Roselily Flower: Meaning, Symbolism, and Proper Occasions

Written by Angie Menjivar
Updated: September 1, 2023
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They’re double flowers that started with a bit of an oops! But from there, they blossomed into different varieties beautifully. Even those allergic to pollen can take a whiff of these delectably scented blooms. Discover the meaning, symbolism, and proper occasions for roselilies!

Roselilies
Roselilies are often used in weddings, baby showers, celebrations of births, and to show sympathy.

The History of Hybrid Roselilies

Hybrid roselilies have not always existed. They are considered relatively new in horticulture. Brothers Tony, Martin, and Joahn de Looff of the De Looff Lily Innovation decided to launch their new variety in 1993. The hybridization was aimed at creating a double flower with different colors, larger blooms, and fragrances that can last longer without being overpowering.

These flowers are a crossbreeding of oriental lilies (scientific name: Lilium Orientalis) and trumpet lilies (scientific name: Lilium longiflorum). The final result can vary depending on the growers or their chosen breeding processes but ultimately, the way these flowers open is reminiscent of a rose. They may be bi-colored, white, or pink. Although lilies can be quite loud in terms of scent, the roselily is a lot more subtle, offering a more graceful scent experience. Some varieties have no scent at all!

A fun fact about roselilies is they don’t produce pollen! Although this was more of a mistaken discovery, it has been wonderful news for those allergic to pollen, as they can enjoy roselily blooms at home without triggering their allergies. They have a lasting vase life as well and beautifully decorate their environment for weeks on end.

Magnificent pink rare hybrid terry lily RoseLily. Lush flower with many petals with white edging on blurry vegetable background. Focus on foreground. Bokeh.

Roselilies do not produce pollen!

©Batest/Shutterstock.com

Discover the Meaning and Symbolism of Hybrid Roselilies

Interpretations of roselilies can vary depending on cultures and personal perceptions. However, there are some accepted associations with this hybrid flower, which combines lilies into a double flower with an open rose-like appearance. Each flower on its own has its own symbolism, and with this hybrid, these meanings overlap.

Purity and Innocence

These elegant flowers are the symbol of spiritual beauty, purity, and refinement. No matter their unique appearance, you can always find them to be on the sophisticated side. Roselilies are associated with femininity, fertility, and motherhood. According to Christian iconography, they also relate to the Virgin Mary and other revered figures. When there’s a holy union, roselilies can complement the ceremony, adding to the celebration with their symbolism.

Rebirth

Flowers, in general, could be a symbol of rebirth. This is more based on individual experiences and perceptions. However, roselilies are perennials, which means it recurs each year around springtime. Life is a series of rebirths, and the roselily perfectly captures that process, reminding us that there is a time for rest, a time for letting go, and a time for renewal when we can bloom again.

Love and Romance  

Unsurprisingly, roselilies symbolize romantic love. There is purity in romantic love — an openness and vulnerability that two people share. Roselilies symbolize this bond, pointing to its beauty and passion. They are often used on occasions when the giver wants to highlight the strong romantic bond they feel. Though the scent is subtle, the flowers are showy — it’s a “shouting from the rooftops” kind of gesture.  

Pink Lily; Hybrid Lilium orientalis; Roselily Natalia

Roselilies symbolize innocence, romantic love, and rebirth.

©Patrick Enos/Shutterstock.com

Discover Proper Occasions for Using Hybrid Roselilies

Weddings

A bouquet of roselilies with soft crème and light pink colors in the bride’s hands on a wedding day is icing on the cake, representing romance and sophistication. They can also be used on the altar, arranged just right so that they form arches. These beautiful flowers can line the aisles and the bridesmaids can contribute by matching them with their own bouquets. The entire theme can nicely go with the color palette of the occasion. Since these flowers symbolize purity, love, and romance, they are an ideal choice for the occasion of bringing two people together in holy matrimony.

Baby Showers

Generally, it is said that white flowers represent new beginnings. You can celebrate twice as big as roselilies are double flowers. They welcome the new precious life with a youthful display and delicate aroma.

New Birth

The symbolism is similar to that of a human being. It starts with germination. Then, they grow, and later they bloom! These flowers impart feelings of joy and happiness. Not only for their variety of colors but also for their sense of beauty, positivity, and awakening. Throughout history and in different cultures, lilies have inspired people to celebrate optimism, hope, and everlasting compassion.

Sympathy

You may also choose these flowers to say farewell. They offer a sophisticated way to remember someone you love dearly who has passed on. They’re as unique as the life well-lived, and offer memorable condolences.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Batest/Shutterstock.com


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About the Author

Angie Menjivar is a writer at A-Z-Animals primarily covering pets, wildlife, and the human spirit. She has 14 years of experience, holds a Bachelor's degree in psychology, and continues her studies into human behavior, working as a copywriter in the mental health space. She resides in North Carolina, where she's fallen in love with thunderstorms and uses them as an excuse to get extra cuddles from her three cats.

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