Canada Post has prepared for issuing a set of two stamps showcasing the elegance of the Cape jasmine gardenia (Gardenia jasminoides), named so named for its sweet perfume, which is reminiscent of the heady fragrance of a jasmine blossom .The stamps were specially designed for Valentine’s Day. This is the newest addition to Canada’s annual flower series, which is perfect for wedding invitations and will add a romantic touch to your mail or collection.
Gardenia jasminoides is native to southern China and Japan and is an evergreen shrub with thick, glossy, dark green leaves. It is particularly noted for its extremely fragrant white flowers and is often grown in double-flowered forms. Flowers bloom throughout the year, but more typically bloom in late spring to early summer.
The stamps dedicated to these flowers were designed by Andrew Conlon and Lionel Gadoury with artwork by Chantal Larocque, inspired by a photograph by Natasha V. These delightful philatelic items will pin an attractive corsage on your next piece of mail, especially since gardenias in Victorian times would suggest “I think you’re lovely.” And it is clear why such a saying appeared. These days, the white petals are considered a symbol of purity, making gardenias a popular choice for weddings.
“This issue is a harbinger of spring and a very, very strong seller for consumer mail and weddings,” said Canada Post Director of Stamp Services Jim Phillips, who added this stamp has “a very big print run that’s always among the biggest next to our definitives and Christmas stamps.”
See also other delightful flower stamps .
