Tussie Mussies

Have you ever heard of tussie mussies? This is an old tradition of giving specific bouquets, each with its own special meaning. Perfect for Valentine's Day or any special occasion.

What are Tussie Mussies?

The phrase “tussie mussie” comes from a medieval word that means "sweet posy." Originally, they were fragrant, floral nosegays carried by both men and women to help mask foul odors and protect themselves from disease.

During the Elizabethan Era, people, even men, carried small fragrant bouquets held up to their noses to mask the stink and filth in the streets.

Plants such as lavender, rosemary, thyme, and sage were specifically used during the plague because of their disinfectant properties, as well as for their strong fragrance.

Later, during the Victorian Era, when everything was formal and ornate, these nosegays began to take on meaning. They called them “tussie mussies,” which became a social grace and were given to others, with each flower or plant depicting a special meaning.

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Floriography

Eventually, tussie mussies became part of floriography, the art of sending messages by flowers. By the late 18th century and throughout the Victorian Era, tusssie mussies had gained in popularity, so much so that antique floral dictionaries were handed down from Mother to Daughter as a means of teaching them this very important social grace.

Meanings of Flowers

The language of flowers, aka Floriography, is a nice bonus as part of any floral arrangement or plant gift. You can find more flower meanings from many articles online, such as The Farmer's Almanac and Bloom and Wild. Here are a few that I like.

Red Carnations	My Heart Aches For You
White Chrysanthemums	Truth
Daffodil	Unrequited Love
Daisy	Innocence
Iris	Your Friendship Means So Much to Me
Lilies	Purity and Refined Beauty
Peony	Happy Marriage
Rosemary	Remembrance
Sunflower	Adoration
Pink Tulips	Perfect Love

How to Make a Tussie Mussie

Creating a tussie mussie is fun and easy. Pick a few flowers and herbs from the garden and wrap them with wire or floral tape. Keep the tussie mussie in water until you are ready to gift it.

Consider typing up a little card that shows the meaning of each flower in the bouquet.

You can give the tussie mussie in a vase or use a ribbon to tie it to a gift with the card. It's a fun idea that gives further meaning to a gift of flowers.