How to Choose the Perfect Rose Colour to Say “I Love You” This Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is synonymous with bouquets of roses and boxes of chocolates, and while traditional red roses are the go-to for many, there are eight other colours, each with its own symbolism, that may be a more fitting alternative for your loved one this Valentine’s Day.

With searches for “Valentine’s roses” seeing a 500% surge since the beginning of the year, Bloom & Wild’s floral experts have revealed what each of the nine varieties of roses means, so you can provide your partner with a bouquet that’s tailored to your relationship.

Red

“The word rose immediately conjures the image of the red variety, representing romance and love. Red roses are the default for many on Valentine’s Day because of how naturally they pair with the occasion. The tone of the red can hold its own meanings; however, with deeper tones representing a desire for a more serious commitment and a deepening of the bond between the receiver of the bouquet and the one providing it, whilst lighter shades represent carefree passion and desire, ideal for the early stages of a relationship.”

Pink

“Pink roses hold less romantic significance, instead being more appropriate for friends and family. Representing gratitude and admiration, they’re the ideal gift for the person in your life who does a lot for you when a simple thank you doesn’t quite feel enough. They are also tied to femininity, making them perfect for engagement parties, baby showers or Mother’s Day gifts.”

“Much like their red counterparts, the shade can change the significance, with more vibrant hues representing recognition and appreciation, while softer tones representing grace and joy.”

Peach

“An advancement of the symbolism surrounding pink roses, peach ones represent gratitude but also sincerity. These are most appropriate for a friend who’s helped you during a tough period in your life, or for a mentor who has guided you through a new career or passion.”

Yellow

“For those who are celebrating Valentine’s Day with a friend this year, yellow roses are the perfect accompaniment to any Galentine’s event. Formerly synonymous with jealousy during the Victorian era, the yellow rose has since become a symbol of friendship and long lasting happiness. Their bright and sunny hues are the perfect representation of the brightness that each other’s friendship brings into your lives.”

White

“In many ways, white is an advancement of the representation of red roses. Being commonplace at weddings, white roses represent new beginnings and grace, the perfect symbolism for the beginning of a new life together. For a close friend or family member’s wedding, these are a great gift for any bride, or if you can’t make the special day, sending these in your stead can show the happy couple how excited you are for them.”

“Similar in colour but different in meaning, Ivory roses represent thoughtfulness but without any romantic undertones. For someone in a time of grief or sadness, Ivory roses are the most appropriate choice.”

Orange

“With a meaning as vibrant as its colour, orange roses represent excitement, enthusiasm and energy. For a friend who is celebrating their dream job, buying their first home or just because they need their lives brightening up, orange roses are the perfect representation of the exciting times they’re in, matching them in energy.”

Purple

“For centuries, purple has been indicative of royalty due to its scarcity in nature. Despite purple being a common colour in daily life now, the regal connotations have remained. Purple roses are rare, opulent and alluring, the perfect gift for someone who commands the attention of a room just by entering it.”

Green

“Synonymous with life itself, green represents many things, including renewal and rejuvenation. The ideal gift for someone moving onto pastures new or who is finally getting their mojo back, green roses come with a built in message of hope for the future and reassurance that everything is going to work out.”

Black

“Striking and traditionally morbid, black roses have had a shift in meaning in recent years. Traditionally a funeral flower, black roses have entered a new era, associated with the end of old habits and patterns and a move towards new beginnings.  Black roses are fitting for people making big life changes, leaving their old lives behind in pursuit of a newer and happier life going forward. Black roses.”

For more information on the meaning of roses, including the different varieties, visit https://www.bloomandwild.com/the-blog/the-meaning-of-roses

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