
Once a prom-night staple and grocery store regular, the carnation has carried an unfair reputation in some floral circles as too common, too frilly, or dare we say, dated. But here at Cascade Floral Wholesale in Everett, Washington, we’re ready to set the record straight: Carnations are one of the most underrated, underappreciated blooms out there, and we’re absolutely obsessed with them. With their frilly petals, rainbow of colors, and surprising durability, carnations are experiencing a quiet comeback in modern floral design. For those planning a lush wedding installation, a petite desk arrangement, or a bold editorial bouquet, carnations are ready for their close-up.
Carnations Last Forever (Okay, Almost)
First things first: longevity. Carnations are some of the hardiest cut flowers you can use in arrangements. While some blooms start to wilt after just a few days, carnations can easily last 10 to 14 days, sometimes even longer with a fresh trim and clean water.
That makes them a dream for florists and DIY aficionados lovers alike; you get more value out of each stem, and clients enjoy arrangements that stay vibrant well beyond the day of delivery. For events, this staying power means centerpieces and installations still look fresh long after the last dance. For everyday bouquets, it’s a win-win: beauty that lasts.
A Rainbow of Colors (Including Some Unexpected Ones)
If you thought carnations only came in pink and red, prepare to be amazed! Carnations are available in an impressive range of hues — from classic whites and blushes to moody burgundies, peachy corals, sunny yellows, deep purples, and even green and blue varieties.
And thanks to their natural ability to absorb color, carnations are easy to dye or tint, making them a go-to blossom for creating unique shades or matching a very specific palette. Want a peach fuzz moment? A monochromatic wine-stained bouquet? An ombré design from lavender to lilac? Carnations can pull it off beautifully.
Their versatility also makes them ideal for themed events, creative photo shoots, or trend-forward floral styling. You dream it, carnations can deliver.
Sculptural and Stylish, Not Just Fluffy
Here’s a secret many people overlook: Carnations can be incredibly sculptural. Their ruffled petals and strong stems allow designers to play with form, density, and repetition in a way that other blooms can’t always handle.
Carnations are often used in mass groupings to create fluffy clouds, floral spheres, or even flower walls. They can hold shape beautifully in structured arrangements, offer volume in bridal bouquets, and are perfect for floral foam installations or intricate designs like wreaths and garlands.
When clustered tightly, they read as modern and luxe. When paired with textural elements like dried grasses or berries, they strike a stunning contrast. They’re the perfect canvas for creativity.
Full of Meaning: Carnation Symbolism Through the Decades
Carnations go beyond being beautiful; they’re also steeped in rich symbolism and cultural meaning. Throughout history, these flowers have stood for love, admiration, and remembrance.
*Pink carnations are said to symbolize a mother’s love, making them a traditional favorite for Mother’s Day.
*White carnations often stand for purity and good luck.
*Red carnations express romantic love and deep affection.
*Purple carnations can symbolize unpredictability or adventurousness.
*In some cultures, striped carnations even represent sympathy or remembrance.
These layers of meaning make carnations especially powerful for memorial arrangements, anniversaries, graduations, or even wedding vows. They add emotional depth to your bouquet and they look gorgeous doing it.
A Light Fragrance That’s Easy to Love
If you’ve ever held a bouquet up close and been overwhelmed by the scent, you’ll appreciate this final point: Carnations have a soft, clove-like fragrance that’s light, sweet, and never overpowering.
For those who are sensitive to strong floral scents (or sending flowers to scent-free venues like hospitals, offices, or scent-restricted event spaces), carnations strike the perfect balance. You get a subtle fragrance that adds to the sensory experience, without becoming distracting or heavy. Plus, they blend well with more fragrant florals, so if you’re pairing them with roses or lilies, carnations won’t compete for attention. They simply play their part beautifully.
Trendy or not, carnations deserve their moment. They’re resilient, expressive, versatile, and deeply meaningful — all the things we want our floral work to be. At Cascade Floral Wholesale, we love celebrating the unexpected, and carnations continue to surprise us with their strength and beauty, time and time again.