The magic of black flowers has attracted our attention for centuries. Black roses appear to originate from a fairytale world. Their improbable and "unnatural" color inspires a powerful feeling of mystical expectation.

The color black has always been synonymous with death and mourning. It is thus the color of sadness and farewell. So, many people consider black roses to symbolize bereavement, loss and mortality. They are often used at funerals. A single black rose might be sent by a close friend and/or loved one leaving for a war or on a journey from which he did not expect to return.

But, a more positive meaning does exist for the black rose. It is true that black is the color of death. But death does not always cause mourning. It can also be the beginning of new things, a journey into unexplored territory. The black rose, because it symbolizes death and passing away, also indicates a major change or upheaval in the future. In that sense, the black rose also means the death of old habits and the old order. It inspires confidence and enthusiasm by signaling the birth of a new era of hope and joy.



The black rose, tragic in its dark beauty is not always symbolic of unhappiness. The Irish have used the lyrics of "the Little Black rose" during their ongoing battle with the British. Similarly, many anarchist and antiauthoritarian groups have also adopted the black rose as a symbol of mutiny and strength. Therefore, the meaning of the black rose also includes courage and resistance.

Black roses are also good for Halloween, a fitting addition to the decoartions along with black candles, black clothes, and so on.

To find out meanings of different rose colors, please go to The Meanings of Rose Colors for more information.