The black rose first originated from China and started being used in the West during the Victorian era, in which it was extremely popular. In Victorian times, black roses were given as gifts to lovers or family members. It is widely believed that the black rose was used as a symbol of mourning when it was presented to widows by their family and friends after their husbands had died from war or other causes. Over time, the popularity of the black rose faded until it was seen as more of an accessory and less of a symbol, although this still depends on its use and country of origin.
Introduction
The most significant symbol of romantic love across centuries, cultures, and religions is a red rose. However, historically black roses have often held meanings in opposition to their red counterparts. This post will discuss several possible symbols that a pair of black roses might convey in different contexts. Please note that there are many less common meanings for a single black rose than for a single red one; however, I’ll mention some popular alternative meanings for each flower mentioned here.
Black Rose History in Religion
Just like any other significant symbol in any religion, Black Roses have been used since time immemorial in many different civilizations all over the world. The physical appearance, details and historical value of a specific set of Black Roses differs from one culture to another. In Christianity for example, there was once a group known as Poor Knights who used Black Roses as a form of initiation into their secret society.
Black Rose as a Symbol of Death
The flower of death has been depicted as a red, white, or black rose in countless artworks, such as in van Gogh’s The Cemetery. Although artists had differing interpretations of how to represent death with a flower, these colors are traditionally associated with it. The white rose represents innocence, purity and beauty—which cannot be said about death. The red represents passion—again not something typically linked to death.
Meaning and Significance of Black Roses
The symbolism behind black roses is many-faceted. Black, as an absence of color, represents numbness. Numbness can be caused by grief, depression, or any other number of emotions. Some people like to give these flowers when they are sending a silent message to someone. Or apologizing for something without saying it in words.
The Secrets of the Black Rose
Rose petals of dark hue have always been considered as the most mysterious, just as they have always been associated with love and magic since time immemorial. However, there are lots of facts that you should know about this type of rose before using them in your ceremonies or simply enjoying its beauty.
Where does it grow?
The black rose is indigenous to Turkey and some parts of Europe, although it can now be found in many warm climates around the world. The black rose grows best near cypress trees and has a particular fondness for them; it will not grow unless a cypress tree is nearby. It is said that when you plant a black rose bush, you must also plant a cypress tree, or else your garden will suffer bad luck.
Why is it special?
Many people know it as a symbol of death and mourning. The petals are black and waxy, whereas its stem and leaves are green. Its thorns are sharp and long, like those on a rose; hence its name. It’s been around for centuries, from Greek mythology to today’s popular culture. In the film, television shows, books, poetry—you name it—the black rose has made an appearance.
