Today we are going to talk to you about the carnations and their symbolism in Portuguese culture.

The carnation is a plant that can reach about one meter in height. Its flowers are the carnations, which currently exceed 300 species.

The original color of the carnation flower is a pinkish purple, with several jagged petals. However, there are other hybrid colors, such as white, red, yellow, and various shades, often the result of mixtures of pigments.

Photo: Plantei

The origins of the carnation are European, and some species emanate a delicate aroma, which leads them to be used in the manufacture of perfumes.

The ideal habitat for this plant are warm, sandy, fertile, well-drained soils with little humidity. However, they require frequent watering and are sensitive to lack of aeration.

The carnations can be perennial, give flower during the year, or annual, whose tendency is to bloom in the summer.

The symbolism of the carnations goes back to the Greek history, where it was used in the crowns for the ceremonies. Later, in the Renaissance, it was associated with matrimonial fidelity, and in Korea the love of the parents.

In Portugal, and because tomorrow is celebrated the 44th anniversary of the Carnation Revolution, also known as the Revolution of April 25, the red carnation is the symbol of revolution and freedom. On the other hand, white carnations symbolize mothers who have already died.

Carnation Revolution. Photo: Conexão Lusófona

                                                                                                                                     Ler em Português
                                                                                                                         Author: Susana Martinho