Carnations are the official birth flower for the month of January and in the language of flowers, these fragrant blossoms have a lot to say. Native to Eurasia, the Dianthus caryophyllus was named by the Greek botanist Theophrastus.

The name comes from “dios” and “anthos” meaning “flower of god” but it may also refer to the Greek goddess Diana. The common name “carnation” is thought to come from the Grecian ceremonial crowns or coronations once made from the flowers.  However it got its name, the delightful carnation is beloved today for its cheerful full blossom, spicy scent, and easy care requirements.

Chose one of the bright and beautiful arrangements from Griffin’s Birthday Collection.

Selecting Carnations for Bouquets

The variety of colors and sizes carnations are available along with their affordability make carnations one of the most popular cut flowers on the market. When choosing cut carnations look for these signs of freshness:

• Blossoms that are not fully opened
• Plump, undamaged heads and stems
• The glossy green color in stems and leaves with no signs of yellowing or wilting
• A spicy-sweet fragrance with no hint of decay – that’s a sign they’ve been sitting in water too long

Once home there are a few tricks you can use to help the long-lived carnation last even longer in a vase. First, remove most of the leaves and lower lateral branches, submerging greenery underwater in a vase promotes bacterial growth. Next, snip off one-half to one inch from the bottom of each stem with a pair of kitchen shears. Cutting the stem at an angle leaves more surface area for drinking in water. Make certain the vase is cleaned well and filled with freshwater, mix in a package of plant food. Change the water in the vase every three days or sooner if the water shows hints of cloudiness. By choosing the freshest carnations and maintaining them properly you can enjoy them for at least a week and maybe up to 14 days.

Carnation Combinations

A full bouquet of carnations is striking on its own, but if you wish to add more drama to a bouquet, especially if it’s for a January birthday some flowers do combine particularly well with the carnation. Baby’s breath adds a soft, misty texture, and spray roses complement carnations without competing. For a contrast in shapes pair lilies with their “open-hand” with the tight-fist of carnations. Gorgeous!

With so many reasons to love them don’t reserve carnations for January birthdays. Enjoy the god flower all year round.