Have you ever found yourself in the flower aisle, pondering what that huge bouquet of roses you’ve been wanting to give your partner means? Does 24 roses mean "I'm totally devoted" or "Let's cherish our friendship"?
You might be surprised to know that the number of roses you choose can convey many emotions, often more articulately than words.
So aside from colour, the roses' number meaning should also be considered whether you're fanning the flames of love, making amends, or simply cheering someone up.
Before you unintentionally propose with fifty roses or start an unintended cold war with a single stem, let's unravel the mysteries of these floral numbers.
The Hidden Meaning Of The Number Of Roses In An Arrangement
The tradition of using roses as a means of communication dates back to ancient times when flowers were used instead of words to express feelings that were otherwise unspoken.
In Roman mythology, roses were associated with Venus, the goddess of love, and have since been a staple in romantic expressions.
The Victorian era saw the rise of floriography, a communication method through floral arrangements, where each flower and its number held specific meanings.
Each quantity of roses carries its unique significance, often deeply rooted in cultural symbolism and romantic tradition. Understanding these can enhance the message you wish to convey:
A Single Rose
Often seen as a gesture of humility or simplicity, a single rose is a powerful way to say "love at first sight" or to continue to cherish someone after many years. It's ideal for a first date or when you want to say "thank you" in a simple yet meaningful way.
Two Roses
Joined together, two roses symbolise mutual love and affection, perfect for expressing feelings to your soul mate or making a big apology with a dual meaning of forgiveness and continued affection.
Three Roses
Traditionally used to say "I love you," three roses are perfect for a three-month anniversary or when you want to express your love on any ordinary day to make it special.
Five Roses
This number can signify the happiness one wishes to bestow upon a loved one, often used during special occasions to express joy and appreciation.
Six Roses
Conveying a message of devotion and a love that is growing, six roses are perfect for those caught in the throes of early passion. Six roses are also a great way to indicate your desire to be more than just friends. It's suitable for new relationships or expressing a growing interest in someone.
Eight Roses
A message of support, often given to encourage and show support for a friend or family member heading off on a new journey, hence its association with the phrase "bon voyage."
Nine Roses
Nine roses symbolise eternal love, making them perfect for giving on special occasions like Valentine's Day or when you want to make a strong statement about your long-term commitment to someone.
Twelve Roses
The classic dozen is universally recognised as a declaration of love and admiration, perfect for celebrating a significant romantic moment or anniversary.
Fifteen Roses
If you need to apologise, fifteen roses are ideal as they express regret and ask for forgiveness.
Twenty-Four Roses
Showcasing that someone is always on your mind, this large bouquet symbolises unchanging and constant love, echoing the sentiment of being thought of every hour of the day.
Fifty Roses
Nothing says "unconditional love" quite like fifty roses. This grand number is perfect for making a bold declaration of love on significant occasions like major anniversaries or when proposing marriage.
One Hundred Roses
If you want to go all out to display your affection and loyalty and wish for a union till death, one hundred roses are the ultimate statement of deep, everlasting love, ideal for special romantic gestures or renewing vows.
How To Choose The Right Number Of Roses For Every Occasion?
Selecting the right number of flowers involves more than understanding the rose's number meanings—it's about matching the flowers to both the recipient and the occasion.
When choosing the right number of roses for a particular occasion, consider these four practical tips to ensure your floral gift perfectly conveys your sentiments:
Consider The Relationship Stage
The stage of your relationship with the recipient can help determine the number of roses to give. Early in a relationship, a modest number of roses can express budding interest without overwhelming the other person.
In contrast, a long-term partner might appreciate a more significant number, reflecting the depth and duration of your relationship.
Match The Occasion
The event or milestone you are celebrating should influence your choice. For anniversaries, consider matching the number of roses to the number of years together, as this adds a thoughtful and personalised touch. A bouquet of twelve roses might symbolise congratulations and success for a graduation.
Personalise Your Gesture
Tailor your choice to the personality and preferences of the recipient. If the person you're gifting roses to loves grand gestures, a large bouquet might be the way to go.
Conversely, a single rose or a small bouquet could be more meaningful if they appreciate minimalism or simplicity. This personal consideration shows that you understand and value who they are.
Different Ways To Convey Your Feelings With Roses And Numbers
Presenting roses in various styles can significantly enhance the message conveyed by the number of roses, adding a unique touch that personalises the gesture even further. Here are several creative ways to present roses tailored to the symbolic meaning of their numbers:
- Classic Elegance: Present a single rose without any other embellishments. This simple yet powerful way is timeless and highlights the beauty of the gesture.
- Message in a Bottle: Place a single rose and a rolled-up personal message inside a clear glass bottle for a romantic and mysterious presentation.
- Hand-Tied: Bind two roses together with a beautiful ribbon, symbolising unity and mutual affection, ideal for anniversaries or as a dual token of love.
- Accompanied by Chocolates: Bundle three roses with a small box of fine chocolates. This pairing is traditional and adds a sweet touch to your heartfelt message of love.
- Elegant Vase: Arrange six roses in a sleek, modern vase. This setup is perfect for displaying on a work desk or home table, reminding the recipient of your feelings daily.
- Classic Dozen: Present a dozen roses in a large, elegant bouquet wrapped in high-quality floral paper or a long box. This traditional presentation is universally appreciated.
- Surprise Delivery: Arrange to have a dozen roses delivered to their home or workplace, adding an element of surprise and public declaration of your affection.
- Mixed Colours: Instead of a single colour, mix different shades of roses to add depth and visual appeal. This can express complexity and richness in your feelings.
- Two-Tier Arrangement: Design the bouquet in two tiers, enhancing its visual impact and symbolising your 24/7 thoughts about the recipient.
- Heart-shaped bouquet: Arrange fifty roses in a heart shape to emphasise the declaration of love, ideal for engagements or significant anniversaries.
- Lavish Basket: Present the roses in a large decorative basket, making it a grand and luxurious gift that conveys the depth of your feelings.
- Spectacular Display: Arrange one hundred roses in a large, breathtaking display, possibly incorporating subtle lighting or additional floral accents to enhance the visual spectacle.
- Room Full of Roses: Fill an entire room with scattered petals leading to the bouquet, creating a truly immersive and unforgettable romantic setting.
Conclusion About Number Of Roses Meaning
Remember what the number of roses means the next time you give flowers to ensure your message reaches and touches the heart of your treasured one.
Whether it's a single rose to express admiration or a lavish bouquet to declare undying love, understanding the meaning behind each quantity enhances the impact of your gift.
For those looking to make every occasion special without breaking the bank, The Daily Blooms offers an array of affordable fresh flowers and dried flowers in Singapore that are suitable for any event.
Coupled with the convenience of free flower delivery across Singapore, choosing The Daily Blooms ensures that your thoughtful gesture arrives with freshness and beauty intact, making it as meaningful as the message you wish to convey. Place your order today!
Frequently Asked Questions About Roses Meaning By Number
What Is The Lucky Number For Red Roses?
The lucky number for red roses is considered to be twelve. Twelve red roses symbolise complete love and perfection, making them ideal for expressing deep affection and admiration.
Is It Appropriate To Give Thirteen Roses?
While thirteen roses might be seen as unlucky in some cultures, in floral language, they can signify a secret admirer or eternal friendship, depending on the context and the relationship.
How Many Roses Should I Give For A Proposal?
For a marriage proposal, fifty roses are ideal as they symbolise unconditional love and a commitment that knows no bounds.
Does The Colour Of The Roses Change The Meaning Of Their Number?
Yes, the colour of the roses can alter the meaning of their number. For example, while red roses generally signify love and passion, yellow roses with the same number can express friendship and joy.
