Hydrangeas
Hydrangeas were first discovered and cultivated in Japan and became associated with gratitude for understanding and apologies. Legend has it an emperor gave hydrangeas to the family of the girl he loved as an apology for neglecting her when diverting his attention to business. Florists often use the flowers in apology arrangements and also wedding bouquets because of their links to gracefulness and abundance. The name comes from the Greek words hydros (water) and angos (jar), which is fitting because these plants drink a lot of water. Pink hydrangeas especially represent genuine emotion and love because their shape resembles a beating heart.