18 Lovely Flowers That Look Like Roses

Shakespeare famously wrote, “A rose by any other name would smell as sweet.” Yet he failed to cover whether that applies to flowers that look like roses but are more accessible and affordable for events and gardening.

In this article, you’ll find a complete list of 18 flowers that look like roses—and a closer peek at a few popular alternatives.

Let’s dig in!

Arabian Jasmine

Jasmine flowers are typically delicate, with fine, separated petals; Arabian Jasmine is the opposite. This gorgeous flower is often overlooked when seeking rose alternatives, yet the resemblance is uncanny. It also has a mild vanilla scent that’s heavenly on summer evenings.

Begonias

The begonia is a popular alternative to roses. It has a rose-like scent with a citrus touch, adding a lively aroma to any garden. The inner petals are similar in appearance to roses, and this lovely flower tends to be lower maintenance than their famous alternative.

Camellia

While the petal formation differs from roses, the dense cluster of petals makes this a stunning alternative for any event or garden. Their maintenance requirements are similar to roses, and there are several rose-like colors available.

Cosmos

While the cosmos doesn’t resemble the iconic long-stemmed rose, it is similar in appearance to several species of wild roses. If you prefer a more untamed look in your garden without the risk of potentially invasive species (as many wild roses are), consider cosmos an easy alternative.

Dianthus

Dianthus is also known as a carnation or a gillyflower.

Famously known as carnations, dianthus flowers are a traditional alternative to roses. These lovely blooms were once marketed as a cheap, lesser version of a rose. However, they’re regaining popularity and symbolize Mother’s Day. Don’t let the marketing get to you; consider these beautiful underdogs as an alternative to roses.

Double Anemones

Another overlooked rose alternative is the stunning double anemone. These blooms have layers of dense petals for a full, vibrant bloom that often supersedes roses in beauty. They’re also low maintenance, requiring regular watering and no excess pruning and care.

Double tulips and double impatiens also offer a rose-like appearance.

Gardenia

The gardenia is one of the most popular flowers that look like roses. The eye-catching petals are reminiscent of a rose in full bloom, with a similar structure and maintenance requirements. Many prefer the gardenia fragrance over roses!

Japanese Rose

Kerria japonica, commonly known as the Japanese rose, is not a true rose species of the Rosa genus. While it is related to true roses, it’s genetically quite different. However, the distant relationship is apparent, and this beautiful shrub from Asia is a lovely addition to the garden.

Japanese quince is another alternative to roses.

Lisianthus

If you’re looking for a flower that looks just like a rose, you can’t go wrong with Lisianthus. This stunning flower comes in many colors, with lush blooms strikingly similar in formation to a rose. They’re also markedly easier to grow than roses.

Moss Rose

Moss roses are not related to roses; they’re named for their similar appearance. These blooms look like many species of wild roses and grow in a thick carpet for a lovely ground covering.

Peonies

The peony is another one of the most popular flowers that look like roses. The dense petals are similar in appearance, and this stunning blossom is often more affordable for weddings and events. If you’re looking for a gorgeous alternative to roses this Valentine’s Day, consider a bouquet of peonies.

Ranunculus

Like peonies, the ranunculus is another of the most popular flowers that look like roses. The dense formation of petals creates a luxe appearance that looks stunning in a bouquet. You can choose from endless colors and varieties to get the look you want.

Roselilies

As the name implies, the roselily looks like a cross between roses and lilies. However, this cultivar is a hybrid of different types of lilies to get this unique appearance. If you’re struggling to choose between these two famous blooms, you can have both!

Flowers that Look Like Roses: A Summary

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