Source:Roger WilliamsFor Release:February 14, 2016

Extension Ed., Ag/4-H

Cherokee County

456-6163

Sending the Right Rose Color

On February 14th there are red roses and then something else. During Valentine’s Day 71% of the roses are red. The red rose is the ultimate symbol of romantic love and deep emotions.

Pink roses are the second most popular color sent on this occasion. There are several variations of the color. Pink roses represent elegance and grace. Light pink indicates sweetness while deep pink covey appreciation. They have also come to be associated with the fight against breast cancer.

Pure white roses symbolize purity and innocence. White flowers are generally associated with new beginnings and spirituality.

Lavender roses are used to express fascination and adoration. The color purple is associated with royalty and the darker color lavender is more associated with regal majesty & splendor.

Yellow roses are an expressed of exuberance and evoke feelings of joy and warmth. They are symbols of friendship and caring. The yellow rose does not represent any type of romance. It indicates purely platonic emotions.

Orange roses signify passion and energy. They also convey a sense of fascination. This color is second to only the red as messengers of passion and romance.

Black roses convey the death of a family or idea. It is the color of death as farewell. Sending black roses to someone indicates the death of a relationship.

Sometimes the combination of rose colors have a designated meaning.

White & Yellow = Harmony

Red & Yellow = Celebration

Red & White = Bonding

Multicolor Bouquet = Unknown feelings

Regardless of the original color, dead roses say “it’s over” loud & clear.

Even the number of roses sent have a romantic meaning. Twelve red roses symbolize “Be mine” and “I love you.” A single red rose says “I love you” (but I’m not going broke telling you.)

Oklahoma State University, U.S. Department of Agriculture, State and Local governments cooperating. Oklahoma State University, in compliance with Titles VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Executive Order 11246 as amended, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, and other federal and state laws and regulations, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, age, religion, disability, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices, or procedures.