Roses & Romance: The History of Valentine’s Day and the Meaning Behind the Most Romantic Flower

When it comes to Valentine’s Day, nothing says ‘I love you’ quite like a bouquet of roses. Whether it’s a single stem or a beautifully arranged bunch, roses have been the ultimate symbol of romance for centuries. But have you ever wondered how this tradition began?

From ancient myths to Victorian flower language, let’s take a journey through the history of Valentine’s Day and discover why roses are still the most heartfelt way to say I love you.

The Story Behind Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is rooted in legend, with its most famous story dating back to ancient Rome. The tale centres around Saint Valentine, a priest who secretly performed marriages despite Emperor Claudius II banning them—believing single men made better soldiers. When Valentine’s defiance was discovered, he was imprisoned and later executed on 14th February. According to legend, before his death, he left a note for the jailer’s daughter, signed “from your Valentine.”

By the Middle Ages, Valentine’s Day was firmly linked with love and courtship. The poet Geoffrey Chaucer even referenced it in the 14th century, associating the day with the time birds supposedly chose their mates. By the 18th century, exchanging handwritten notes and flowers had become a common tradition, setting the foundation for the romantic celebrations we know today.

Why Are Roses the Ultimate Symbol of Love?

Roses, especially red ones, have long been associated with love and passion. Their origins as a romantic symbol stretch back to Greek and Roman mythology, where the rose was linked to Aphrodite (or Venus in Roman mythology), the goddess of love. One legend tells of her lover, Adonis, who was fatally wounded. As she rushed to his side, her tears mingled with his blood, creating the first red rose—forever tying the flower to deep love and devotion.

Fast forward to the Victorian era, and the language of flowers (or floriography) became a popular way to send secret messages. Every flower had a meaning, and the red rose became the ultimate symbol of love, passion, and longing. Today, whether it’s a single stem or a lavish bouquet, giving roses is one of the most timeless ways to express affection.

What Different Rose Colours Mean

While red roses steal the show on Valentine’s Day, every rose colour carries its own unique message:

🌹 Red Roses – Love, passion, and romance
🤍 White Roses – Purity, new beginnings, and remembrance
💖 Pink Roses – Admiration, gratitude, and sweetness
💛 Yellow Roses – Friendship, joy, and warmth
🧡 Orange Roses – Desire, enthusiasm, and excitement
💜 Lavender Roses – Enchantment and love at first sight

Mixing different rose colours can add a personal touch to your bouquet, making your message of love even more meaningful.

How to Keep Your Roses Looking Their Best

Want your Valentine’s roses to last longer? Here are a few simple tips:

• Trim the stems at an angle before placing them in water
• Change the water every couple of days to keep them fresh
• Keep them away from direct sunlight and heat
• Add flower food (or a little sugar and vinegar) to nourish the blooms

No matter how you celebrate, Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to share a little love—and there’s no better way to do that than with the timeless beauty of roses.