Roses are not just a symbol of love; they’re one of the oldest flowers on Earth, with fossils dating back a remarkable 35 million years. Having flourished in ancient Roman gardens and continuing to thrive in today’s bouquets, these timeless blooms have seen it all. And it’s no surprise, roses come in all shapes, sizes, and colors, each with its meaning and personality. 

In this post, we’ll take you through the fascinating history and symbolism behind every rose color, so you can choose the perfect one to say exactly what you mean.

The Timeless Language of Rose Colours and Meanings

The fascination with roses goes beyond their beauty. Ancient cultures were the first to give them meaning, with the Victorians taking it further by creating the “language of flowers.” This allowed people to express emotions without saying a word, using different rose colors to speak volumes. Today, these flowers still carry that same power, making them the perfect choice to convey love, admiration, or even sympathy, without a single sentence spoken.

Red Rose Meaning: The Ultimate Symbol of Love and Passion

Red roses symbolize love, passion, and deep admiration. These fiery blooms have been the quintessential symbol of romantic love for centuries, becoming the flower of choice for expressing deep emotions. The red rose meaning is closely associated with love, a connection that dates back to ancient Greece and Rome, where the red rose was linked to Aphrodite, the goddess of love.

As the centuries passed, red roses became a staple in romantic gestures, with their rich color representing the intensity and depth of affection. In fact, statistics show that over 250 million red rose bouquets are sold worldwide every Valentine’s Day.. Red roses remain a timeless expression of romance, passion, and commitment, perfect for celebrating love in all its forms.

White Rose Meaning: Purity and New Beginnings

If you’ve ever wondered, “What does a white rose mean?” you’re not alone. These elegant blooms have long been symbols of purity, innocence, and new beginnings.  They’re the go-to flowers for life’s big moments, whether it’s a wedding, a new chapter, or honoring someone’s memory. These florals have been around for centuries, famously taking the spotlight in English history during the War of the Roses as the emblem of the House of York. 

But their true claim to fame came with weddings; white roses became synonymous with bridal bouquets, a trend that’s still going strong nowadays. Clean, simple, and packed with meaning, white roses are the perfect way to send a message of respect, love, or remembrance. In fact, they’re one of the most requested flowers for weddings worldwide!  Check our roses collection and see for yourself what makes these blooms so timeless. 

Yellow Rose Color Meaning: A Symbol of Friendship and Joy

The yellow rose color meaning is all about the ultimate symbol of friendship, joy, and positive energy. Unlike other roses that often carry deep romantic connotations, yellow roses are perfect for celebrating platonic love and cheer. They’ve been associated with friendship for centuries and are often gifted to celebrate milestones, new beginnings, or to lift someone’s spirits.

With their bright, sunny hue, yellow roses have earned a reputation as a bouquet of happiness, offering a cheerful and thoughtful gesture for any occasion.

Pink Roses Meaning: A Gesture of Gratitude and Admiration

Pink roses are symbols of gratitude, admiration, and sweetness. Their soft hue carries a message of respect and appreciation, making them the perfect flower for expressing admiration. Interestingly, pink roses weren’t always as common as they are today. The first cultivated pink roses were likely bred in China during the 18th century, where they were prized for their delicate beauty.

As trade between Europe and Asia grew, these pink varieties found their way to European gardens, where the pink rose’s meaning quickly became associated with elegance and grace. Over time, pink roses spread throughout the world, becoming the go-to choice for expressing admiration and fondness.

Orange Rose Meaning: Passion, Energy, and Enthusiasm

Orange roses are vibrant symbols of passion, energy, and enthusiasm. Their bold, fiery color expresses excitement and admiration. The orange rose meaning often revolves around intense feelings, perfect for celebrating a new relationship or acknowledging someone’s extraordinary qualities. Unlike red ones, which symbolize romantic love, orange blooms convey admiration and enthusiasm, representing warmth and energy in a relationship.

First cultivated in the late 19th century, orange blooms quickly gained popularity for their unique color and vibrant energy, becoming a lasting symbol of excitement and a celebration of life’s passions.

Black Rose Meaning: Mystery, Rebirth, and the End of a Chapter

Black roses are symbols of mystery, transformation, and the end of a chapter. While their deep, dark hue often evokes feelings of sadness or mourning, they also carry powerful symbolism related to rebirth and new beginnings. Historically, black roses have been linked to closure or farewell, often used to commemorate loss or significant life changes. Interestingly, black roses don’t naturally exist; they are typically a deep purple or red variety that appears almost black.

Popularized in literature and art during the Victorian era, black roses became symbols of defiance and the mysterious. Today, they continue to signify endings and new beginnings, offering a unique, thought-provoking message.

Blue Rose Meaning: The Elusive Symbol of the Unattainable

Blue roses are one of the most elusive and mysterious flowers, often symbolizing the unattainable or the impossible. Unlike other roses, blue florals don’t exist in nature, which only adds to their allure and intrigue. They are often associated with mystery, the desire for the unattainable, and the pursuit of the impossible. The meaning for blue rose can vary depending on the context, but it’s often linked to the longing for the unattainable or the beauty of something that cannot be captured.

These flowers were first created through genetic modification in the 2000s, as scientists worked to cultivate a true blue rose, further deepening their aura of rarity and exclusivity.

Purple Rose Meaning: Enchantment, Royalty, and Mystery

Purple roses are symbols of enchantment, royalty, and mystery. Their rich, regal color represents admiration and the allure of something rare and extraordinary. The purple rose color meaning is often associated with the mystical and the unexplained, capturing feelings of fascination and wonder. These roses were first cultivated in the 19th century and quickly became a favorite among the elite for their unique and luxurious color.

Purple roses continue to convey a sense of grace and elegance, often used to express admiration for someone who stands out or leaves a lasting impression.

Understanding the meaning of rose colors adds a personal touch to any floral gift. Whether you’re expressing love, admiration, or friendship, each color carries its own unique message. By choosing the right color, you can convey your feelings in a way that words alone can’t. So the next time you send a bouquet, remember the timeless symbolism behind every petal.