The Meaning of Every Rose Color

You’ve probably heard that “a rose is a rose is a rose,” but while perfectly poetic, the Victorians wholeheartedly disagree. Flower meaning dictionaries were quite popular during the Victorian era for instance, pink carnations meant “I will never forget you,” and chrysanthemums meant “truth.” Though people didn’t necessarily send secret messages through buds and bouquets, the meanings were still important to people during that period.We think this bit of historical trivia is pretty charming, so we explored this recently published flower dictionary to discover the meanings behind different kinds of roses so you know exactly what you’re getting into if you give flowers this Valentine’s Day.

1. Red rose: If you planned on delivering this classic choice to your significant other, you’re in luck. It means “love.”

2. White rose: But maybe save these babies for a melancholy moment. They mean “a heart unacquainted with love.”

3. Pink rose: Deliver the gift of “grace” when you send a friend these sweet blooms.

4. Peach rose: These bashful beauties signify “modesty.”

5. Purple rose: A quirkier hue calls for a quirkier meaning; violet shades lend themselves to “enchantment.”

6. Burgundy rose: These flowers mean “unconcious beauty.” Perhaps because they feel inferior to the more classic red rose?

7. Orange rose: An energetic, curious color comes with a meaning to match: “fascination.

“8. Yellow rose: You wouldn’t think it cruel to gift someone a bouquet, but these sunny flowers imply “infidelity.