Red roses symbolize love, passion, and timeless beauty, making them a must-have for any garden. From Hybrid Teas to Floribundas, climbers, and shrub roses, these best varieties offer vibrant red blooms, captivating fragrances, and versatility.
Red roses are timeless symbols of love, passion, and beauty. With their stunning red flowers and captivating fragrance, they hold a special place in gardens and hearts worldwide. The red rose meaning extends beyond romance, embodying admiration, respect, and celebration. As the June birth flower, red roses also signify gratitude and joy, making them a meaningful addition to any home garden.
From climbing or rambler roses that scale trellises and arches to compact varieties ideal for containers or borders, red roses come in a diverse range of rose types to suit every space. Whether you’re drawn to the elegance of Hybrid Tea roses, the abundant blooms of Floribundas, or the sprawling charm of shrub roses, there’s a perfect variety for every gardener. Many of the selections in this list include All-America Rose Selection Winners, recognized for their exceptional performance, beauty, and resilience.
One of the joys of growing red roses is their versatility in the garden. They pair beautifully with other plants, creating visually stunning displays. For example, combining roses and clematis is a classic choice, where the delicate clematis vines complement the boldness of red roses, creating vertical interest and a layered garden effect. Additionally, underplanting roses with low-growing perennials or herbs, such as lavender or geranium, enhances both the aesthetic and health of your roses by improving airflow and reducing the risk of disease.
Beyond their ornamental value, some red rose varieties are also edible, with petals and rose hips that can be used to make teas, syrups, or desserts. These dual-purpose roses add both flavor and beauty to your garden, offering unique opportunities for creative culinary uses.
As the centerpiece of your garden, red roses can shine as stand-alone features or as part of mixed borders with complementary plants. Their vibrant hues make them ideal for creating focal points or accentuating themed garden designs. Whether you prefer single-petaled, lightly scented blooms or fully double, fragrant flowers, this curated list of 39 rose varieties covers a wide spectrum of characteristics to help you find the perfect match.
From climbing roses like ‘Don Juan’ or ‘Etoile de Hollande’ to compact favorites like ‘Double Knock Out,’ these roses not only showcase exceptional beauty but are also adaptable to different climates and conditions. If you’re looking for award-winning varieties, ‘Mister Lincoln’ and ‘Papa Meilland’ are standout choices, celebrated for their striking appearance and delightful fragrance.
Whether you want to fill your garden with red flowers that bloom from spring to fall, grow edible roses for culinary delights, or create dramatic vertical displays with climbing roses, this guide will inspire your gardening journey. Red roses are more than just flowers—they’re an experience, a statement, and a testament to nature’s elegance.
Explore this collection of the 39 best red rose varieties, and transform your garden into a romantic paradise filled with beauty, fragrance, and charm.
| Hardiness |
4 - 10 |
|---|---|
| Climate Zones | 1, 1A, 1B, 2, 2A, 2B, 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, A1, A2, A3, H1, H2 |
| Plant Type | Climbers, Roses, Shrubs |
| Plant Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Rosa, Rosa - English Rose, Rosa - Hybrid Tea Rose, Rosa - Floribunda Rose, Rosa - Rambling Rose, Rosa - Climbing Rose, Rosa - Grandiflora Rose, Rosa - Shrub Rose, Rosa - Groundcover Rose |
| Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
| Season of Interest | Spring (Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall |
| Height | 1' - 20' (30cm - 6.1m) |
| Spread | 1' - 20' (30cm - 6.1m) |
| Maintenance | Average |
| Water Needs | Average |
| Soil Type | Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand |
| Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
| Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained |
| Characteristics | Cut Flowers, Fragrant, Showy |
| Attracts | Bees |
| Landscaping Ideas | Arbors, Pergolas, Trellises, Banks And Slopes, Edging, Wall-Side Borders, Patio And Containers, Ground Covers, Hedges And Screens, Beds And Borders, Small Gardens |
| Garden Styles | City and Courtyard, Coastal Garden, Gravel and Rock Garden, Informal and Cottage |
Red rose tea is a delightful and aromatic beverage made from the petals or buds of red roses. Known for its soothing properties and captivating floral flavor, it has been cherished for centuries across cultures for its medicinal and culinary benefits. The tea not only boasts a rich, rosy fragrance but is also packed with nutrients that promote overall well-being.
Red rose tea is rich in antioxidants, including vitamin C, which boosts the immune system, reduces inflammation, and supports skin health. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it a natural remedy for soothing sore throats, alleviating menstrual discomfort, and improving digestion. The tea is also known to have mild sedative effects, helping to reduce stress, promote relaxation, and enhance sleep quality.
Drinking red rose tea regularly can improve circulation, which is beneficial for cardiovascular health. Additionally, its detoxifying properties may help flush out toxins, promoting a healthy liver and clearer skin. The tea is naturally caffeine-free, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a calming, healthful alternative to traditional teas.
To prepare red rose tea, select fresh or dried red rose petals that are organic and free from pesticides. Steep a handful of petals in boiling water for 5–7 minutes until the water turns a soft pink hue and releases a fragrant aroma. Add honey or a slice of lemon to enhance its flavor.
Red rose tea is more than a drink—it’s an experience. Its warm, floral notes make it perfect for quiet evenings, wellness rituals, or as a fragrant addition to tea blends. Whether enjoyed hot or iced, red rose tea brings elegance, health, and a touch of romance to every sip.
“Roses are red, violets are blue” is one of the most enduring and versatile poetic lines, often used as a starting point for heartfelt, humorous, or playful expressions of emotion. Though simple in structure, this classic rhyme holds a charm that has captivated generations.
The origins of this poetic form can be traced back to traditional English verse, with similar lines appearing in works as early as the 16th century. One of the earliest known references is found in Sir Edmund Spenser’s The Faerie Queene (1590), where the phrase “roses are red, violets are blue” is echoed in a more elaborate style. Over time, it evolved into the modern, concise version we know today.
At its heart, this rhyme is a celebration of love and beauty. The imagery of red roses, symbolizing passion, and violets, symbolizing loyalty and faithfulness, creates a perfect metaphor for romantic expression. Its simplicity allows anyone to personalize it, making it a universal way to communicate affection.
Here’s an example of a classic version:
Roses are red, violets are blue,
Sugar is sweet, and so are you.
Yet, this poem is not limited to romance. It has been adapted into countless humorous and creative iterations:
Roses are red, violets are blue,
I forgot to do laundry, but I still love you.
Whether sincere or lighthearted, “Roses are red, violets are blue” is a poetic template that continues to inspire creativity. Its enduring popularity lies in its ability to connect people, allowing them to express their feelings in a memorable and playful way. With endless possibilities for adaptation, it remains a timeless piece of literary charm.
Red roses grow best in locations with full sunlight (at least 6-8 hours daily) and well-draining, nutrient-rich soil with a slightly acidic pH (6.0–6.5). They thrive in moderate climates with proper air circulation to prevent disease. Consistent watering and protection from harsh winds also promote healthy growth.
The red rose has deep roots in Greek and Roman mythology, symbolizing love and beauty. According to legend, the goddess Aphrodite (Venus in Roman mythology) shed her blood over a white rose, turning it red as a symbol of passion. Over centuries, red roses became synonymous with romantic love, celebrated in literature, art, and culture, evolving into timeless expressions of affection and devotion.
Red roses are the universal symbol of love, passion, and deep affection. They convey admiration, respect, and devotion, making them the quintessential choice for romantic occasions. In some cultures, red roses also symbolize courage and sacrifice.
The gesture of giving 7 red roses symbolizes infatuation or admiration. It’s a declaration of being captivated by someone, signifying that the giver finds the recipient enchanting and deeply appealing.
Red flowers, including red roses, spiritually represent passion, vitality, and energy. They are associated with the root chakra, symbolizing stability, strength, and grounding. Red flowers often embody the essence of love, courage, and strong emotions.
Giving 12 red roses symbolizes complete and perfect love. It represents devotion, loyalty, and the desire for a lasting relationship, often signifying “be mine forever.” The number 12 is seen as a complete and significant number, adding to the sentimentality of the gesture.
| Hardiness |
4 - 10 |
|---|---|
| Climate Zones | 1, 1A, 1B, 2, 2A, 2B, 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, A1, A2, A3, H1, H2 |
| Plant Type | Climbers, Roses, Shrubs |
| Plant Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Rosa, Rosa - English Rose, Rosa - Hybrid Tea Rose, Rosa - Floribunda Rose, Rosa - Rambling Rose, Rosa - Climbing Rose, Rosa - Grandiflora Rose, Rosa - Shrub Rose, Rosa - Groundcover Rose |
| Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
| Season of Interest | Spring (Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall |
| Height | 1' - 20' (30cm - 6.1m) |
| Spread | 1' - 20' (30cm - 6.1m) |
| Maintenance | Average |
| Water Needs | Average |
| Soil Type | Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand |
| Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
| Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained |
| Characteristics | Cut Flowers, Fragrant, Showy |
| Attracts | Bees |
| Landscaping Ideas | Arbors, Pergolas, Trellises, Banks And Slopes, Edging, Wall-Side Borders, Patio And Containers, Ground Covers, Hedges And Screens, Beds And Borders, Small Gardens |
| Garden Styles | City and Courtyard, Coastal Garden, Gravel and Rock Garden, Informal and Cottage |
Create a membership account to save your garden designs and to view them on any device.
Becoming a contributing member of Gardenia is easy and can be done in just a few minutes. If you provide us with your name, email address and the payment of a modest $25 annual membership fee, you will become a full member, enabling you to design and save up to 25 of your garden design ideas.
Join now and start creating your dream garden!
Create a membership account to save your garden designs and to view them on any device.
Becoming a contributing member of Gardenia is easy and can be done in just a few minutes. If you provide us with your name, email address and the payment of a modest $25 annual membership fee, you will become a full member, enabling you to design and save up to 25 of your garden design ideas.
Join now and start creating your dream garden!
