Color defines our world and gives definition to the objects around us. In nature you will find a greater variety of color than man can possibly create. The human reaction to color is based on natures symbolism but the human psyche is what interprets these colors and gives them meaning.

Colors are usually divided into three primary colors red, yellow and blue. These are then accented by three secondary colors purple, green, and orange. The secondary colors can be create by combining the primary colors.

This program is based on the Bourges system of color and is divide into four groups of colors (Reds, Yellows, Greens, and Blues) that encompass human psychological reactions.

Reds
Encompassing colors: Mauve, Pink, Crimson, Scarlet, and Bright Red.
Reds convey charged emotions like anger, love, or passion. It is the flow of life through our veins. People notice red first. It is used to catch attention and give definition, like stop!.

Yellows
Encompassing colors: Coral, Orange, Amber, Gold, and Yellow.
Yellows are simulating and can act like a warning. Lemon yellow is associated with sour. Yellow flames say, "don't touch", and the high contrast of yield signs immediately catch our attention. Like the sun yellows are uncomfortable to look at for an extended period of time.

Greens
Encompassing colors: Lime, Leaf Green, Sea Green, Emerald, and Teal.
The human eye is most sensitive to greens. Humans see more shades of green than any other color. Greens represent life, like trees, grass, and plants, and give us a calm natural feeling.

Blues
Encompassing colors: Cyan, Sky blue, Dark Blue, Violet, and Purple.
Blues are tranquil and cold. Blue is open and wide like the sky or deep and cold like a lake. Blue is a color of distance and is effectively used as a background color.

A variety of color can be found on even one tree that give you definite clues to the time of year.

Below each color is matched with a definition and psychological treatment. 

Based on the information above drag the florals to match them with their color attributes. You will find the authors answers at the bottom of the page. When you have completed this exercise try arranging the florals into a color wheel and then try matching them with their complimentary colors.
For information about complimentary colors try the
choosing a color pallette section.

To learn more about color try these sections...

Color and Mood
Contrasting Colors
Choosing a Color Pallette
For good reading on color try this reference link .

Color Bytes by Jean Bourges.

Created by Wade Rollins