Flowers have a language of their own – and roses speak it most eloquently. For centuries, roses have been given not just for their beauty but for their symbolic meaning. The message a bouquet carries depends greatly on its colour. To help you choose the right roses next time, here is a guide to the most important rose colours and what they stand for.
Red roses are recognised around the world as a symbol of passionate love and romance. Sending red roses for Valentine's Day or an anniversary is no accident – red stands for passion, desire and deep affection. The darker the shade, the more intense the message.
Pink roses are the gentler alternative. They express admiration, tenderness and gratitude. Lighter shades of pink feel especially innocent and sweet, making them a lovely choice for Mother's Day or as a thoughtful gesture for a close friend. Deeper pinks lean more towards appreciation and acknowledgement.
White roses symbolise purity, innocence and new beginnings. They are a classic choice for weddings, but also suit christenings or serve as a mark of respect at memorial services. White is the colour of stillness – a white bouquet always feels refined and timeless.
Yellow roses have had an eventful history: in the Victorian era they were associated with jealousy or infidelity. Today their meaning has shifted entirely – yellow roses now stand for friendship, cheerfulness and warmth. They make a wonderful gift for a best friend or a pick-me-up after a difficult day.
Orange roses blend the energy of red with the brightness of yellow. They represent enthusiasm, light-hearted passion and budding feelings. If you want to show someone that you admire them and find them fascinating, orange roses are the perfect choice – ideal, for example, at the start of a new relationship.
When ordering roses online, the question often comes up: which colour fits which moment? The overview below can help you decide.
Sometimes a message can't be reduced to a single colour. Mixed rose bouquets combine different meanings while also creating a visually varied arrangement. A bouquet of red and white roses traditionally stands for unity, which is why it is especially popular at weddings. Pink and white roses together convey delicate affection and elegance.
Tip: when putting together a mixed bouquet, make sure the colour combination works harmoniously. Warm tones such as red, orange and yellow look particularly vibrant together. Cool tones such as white, cream and soft pink radiate calm and elegance.
The most carefully chosen colour means nothing if the roses aren't fresh. Regionsflorist delivers roses directly from growers in the Netherlands, with no lengthy storage in between. That means your flowers arrive with a long vase life and vivid colours that let the message of your bouquet truly shine.
