Oct 03, 2024

Four Most Common Types of Roses in Flower Bouquets

Discover the four most common types of roses used in flower bouquets. Learn what makes each rose unique and why they’re loved in floral arrangements worldwide.

Introduction

Roses have long been the heart and soul of flower bouquets, symbolizing love, beauty, and timeless elegance. Whether you're celebrating a romantic milestone, expressing sympathy, or simply brightening someone’s day, roses always make a statement. But did you know that not all roses are the same? In the floral world, some rose varieties are far more popular than others when it comes to creating stunning, balanced bouquets. In this article, we’ll explore the four most common types of roses in flower bouquets—each with its own charm, color variety, and meaning. Let’s dive into the floral favorites that florists and flower lovers adore the most!

When you consider flowers for a loved one, roses are likely the first blooms to come to mind. Roses are the hands-down favorite blossom for giving and receiving.

You may not be aware of how many types of roses exist. Hundreds of flowers belong to this marvelously diverse family, and many of them lend themselves in unique ways to the perfect bouquet.

Four Common Types of Roses for Beautiful Arrangements

There are over 150 species of roses, with thousands of hybrid varieties, and each has specific features which determine its appeal for use in floral bouquets:

Color
Bloom size
Fragrance
Stem length

Most of the roses you'll find in a bouquet or floral arrangement belong to the family of modern garden roses, including the hybrid tea varieties. These roses were introduced in 1867. Bred for longer bloom times, larger and more dramatic flowers, and improved vase life, these are some of the most popular types of roses for cutting.

1. Long-Stemmed Roses

The long-stemmed rose is a perennial favorite, especially in red. These beloved flowers are a variety of hybrid tea roses, known for their long stems and single blooms. They come in a wide range of colors, each of which has significance.

Red is for love. Pink is generally used to express sympathy. Purple or lavender indicates infatuation or enchantment, while yellow is the color for friendship and good cheer. White roses are for innocence and are very popular for wedding arrangements or celebrations of birth.

If you choose long-stemmed roses, you are making a statement. The color varieties allow you to communicate in the language of flowers, especially for those moments in life when the right words are difficult to find.

2. Sweetheart Roses

This group includes several types of roses that also belong under the heading of modern garden roses. Sweetheart roses are generally smaller versions of hybrid tea roses and can be either single or multiple blossoms. You can choose these delicate-looking flowers for a bouquet of dainty colorful blooms or include them in arrangements with other blossoms for dramatic visual effect.

Like their larger cousins, they also come in an expansive selection of colors and bloom types. Light pink is the most popular color for a sweetheart rose, but they are also commonly found in white, yellow, and shades of red.

Contrary to what you might assume from the name, these roses are an appropriate gift for anyone; they are not just for a romantic moment. Sweetheart roses usually have a discrete but discernible floral scent.

3. David Austin Roses

David Austin has reintroduced some of the wonderful features of old garden rose varieties into the modern hybrids, resulting in some of the most popular roses of all. Also known as English roses, these flowers have generous blooms with a delightful fragrance not found in many of the other modern types of roses.

The David Austin roses have shorter stems, so they are usually used in the context of a floral arrangement rather than as a standalone bouquet. Some of the blooms have the traditional rosette form found in the older types of roses, reminiscent of a peony or ranunculus blossom, with concentric rings of petals forming an almost perfect circle of varying shades of color.

Others are similar to the classic form of most hybrid tea roses, unfolding from a tight bud to the flowing full and shapely bloom of an open rose. The David Austin roses are some of the most beautiful and sweet-smelling flowers you will find at the florist.

4. Floribunda & Grandiflora Roses

These roses generally produce multiple blooms on each stem. They are both derived from the hybrid tea roses, crossed with Polyantha roses which have clusters of tiny flowers in shades of pink, red, and white. Floribunda roses offer a terrific array of colors including purple, orange, and yellow in addition to the more traditional pink and white.

The blossoms themselves for these types of roses are impressively large and sturdy and are shaped like their single-blossom relatives, the long-stemmed roses. They also have an excellent vase life but are usually only mildly scented.

Reasons These Four Types of Roses Are Perfect Cut Flowers

Modern roses have been carefully selected and raised for people to enjoy in our daily lives. Of course, anyone would love to take a stroll through a rose garden every afternoon, but for most people, that isn't a realistic expectation on an average weekday.

Flowers, however, are a natural way for us to brighten our days and lift the human spirit. Thankfully, botanists have spent generations breeding them specifically so that we can bring them indoors and enjoy the benefits of fresh flowers in our homes and offices.

These four varieties of roses have been bred to be cut, displayed, and shared in our modern world. The hybrid tea roses are ideal for a long-lasting arrangement or bouquet. The David Austin varieties offer the fragrance and classic look of the old-world flowers blended with the versatility and hardiness of the tea roses. The features highlighted by intense and careful breeding have created types of roses that are ideally suited to their purpose.

Choosing the Right Roses for Your Occasion

With all of the popular types of roses available, you may find it difficult to choose. Consider what message you wish to convey with your selection.

For a declaration of love, the long-stemmed red rose is the classic choice. Or perhaps you want to lighten it up a bit and blend those beautiful crimson blossoms with other flowers. If it's a baby shower or a wedding, light pink or white roses of any variety are a traditional and tasteful selection. To congratulate a friend on a new job, try yellow or orange Floribunda roses to show some enthusiasm and encouragement.

Roses provide beautiful options for the ideal gift for any occasion. Come visit us at Beverly Hills Florist and have a look at all the types of roses we offer. You'll find the right bouquet or arrangement for your special someone.

What Each Rose Color Symbolizes?

Roses aren’t just flowers—they're messengers. Each shade whispers its own story, carries a hidden emotion, and conveys a different kind of love, gratitude, or even sorrow. But have you ever wondered what each rose color symbolizes and how to choose the right one?

Whether you're picking out a bouquet for a friend, a partner, or a memorial, understanding rose color meanings helps you speak the language of flowers—without saying a single word.

Red Roses — Classic Love & Romance

Symbolism: Passionate love, desire, respect, courage

Red roses are the timeless symbol of deep love and passion. They’re the ultimate romantic gesture and are most commonly given on Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, and proposals.

Best for: Lovers, anniversaries, romantic dates

Pink Roses — Grace, Gratitude & Admiration

Symbolism: Elegance, sweetness, appreciation, joy

Light pink roses whisper gentleness and admiration, while deeper pinks shout out appreciation and gratitude. They’re perfect for friends, mothers, mentors, or someone you deeply admire.

Best for: Mother's Day, thank-you gifts, birthdays

White Roses — Purity, Innocence & New Beginnings

Symbolism: New starts, spiritual love, remembrance

White roses are often used in weddings to symbolize pure love and are also present at funerals to represent honor and remembrance. They signify new beginnings, peace, and respect.

Best for: Weddings, sympathy flowers, spiritual occasions

Yellow Roses — Friendship, Joy & Positivity

Symbolism: Platonic love, warmth, caring

Yellow roses are like sunshine in floral form. They symbolize pure friendship, cheerfulness, and positive energy. They are perfect for celebrating friendship milestones, cheering someone up, or just saying “I’m thinking of you.”

Best for: Best friends, get-well-soon bouquets, birthdays

Orange Roses — Energy, Passion & Enthusiasm

Symbolism: Desire, pride, excitement

Bold and bright, orange roses express intense emotion and fascination. They’re the fiery middle ground between red (romance) and yellow (friendship), perfect for when you're more than friends… but not quite lovers.

Best for: Flirting, new relationships, promotions

Orange Roses — Energy, Passion & Enthusiasm

Symbolism: Desire, pride, excitement

Best for: Flirting, new relationships, promotions

Lavender Roses — Enchantment, Majesty & Love at First Sight

Symbolism: Mystery, royalty, magical attraction

Lavender roses are rare and mystical. They say “I’m enchanted by you” and symbolize love at first sight or admiration for someone special and unique.

Best for: Crushes, anniversaries, spiritual events

Black Roses — Mourning, Farewell & Rebirth

Symbolism: Goodbye, the end of a chapter, transformation

Though rare and dramatic, black roses are deeply symbolic. Often used in gothic settings or farewells, they can mean mourning, but also strength and rebirth.

Best for: Funerals, life transitions, symbolic art pieces

Peach Roses — Sincerity, Gratitude & Modesty

Symbolism: Appreciation, sincerity, closing a deal

Peach roses are ideal for expressing a soft, sincere thank-you or to celebrate the successful end of a deal or project. They also symbolize modesty and honesty.

Best for: Business partners, hosts, thank-you occasions

Cream Roses — Thoughtfulness & Charm

Symbolism: Charm, elegance, refined love

Slightly warmer than white, cream roses radiate grace and charm. They’re great for showing admiration and sophisticated love without the intense passion of red roses.

Best for: Elegant gestures, formal events, subtle admiration

Blue Roses — Mystery & the Impossible

Symbolism: The unattainable, wonder, fantasy

Blue roses don’t occur naturally—they’re man-made wonders, symbolizing the mystical and impossible. Perfect for expressing a fascination with someone’s uniqueness.

Best for: Creative souls, mystery lovers, dreamers

Green Roses — Growth & Harmony

Symbolism: Renewal, balance, good fortune

Green roses are rare but beautiful, symbolizing abundance, growth, and a fresh start. They’re a great way to celebrate new journeys or express calm and healing.

Best for: New beginnings, health recovery, housewarmings

Multi-Colored Roses — Celebration of Emotions

Symbolism: Joy, uniqueness, multiple emotions

Mixed-color rose bouquets are a celebration in bloom. Each color adds its own message, making them perfect for joyful moments when one sentiment just isn’t enough.

Best for: Graduations, birthdays, celebrations of life

How Florists Combine Multiple Rose Types for Rich Bouquets?

It’s not magic—it's floral mastery. Florists don’t just grab random roses and throw them together. They follow a creative, intentional process to craft rich, luxurious rose bouquets that stir emotion, tell stories, and stop people in their tracks.

So what’s the secret? It lies in how florists combine multiple rose types—by color, bloom size, fragrance, and symbolism—to build stunning, layered arrangements.

The Art of Combining Rose Types in a Bouquet

Every bouquet begins with a vision: romantic, bold, soft, dramatic, or joyful. From there, florists carefully select rose types that complement each other in terms of:

Color harmony
Bloom size and shape
Stem length
Fragrance levels
Symbolism

By blending different rose species, colors, and textures, florists create bouquets that feel dynamic and rich rather than flat or repetitive.

Popular Rose Types Used in Bouquets

Before we dive into the how, let’s explore the what. Here are the most commonly mixed rose types in premium bouquets:

1. Hybrid Tea Roses

Large, single blooms on long stems
Great for focal points in a bouquet
Commonly used in romantic or dramatic arrangements

2. Spray Roses

Multiple small blooms per stem
Adds fullness and a soft, wild feel
Used as filler or support around larger blooms

3. Garden Roses (David Austin)

Frilly, layered, and super fragrant
Brings vintage, luxurious charm
Ideal for weddings and elegant bouquets

4. Floribunda Roses

Cluster blooms with vibrant color
Adds a burst of brightness and volume
Perfect for cheerful, celebratory bouquets

5. Standard Roses

Classic, well-rounded shape
Available in nearly every color
Forms the backbone of most bouquets

Color Coordination: More Than Just Looks

Color isn’t just a visual choice—it’s emotional messaging.

Here’s how florists combine rose colors strategically:

Romantic Red + Soft Pink

Represents passion blended with sweetness. Often used in Valentine’s Day or anniversary bouquets.

White + Cream + Peach

Symbolizes purity, charm, and grace—perfect for weddings or condolences.

Orange + Yellow + Coral

Creates a vibrant, joyful feel for birthdays and congratulations.

Lavender + White

A magical, dreamy combo that works well for ethereal, fairy-tale-style arrangements.

Mixed Colors (Rainbow Bouquet)

Boldly expressive and festive—used when the goal is to celebrate life, diversity, or simply bring joy.

FAQ’s

Are Spray Roses used alone or with other flowers?

Spray roses are mostly used as supporting flowers in a bouquet. Their small, clustered blooms add fullness and texture, making them ideal for pairing with larger focal roses like Hybrid Teas or Garden Roses.

Are Floribunda Roses the same as Spray Roses?

No. While both offer multiple blooms, Floribundas have larger clusters and more vibrant color. Spray Roses are smaller and more delicate, often used for softening edges and filling spaces in the bouquet.

Are these rose types available year-round?

Most of them are available year-round, especially Hybrid Teas and Spray Roses. However, Garden Roses and some Floribundas may be more seasonal or require special ordering depending on location and demand.

Can I mix all four rose types in one bouquet?

Absolutely! Florists often combine all four to create depth, contrast, and visual interest. Each type plays a role—Hybrid Teas for elegance, Garden Roses for texture, Floribundas for volume, and Spray Roses for finishing touches.

Are these rose types suitable for DIY bouquets?

Yes, especially Spray Roses and Hybrid Teas. Garden Roses may need extra care due to their delicate petals, and Floribundas can be slightly harder to find, but all four can be used in DIY arrangements with the right handling.

Which rose type lasts the longest in a bouquet?

Hybrid Tea Roses tend to last longer (up to 7–10 days) with proper care. Spray Roses are also quite durable. Garden Roses are more delicate and may last a bit shorter (5–7 days), especially without floral preservatives.

Conclusion

When it comes to creating stunning flower arrangements, Hybrid Tea Roses, Spray Roses, Garden Roses, and Floribunda Roses stand out as the four pillars of rose bouquets. Each type plays a vital role in adding depth, elegance, texture, and color to floral designs.

These roses aren’t chosen at random—florists select them because they complement one another beautifully. From the striking presence of hybrid teas to the delicate charm of spray roses, every bloom contributes to the bouquet’s overall story and emotion.

Whether you're planning a romantic gesture, celebrating a milestone, or simply bringing beauty into your space, understanding these four rose varieties helps you choose or create the perfect bouquet with purpose.

So next time you admire a floral arrangement, you’ll know: the magic lies in the mix.

Sources: https://www.ftd.com/blog/share/types-of-roses https://www.cascadefloralwholesale.com/popular-types-of-roses-used-by-florists/ https://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/rose/english-rose/