The Anemone, often referred to as the windflower for its short lifespan, is an eye-catcher. You’ve likely seen one of these beauties appear in one of your bouquets from Lilium, or in bouquets you come across on social media. Anemones are the dainty, delicate flowers that capture viewers’ attention from their intricate centers and papery, perfect petals. Though small, they can transform a bouquet.

These temperate flowers prefer cooler weather, so you’ll often see them peppered in bouquets from late fall through spring (at least in California!). With their white petals starkly contrasting their dark centers, they’re impossible to miss -- which makes them such unique and transformative additions. While white is the most recognizable color for anemones, they also come in a variety of other colors: red, pink, and purple being the next most common. And naturally, each color offers a different meaning.

White anemones symbolize sincerity; adding this into your bouquet will tell the recipient how deeply you care about them, indicating your love and trust. Pink and red have nearly the total opposite meaning -- indicating forsaken or forgotten love. Purple anemones symbolize protection against evil and ill-wishes. The flower itself indicates anticipation and excitement for the future, making it a wonderful addition to arrangements for milestone festivities.

Though these flowers are stunning, they’re fickle -- once in full bloom, they only last two to three days. Make sure to take your snapshot when the petals are open before they blow away in the wind!