Snapdragon
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One of the most peculiar species of flower, the snapdragon, has a complicated place in Victorian culture. It was regarded as a symbol for both deception and graciousness, but if a snapdragon was sent to someone with a hyacinth (known for truth), then it meant that the giver was sorry for their mistakes.
Sunflower
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Vincent van Gogh famously painted twelve canvases of sunflowers, seven of which he used to decorate his home in Arles. Although Van Gogh was drawn to their bright colors, in Victorian culture, a tall sunflower meant false riches, and a small one expressed adoration.
Tulip
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Looking at the happy tulip, one can't help but think of the Netherlands and their famous “tulip mania,” during which the bulbs became so popular they were used as currency. Victorians had a very different interpretation of the flower, as to them it symbolized charity.
Verbena
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Verbena is a flower with many religious connotations, having the nicknames of Holy Herb, Herb of the Cross, and Devil's Bane. The Victorian meaning of verbena was of a similar vein: pray for me.
Violet
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The delicate violet meant faithfulness and modesty.
Yarrow
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Typically recognized as the sidekick in a larger bouquet, yarrow flowers were a symbol for healing.
Zinnia
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One of the brightest blooms in the garden, zinnia flowers are easy to grow and long-lasting. Likewise, Victorians believed zinnias symbolized thoughts of an absent friend.
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