The color of rose that you choose sometimes has a special meaning. We have shared below information on traditional color meanings of roses that have developed throughout the years. This is a guide to help you choose your rose color. We do want to mention that there are times that special meanings, color choices and the local customs of your area may vary from our guide. Rose colors and your choices are not bound by this guide. Personal choice is always the best choice.
Red Roses
Red Roses represent romantic love, passion, and desire. Red Roses are chosen for Anniversary Celebrations, Valentine’s Day, and Birthdays. When you want to convey feelings of true love, Red Roses are appropriate for all occasions. Roses can be designed in many different ways—from traditional vases of twelve long-stem roses with greenery, to high-style arrangements of jewel tones. Freedom and Black Baccara are two popular red varieties.
Coral Roses
Happiness is the essence of the Coral Rose. Coral Roses also stand for desire and excitement—perfect for letting someone know how you truly feel. Movie Star is a beautiful Coral Rose variety.
Lilac or Lavender Roses
Lavender, Lilac, and Purple Roses symbolize royalty, opulence, and enchantment. Often known as the Mystical Rose, they denote love at first sight and spiritual beauty. Popular varieties include Cool Water and Ocean Song.
Orange Roses
Orange Roses signify cheer, energy, and good health. Bright orange arrangements are perfect for Get Well or Birthday gifts, and fall bouquets with Orange Roses make festive Thanksgiving centerpieces. Popular varieties include Orange Unique and Tropical Amazone.
Peach Roses
Peach Roses convey sincerity, gratitude, and appreciation—perfect as thank-you gifts or sympathy expressions. Soft and calming, they symbolize loyalty and friendship. Oceana and Versilia are well-loved varieties.
Pink Roses
Pink Roses represent joy, grace, and femininity. They are ideal for love, gratitude, birthdays, or welcoming a new baby girl. Popular wedding choices include Sophie and Impression varieties.
Pale Pink Roses
Pale Pink Roses symbolize innocence, sweetness, and charm. They are also a gentle and popular choice for sympathy tributes.
Light Pink Roses
Light Pink Roses represent fun, happiness, and admiration—sweet and cheerful for many occasions.
Deep Pink Roses
Deep Pink Roses convey gratitude and admiration—ideal for thank-you gifts or wedding appreciation bouquets.
White Roses
White Roses symbolize innocence, purity, loyalty, and remembrance. They are often chosen for weddings and sympathy designs. Timeless and elegant varieties include Polo, Escimoe, and Vendela.
Yellow Roses
Yellow Roses signify friendship, hope, and positivity—perfect for spreading happiness or welcoming someone home. Gold Strike and Skyline are popular varieties.
Combining Rose Colors
- Red and Yellow Roses: Happiness and celebration
- Red and White Roses: Unity or engagement
- White and Yellow Roses: Harmony
Additional Rose Symbols
- Single Red Rose: “I love you”
- Single Rose (any color): “Thank you”
- Two Roses Entwined: “Marry me”
- Thornless Rose: “Love at first sight”
- Tea Rose: “I’ll always remember you”
