Whether the mother in your life is a homebody or a career woman, humorous or solemn, flowers are a perfect gift to present on Mother's Day. This is a good day to remember your mother and to thank her for all that she has done for you, no matter how old you are, and now that you're no longer five, those crayon-drawings are going to look a lot less good! Flowers are an excellent way for you to show her your appreciation and gratitude.



Celebrated on the second Sunday in May in America, Mother's Day is actually celebrated in one way or another worldwide. One of the oldest references to a mothers day dates back to ancient Rome, that had a festival called Matronalia, where mothers were given gifts in the name of Juno, the goddess of marriage. In the United States, Mother's Day started after the Civil War, bringing recognition to the women who, while perhaps never seeing a battlefield, suffered and toiled and lost while the war raged on. The original American Mother's Day was a cry for peace and disarmament, but the holiday has since been associated with the temperance movement and with reform movements. From private celebrations that slowly gained in popularity, it was finally signed into governmental recognition by U.S. President Woodrow Wilson on May 14, 1914.

There is already a known formula for Mother's Day bouquets; roses and carnations are traditional, usually in pink, white, or red, but why restrict yourself? What if your mother doesn't care for those flowers or those colors? This can be a terrific opportunity for you to find out a little more about your mother. What were the first flowers she was ever given? What flowers does she like best and what are her favorite colors? There are many ways to find out what an appropriate bouquet might be and they can all have the benefit of learning something new about the woman who raised you.

The Victorian language of flowers, where each bloom has a specific meaning, tells us that cinquefoil and wood sorrel mean maternal tenderness. If you couple these dowdy plants with white periwinkles, for good memories or tulips, for love, you can send quite a powerful message.

Try to find a bouquet that will match your mother. Is she a quiet woman who prefers to stay in and read? Sterling roses come in a delicate palate of silvers and lavenders, cool and graceful, with an impression of elegance. Is your mother the life of the party and likes to live life at the highest volume possible? Consider a bouquet of birds of paradise, hibiscus, or tiger lilies, or all three together if a mix of oranges and purples reminds you of your mom.

Flowers a colorful, thoughtful gift that will let your mother know you were thinking of her. This year, go the extra mile and get her a bouquet that will knock her eyes out.