August 24, 2012
History and Meaning of Gerbera Daisies
Primary Significance: The fifth most popular flower in the world, Gerbera daisies can mean innocence, purity, and cheerfulness. These large daisy variations come in a number of vibrant colors, and sending them is the perfect way to brighten someone’s day.
When you want to send the gift of cheer, Gerbera daisies are your sure choice. Distinguished by large flowering heads that closely resemble those of sunflowers, Gerbera daisies come in a vibrant rainbow of colors. Bright pink, snow white, sunny yellow, and ruby red are just a few of the gorgeous colors that these happy flowers boast. The Gerbera daisy was discovered in 1884 near Barberton, South Africa, by Scotsman Robert Jameson. While the flower’s scientific name, Gerbera jamesonii, recollects the name of its founder, the meaning of its common name draws from German naturalist Traugott Gerber. Breeding programs that began in England in 1890 enhanced the flower’s quality and color variations.
The Gerbera daisy’s popularity soon traveled to growers in the Netherlands which, along with Columbia, is the primary distributor of the flower’s cut version today. The Gerbera currently ranks as the fifth most popular flower in the world behind the rose, carnations, chrysanthemum, and tulip. Their meanings stem from those attributed to the general daisy family and include innocence and purity, as well as being a classic symbol of beauty. However, the Gerbera variety holds an added meaning of cheerfulness, which is attributed to their perky variety of colors. An assorted bouquet of Gerbera daisies can quickly lift the spirit and are an ideal way to brighten someone’s day.
The sheer multitude of available colors has helped the Gerbera daisy become a favorite choice for many different occasions from birthdays, get well, congratulations, thank you and many more. There are many types of flowers which can help to express our thoughts and feelings for our loved ones, but the Gerbera daisy and its meaning stand out as one of the most distinctly bright and merry. With its bold and striking appearance, the Gerbera daisy has become the most highly-prized daisy variety. When you send Gerbera daisies, know that these fresh flowers convey a deeply meaningful message and make a lively lasting impression.