Whether you’re confessing your true love to someone or simply sending a thank-you card, it’s always important that what you are trying to say comes across correctly. And while each flower has its own individual meaning, no two roses are created equally. In fact, each rose color means something different. So rather than declare your undying love to your coworker (awkward!), or offer a symbol of friendship to your significant other, read on to determine exactly what shade of petals you should be sending, for Valentine’s Day and beyond.

The ultimate showing of romantic love, red roses represent your deepest affections. Give them to your significant other, or even yourself for an act of self-love.

Pristine and pure, white roses convey a sense of innocence, which is why they are traditionally carried by brides on their wedding day. This shade can also represent a shared secret. So share with your best friend or secret keeper.

Yellow roses give off a sunny and cheerful disposition, making them the ideal shade to represent friendships and platonic love. A perfect hue to gift to your friends, teachers, or anyone you want to offer a kernel of support to.

Evoking a sense of passion thanks to their fiery hue, orange roses are all about energy. So whether you’re facing a midweek slump or the excitement of a new relationship, channel that blaze into these vibrant blooms.

A loving shade that lacks the intensity of red roses, pink is a gentler hue. Signifying everything from elegance to admiration and grace, these flowers are most appropriate for parents and loved ones.

Best suited for thank-yous and appreciation, peach roses combine the elegance of pink with the energy of orange. Offer them to someone who has stood by you through a difficult time as a sign of thanks, or gift to your favorite coworker for always being supportive.

While deep purple roses are reserved for royalty, the lighter, lavender roses are representative of enchantment and love at first sight. Maybe you had an excellent first date and want to express your feelings, or maybe you leave some at the stage door of your favorite Broadway star.

Signifying abundance, new beginnings, and renewal, green roses are perfect for friends who have just moved, started a new job, or are experiencing a change-filled time.

Because blue roses cannot be naturally grown—they are instead painted or dyed—they represent all that cannot be attained. Picture your wildest dreams and deepest desires.

Also a shade of petals that cannot be found in nature, ominous black roses signify death. Save these blooms for an anti-Valentine’s Day party, or perhaps a humorous “death to your youth” birthday soiree.