The Meaning of Red Roses on Valentine’s Day: Are 17 Roses Enough for the One You Love?
Valentine’s Day and Red Roses have become synonymous in Culture. For centuries, Red Roses have dominated every form of Valentine’s Day decorations. There has never been a more powerful expression of love than a perfectly chosen group of vibrant red roses. Have you considered the reasons behind the association of Roses with Valentine’s Day and what it signifies when giving them a certain number (i.e., 17) on Valentine’s Day?
Being one of the most reliable online florists in Kuala Lumpur, Bloom has assisted thousands of Malaysians in conveying heartfelt feelings since 2007. Having the experience in the art of beautiful floral design, and with our consistent delivery service on the same day throughout the Klang Valley, we would like to tell you the story about the tradition, and how to select the rose bouquet that will matter the most to your Valentine.
The Symbolic Power of Red Roses on Valentine’s Day
The red rose has been a universal symbol of romanticism. It has origins in ancient Greek and Roman mythology, which attributed it to the goddesses of love, Aphrodite and Venus. For many centuries, red roses have been a symbol of devotion; their color symbolizes the burning heights of passion, and their thorns symbolize the sufferings of strong emotional attachment.
This symbolism is in the middle of Valentine’s Day. In a plain bouquet or an expensive gift pack, the love represented by the roses during Valentine’s Day is passionate, daring, and long-lasting. This is why millions of people resort to red roses to express themselves when words fail them.
Check our complete selection of romantic packages in our Valentine’s Day roses collection.
Do Numbers Matter? The Meaning Behind Rose Counts
Yes—especially in floral etiquette. In many traditions, the number of roses in a bouquet carries its own special meaning:
| Number of Roses | Traditional Meaning |
|---|---|
| 1 | Love at first sight |
| 3 | I love you |
| 12 | Be mine |
| 17 | Gift for your wife |
| 18 | Stay young and beautiful |
| 99 | I’ll love you till the end |
| 100 | Devotion and eternity |
This symbolic “language of flowers” (floriography) makes every bouquet more than just a beautiful gift—it becomes a thoughtful message.
Is 17 Red Roses a Good Valentine’s Day Gift?
Absolutely—if you’re gifting your spouse.
Seventeen red roses specifically mean “you are my wife,” making it a perfect fit for married couples. This number speaks of commitment, enduring love, and deep appreciation, far beyond a generic romantic gesture. It’s more personal, more intentional.
Pairing a bouquet of 17 red roses with a handwritten message or a small memento can elevate your gift further. It signals that you’ve put thought into the occasion—something your partner will truly value.
However, if you’re dating or in a newer relationship, 12 roses—symbolizing “be mine”—may be a better fit for broader romantic appeal.
A Florist’s Experience: What Malaysians Prefer on Valentine’s Day
The trends of roses at Bloom have changed over the years. However, there is one thing that does not change: the red roses are still dominating the Valentine’s Day orders in Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Ipoh, and other cities.
Several of our clients prefer traditional 12-stem roses, and we have been receiving increasing requests for larger arrangements, such as 17 or even 99 roses. Although quantity is important, freshness, the style of arrangement, and prompt delivery are everything- particularly in the peak seasons of the year, such as Valentine’s Day.
We suggest placing your order at least 2 days in advance to guarantee availability and freshness. Our express shipping (Monday to Saturday) is the same-day delivery to Klang Valley customers, which makes it possible to have a last-minute surprise, and the express shipping (Monday to Saturday) nationwide makes love continue between KL and Ipoh.
Final Thoughts: Say It With the Right Number of Roses
Valentine’s Day is your chance to show how well you know and cherish your partner. Whether you choose 17 red roses to honour your wife or the one who u love, or a different number to match your relationship’s tone, what matters most is the thought behind the gesture.
With Bloom, you can trust that every bouquet you send carries that message—fresh, elegant, and full of meaning.
