Giving cut Valentines roses as a romantic gift is a time-honored tradition that has been practiced for many years. And luckily, Valentines Day roses come in many varieties, combinations and colors, giving you a wide selection from which to choose the perfect bouquet.

According to fossil records, roses have been around for 35 million years. Good thing - if you know your love will enjoy a life span comparable to that of the rose, Valentines roses are your best bet when it comes to selecting that perfect Valentine's Day gift.

Actual garden cultivation of roses began about 5000 years ago in China. In ancient Rome, roses were grown in the Middle East for use as confetti, medicine and perfume. Public rose gardens were also created by Roman nobility for people to enjoy. In the 17th century the demand for roses grew to such heights that rose water was used as legal tender and for bartering. But it wasn't until the late 18th century that cultivated roses (the ancestors of our modern day roses) were introduced into Europe from China. Now roses (including Valentines Day Roses) can be found almost anywhere you look - from the grocery store, to flower shops, to personal gardens.

It's simple: Valentines Day roses symbolize love and beauty. For most women, receiving a dozen Valentines roses says "I love you" in no uncertain terms. No other gift sends a romantic message quite like a bouquet of fresh cut Valentine's Day roses.

While red roses are the most common choice when it comes to Valentines Day roses, these flowers do come in a wide array of colors - each endowed with a specific meaning. So before you rush off to order some Valentine's Day roses for your sweetie, it might be a good idea to find out exactly what messages these symbolic flowers will convey upon their arrival:

Red Valentines Roses: Symbolize romantic love. Red Valentines Day roses make the perfect gift for a girlfriend or wife. Just make sure you don't give red Valentines roses to a friend - you don't want to be sending the wrong message!

Purple Valentine's Day Roses: These Valentines roses signify that the giver has fallen in love with the recipient at first sight.

Coral/Orange Valentines Day roses: Valentine's Day roses that signal desire.

Yellow Valentines roses: Valentines Day roses for happiness and friendship.

Pink/Peach Valentine's Day roses: Valentines roses to express gratitude and appreciation. Light pink Valentine's Day roses connote feelings of sympathy.

White Valentines Day roses: For Valentines Day roses expressing reverence and humility.