What Makes Flowers Different Colors?

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One of the main reasons why we are attracted to flowers is because of their beautiful colors. But, have you ever wondered why roses are red and violets are blue? Where do flowers get their color? And, why are they colored differently from one and another?

Color on a whole – whether it is in association with plants, animals, or indeed humans – exists for the reason of reproduction and procreation. When it comes to flowers and the process of their color making, it is all to do with pigments. Take marigolds as a prime example. Their yellow color stems from the pigments that are decided upon in the plant’s hereditary genome. 

Different types of pigments

• Chlorophyll – Chlorophyll is the pigment responsible for producing the green shade that we see in foliage and leaves.

• Carotenoids – Carotenoids produce colors of orange, red, and yellow. This is because carotenoid is the pigment that is found within carrots and tomatoes. 

• Anthocyanins – Anthocyanins are pigments responsible for creating the colors of purple, blue, pink, and red. Anthocyanins are actually in the class of flavonoids, which are chemicals that give plants color.

So, in general terms, what this means is that plants carry certain pigments in their make-up/genes, which determine what color they are going to be before they are created. This can easily be contrasted to the way in which some humans are born with brown hair whilst others have blonde hair. Of course, the process is entirely different, yet it all stems from a similar theory. 

But, why aren’t all flowers the same color?

Well, the answer is within the plant’s purpose. Bright plants are essential for reproduction and their bright color is to attract bees, birds, and other insects. So, if the plant needs to reproduce in this way, it's genetics will make the flower have bright colors in order to attract animals. When reproduction or pollination occurs like this, the plant’s fruits will have a much more pleasant and sweeter taste. This is also relevant when it comes to pollination through the way of the wind. When the bees, birds, and insects are attracted to the sweet pollen some of it will stick to their feet, and they will then spread the pollen when they land on another plant. This is why it is important for flowers to be brightly colored in different shades – to attract different animals and keep the pollination and reproduction cycle going. The color of the flower can be directly responsible for the plant’s survival. 

So, now you know more about how and why flowers get their color and if you were inspired to send flowers internationally to someone you love, the internet makes it easy.