Florist's Guide to Different Varieties of Carnations

Carnations (Dianthus caryophyllus) are versatile and cherished flowers, renowned for their ruffled petals, pleasant fragrance, and impressive vase life. As one of the most popular flowers in the world, carnations come in various types and forms, each suited to different occasions and floral arrangements. This flower shop guide explores the different varieties of carnations and their unique characteristics.

1. Standard Carnations

• Appearance:

  • Single large bloom per stem with ruffled petals.

  • Blooms are full and round, often up to 3 inches in diameter.

• Colors: Wide range, including white, pink, red, yellow, purple, and bi-colored varieties.

• Uses:

  • Perfect as focal flowers in bouquets and arrangements.

  • Commonly used for weddings, funerals, and other formal events.

• Key Varieties:

  • ‘White Liberty’ (pure white).

  • ‘Chabaud Mix’ (variety of pastel and bright colors).

2. Spray Carnations (Mini Carnations)

• Appearance:

  • Multiple smaller blooms on a single stem, typically 1-2 inches in diameter.

  • Blooms are slightly less ruffled but still maintain the characteristic carnation shape.

• Colors: Available in nearly every shade, often with bi-colored options.

• Uses:

  • Ideal for filler flowers in mixed arrangements.

  • Suitable for corsages, boutonnieres, and small floral designs.

• Key Varieties:

  • ‘Baby Doll’ (soft pink).

  • ‘Floral Lace’ (delicate pastel hues).

3. Dwarf Carnations

• Appearance:

  • Compact plants with small flowers, typically used as potted or garden plants.

  • Blooms are densely packed with petals.

• Colors: Bright and cheerful shades like red, orange, and magenta.

• Uses:

  • Excellent for indoor or outdoor floral displays.

  • Often sold as potted gifts or decorative plants.

• Key Varieties:

  • ‘Superbena’ (vivid pink tones).

  • ‘Sunflor’ (vibrant orange and yellow).

4. Fringed Carnations

• Appearance:

  • Distinctive fringed or serrated edges on the petals, adding texture and drama.

• Colors: Available in soft pastel tones as well as bold, vibrant hues.

• Uses:

  • Perfect for contemporary floral designs.

  • Often used to add texture and interest to arrangements.

• Key Varieties:

  • ‘Giovanni’ (light pink fringed petals).

  • ‘Feathered Elegance’ (cream with fringed tips).

5. Giant Carnations

• Appearance:

  • Oversized blooms with a diameter of 4-5 inches.

  • Luxurious and dramatic, these carnations are highly ruffled.

• Colors: Classic shades like red, white, and pink are most common.

• Uses:

  • Ideal for grand bouquets and statement floral arrangements.

  • Often used in luxury or high-profile events.

• Key Varieties:

  • ‘King Arthur’ (deep crimson).

  • ‘Snowflake’ (pure white).

6. Striped Carnations

• Appearance:

  • Petals have striking stripes or variegated patterns in contrasting colors.

• Colors: Common combinations include red-and-white or pink-and-white stripes.

• Uses:

  • Symbolically used to convey regret or rejection in floriography.

  • Popular for vintage-style and romantic floral designs.

• Key Varieties:

  • ‘Candy Stripe’ (red and white).

  • ‘Starburst’ (pink and white).

7. Novelty Carnations

• Appearance:

  • Unusual shapes, petal patterns, or colors achieved through breeding or dyeing.

  • Includes green carnations or those with uniquely dyed hues.

• Colors: Wide spectrum, often vibrant or multicolored.

• Uses:

  • Great for creative and themed arrangements.

  • Often used in modern or abstract floral designs.

• Key Varieties:

  • Green ‘Shamrock’.

  • Bi-colored ‘Harlequin’.

8. Hardy Carnations (Garden Carnations)

• Appearance:

  • Sturdy stems with medium-sized blooms, bred for outdoor growth.

  • Often slightly less ruffled than florist-grade carnations.

• Colors: Predominantly red, pink, and white.

• Uses:

  • Perfect for gardens and landscaping.

  • Cut flowers can also be used for informal bouquets.

• Key Varieties:

  • ‘Hardy Mixed’ (garden-friendly in multiple colors).

  • ‘Doris’ (soft pink with coral centers).

Symbolism and Popular Uses of Carnations

• Symbolism by Color:

  • Red: Deep love and admiration.

  • White: Pure love and good luck.

  • Pink: Gratitude and motherly love.

  • Yellow: Rejection or disappointment (historically).

  • Green: Good luck and festive cheer (e.g., St. Patrick’s Day).

• Occasions:

  • Weddings: Pink and white carnations are popular in bridal bouquets.

  • Funerals: White carnations are used to convey remembrance and purity.

  • Everyday Arrangements: Bright spray carnations add a touch of joy to casual bouquets.

Care Tips for Carnations

• Hydration: Always cut stems at an angle and place in clean water with floral preservative.

• Temperature: Keep carnations in a cool environment to prolong their vase life.

• Pruning: Remove any leaves below the waterline to prevent bacterial growth.

• Lifespan: Carnations can last up to 14 days with proper care, making them a florist's favorite for durability.

Best Hong Kong florist tips

Carnations offer unmatched versatility and beauty, suitable for a wide range of floral designs. From their symbolic meanings to their diverse varieties, carnations remain a staple in both classic and modern floristry. By understanding the unique features of each type, florists can select the perfect carnation to complement any arrangement or occasion.