Guide to flowers

Someone says Valentine's Day presents, and we automatically think: Chocolate. Jewelry. Flowers. While candy and jewelry are fairly straightforward, the notion of picking out the "right" flowers can be a bit daunting, especially if your intended recipient is not necessarily the Love of your Life. Whether you're buying for a wife, husband, girlfriend, boyfriend, friend, mother or even child, there are different flowers for different intentions.

Roses, of course, are the most commonly sought after flower for Valentine's Day, but did you know that different colours symbolize different meanings? While most of us associate the flowers with love, roses are a symbol of confidentiality; the Latin expression sub rosa (literally "under the rose") means something told in secret.

Following is a list of the different colours and what they mean when you bestow them on someone you care about.

red
The ultimate symbol of romantic love and enduring passion, the red rose also conveys respect and the creative spirit of love. Representing true love stronger than thorns, the red rose is known universally as the lover's rose.

white
Representing humility, purity and innocence, the white rose — often referred to as the bridal rose — is associated with young love. Also symbolizing truth and reverence, it sends a message of loyalty and says "I am worthy of you."

yellow
While in Victorian times the yellow rose symbolized jealousy, today it represents friendship, joy and caring. A bouquet of these sun-filled blossoms conveys warmth, gladness and affection.

pink
Symbolizing gentility, femininity, elegance and refinement, the pink rose also carries additional meanings depending on its hue. A deep pink conveys gratitude and appreciation, while pale shades connote grace and gentleness, admiration and happiness.

orange
With their warm, vibrant tones, orange roses symbolize enthusiasm and desire. If you're looking for a way to express admiration and attraction — with an underlying message of passion and excitement — then this colour is perfect.

lilac & purple
Thought to be almost mystical in nature, with symbolism tied to enchantment, desire and even proceeding cautiously, lilac and purple roses send a message of love at first sight, a great Valentine flower.

multi-coloured
In some instances — usually when mixing red with another colour rose -— you can send additional messages with your choice of bouquet. For example, a combination of red and yellow roses conveys joy and happiness, while a mix of red and white roses symbolizes unity.

And there are still other ways that roses can convey your message on February 14. Fresh flowers in a bouquet, like roses in full bloom, express deep gratitude, while a single rose says "I still love you." A bouquet of rosebuds, representing innocent love, says "you are forever young and beautiful." And a thornless rose says "love at first sight," while the tea rose says "I'll remember you always."

So, this Valentine's Day, even if you're not the most eloquent person, there's still hope: walk confidently into the nearest florist shop and let the flowers do the talking for you.

With info from teleflora.com