Rose
From Giftypedia
The Rose is considered the flower of June, and is the floral symbol for the 15th Anniversary of marriage. White and Red Roses are the official flowers of Father's Day.
History of the Rose
Through fossil evidence, roses have been around for 35 million years. For the class, Rosa, there is around 150 species that grow naturally in the Northern Hemisphere and about 5000 years ago was when roses were cultivated in gardens.
Roses have been used for symbols of love and war. During the fifteenth century the conflict in England between York and Lancaster became known as the "War of the Roses." The white rose symbolized York and the red rose symbolized Lancaster. In the seventeenth century roses were considered highly valuable and used as legal tender or used in bartering.
Roses were first cultivated in gardens in China but this quickly spread worldwide. In 1597 there were 14 varieties of roses, and by the end of the eighteenth century, European hybridizers had increased that number to over 1,000 varieties.
There have been many famous rose gardens in history. Napoleon's wife, Josephine, established an extensive rose collection on an estate in Paris. She had over 250 different varieties and sent expeditions all over the world looking for new kinds of roses. In 1824, the painter, Pierre Joseph Redoute, created a water color from this rose garden. This painting is considered one of the best botanical illustrations completed.
Color Meaning of Roses
The rose has a long history of beauty and symbolism. The color of a rose carries significance and can help you express your most heartfelt feelings. Our guide to rose colors and their meanings can help you choose the most appropriate rose for the sentiment you want to express.
| Color | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Red | Symbolism of love and romance. The red rose also conveys respect and the creative spirit of love. The red rose is known universally as the lover’s rose and is a popular Valentine's Day gift. |
| White | Representing, charm, innocence, humility, and purity. Often referred to as the bridal rose - is associated with young love. In Scotland, when the white rose bloomed in autumn, it was seen as a token of early marriage. Also symbolizing truth and reverence, it sends a message of loyalty and says "I am worthy of you." |
| Yellow | In Victorian times, the yellow rose symbolized jealousy, today it represents friendship, joy and caring. |
| Pink | Symbolizing grace and elegance, gentility, femininity, and refinement. A deep pink conveys gratitude and appreciation, while pale shades connote grace and gentleness, admiration and happiness. |
| Orange | With their warm, vibrant tones, orange roses symbolize desire, fascination, and enthusiasm. |
| Lilac and Purple | Thought to be almost mystical in nature, with symbolism tied to enchantment, desire and even proceeding cautiously, it’s not surprising that lilac and purple roses send a message of love at first sight. |
| Peach | Convey many different sentiments such as appreciation, gratitude, admiration or sympathy. They can also convey friendship and sociability. A pale peach rose symbolizes modesty. |
| Coral | Represent desire, passion and excitement. It also says "I admire your accomplishments" and represents good fortune. |
| Blue | Symbolize mystery or something desired, but unattainable. Blue roses do not occur naturally and are artificially colored. |
| Yellow Rose with Red Tips | Symbolizes friendship falling into love. |
| A Rosebud In Any Color | Symbolizes beauty and youth. |
| Red and White Roses | Symbolizes unity. Also the official flowers of Father's Day. |
Related Guides
- Monthly Birthstones
- Monthly Flowers
- Monthly Zodiac Signs
- Anniversary Flowers
- Anniversary Table
- Dating Anniversary Gifts
- Anniversary Gemstone Table
- Tips for Giving Flowers as a Gift
- Color Meanings of Flowers
- Traditional Flower Meanings
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