Say it with Roses
May 24, 2016
You probably know that red roses symbolize love and passion, but you may not know that the color, number, and how roses are combined have coded meanings dating to the Victorian era. Here’s a guide to sending the perfect bouquet.
1 red rose: “I like you.”
6 red roses: “I adore you.”
A dozen red roses: “It’s true love.”
15 red roses: “I’m sorry.”
25 red roses: “Congratulations!”
50 red roses: “I love you, no matter what.”
100 red roses: “I’m devoted to you.” 
108 red roses: “Will you marry me?”
Yellow: “Let’s just be friends.”
Red, white, and pink mixed: “May God bless you.” (The three colors symbolize the Holy Trinity.)
Red and white with ivy: “We will be together forever.”
Red and white mixed: “We belong together.”
Two intertwined red roses: “I have something to ask you.” (A marriage proposal is imminent.)
Very dark red (almost black): “My condolences.”
White: symbolizes innocence and purity.
White buds: “I’m too young for love.”
Red and yellow: “Let’s celebrate.”
Light pink: “You make me happy.”
Dark pink: “Thank you.”
Blue: “You’re mysterious.”
Lavender: “It was love at first sight.”
Coral: “I want you.”
Burgundy: “You’re beautiful.”
Orange: “You fascinate me.”
White tea roses with pink borders: “I must confess— I’m still in love with you.”
