Roses have long been the flower of choice for the holiday, but some see an opening for the humble tulip.

A thong in a bunch of roses, flowers wrapped in £50 notes and an engagement ring amongst the blooms - some of the more unusual Valentine's requests received by florist Fiona Penny. As the orders for 14 February come in, bunches of roses, strings of ribbon and piles of cards are filling Ms Penny's studio.

From farms in South America, through customs, distribution centers and, eventually, to your home, roses travel thousands of miles to make it to the US for Valentine’s Day.

If you are looking for ways to show your affection this Valentine's Day, roses and chocolates are good places to start.