Despite being equally well-known, there are key differences in care and symbolism between these two blooms. That leads to the question: is one better than the other? Here’s everything you need to know about carnations vs. roses and which is better for your needs.
Comparing Carnations vs. Roses
The Key Differences Between Carnations vs. Roses
Beyond being types of flowers, carnations and roses are mostly unrelated. One key difference to note is that carnations are a species with many cultivars and varieties. Roses are a genus with hundreds of species and thousands of cultivars and hybrids. Carnations tend to be lower maintenance, more affordable, and longer-lasting when cut. These features led to the perception that carnations are of lower quality than roses. In reality, roses have had better marketing over the past 50 years. Carnations and roses also have similar symbolism. Both are associated with love and devotion, with the specifics contingent on the color of the bloom.
Carnations vs. Roses: Classification
Carnations are classified as Dianthus caryophyllus. Dianthus is a combination of the Greek words “dios” and “anthos” which roughly translates to The Flower of the Gods. The term caryophyllus is derived from the Ancient Greek words for “nut” and “leaf” which is likely associated with the joints between the stems and leaves on the carnation. Roses are members of the genus Rosa, which is Latin for rose. They are a member of the broader Rosaceae family, which is also home to strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries. Species within the Rose genus fall under four subgenera: Hulthemia, Hesperrhodos, Platyrhodon, and Rosa. Members of the Rosa subspecies are further subdivided into sections relating to their origin, colors, and shapes.
Carnations vs. Roses: Origin
Carnations originate in Europe, with the earliest records dating back 2000 years. While the exact origin isn’t clear, they’re believed to be central to the Mediterranean region, particularly the Pyrenees mountains. Unfortunately, none of the wild versions exist today, with all carnations being cultivated by farmers. The earliest written records of roses date back 5000 years in Central Asia. They’re present in writings from Confucius and early records of Cleopatra and Mark Anthony. There are now thousands of cultivars and subspecies, many of which no longer exist.
Carnations vs. Roses: Description
Carnations come in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and colors. However, the species as a whole is known for having frilly petals and wiry stems with knobby joints connecting the leaves. The leaves are long and pointed, growing upward with the stem. Carnations come in every color, from deep purple to pure white. These blooms can also be easily dyed with food coloring to make bold colors that aren’t found in nature. As roses are such a large genus of flowers, there’s no one description to fit them. Most wild roses have five petals, though a couple of species have four. This is vastly different from the cultivated roses, which typically have 10-12 (or more) petals. Similarly, many wild roses have rose hips, while cultivated species do not. Most roses naturally have prickles or thorns, though these features have been bred out in some cultivars. Colors range from white to nearly black, with almost all shades in between.
Carnations vs. Roses: Uses
Both carnations and roses frequent heavily in events and gifting. Both of these ancient blooms are rife with symbolism related to their coloration, making them both a common gift. Carnations have recently made a cultural comeback after years of stigma as a “cheap” or “tacky” flower. With over 300 varieties, florists are educating event planners about the different options outside the traditional white or pink frilly “filler” flowers. Many carnation species look similar to roses but boast longer lifespans after cutting and a significantly more affordable price tag. Roses are attributed to being the overarching symbol of love and romance. They’re also a popular choice for funerals due to the symbolism of shades other than red. Many gardeners prefer to grow rose bushes, either as prize flowers or pollinator attractors. It’s a common misconception that roses are more symbolically meaningful than carnations. However, they share many of the same meanings based on the color of the bloom. For example, deep red roses and carnations both represent love and devotion. White is a symbol of purity. It’s important to note a few key differences, however. Yellow carnations are said to represent rejection, while yellow roses represent friendship — an important difference when giving these blooms as a gift! Both carnations and roses can be used for culinary purposes, though roses tend to be a more popular choice. Carnations are typically candied or pickled as a garnish in fine dining. Roses are incredibly versatile and can be used in jams, baked goods, salads, and more. Rose petals are also popular for creating natural cosmetics, including rosewater. The use of rosewater dates back to the ancient Roman baths when the upper class would add petals to the water for fragrance. Wild carnations traditionally had a subtle, spicy aroma that has been bred out over the years. Many roses still have their iconic floral perfume, which also features heavily in the cosmetic industry.
Carnations vs. Roses: Growth Tips
Carnations are relatively easy to grow and care for. Start seeds inside six to eight weeks before the last frost. Plant in full sun in USDA Zones 6-10 when the risk of frost has passed. Carnations prefer mineral-rich, well-draining soil. Use plant food or organic matter to support their growth. Water frequently after planting until the roots are established and during drought periods. Roses are notoriously difficult to grow from seed. Some rose plants take years to bloom. This leads many aspiring gardeners to purchase transplants from established gardening centers. The care recommendations and USDA zones vary depending on the rose species. Choose a rose species that best suits your climate, and take some time to research your specific type of rose for guidance.
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