In order to symbolize emotions in a non-verbal way, the language of flowers is helpful to us. While we are familiar with the symbolism of classics such as roses and tulips, this does not apply to the knight's star. Read here what message an amaryllis conveys in a pot and as a bouquet.
What is the meaning of amaryllis in the language of flowers?
The knight's star, also called amaryllis, symbolizes grace, admiration, respect and friendly affection in the language of flowers. However, the red flower should not be used to confess love; roses and tulips are more suitable for this.
Greek Amazon was the godfather
When Carl Linnaeus came up with the name for the type species Amaryllis, he most likely had an Amazon from Greek mythology in mind. The flowers reminded him of the young, blushing amaryllis that pierced her heart with unrequited love. A drop of blood fell to the ground, whereupon a noble, red flower rose with its calyxes wide open.
Symbolism for grace and pride
Against the background of the name and its appearance, a knight's star in the language of flowers symbolizes these messages:
- Bow to elegant grace
- Deep admiration and respect
- Friendly Affection
Don't give away a knight's star as a potted plant or cut flower to confess your love. The rose and the tulip are undoubtedly more suitable as symbolism for these emotions.
There's always a little criticism involved
Anyone who knows how to read between the lines of this symbolism will know how to interpret the slight criticism. An amaryllis rises vigorously from its bulb in the middle of the winter flowering period. Only when the flowers have almost withered can the leaves sprout. Consequently, a knight's star also communicates a subtle hint of egocentric behavior.
Tip
In private ornamental gardens, the terms amaryllis and hippeastrum are used synonymously. In fact, both plant genera are closely related to each other and were listed as a botanical unit until the beginning of the 19th century. To this day, the large community of hobby gardeners usually refers to the name amaryllis as a knight's star.