Valentine’s Week: Roses and their meanings

Flowers are a popular symbol for expressing 'love', or 'like' — depends on the emotion you want to express. Bring in the favourite rose into the picture, and things get really serious. But do they have to? Roses, like other flowers, portray different meanings and sentiments. Take a look. (Source: Thinkstock Images)

Red Rose: This is an unmistakable expression of love. Red roses convey love, longing and desire. (Source: Thinkstock Images)

White Rose: White is the colour of purity, chastity and innocence. These can have two meanings — one is at the beginning of a relationship, which is why white roses are used in weddings, as well as the end. Be careful when you gift your partner a white rose. (Source: Thinkstock Images)

Yellow Rose: An expression of exuberance, yellow roses are friendly — they can also mean too friendly. Give this to a friend to brighten up her day, but be cautious since yellow roses also stand for infidelity. (Source: Thinkstock Images)

Pink Rose: Pink is a graceful colour and can imply that the recipient is full of grace. It also stands for admiration, joy and gratitude. If you're going for the 'like' emotion, then a baby pink bloom is the way to go. (Source: Thinkstock Images)

Orange Rose: While yellow roses are friendly, an orange rose are representative of a much fiercer emotion. These deep-coloured blooms signify passion and energy. If intense desire is what you feel, opt for an orange rose — couple them with red, and you've got a strong message blooming across. (Source: Thinkstock Images)

Peach Rose: A colour of modesty, peach roses are subtle messengers of the first blush of love or appreciation. Like a girl and want to explore more? Let these delicate roses do the talking. (Source: Thinkstock Images)