The Secret Meaning of Rose Colors

Did you know that rose colors carry a traditional meaning?
In the long ago days when courtship was strictly supervised, a suitor might use flowers to secretly express admiration, friendship, love and even disappointment.


Though mostly forgotten in modern times, roses of different colors were once used to elude those watchful eyes and express a lover's most intimate and secret emotions.
Even the way in which roses were presented carried a message.
Removing the thorns on a rose implied that there was everything to hope for; while removing the leaves indicated that there was everything to fear.
Even the number of roses conveyed a sentiment:


One rose was a sign of devotion.


Two roses were used say, "Marry me?"


Six rose expressed a need to be loved or cherished.


Eleven roses told a woman she was deeply loved.


And thirteen roses were the traditional choice of a secret admirer.
A lavender rose proclaimed it was love at first sight.
A white rose symbolized spiritual love and purity. It also told a lover of the need for silence and secrecy.
White roses have long been symbols of eternal love. This is why white roses were the traditional choice for a bridal bouquet.
A pink rose was just shy indicating true love.
A pale pink rose indicated happiness, while a deep pink rose was used as a symbol of appreciation or admiration.
Pale peach would indicate modesty sincerity and gratitude, while a coral coloured rose was a hint of spicier emotions: desire and passion.
Peach roses were also used to express a lovers desire to take a relationship to the next level. In times past, this would mean marriage.
A yellow rose expressed friendship and joy.
This made yellow roses the perfect way to send thanks or good wishes.
A red rose was and still is the symbol of love and romance. Red roses say, "I love you".


These days the criteria for choosing a rose color is more a matter of personal preference. Even so, it's fun to know a little bit of the folklore of rose colors.
Most of us would be happy to receive roses of any color of Valentine's Day! LOL


Be sure to watch for my upcoming Hometalk post on drying roses.


Drying roses is a great way to find a second use for those Valentine's Day blooms. I also have a fun project you can made with a dozen dried sweetheart roses.


Three Dogs in a Garden
Want more details about this and other DIY projects? Check out my blog post!
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  • User User on Feb 12, 2016
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