How many roses should you give: always an even number or always an odd number?
We explain the rules below.
For many years, it was believed that only an uneven number of flowers was acceptable.
This tradition comes from France. At one time, people wanted to prove that their flowers
had not been bought from the market. While markets always offered flowers in even numbers,
shops sold them in odd numbers.
About rose gifts
Roses are classic gifts of love. But why is there the custom of always giving an odd number of roses?
And at what point is a rose long-stemmed?
Giving roses: even or odd number?
The custom today is to give an uneven number of flowers only if they can be counted at first glance.
This is difficult if there are eleven or more flowers (or in the case of a tied bouquet).
So from that point onwards, consumers and florists feel they can do as they please.
By the way: “a dozen roses” is still considered THE classic gift in every country.
And it is not uncommon for people who are deeply in love, or even long-standing partners, to order a gross (twelve dozen roses).
Roses: what do short-stem, medium-stem and long-stem mean?
If you are buying or ordering roses, choosing your blooms involves more than deciding
on the most beautiful colours and different sizes. There are various stem lengths as well.
You will (usually) have the choice of short-stem, medium-stem and long-stem roses.
Within these categories, however, the actual length in centimetres of the stems may vary.
However, in general, short-stem roses are 30-50 centimetres in length, medium-stem roses are 50-60cm in length and long-stem roses are mostly 70cm or more.
However, in general, short-stem roses are 30-50 centimetres in length, medium-stem roses are 50-60cm in length and long-stem roses are mostly 70cm or more.
All about the queen of flowers
About rose gifts
Roses are classic gifts of love. But why is there the custom of always giving an odd number of roses? And at what point is a rose long-stemmed?
Why roses don’t have thorns?
«No rose without a thorn», they say. Well, that's just plain wrong. Because roses have no thorns. Learn more about a big misunderstanding here.
Wild roses have been around for 25 million years
Unbelievable, but true: even before there were humans, the first wild roses were blooming. They were simple, had five petals and still exist today.
Roses first cultivated in China
Chinese, Sumerians, Japanese or Persians: all wanted the rose. The rose culture of the Chinese even belonged for a long time to the most advanced in the world.
Europeans discover rose cultivation
For a long time, roses in Europe only bloomed once. This only changed with the discovery trips of the English and Dutch to Asia in the 16th century.
Roses for fragrances and cosmetics
Roses have stimulated creativity in many areas, also in the beauty world. Here you will find exciting things about rosewater, rose oil, rose perfume and smelling bottles.
Roses and their healing properties
The rose has always been used as a medicinal plant. Not only in ancient China, but also in Persia, Greece and Rome. This has remained so until today.
12 June: World Red Rose Day
Roses seduce - and red roses even more so. No wonder, a day is dedicated to them worldwide. They symbolize love and passion and play the leading role on 12 June.
Roses with the Max Havelaar Fairtrade label
Learn more about the Max Havelaar Fairtrade label and Fleurop's collaboration.