The white rose is a flower of purity and fresh starts, at home at both weddings and funerals. This guide covers what a white rose means and when to give one.

What a white rose symbolizes

A white rose symbolizes purity, innocence, and new beginnings. Often called the bridal rose, it is a classic wedding flower, representing a pure and virtuous love and the fresh start of a marriage. It also stands for honor and reverence.

White roses carry a solemn meaning too. As a symbol of remembrance and respect, they are a traditional funeral and sympathy flower, honoring the departed and offering peace to the grieving. Combined with red roses, white roses symbolize unity and togetherness.

When to give white roses

White roses suit weddings, christenings, and new beginnings, as well as funerals and memorials, where they express sympathy and remembrance. See our wedding and sympathy flowers guides.

White rose FAQs

What does a white rose mean?

A white rose symbolizes purity, innocence, and new beginnings. It’s a classic wedding flower and also a symbol of remembrance and reverence at funerals.

Are white roses for weddings or funerals?

Both. White roses symbolize the pure love and fresh start of a wedding, and also remembrance and respect at funerals, making them appropriate for either occasion.

What do red and white roses together mean?

A mix of red and white roses symbolizes unity and togetherness, a meaning with historic roots in England’s Tudor rose, which united two royal houses.

Explore more

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