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Origin and Evolution of the Rose

The rose is one of the most popular and cherished flowers in the world. Its beauty, fragrance, and symbolism have made it an important element of human culture since ancient times. The origin of the rose is uncertain, but it is believed to have originated in Central Asia or the Mediterranean. The earliest archaeological evidence of rose use dates back to the 6th century BC, in ancient Greece and Mesopotamia.

In ancient Greece, the rose was a symbol of love, beauty, and fertility. It was used in crowns and garlands to adorn ceremonies and celebrations. It was also used in perfumes and cosmetics. In the Middle Ages, the rose became a symbol of the Virgin Mary. It was used in tapestries, paintings, and sculptures to represent her purity and love.

In the 18th century, new varieties of roses from China were introduced to Europe. These varieties were more resilient and produced larger and more colorful flowers. Thanks to the efforts of breeders, growers, and botanists, the rose has become one of the most popular flowers in the world. Today, there are thousands of rose varieties available in a wide range of colors, shapes, and sizes.

Meaning of the Rose

The rose has symbolic meanings that vary by culture and era. Generally, the rose is associated with love, beauty, passion, purity, fertility, and peace. In Western culture, the red rose is the classic symbol of love. The pink rose represents friendship and romantic love. The white rose symbolizes purity and innocence. The yellow rose represents joy and happiness.

In Eastern culture, the rose has a different significance. In China, the rose is a symbol of good luck and prosperity. In Japan, the rose is a symbol of beauty and elegance.

Rosa Indica, or Rosa Centifolia (Hundred-Petaled Rose) from Bengal

Madame de Pompadour with a Rose (18th Century)

Rosa foetida bicolor, the ancestor of most of our orange varieties and the bicolor hybrids of our modern roses.

Illustration from a 14th-century manuscript of the Roman de la Rose, the first poem about the rose.

Madame du Barry with Roses. 18th Century.

Nur Mahal, Indian Princess, and her husband the Great Mughal. She was the first to discover the art of making rose essence. 15th Century.

In the Georgics, Virgil praises the roses of Estum, which bloomed twice a year. They were called “biferous roses of Paestum.” 15th Century.

Roses were used in the decoration of Roman festivals. See them here forming garlands.

Ancient Rosebush of 1,000 years, still growing against the wall of Hildesheim Cathedral in Germany. It may have been planted by Charlemagne or Emperor Louis the German.

The "Rosa Mundi", variegated (or striped) rose, already existed in the 16th century, as it may have been named by Henry II of England in honor of his mistress Rosamund.

Portrait of a romantic gallant from the 16th century, in a garden with roses.

Rose hips (the fruit) from the rosebush, highly valued for their colorful appearance (1914).