The blue rose is a flower of mystery and the unattainable, since true blue roses don’t exist in nature. This guide covers what a blue rose means.

What a blue rose symbolizes

A blue rose symbolizes mystery, the impossible, and the unattainable. Because roses cannot naturally produce a true blue pigment, the blue rose became a symbol of something rare, unreachable, or longed for — an impossible dream or a love that seems out of reach.

The blue rose also carries more hopeful meanings of new possibilities, imagination, and the pursuit of the extraordinary. Blue roses are created by dyeing white roses, though genetically engineered “blue” roses (actually mauve) have also been developed.

When to give blue roses

Blue roses make a striking, unconventional gift to express deep admiration for someone extraordinary, or to convey mystery and intrigue. They suit those who love the unusual and the imaginative.

Blue rose FAQs

What does a blue rose mean?

A blue rose symbolizes mystery, the impossible, and the unattainable, along with new possibilities and imagination. It represents something rare and longed for.

Are blue roses real?

Not naturally. Roses can’t produce true blue pigment, so blue roses are created by dyeing white roses. Genetically engineered ‘blue’ roses exist but are actually mauve.

When should you give a blue rose?

Give a blue rose to express admiration for someone extraordinary, or to convey mystery and intrigue. Its unnatural color makes it a memorable, unconventional gift.

Explore more

Learn what every color says in our rose meaning guide, read the full rose profile, or browse more flower meanings.