Roses are more than just symbols of love; they are the most beloved flowers globally for their versatility. With their stunning variety of shapes, sizes, and shades, roses are cherished in gardens and yards worldwide.

Beyond their ornamental value, roses are edible and were frequently used by ancient Romans and Egyptians. Discover fascinating facts about this astonishing bloom.

Roses Are One of the Oldest Flowers

Millions of Years in History

Rose fossils dating back 35 million years have been unearthed, proving their ancient origins.

Decorative and Medicinal Use

According to the Guinness Book of World Records, roses are the oldest cultivated plants for decoration. Ancient Romans grew them extensively for ornamentation, medicinal extracts, and culinary uses. Rose petals were used to adorn buildings, furniture, and walkways, showcasing their multifaceted purpose.

Early Cultivations

Evidence from 5,000 years ago points to rose gardens in China and Japan. In ancient Greece, Theophrastus also documented rose cultivation, although its purpose remains uncertain.

15 Facts About Roses

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Roses Can Live for Centuries

The 1,000-Year-Old Rose

The Cathedral of Hildesheim in Germany hosts a 1,000-year-old rosebush, symbolizing the prosperity of the city. Even after the cathedral was bombed in 1945, the bush thrived, with its roots surviving under the debris.

Roses as Edible Wonders

A Culinary and Medicinal Heritage

Classified as herbs, roses have a long history of culinary and medicinal use. Petals are edible, and rose water is often used in jellies, jams, and various dishes in Indian and Chinese cuisines.

Important Note on Chemical-Free Roses

Only organically grown, pesticide-free roses should be used for culinary purposes. Avoid store-bought roses, as they are often treated with chemicals. Growing roses ensures their safety for consumption.

Rose Hips: A Nutritional Treasure

Rich in Vitamin C

Dear Lykkers, rose hips, the berry-like fruit of roses, are packed with vitamin C. These can be dried for tea or made into jams, jellies, and syrups, adding both flavor and nutrition to the diet.

The Fragrance That Inspires Perfumes

A Scent Loved for Centuries

The process of extracting rose oil for perfumes requires thousands of roses. Bulgaria’s Rose Valley produces 85% of the world’s rose oil, making it a global hub for this precious ingredient.

Rosewater: A Versatile By-Product

Rosewater, obtained during oil extraction, is used in perfumes, cosmetics, and culinary dishes. Its distinctive flavor enhances desserts and beverages in Middle Eastern and French cuisines.

No Such Thing as Black or Blue Roses

Illusions of Color

What appears as a black rose is actually a deep red variety, like "The Black Rose of Turkey." Similarly, true-blue roses don’t exist naturally, but genetic modifications have created hues of mauve and lilac.

The Rose: America's National Flower

A Symbol of National Pride

Declared the national flower of the United States in 1986, roses also represent several states, including New York and Georgia.

Presidential Connections to Roses

George Washington and Rose Breeding

George Washington bred roses and named a variety after his mother, Mary Washington.

Abraham Lincoln's Floral Legacy

The “Souvenir du President Lincoln” and “Mister Lincoln” roses honor-Abraham Lincoln with their beauty and resilience.

The World's Most Expensive Rose

The Juliet Rose

David Austin's Juliet Rose, developed over 15 years at a cost of $5 million, became the most expensive rose, valued at $15.8 million.

Roses are far more than just flowers of beauty. Their rich history, diverse uses, and symbolic meanings make them one of the most fascinating blooms in the world.