Before knowing the meaning of the term carnation, we are going to determine its etymological origin. In this case, we can state that it is a word of Latin origin. Specifically, it comes from “clavus”, which means “to close”.
It is a plant that is part of the Caryophyllaceae family group and is characterized by its beautiful aromatic flowers.
With the scientific name Dianthus caryophyllus , the carnation is very popular in Mediterranean areas. It usually measures about forty centimeters, with long, narrow leaves and five-petaled flowers that are generally reddish. Due to its appearance and fragrance, the carnation is often included in parks and gardens.
For healthy growth, this plant needs well-drained soil and exposure to the sun. Its need for watering is frequent, so it is important to avoid waterlogging.
Low temperatures threaten the life of carnations. Among the pests that can attack them, aphids and mites appear. The carnation can also suffer from various diseases , such as disorders caused by the fungi Rhizoctonia solani and Fusarium oxysporum .
In addition to what is indicated, we cannot ignore the fact that there is a symbology regarding carnations:
-White is synonymous with fidelity, pure love and even innocence.
-The red carnation means love and passion.
-The pink carnation is synonymous with love, but maternal in particular or family in general.
-The yellow carnation is used to indicate sadness and disappointment over a love that has not been reciprocated.
-The green carnation, for its part, is the one associated with one of the most relevant festivals in Ireland. We are referring to that of Saint Patrick, although its most typical flower is the clover.
Other interesting or curious facts about the carnation are the following:
-A carnation infusion is appropriate to reduce menstrual pain and also to calm the nerves.
-It is considered the most typical flower of Spain and, in addition, it should be noted that it served as a symbol of what was the Ottoman Empire.
-It is believed that King Louis IX was the one who, in the 12th century, brought the first carnations to the gardens of Europe.
-Carnations bloom all year round.
-In the case of Spain, there are very diverse songs that have been inspired by carnations or that have them as protagonists. This would be the case, for example, of “Clavelitos”.
It should be noted that traditional medicine calls for the use of carnation to treat digestive problems, coughs , toothaches and hypertension. Generally its supply is developed through infusions.
Clavel is also the name of a cattle breed originating in German territory that was introduced to Chile . These cows usually have white extremities and a back that combines white and red. Its females are capable of giving 4,500 liters of milk in each lactation.
The Carnation Revolution , on the other hand, is known as the uprising that took place in 1974 and led to the collapse of the dictatorship of António de Oliveira Salazar . The name comes from the flowers that protesters against the regime used as a badge.