Language of Flowers

WASHINGTON, DC (WUSA) -- Snip, tuck and style. Designers at Johnson's Florist and Garden Center rush to fill hundreds of orders for Valentine's Day.

You may think the bouquet to give your sweetheart professes your undying love.

"Red is the symbol of passionate love."

But be careful because the flowers you chose may send a message you don't mean to convey.

"Begonia, that means beware," says Holly Shimizu.

She is the executive director at the U.S. Botanical Garden. She says flowers have a language all their own.

"The language of flowers was very popular in Elizabethan times. And then in Victorian times, it was as important as being dressed well," says Holly

And everyone, was expected to know and follow this complex code of communication.

Holly says, "It's almost like giving a poem to someone or something from your heart that has a deeper meaning."

You can't go wrong with roses. But, when you put them together with white roses and rosemary...

"Not only do I love you passionately, but our relationship is sacred, and don't forget it," says Holly.

On the other hand, a mix of Daffodils and Begonias say you're in a rocky relationship.

"I'm not certain, and beware because you better be cautious!"

Add a splash of Lavender and Holly says it means, "If you want this relationship to continue, you need luck!"

Feeling a little flirty? Bunch together Hyacinth, Shamrock and some Sweet William, and watch out.

"I want to play in a lighthearted way, and the most important element is so pursue me!"

So whether you want to acknowledge your love's shear beauty.

"The Orchid is a wonderful gift," Holly says.

Or their kindness and generosity.

Holly says, "The white Cyclamen means warm hearted.

What you can't put in words, you can say with flowers.

Holly says it only takes a few flowers to create one of these fanciful bouquets. So, you don't have to worry about spending a lot of money.

The Language of Flowers

Red Rose: I love you

Yellow Rose: Friendship

White Rose: Keep my secret

Pink Rose: Grace, Beauty

White Clyclamen: Warm hearted

Amaryllis: Splendid beauty

Hyacinth: Play

Shamrock: Light hearted

Orchid: A Beauty

Orange Blossom: Your beauty equals your loveliness

Daffodil: Uncertainty

Lavender: Luck

Begonia: Beware

Fuschia: Good Taste

Heliotrope: Devotion

Sweet William: Gallantry, pursuit

Crocus: Cheerfulness