5 Flowers That Say “I Love You” in Victorian Times (2024)

5 Flowers That Say "I Love You" in Victorian Times

Flowers that say I love you have long been a beautiful means to convey one's feelings. In today's world, white lilies are especially appropriate to express your deepest sympathies while red roses have long symbolized romantic love. In the Victorian age, that intent was heightened as Victorians used flowers to express complex emotions. So which I love you flowers are best for you?

If you are looking for different ways to say "I love you," look no further than the five flowers below for inspiration. These are some of the best gifts that say I love you:

1. Tulip

Tulips represent the first declaration of love in Victorian flower language. If you are saying "I love you" for the first time, they make an especially meaningful bouquet for the occasion. Since this moment is a significant event in your relationship, and will likely be looked back on in the future, the beloved tulip will sweeten the moment. With these flowers meaning I love you, you let her know how you feel and it give you both a wonderful memory in the future.

2. Purple Rose

Has your loved one put you under a spell? Do you dream of him or her often, think about them constantly, or walk around in a dreamy haze? Gift her purple or light purple (lavender) roses to let her know that she has bewitched you, in a very good way. Men equally appreciate flowers to say I love you, so don't be shy ladies! Signifying "enchantment," fresh purple roses heighten the romantic feelings between the two of you and show her just how much you think about her.

3. Alstroemeria

Also known as Peruvian lilies, alstroemeria are both beautiful and versatile. They're also one of the best flowers to say I love you. In the Victorian era, they were the symbol of devotion. If you want to express your commitment to her as well as your love, a bouquet of alstroemeria is a beautiful way to say "I love you and I am devoted to you." Pair this flower with red roses for that extra meaningful touch, or send them alone as flowers that express love.

4. Baby's Breath

In Victorian Times, baby's breath symbolized everlasting love. That's why these are known as flowers that mean I will love you forever. That's also why you always and forever see roses with baby's breath. What is a more beautiful way to "I love you forever" than with these delicate and lovely tiny blooms? Better yet--send her a baby's breath corsage before a special evening of romance.

5. Red Rose

Let's face it--this list would not be complete without the inclusion of red roses, the defining floral symbol of romantic love. With the most traditional flower delivery you can send these beautiful flowers to show love any time that you feel inspired to do so. In Victorian times, it is believed that the deeper the passion you feel for your loved one, the deeper the color the rose should be. This makes red roses the ultimate symbol of passionate, romantic love. This I love you flower melts hearts, grows affection and touches the very soul.

For more flower bouquets that help you express your love, browse our Romantic Flower Bouquets section.

Further Reading:
Kirkby, Mandy (2011) A Victorian Flower Dictionary. New York, New York: Ballantine Books