Flowers have a language of their own—and on Valentine’s Day, they say what words sometimes can’t. What better way to express your feelings than with a beautiful bouquet of roses? Roses have long been a symbol of love, but did you know that the color of the roses you give can carry a deeper meaning? The color of your roses can help communicate exactly what you mean.

Let’s dive into the meanings behind different rose colors, so you can choose the perfect flowers for this special occasion.

1. Red Roses: The Classic Symbol of Love and Passion

When we think of romance, red roses immediately come to mind, right? Red is the color of passion, desire, and deep love, really the ultimate way to express your feelings to someone you’re in love with. They are a timeless symbol of romantic affection and have been used for centuries to convey love that is strong, enduring, and true.

Perfect for:Your significant other or anyone you have strong romantic feelings for.

2. Pink Roses: Sweetness and Gratitude

Pink roses carry a softer, more delicate message compared to red. They symbolize admiration, sweetness, and gratitude. If you want to show appreciation or convey affection without the intensity of red, pink roses are the perfect choice. They are also a symbol of appreciation and can be used to thank someone for their kindness or support.

Perfect for: A partner you appreciate, a close friend, or someone who has helped you in a meaningful way.

3. White Roses: Purity and New Beginnings

White roses have long been associated with purity, innocence, and new beginnings. They are often used in weddings, symbolizing a fresh start and the purity of love. On Valentine’s Day, they can be a beautiful way to express respect, admiration, or a desire for a new chapter in your relationship. White roses can also be a way to honor the memory of someone, as they represent remembrance and reverence.

Perfect for: Someone you respect deeply, a new relationship, or if you're celebrating a new beginning.

4. Yellow Roses: Friendship and Joy

Yellow roses are the ultimate symbol of friendship, joy, and platonic affection. If you're sending roses to a friend, a colleague, or someone you're not romantically involved with, yellow roses are a great choice! They express happiness, warmth, and the bond of friendship, perfect for Valentine’s Day when you want to celebrate love in all its forms.

Perfect for:Friends, family members, or anyone you want to brighten their day with positive energy.

5. Orange Roses: Enthusiasm and Desire

Orange roses are vibrant and full of energy, symbolizing enthusiasm, desire, and fascination. They carry a sense of excitement and passion but are less intense than red roses. If you’re looking to express admiration and a deeper level of attraction without the full commitment of red roses, orange roses are a great middle ground.

Perfect for:Someone you're drawn to but not yet in a serious relationship with, or someone you have a strong, exciting attraction to.

6. Lavender Roses: Enchantment and Mystery

Lavender roses are a more unusual and romantic option. They symbolize enchantment, mystery, and love at first sight. Lavender roses can convey that someone has taken your breath away or that your feelings for them are filled with wonder. If you’re in the early stages of a relationship or want to convey a sense of intrigue, lavender roses can be the perfect pick.

Perfect for: A new crush, someone who has captivated you, or someone who feels special and unique to you.

7. Blue Roses: The Unattainable and the Unique

Blue roses are often associated with the unattainable, mystery, and the desire for something unique. Since blue roses are not naturally occurring, they carry an aura of rarity and the longing for something extraordinary. Giving blue roses can symbolize a deep, somewhat elusive love or admiration, often representing the desire for something that feels beyond reach.

Perfect for:Someone who is incredibly unique to you, or as a symbol of a rare or deep connection.

8. Black Roses: Farewell and Rebirth

While black roses aren’t typically associated with Valentine’s Day, they have their own symbolism. Black roses are often tied to endings, farewells, or the end of a relationship. However, they can also symbolize new beginnings and the rebirth of a situation. If you're in a relationship that’s evolving or transforming, black roses could be an unconventional way to mark that change.

Perfect for:A relationship that is transitioning, or as a symbol of a dramatic change in your love life.

9. Mixed Roses: A Beautiful Message of Diversity

Sometimes, a single color just doesn’t capture the full range of feelings you have for someone. That’s where mixed roses come in! A bouquet of mixed colors can send a more nuanced message, combining the various meanings of each color. You might choose a mix of red, pink, and white roses to convey love, admiration, and purity, or a colorful blend of roses to show the depth and variety of your emotions.

Perfect for:When you want to express multiple emotions, or when your feelings for someone are complex and multifaceted.

Choose the Color that Speaks to Your Heart

Roses are a powerful way to express your feelings without words. This Valentine’s Day, take a moment to think about what you want your bouquet to say, and choose the rose color that speaks to your heart.

So, the next time you reach for a bouquet, remember: it’s not just about the flowers. It’s about the message they carry. 

Here at New York Blooms we offer a wide range of beautiful flower arrangements. Explore our collection today!