Rose Color Meanings - A Different Hue for Every Occasion
 
Of all the varieties of flowers roses carry the most meaning.  Although people appreciate any variety they receive, pairing the color of the rose to the appropriate occasion adds an extra special sentiment.  The most commonly known rose color meanings are for the red, pink, yellow, and white species.  However, even colors that are rarer, such as lavender, coral, orange, and peach, can hold a special symbolism.  

Of all of the rose color meanings, red is by far the most well-known.  From early on, this flower has signified love. Today, it is still overwhelmingly popular to present a significant other with a dozen red roses on Valentine's Day or for mothers day flowers, an anniversary, or a birthday.  The deep color reflects the intense passion that one person feels for another.  Its striking shade also represents unparalleled beauty and has been used to represent this notion in many literary works.  The pink rose carries with it many similar connotations.  Most likely due to its similar hue, these flowers are also used to symbolize love.  However, just as the color is less bold, so is the feeling it conveys.  More appropriately given to someone that you have great appreciation for but not necessarily romantic connections.  Their uplifting color is the perfect way to express appreciation as a thank you.   

Although red and pink roses tend to be more strongly associated with love, almost any color can appropriately deliver this message.  However rose color meanings for shades outside of this family typically express different intentions. For example, the yellow rose tends to relay friendship.  Their bright sunny color is often used to lift one's spirits or communicate joy. They are also commonly given to newlyweds, new moms, and graduates.  By contrast, white roses typically stand for innocence and purity.
 
For this reason, they are used at weddings. However, interestingly enough, they are also commonplace as funeral flowers at a funeral or memorial service.  The reason for this is that they also signify reverence, honor, and spirituality.  So, although they are used for very different applications, their meaning is still fairly similar.
 
The rose color meanings for more rare colors are quite variable and, therefore, are most commonly chosen for purely aesthetic reasons. However, they all can still show feelings of appreciation and are a good choice for virtually any situation.  Although all colors have the ability to convey a wide variety of sentiments, it is important to note that the number of red roses can all hold different meanings.  However, no matter the number or color, roses are a gift that is always appreciated.
 
Red Rose Meaning - Symbolizing Love Throughout The World
 
Holding a special place in poetry, literature, and history, red roses have a well-established history that conveys a wealth of emotion especially if you order them as your Valentines flowers. These flowers are grown all over the world and, although species vary from region to region, they are all astoundingly popular.  In Lancashire, England, they hold the distinguished honor of being the provincial flower.  In the Spanish region of Catalonia, dark red varieties are often presented as amorous gifts and are even considered the unofficial symbol of the area.  These astoundingly beautiful creations are revered in virtually all areas of the world and have had tremendous popularity for many years.  

As they vary quite a bit in size, shape, shade, and even fragrance, red roses need not have a reputation for being clichéd.  The classic variety that usually comes to mind is most likely a hybrid tea rose. However, there are many other options to choose from.  For a slightly different effect, the deep red varieties, such as Black Magic and Black Velvet, give a traditional look while offering a variation in regards to color.  Floribunda roses offer a wider bloom and grow as a cluster of flowers on each stem instead of a single bud, as on a tea rose.  These, along with the various climbing roses are very often used as decoration as they grow easily up fences, walls, pillars, and trellises.  

Other, distinctive kinds of red roses include the shrub category and the Harkness variety.  Oftentimes resulting from crossing an old-rose with a new one, the shrub category tends to include roses that do not fit into any other category.  Some of these, such as Home Run or Robusta, do not even resemble what we typically think of as a rose. With only several, broad petals, they lie flat instead of in a tight bud.  Harkness roses, on the other hand, have a very full bloom with many layered petals, resembling something closer to a peony.  

With all of the different varieties to choose from, classic, long-stemmed red roses are still the most popular when giving a gift. Just ask Russell's florist, a popular St Louis flowers florist, to get a sense of their popularity. With its strong presence in poetry and literature, these are typically presented as a declaration of love. Typically, the darker the color, the more passion is conveyed. However, the number of flowers is also very telling.  A single rose indicates a feeling of love, but does not show as strong of a feeling as does sending an entire bouquet.  Often considered the ultimate romantic gesture, a dozen red roses send a very clear message that is sure to be noticed and appreciated.
 
White Roses - A Modern Choice for an Old Classic
 
Although traditionally not the most sought after flower, the white rose has steadily been increasing in popularity over the past several years. Originally only given in very specific circumstances, these blooms are now used for all types of occasions.  White roses are a modern option for weddings, elegant parties, and decorations, as well as for accent purposes.  They can be used to highlight other colors or provide a clean and sculptural look all on their own.  Without holding as much symbolism as do the red roses, these are a good option for displaying the inherent beauty of the rose without all the underlying subtext. This makes it an ideal choice for an everyday arrangement as well as for special occasions.  

White roses come in a variety of shades.  Although the differences are more subtle than with other colors, integrating a few different varieties will create an interesting and dynamic arrangement while still maintaining a sleek appearance.  A good choice for a traditional, yet sculptural look is the Caroline de Monaco rose. Its pure-white color, coupled with its petals that curl around to create almost perfect points, create a simple elegance.  For a fuller, cotton-like blossom, look no further than the seafoam, or sombreuil varieties.  With numerous many full layers, these plants have amazing detail.

If you wish to add a bit of color to your white roses, there are a good number of varieties with a contrasting center.  The inside yellow color casts a warm glow on the stark white petals, giving the flower an almost golden appearance.  One such variety is the Mermaid rose.  It belongs to the climbing family and can be up to five inches across in size.  Still, some others have an almost pinkish hue, such as the Alba.  

While still used traditionally to signify remembrance, white roses are also equally as commonplace at weddings in order to convey purity of love and a sense of unity.  However, the white rose carries with it a much weaker symbolism than other colors, allowing it to be used in a wider amount of contexts.  Additionally, these flowers are an ideal choice for mixing and matching your mothers day flowers on that once a year holiday. Supplying a beautiful, yet simple, backdrop, these roses are a good compliment to any arrangement.  They provide a stark contrast, thus allowing the colors of another flower to appear all the more vibrant.  As the meaning of a white rose is flexible, combining them with other shades of roses allows them all to be used in a variety of settings.
 
Pink Roses - A Gentle Color With A Caring Thought
 
Perhaps one of the most popular flowers throughout the Victorian era, pink roses continue to convey an air of innocence and gentleness that is sure to be appreciated.  Although also carrying with it a feeling of romance, these blooms are much more subtle than the bold and brazen red rose.  Its blooms are typically very full and fragrant and look equally as lovely in a vase as they do in a garden.  

The variety of pink roses is astounding. Walking into a high volume florist like Baltimore flowers will leave you breathless. Ranging from ruffled to flat, their various shapes offer the perfect bloom for any occasion.  Their colors can be anywhere between a dusty, almost white hue to a vibrantly saturated salmon tone.  The Bourbon, or Victorian Rose, has been depicted in many paintings and imagery from the 1800's.  These blossoms typically have very large heads and many layers.  It also has a quite heady fragrance due to the fact that it stems from the strongly fragranced Damask variety.  Beyond this common variety, there are now many other types of roses that are becoming just as popular.

A notably favored yet distinctive, bloom is the Ballerina. Resembling the blossom on a dogwood tree, its flat, broad, yet paper-like petals almost entirely obscure its green foliage.  This is due to the fact that the flowers are arranged in very large clusters as opposed to a solitary bud.  Another exquisitely unique flower is the Birthday Girl.  With its ruffled petals and its gradual shift in hue, from a creamy-white center to a fiery red outside, is breathtaking.  On the opposite end of the spectrum, the Eiffel Tower pink roses have a tightly closed bud.  Much like the Eiffel Tower itself, its head is tall and comes to a point at the top.  

Reflective of the era in which their popularity grew, pink roses symbolize grace and sweetness.  Their light hue, distinguishing fragrance, and delicate petals are ideal for imparting a sense of romance and elegance.  However, their wide variety of shades allow for communicating a plethora of emotions.  In addition to expressing a gentle love and appreciation, light pink tones are also appropriate when showing sympathy.  As the color deepens, their message becomes one of thanks and gratitude.  Even with the multitude of roses on the market today, the pink rose remains one of the most versatile.  Due to its delicate beauty and its distinct scent, this classic flower will forever continue to be the subject of poetry and lore.