Flowers have been given a special significance for centuries. They have long been treasured for their scent and their beauty. Perhaps nobody has esteemed flowers, however, as highly as the people of the Victorian age.

For them, flowers were so important they even used them to convey secret messages. Today, we still use flowers to convey messages of love. Here are some of the meanings of some of the most popular roses which are a sign of love and friendship. Study these meanings to be sure that you are giving the appropriate rose.

First on the list is the constant favorite, the red rose. Red roses have long been a sign of love and represent romantic and passionate love. These are the flower of choice to give if you want to show someone they are the love of your life. You don't have to go out and buy an entire bouquet either; just a single rose will suffice.

White roses are a special variety used as a sign of purity and innocence. They are sometimes used to give to people who are shy and to tell that person how special they are. White roses are often used in weddings as a symbol of new beginnings.

Use pink roses as a sign of appreciation and thanks. They can be given as a symbol of friendship as well. Yellow roses are also a sign of friendship as well as a sign to loved ones who are coming back from a long absence.

Orange roses are a symbol of enthusiasm and often given at graduation and commencement ceremonies to show the transition between to different stages of life.

If you are head over heels crazy in love with someone at the moment you met them give them Lavender or Purple roses to show them this is how you really feel.

One color that is traditionally used in a negative fashion to show dislike is Black but they can also be used humorously. My brother for instance, gave me a dozen black roses for my 40th birthday. It was funny and I will always remember it, especially when he turns 40!

These are the traditional meanings behind the basic colors of roses but don't be afraid to give some other variations especially if you have been in a relationship for a long time. There are many growers of roses who have come up with new and exciting hybrids with exciting color variations such as peach, apricot, and even multi colors.