Valentine’s Day Roses: Why, what and how?

Why do we send roses?

Roses have long been symbols of love, with their delicate petals and unrivalled scent. But why?

In the mid 1800s, an idea called “floriography”, or the language of flowers, emerged. Each flower and colour was assigned its own meaning, and combining them together in particular ways meant specific things. Victorians used to use this to send entire bouquets with complex messages, without ever having to write anything down. And the red rose, of course, meant love.

While floriography is no longer regularly used, some associations have trickled down through time and are still used to this day. Hence, sending roses to the one you love on a day popularised for lovers.

Red is the traditional colour of love and passion, and is the most commonly sent colour rose on Valentine’s Day. Deeper shades of red usually stand for true love and devotion, while brighter shades represent passion and romance. We have a large selection of red roses that we have chosen specially for Valentine’s Day, such as the deep red of One in a Million, or the bright and rich red of Love Knot.

Orange is the colour of excitement and enthusiasm. Send to your loved one to symbolise that your relationship still has that special spark! Our Love is in the Air Valentines Gift comes with the beautiful Scent From Heaven rose, a delightful orange colour with an outstanding fragrance.

Pink is associated with sweetness and love, perfect for sending in a new relationship without being an overwhelming romantic gesture. Summer Romance is a delicate pink rose, and the meaningful name will be sure to delight any recipient.

Lilac represents charm and enchantment, making it perfect for any loved one. It would also be an ideal colour rose to send to the one you admire from afar; don’t forget we can do anonymous gifts if you’re not ready to take the plunge just yet! Dream Lover is a beautiful pale lilac patio rose, that would enchant whoever you send it to.

White roses are a symbol of innocence and purity, ideal for newly weds. Perpetually Yours Valentines Rose is a stunning climbing rose to send to your soulmate, which will shine from on high as a beacon the love you share.

Yellow means joy and friendship, so while not the most romantic choice for a partner on Valentine’s day, how about sending to a friend that may be feeling a bit lonely. Your thoughtfulness and inclusion on a day traditionally reserved for couples will surely raise their spirits and cement your friendship. “Galentines” and “Palentines” (both celebrating friendship at Valentines) are becoming more and more popular, so why not send our Golden Friendship Valentines Rose to brighten up someone’s day.

Roses with more than one colour combine the messages in a unique way. For example, our Scentimental Rose is red and white striped and comes in the gift package “To The One I Love”. Combining the meanings of red and white, this would make a stunning gift for a first valentines day as a married couple.