With its beauty and fragrance, it’s no wonder the rose is considered the queen of the flowers. A matter of fact, it’s no surprise that Victorian poets romanticized the various colors of roses in their writings, developing an entire language and art to the way these blooms were gifted. “Roses have always captured gardeners and people as far back as the ancient Romans,” says Stephen Scanniello, curator of the NYBG's Peggy Rockefeller Rose Garden, which houses more than 650 varieties of roses. “The color codes, developed mostly in the mid 1800s, make it a bit more fun to gift.”
From peach to ivory, each rose color has its own unique meaning. Let the flowers do the talking, and discover the messages these 17 rose colors carry.
These classic and vibrant blooms symbolize romance and respect, making them perfect for sending to a significant other. However, make sure to only carry them in your right hand. “It’s bad luck to carry a bouquet of red roses in your left hand and give them to your loved one,” says Scanniello.
In modern times, rich wine shades represent unconscious beauty, whereas the Victorians thought of them as a way to express deep affection. “During the Victorian era, deeper rose colors signified deeper passion,” explains Scanniello. Send these as a striking change from the traditional red bouquet.
The calm beauty of this variety reflects new beginnings and innocence. While a favorite of brides, white roses are also appropriate to give as a sign of respect or remembrance.
These deeply cupped, bone white roses are reminiscent of a beautiful vintage garden. They pop against their rich greenery, making them a stunning gift.
More charming than their floral cousin, off-white blooms signify gracefulness and thoughtfulness. They are a nice way to let someone know you care without romantic implications, according to Scanniello.
You may want to think twice before gifting a vase of these bright blooms. Yellow roses were once thought to express jealousy and infidelity. Luckily in modern times, these sunny blooms adopted a much more joyous meaning and have come to represent friendship.
This one-of-a-kind bloom marries the passion of red roses and the vibrancy of yellow. It's thought that this species promotes happiness and cheerfulness, especially when gifted to a lover.
Gentler than their red counterparts, blush buds carry a serene message of admiration. A bouquet of these elegant beauties is sure to put a smile on anyone’s face, especially those in new romantic relationships.
Intense and vibrant, this pink variety symbolizes deep appreciation and gratitude. Scanniello considers vibrant pink roses to be quite versatile and a safe choice to brighten anyone’s day.
Understated and modest, this delicate shade represents sincerity and gratitude. “If you're attending a cocktail or dinner party, you should opt to give your hostess a blend of peach roses,” says Scanniello. “They are the perfect friendship rose.”
These fiery rebels of the rose family exude energy, excitement, and even admiration. Let your special someone know exactly how you feel with a bunch of warmly colored blossoms.