Long Stemmed Roses: A Colorful Expression of Emotions

The gift of a long stemmed rose is perfect for almost any occasion. Each distinctive color expresses a different sentiment, feeling, or emotion. Whether given as a single stem or as a large bouquet, the response can be a powerful one.

History of the Long Stemmed Rose

In the 1800s, the Hybrid Tea rose of Europe was crossbred with a rose from China with a most unexpected and extraordinary result. The new rose produced a single bloom, retained the scent of the tea rose, and had the ability to bloom repeatedly throughout the year. It was also at this time that a new range of color was introduced.

When first cultivated, the majority of the blooms were of shades of pink, as were most wild roses. It wasn’t until the 18th century that yellow roses were discovered growing naturally in parts of the Middle East. Orange roses were first cultivated near the turn of the 20th Century, thanks in part to the discovery of the yellow rose.

Meaning of Different Color of Roses

Over time, the specific color of the rose has taken on a meaning of its own. In part, the meanings of different color roses are:

• Red roses are the traditional symbol for love and romance. Red roses are traditionally given on Valentine’s Day, wedding anniversaries, or anytime a special expression of love is desired.
• Pink roses are a symbol of grace and elegance, as well as sweetness and romance. Dark pink conveys an expression of gratitude or appreciation and light pink is associated with gentleness and admiration. Pink roses are also appropriate as an expression of sympathy.
• Yellow roses are commonly associated with joy and friendship because the cheerful color evokes a feeling of warmth and happiness. Yellow roses are a great way to brighten someone’s day.
• White roses are a symbol of innocence and purity and are traditionally associated with marriage or used as an expression of remembrance. Wedding bouquets are often comprised of white roses along with other white flowers. As a symbol of remembrance, honor, and reverence, the white rose is also appropriate for inclusion in a sympathy arrangement.
• Orange roses are a symbol of desire, passion, and enthusiasm. As a mixture of red and yellow, orange roses could be used as an expression of the desire to move a relationship past friendship.
• Purple roses are a symbol of fantasy and are often used to express feelings of love at first sight. Also, the color purple has long been associated with royalty and majesty.

The long stemmed rose is a gift full of heart-felt meaning and symbolism that is greatly appreciated by those that receive them. A long stemmed rose is a gift that is difficult to match with any other flower.

Source:

proflowers.com “Long Stemmed Roses Guide” (accessed March 15, 2010)