Valentine's Day is almost here and florists in Bristol are gearing up for one of their busiest times of the year.

If you're planning on surprising your loved one with a bouquet, have you ever stopped to wonder what your choice of blooms really means?

Red roses are the traditional symbol of love, but may be a little clichéd for some.

In fact, orchids and violets offer a more unusual way to say those three little words.

"It's easy to just order a bunch of red roses, and while roses are beautiful, it doesn't show a great deal of imagination," says Trisha Haughey MD of plant specialists Ambius.

"Opt for a bouquet with a difference could earn you some serious brownie points, as well as saving some cash."

Budding romantics take note – here's our guide to saying it with flowers.

• Daffodils are the symbol of 'unrequited love' so this could be an appropriate gift for someone you admire from afar.

• Narcissus - another spring flower, but this one has a very different meaning. This is the symbol of 'ego', so this bouquet could be apt for someone who's a bit too 'me, me, me'.

• For covert love affairs choose Ferns - the symbol of 'secret love' - and pair them with Scarlet Fuschias for 'confiding love'.

• Violets and Bird of Paradise are the symbols of 'faithfulness' and could be combined with Lavender for 'loyalty' and 'devotion'. If you're going to be far away from that special someone this Valentine's Day, send them Forget-me-not for 'true love' and 'remembrance'.

• Roses have become the traditional Valentine's flower, but Orchids also symbolise 'love' and 'beauty'. Red Tulips are considered a 'declaration of love' and cost a lot less than red roses.

• For young lovers, Primroses are the symbol of 'first love', whilst the Hyacinth is perfect for those couples who like having fun together, as it's the symbol of 'playful love'.

• If you've had a lover's tiff, then slip an Olive branch into your bouquet, as the symbol of 'peace'. You could also try buttering them up with some Peonies, the flower for 'beauty' and don't forget some Ivy for 'fidelity'.

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