Roses remain one of the most popular flowers we sell at Best Blooms. Whether it's a romantic gesture, birthday surprise, thank you gift, or sympathy tribute, roses continue to be one of the most versatile flowers available. In this guide, our Auckland florists share rose meanings, colours, interesting facts, care tips, and some surprising things you may not know about the world's most famous flower.
Few flowers have captured people's hearts quite like the rose. With thousands of varieties available in almost every colour imaginable, roses can suit nearly any occasion. Red roses are famous for romance, but roses are also sent for birthdays, congratulations, anniversaries, sympathy, and friendship.
At Best Blooms, roses are one of our most requested flowers throughout the year because they are beautiful, long-lasting, and carry meaningful symbolism.
There are over 150 species of roses and thousands of cultivated varieties grown around the world.
Yes. One of the reasons roses remain so popular is that different colours carry different meanings.
Although often requested, Blue roses do not naturally occur in nature, making them one of the rarest rose colours. Black roses are also extremely uncommon and are usually very deep shades of red or purple or dyed to create the colour.
For a deeper look at rose symbolism, read our guide to The Meaning of Rose Colours.
At Best Blooms, we're often asked how many roses should be sent for a romantic gift. Traditionally, the number of roses in a bouquet can carry its own meaning, with a single rose expressing one sentiment and a dozen roses expressing another.
If you would like to learn more about rose symbolism, explore our article on rose colour meanings.
Many people are surprised to learn that roses are edible. Rose petals have been used for centuries in teas, desserts, jams, syrups and rose water.
Rose water is commonly used in Middle Eastern and Asian cooking, while fresh rose petals can add colour and fragrance to salads and desserts including ice cream.
Roses also produce a berry-like fruit called a rose hip. Rose hips are rich in Vitamin C and are often dried to make herbal teas.
Important: Only consume roses that have not been treated with pesticides or chemicals.
The David Austin Juliet Rose debuted at the Chelsea Flower Show in 2006 and became famous as one of the most expensive rose cultivars ever developed. Its soft apricot colouring and old-fashioned bloom shape continue to make it one of the most admired garden roses in the world.
Fresh roses can typically last between 5 and 10 days when cared for correctly.
For more flower care advice, read our guide on making flowers last longer.
Some bouquets carry special memories. Whether they were given for Valentine's Day, an anniversary, or another important occasion, many people like to preserve their roses after the flowers have faded.
One simple method is to hang roses upside down in a cool, dry place for several weeks. This allows the flowers to dry naturally while retaining much of their shape.
You can also press individual rose petals between sheets of absorbent paper and use them in journals, scrapbooks, greeting cards, or framed artwork.
Whether you're celebrating love, friendship, a birthday, or simply want to brighten someone's day, roses remain one of the most meaningful flowers you can send.
Can you eat roses?
Yes. Rose petals are edible and have been used in teas, desserts, jams, syrups and rose water for centuries. Only consume roses that have not been treated with pesticides or chemicals.
How many different types of roses are there?
There are more than 150 species of roses and thousands of cultivated varieties grown around the world.
What do different rose colours mean?
Red roses symbolise love, pink roses represent admiration, yellow roses signify friendship, and white roses are often associated with sympathy and remembrance.
Does the number of roses in a bouquet have a meaning?
Yes. Different numbers of roses have traditionally been associated with different sentiments. For example, one rose can mean "you are special", three roses often mean "I love you", and twelve roses traditionally symbolise love and devotion.
How long do roses last in a vase?
Fresh roses generally last between 5 and 10 days when cared for properly with fresh water, flower food and regular stem trimming.
Can I dry or preserve roses?
Yes. Roses can be dried by hanging them upside down or preserved by pressing petals for keepsakes and crafts.
Why are roses so popular?
Roses are versatile, beautiful, available in many colours, and have long been associated with love, friendship, celebration and remembrance.
Looking to learn more about popular flowers, flower meanings, and seasonal blooms? Explore the Best Blooms Flower Library, our growing collection of florist guides and flower advice.
Jo-Ann Moss is the Creative Director at Best Blooms, an Auckland florist providing fresh flower delivery across the city. Jo-Ann writes about flower gifting, floral care tips, and how to choose the right bouquet for every occasion.
02 February 2026, 11:11 PM
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