It is a Saturday evening in Carlton. A couple walks out of a restaurant with a small bundle of red roses in hand. The flowers are not extravagant. Yet they mark a milestone, a quiet ritual that repeats across Melbourne every weekend. Despite the rise of trendy bouquets and online gifting options, red roses continue to dominate as the anniversary flower of choice.
This loyalty to tradition might surprise some. Melbourne is a city known for experimenting with food, design, and lifestyle trends. But when it comes to love and remembrance, the red rose is still king.
The red rose has been tied to romance for centuries. Its deep colour has come to symbolise passion and lasting love. In Melbourne, where couples often seek new ways to celebrate anniversaries, this tradition remains strong. Florists report that red roses are ordered for more anniversaries than any other single flower.
Other blooms such as orchids or tulips are admired, but few carry the same weight. A single rose or a dozen stems speak a language that is instantly understood. It is the gesture many couples feel captures the heart of an anniversary better than anything else.
Younger buyers are shaping new traditions. The personalised rose box has become a trend in Melbourne, especially among couples in their 20s and 30s.
These boxes appeal for several reasons:
While Valentine’s Day floods florists with orders in February, anniversaries spread demand throughout the year. This changes the feel of the purchase. Valentine’s Day roses are often rushed and tied to tradition. Anniversary roses, however, are chosen with more care and attention to detail.
Couples see anniversaries as personal milestones. They may add extras like wine or personalised cards. Red roses remain the anchor, but the occasion allows more room for creativity.
One reason florist-sourced roses continue to win out over supermarket bunches is quality. Roses from professional florists often last longer due to proper sourcing and handling. For couples, this means the flowers remain fresh for days after the celebration.
Tips to extend the life of red roses:
