Giving Roses | Rose Numbers & Colors Meaning – MO BLUMEN
Giving roses — the meaning of numbers & colors
Which color, how many, and for what occasion? Everything you should know before buying roses
Roses for Gifting
Roses are the world’s most popular flower gift — but choosing the right color and number is an art in itself. This guide makes it easy for you.
Rose colors — what they really mean
🔴 Red Roses
Message: “I love you. Passionately.”
The clearest flower message of all. Red roses are reserved for romantic love — Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, declarations of love. Giving red roses to a female colleague or your mother-in-law can be misunderstood.
🩷 Pink Roses
Message: “I appreciate you. I am grateful.”
The most versatile rose color. Pink roses suit almost any occasion: Mother’s Day, birthdays, thank-you gifts, friendship. No romantic undertone — just genuine warmth.
🤍 White Roses
Message: “Purity, a new beginning, sincerity.”
White roses stand for weddings, christenings, and mourning. They are also suitable as an apology — an expression of sincere and heartfelt feelings.
💛 Yellow Roses
Message: “You make me happy. You are my sunshine.”
Perfect for friendship and joy. They used to be seen as a sign of jealousy — but that is outdated. Today, yellow roses clearly represent positive feelings.
🧡 Orange & Peach Roses
Message: “You fascinate me. I admire you.”
Orange stands for enthusiasm and energy. Peach stands for gratitude and modesty. Both colors are effortless and always appropriate.
💜 Lavender/Purple Roses
Message: “You have enchanted me.”
Rare, elegant, and mysterious. Lavender roses stand for enchantment and “love at first sight”. An elegant gift for someone truly special.
How many roses should you give?
| Quantity | Message | Best suited for |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Love at first sight / You are unique | A new flirtation, a romantic gesture |
| 3 | I love you | A classic declaration of love |
| 5 | Great admiration | Compliment, appreciation |
| 7 | Secret crush | Subtle signal |
| 9 | Eternal love | Anniversary, deep connection |
| 12 | “Be mine” / Complete devotion | Valentine’s Day classic |
| 24 | “Every hour of my day belongs to you” | Grand romantic gesture |
| 50 | Unconditional love | Milestone moments |
| 99 | “I will love you forever” | Marriage proposal, life partner |
| 100+ | Total devotion | Maximum statement |
Austrian tradition: In Austria, flowers are traditionally given in odd numbers. Even numbers are associated with funeral flowers. For large bouquets (from around 20 stems), this matters less.
The right occasion — quick overview
| Occasion | Recommended color | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Valentine’s Day | Red | 12 (classic) or 1 (minimalist) |
| Mother’s Day | Pink or peach | 5, 7, or 9 |
| Birthday | Colorful, yellow, or pink | Odd number, depending on age |
| Anniversary | Red or pink | Number of years together |
| Wedding | White or cream | Depending on the arrangement |
| Apology | White or yellow | Odd numbers (5, 7, or 9) |
| Thank you | Pink or orange | 5 or 7 |
| Bereavement | White | Depending on the arrangement |
| New relationship | Pink or lavender | 1, 3, or 5 |
| Friendship | Yellow | 5 or 7 |
Practical tips for buying roses
- Buds instead of open blooms: Roses that are still slightly closed last much longer and open beautifully at home.
- Check the stems: Firm, green stems = fresh. Limp, brownish stems = old.
- Check the leaves: Healthy, green leaves without yellow spots or wilted edges.
- Ecuador roses: Larger flower heads, more intense colors, and longer vase life — well worth it for special occasions.
- Personal card: Always include a card. Three handwritten lines say more than a hundred roses without words.
- Timing: Ideally, order from your florist 1–2 days in advance — that way you’ll get the freshest flowers and your preferred color is guaranteed to be available.
Pro tip: Mixed rose colors in one bouquet are not “indecisive” — they’re modern and show that you’ve put thought into it. A bouquet in pink, peach, and cream looks especially elegant.
The 5 most common mistakes when giving roses
- Red roses for the wrong person: Red roses = romance. Full stop. For your boss or mother-in-law, pink, peach, or a colorful mixed flower bouquet is the better choice.
- Cheap supermarket roses: At a florist, you not only get fresher roses, but also expert advice and beautiful wrapping. The price difference is smaller than you might think.
- Even numbers in Austria: Even numbers are traditionally associated with funeral flowers. It’s better to choose 5, 7, or 9 instead of 6, 8, or 10.
- Not including a card: Flowers without words are only half as lovely. A few personal lines make all the difference.
- Ordering too late: On Valentine’s Day or Mother’s Day, certain colours sell out quickly. Order at least 2–3 days in advance.
Roses from MO BLUMEN Vienna — tied with love
Red roses, pink roses, Ecuador Premium — hand-tied with a personal card. Same-day delivery in Vienna.
Frequently asked questions
Of course. Roses are not gender-specific. Bold colours work especially well for men: deep red, orange, or white roses. Ideally in a simple, modern arrangement with greenery. Perfect for Father’s Day, a birthday, or simply as a thank-you.
Pink roses. They suit every occasion, every relationship, and every person — without romantic misunderstandings. Peach roses are also a very safe and versatile choice.
12 red roses are the international classic. But 1 single red rose (minimalist and striking) or 5–7 roses (elegant and not over the top) are also lovely options. For a big statement: 24 or 50 roses.
Yes! Mixed rose bouquets are modern and beautiful. Pink + peach + cream looks elegant. Red + white is classically romantic. Just avoid mixing red + yellow — it can feel contradictory (love + friendship).
Demand rises dramatically worldwide on Valentine’s Day — especially for red roses. Florists’ wholesale prices sometimes double or even triple. Tip: Pink, peach, or lavender roses are often more affordable on Valentine’s Day and just as beautiful.
The symbolic meaning of roses is rich and varied. Different rose colours let you express different feelings and send a message. Red roses are a symbol of deep affection and romantic love.