The Hidden Messages In Your Bouquet...

Red roses are traditionally associated with St Valentine's Day; to many people they symbolise passion, true love, romance. To some, however, they can also symbolise lack of originality!

Whether a single stem or a dozen blooms, red roses can state the obvious - as one respondent to a Flowers & Plants Association survey said: If you've got her with one, you don't need the other eleven...

The F&PA advises men to play it cooler this February 14th; show her you're a classy guy who's taken the time to choose something a little more personal. Why not follow the language of flowers for a hidden message? Flamboyant amaryllis flowers - like huge red lilies - make an impressive impact, and also mean splendid beauty - perfect for that supermodel you've had your eye on.

A bouquet of bright, tissuey ranunculus - like full-blown roses - not only looks gorgeous, but says you are rich in attractions. Maybe she'll take you to lunch on her Gold Card!

For the more passionate amongst you, a few stems of deliciously scented white tuberose - a tropical flower, not a rose - imply dangerous pleasures; while for those worshipping from afar sunflowers simply spell adulation.

If you are a traditionalist at heart, and it just has to be roses, why not try a bunch of small yellow ones instead - and tell her she is all that is lovely...