Color Symbolism of Roses
Giving flowers to someone shows how much we care and expresses feelings in sentiments that can’t always be said with words. This is one reason why roses are so popular – they are imbued with a rich history of meaning and symbolism based on their color. Use the helpful color guide below to make sure the emotions you are feeling for someone are correctly expressed and on point with the proper color of roses.
Red – Red means love. While it doesn’t have to stand for passionate love, such as the love between a husband and wife, this is the typical interpretation of this rose color. The traditional “dozen roses” is the gold standard way of showing someone you want them to be your valentine.
Pink – Pink roses are a symbol of gratitude and appreciation, admiration, and happiness. Giving pink roses could be a great option if you are trying to figure out what to give mom or even a boss.
Yellow – Yellow roses are a symbol of friendship, joy, and caring. Yellow roses may be a good choice for a friend or if you are a little unsure of a relationship—perhaps if you have just started dating someone but don’t feel like you are ready to give red roses.
Peach – Lovely peach roses symbolize sincerity, friendship, gratitude, and genuineness. They are appropriate for friends and business colleagues.
White – White roses are a symbol of loyalty, innocence, and purity. They are also a symbol of young love. Generally, these would be given in a devoted relationship—much the same way a red rose would be. White and red roses in a bouquet can be especially beautiful.
Ivory – Though similar in color to white roses, ivory roses have a completely different meaning. Representing charm, gracefulness, perfection, and thoughtfulness, ivory roses are a great way to let someone know you care about them, without romantic intentions. Eucalyptus pairs especially well with ivory roses.
Green – The color of life, green also represents abundant growth, energy, renewal, fertility, and rejuvenation of spirit. Green roses also symbolize richness, bounty, copiousness, and abundance.
Blue – Representing mystery, the impossible, and unattainable, blue roses are perfect for letting a woman know she is extraordinary and unique.
Lavender – Lavender roses are the symbol of mysticism and “love at first sight.” These are a great option if you are trying to send a strong symbol that you care for someone and you want to take a relationship to the next level.
Orange – Another passionate color, orange roses are very unique. Sending orange roses shows that you are excited and passionate about what the future may hold.
Black – While the color black is often associated with death and mourning, black roses also have more positive meanings. Perfect for someone who is embarking on a new challenge, black roses represent the beginning of new things, the birth of a new era, and hope and courage in a time of change.
Multi-Colored – Roses with more than one color are a unique and fun way to send a message to someone. For example, a white rose with pink tips symbolizes innocent love like you’d have for a friend or sister. Yellow roses with red tips signify happiness and can mean friendship or falling in love.
If you are not sure which roses are “just right” for your particular situation, why not talk to an expert? Call or visit us at Kittelbergers. Since 1928, we have been Rochester’s choice for floral excellence. Peruse our online catalog of gorgeous, fresh flowers now!
