Roses have carried coded meanings for centuries. While personal intention always matters most, these traditional associations can help you understand (or choose!) the perfect coloured rose.
Red Roses — Love, Romance & Passion
- Primary meaning: Deep love, desire, respect
- Occasions: Anniversaries, Valentine’s Day, declarations of love
- Notes: A single red rose often symbolises “I love you.”
White Roses — Purity, New Beginnings & Remembrance
- Primary meaning: Innocence, spirituality, unity
- Occasions: Weddings, sympathy arrangements, new starts
- Notes: Often used to convey reverence or honour.
Pink Roses — Gratitude, Admiration & Joy
- Light pink: Sweetness, gentleness, admiration
- Dark pink: Appreciation, gratitude
- Occasions: Thank-you gifts, celebrations, friendship
Yellow Roses — Friendship, Warmth & Cheer
- Primary meaning: Joy, caring, platonic affection
- Occasions: Birthdays, congratulations, get-well wishes
- Notes: In modern symbolism, yellow roses celebrate friendship—not jealousy as in older interpretations.
Orange Roses — Energy, Enthusiasm & Attraction
- Primary meaning: Fascination, excitement, budding romance
- Occasions: New relationships, achievements, celebratory moments
- Notes: They bridge the passion of red with the joy of yellow.
Lavender Roses — Enchantment & Love at First Sight
- Primary meaning: Mystery, wonder, admiration
- Occasions: Romantic beginnings, unique celebrations
- Notes: Associated with magic, spirituality, or royalty.
Peach Roses — Sincerity, Appreciation & Modesty
- Primary meaning: Gratitude, warmth, honesty
- Occasions: Thank-you gifts, gestures of sympathy or support
- Notes: Also used to signify closing a deal or agreement.
Coral Roses — Desire & Enthusiasm
- Primary meaning: Bold affection, enthusiasm
- Occasions: Romantic interest, exciting new ventures
Green Roses — Renewal, Abundance & Stability
- Primary meaning: Peace, fertility, good fortune
- Occasions: New beginnings, well-wishes, healing
Blue Roses — Mystery & the Impossible
- Primary meaning: Intrigue, the unattainable, dreams
- Occasions: Romantic mystique, encouragement to pursue the unexpected
- Notes: Naturally very rare; often dyed.
Black Roses — Farewell, Rebirth & Transformation
- Primary meaning: Endings that lead to change, strength, mystery
- Occasions: Gothic aesthetics, significant transitions
- Notes: Usually very dark red or purple roses dyed or bred to appear black.
Mixed-Colour Bouquets — Blended Messages
- Red + white: Unity and harmony
- Pink + yellow: Joyful friendship
- Red + pink: Deep romantic admiration
- Orange + red: Passion with excitement