The symbolic use of the language of flowers is universal, and the whole story needs telling, which we do so here. In our own digging for answers on some of the most asked questions regarding the language of flowers, we learn about the floral roots predating the Victorian era and how African cultures created their own rituals based on floral symbolism.

Why do we think of the Victorians when we think of the language of flowers? This is a question Lydia, a letter writer and blogger at Floracracy, only recently began to ask herself after graduating with an English degree and started working for Floracracy. Her quest in the literature realm of the Victorians led her to ask the question about how they impacted language in the way we use it today.

The lei tradition has changed significantly since ancient times. From what used to be reserved for the upper class now is for everyone and represent the spirit of aloha, i.e. affection, respect, honor and love. Capturing the spirit of aloha, lei are typically given to honor significant milestones such as weddings, birthdays, and graduations.