Meaning of Colored Roses

Red Roses

• The classic red rose symbolizes love. In addition to love, red symbolizes passion, respect and longevity, three things that go hand and hand with enduring love. According to Morrison Gardens, dark red and burgundy roses symbolize unconscious beauty.

White Roses

• White roses signify innocence and purity. This is why many brides carry white roses down the aisle. White roses are also symbols of young love, when romances are still considered pure. In addition to purity and innocence, the white rose symbolizes humility and youthfulness.

Pink Roses

• Pink roses symbolize femininity, which can be interpreted in different ways. Some suitors see pink roses as more modern than the classic red rose. Others believe that pink roses are appropriate for women with whom they have significant but platonic relationships, including grandmothers, mothers, sisters and mothers-in-law. In addition to femininity, pink roses symbolize elegance, sophistication, gentleness, sweetness and joy. Depending on the occasion, a pink rose can say "Thank you," "Welcome back" or "Please believe in me."

Other Colors

• Other popular rose colors include yellow, orange and peach. Yellow roses symbolize friendship and joyfulness, although they symbolized jealousy in the Victorian era. Orange roses symbolize vibrancy, energy, desire and enthusiasm. Peach roses symbolize gratitude and are mostly given to colleagues or informal associates to express thanks for a job well done or a deal that was signed.

Quantities and Color Combinations

• The symbolism of a rose can vary based upon the quantity given. For example, a single red rose says "I love you," while a bouquet of red roses emphasizes one's extensive love for the other person. A bouquet of red and yellow roses symbolizes happiness, while a white and red bouquet symbolizes a strong bond and togetherness.