Unfading love
Hibiscus: Delicate beauty
Jasmine, white: Amiability
Jasmine, yellow: Modesty
Larkspur: An open heart
Pansy: Thoughtful recollection
Primrose: Young love
Rose, pink: Perfect happiness
Rose, white: Charm and innocence
Rose, red: Love and desire
Rose, white and red: Unity
Rosebud: Beauty and youth
Tuberose: Dangerous pleasure
Tulip: You are the perfect lover
Verbena: May you get your wish
Violet: Modesty and simplicity
