Sometimes, love doesn’t need a grand speech. Often, it’s found in the smallest, most thoughtful gestures – a chocolate that whispers you matter or a bouquet that says you’re on my mind. This Valentine’s Day, let farm-fresh flowers do the talking, but which flowers truly express what’s in your heart?
Siphokazi Ngqoba-Zatu, director of Masonwabeni International Pty Ltd in Graceland, Cape Town, says picking the right flowers for the occasion is key. And if you’re stuck, she suggests going with your partner’s favourite colours and scents.
“If you’re unsure about flowers, roses are always a safe choice for Valentine’s Day,” she says.
“Red roses are a classic way to say ‘I love you,’ but if your partner isn’t a fan, try red tulips – they’re also a declaration of love.”
Her top tip for women? Buy yourself flowers. That way, your partner will see what you love and there is no need to drop hints. “The same applies to other gifts, you show what brings you joy,” she says.
At the end of the day Ngqoba-Zatu says if you pay attention to your partner, you often know exactly what they like, making gift selection much simpler.
Nature’s love language
Did you know mixing different flower cultivars, fillers, and grasses can create a stunning bouquet if it’s put together just right?
Roland Trout, who grows indigenous flowers at De Zouterivier farm on the West Coast in the Western Cape, says it’s all about thoughtful design.
“I sometimes pick wild veld flowers for my wife, and she absolutely loves them. Flowers really do speak the language of love and care.”
Roland Trout,
“If you’re going for indigenous flowers, proteas are a perfect choice – they send a clear message of love.”
Trout also recommends mixing in some pincushions with high gold with a protea. “These flowers are a beautiful way to show love, hopelessly,” he says.
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Forget me not
If you’ve got a bromance or womance that deserves some extra love this weekend, alstroemeria – also known as the Peruvian lily – is the perfect pick.
According to Elliot Madonsela, founder of Seedlings-R-US Pty Ltd, based in Kwamhlanga, Mpumalanga, it symbolises lasting friendship and support, making it a beautiful way to show you care beyond romance.
“These flowers may not be as mainstream as roses, but they carry a profound message and add a unique touch to floral arrangements.”
He believes choosing flowers for any occasion is all about understanding the language of flowers. Bright, warm tones like yellow and orange, express joy and appreciation, while deep reds and purples evoke passion and admiration, Madonsela adds.
“I also consider fragrance lavender, for example, brings a sense of calm and comfort.”
Madonsela enjoys gifting peace lilies and flamingo flowers in pots for a timeless gift that keeps on giving.
“Their bold, bright petals symbolise warmth, happiness, and unwavering support, everything appreciation should convey,” he says. “They’re also long-lasting and always bring a smile.”
The thought behind the gesture
For Lisa Macanda from East London, Eastern Cape, tulips are a beautiful reminder that love thrives where it’s planted. Watching them bloom is absolute magic, she says. And while she loves receiving flowers, she finds even more joy in giving them; it is her way of sending a heartfelt message to family and loved ones.
“Nothing is more exquisitely gorgeous than love accompanied by actions. It shows you’re seen and always on my mind.”
Lisa Macanda
Macanda adds that she’s a white chocolate lover, and the essence of it melting on her tongue reminds her that love should unfold slowly, with balance, and always be enjoyable.
She also believes that a packet of peanuts, biltong, and a bottle of champagne make the perfect pairing with a bouquet of meaningful flowers for Valentine’s Day.
Xolisa, who prefers to go just by her first name, from Milnerton in the Western Cape, is also a gift giver, and what truly drives her is the satisfaction of seeing her partner’s face light up with a sparkling smile when they receive a gift.
“I know red roses do the trick every time for Valentine’s Day, paired with some dark chocolate. Red roses symbolise love; they show you truly see the person. I usually pick them for their scent, especially for my lady.”
Xolisa adds that mixed-colour roses are another great choice.
Whatever you choose this Valentine’s weekend, in the end, it’s the thought behind the gesture that truly makes a gift special.
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