The Queen brought joy to children at the Chelsea Flower Show on Monday by presenting schoolchildren with a special bouquet of flowers. One floral expert has unveiled the symbolic significance behind her selection.

Camilla, 76, chose camellias to present to pupils from Sulivan Primary School. They had contributed to the design of a garden inspired by Penelope Featherington from the popular Netflix period drama, Bridgerton.

Elise Harlock, brand manager at Prestige Flowers said: “Camellias traditionally symbolise admiration, affection, and gratitude. By selecting camellias, Queen Camilla likely aimed to express profound appreciation for the children’s creativity and dedication.”

But she added that camellias also have a deeper meaning, particularly given the recent health struggles of the King and the Princess of Wales, who are both receiving cancer treatment.  

Elise said: “In the language of flowers, camellias can symbolise resilience and strength. This choice may reflect a message of solidarity and support for her husband and daughter-in-law during their challenging journeys.”

She added: “Queen Camilla’s gesture with the camellias, coupled with her candid interactions and admissions, painted a portrait of a royal family navigating personal hardships with grace and compassion. The choice of camellias was a poignant way to convey gratitude, strength and unity during trying times.”

Health Updates

The King resumed public engagements last month following positive developments in his cancer treatment, although sources have emphasized that he continues to battle the undisclosed form of the disease and will undergo ongoing treatment.

When the Queen attended a garden party at Lamb House in Rye last month, she informed guests that her husband is “improving,” and added: “Well, he would be if he behaved himself.”

Meanwhile, the Princess of Wales is reportedly “eager” following the publication of her business taskforce’s report on the significance of prioritizing early childhood and its potential economic benefits.

But a Kensington Palace spokesman stressed the launch did not signal Kate “returning to work” and said “…early childhood is a huge priority for the Princess of Wales, and she has been kept fully up to date throughout the process and the development of the task force’s work and she has seen the report…”