Before Giving Someone Flowers, Find Out What Different Colors Represent

We traditionally think of roses as the flowers of love and romance. But in truth, roses can represent many different feelings and mark many occasions, from romantic to professional. While a good florist will always be able to assist you in choosing the perfect arrangement no matter what your need, taking a moment to learn the symbolism behind various rose colors can help point you in the right direction the next time you're sending flowers for that special occasion.

Red roses are indeed indicative of romantic love. Red has long been considered a passionate color and the red rose is considered a flawless example of natural beauty. What could be a more poetic and romantic offering than a single perfect red rose? However, red can also symbolize courage, congratulations, and gratitude, so a bouquet of these beauties is a completely acceptable gift to celebrate a new job, to extend thanks, or even in recognition of a courageous act.

Pink tends to symbolize appreciation, happiness, or sympathy. To extend condolences, choose more sedate, pale shades of pink rather than vibrant hot pinks. Pink can also express the feeling "please believe me", those who are seeking trust or forgiveness often find themselves instinctively drawn to the sweetness and purity of pink roses.

White has long been regarded as a color of divinity, purity, and innocence, and it is for this reason white roses are often used in weddings. White flowers are also an excellent choice for children, and can infuse older folks with a feeling of hope and youthfulness.

To signify feelings of friendship or appreciation, choose yellow roses. The cheerful sunshine color is reminiscent of happiness and platonic love. Yellow is also symbolic of respect, making these flowers a good choice for family or coworkers in celebration of birthdays, jobs well done, or even "just because".

Unique orange symbolizes fascination, enthusiasm, or sometimes desire. This more unusual color is likely to evoke feelings of intrigue or excitement. Orange roses make a very memorable gift for a date with someone special, just as they make an excellent gift for someone who tends to be a bit out of the ordinary herself.

Peach colors can indicate appreciation or gratitude, but also carry the distinct meaning of "closing the deal". Peach is an innocent, neutral color, and these flowers are just as appropriate for a friend who has helped you with a project as a business contact who has just helped you land a new account.

Lavender coloring indicates love at first sight. Unfortunately, few of us have a florist nearby when we are stricken with this condition, but we never know when the opportunity may arise. Lavender also symbolizes enthusiasm, making these a suitable gift for most occasions.

Finally, black roses, which are generally created artificially, symbolize mourning and death, making these mysterious beauties appropriate for funerals and other somber occasions. Black roses can be quite breathtaking, but should not be given as gifts to those we love who are alive, lest we give them the wrong idea of our intentions.