Stefania Antonella Citti February 14, 2024 10:00
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The tulip is a fascinating flower, a symbol of love, innocence, purity and sweetness, especially red tulips. But what are the origins of this much loved and appreciated flower? And why is it considered the flower of love? Let’s discover together the history of the tulip and its connection with Valentine’s Day in this article.
History of the tulip
The history of the tulip is lost in antiquity, in those distant and exotic lands ranging from the Middle East to Asia. It is said that the first to cultivate tulips were the Turks in the 11th century, and the flower quickly became a symbol of power and wealth for the Ottoman nobility. The name tulip derives from the Turkish ‘tülbend’, which means ‘turban’, perhaps due to the shape of the flower which is somewhat reminiscent of that of this headdress. Tulips arrived in Europe in the 16th century, thanks to an Austrian ambassador to the court of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent, who was fascinated by them and decided to bring some bulbs to Vienna. In particular, tulips became very popular in the Netherlands, where they are still considered one of the symbols of the country today. At the beginning of the 17th century, ‘tulipomania’ also developed, an economic and social phenomenon which saw the prices of tulip bulbs skyrocket, until they became a real luxury good.
Flower of love, innocent, pure, sweetness
In addition to its historical and cultural significance, the tulip is also highly valued for its symbolic values. The tulip is in fact considered the flower of love, innocence, purity and sweetness. In particular, red tulips are considered the symbol of perfect love. Their elegant shape, velvety petals and intense color evoke the image of ardent and passionate love, but also of faithful and constant love.
Tulip on Valentine’s Day
For these reasons, tulips, and in particular red tulips, are a much appreciated gift for Valentine’s Day, the feast of lovers. A bouquet of red tulips is an original and romantic way to say “I love you” to your loved one, a gesture that never goes out of fashion. But tulips are not just a symbol of romantic love.
Each color has its own specific meaning: white tulips express forgiveness, yellow tulips symbolize impossible or unrequited love, while pink tulips represent delicate and tender love. Red tulips express pure love.
With their fascinating history, their symbolic meanings and their indisputable beauty, they represent a perfect gift to express your feelings and to celebrate love in all its forms. The Pisa flower corner will be happy to help you in the perfect choice to compose the bouquet for your special person. For Valentine’s Day a tulip is always a special thought.