A Brief Introduction to Roses

There are over 100 different types of roses, from the wildly fragrant and hardy shrubs found on the beach to the glorious long stemmed Hybrid Teas that have long been prized by florists, lovers, and brides alike. Roses are found only the Northern Hemisphere. While most thrive in the temperate regions, some species can be found in more tropical areas. They have a long and colorful history. The ancient Greeks associated roses with the Goddesses Aphrodite and Venus, and ancient Christians associated it with the crucifixion of Christ, equating its five petals with the five wounds He suffered and it's thorns with the crown he was forced to wear.

There are 3 main groups of roses:

1. Wild Roses, such as the ones found on beaches and roadsides.
2. Old Garden Roses, such as Damask and Teas, the origins of which in some cases go back to ancient Roman times.
3. Modern Garden Roses, such as the Hybrid Teas, popular with florists, and the Floribundas, popular in the large beds of public parks and spaces.

Roses are prized for their fragrance, which has found its way into everything from fine perfumes to ice cream. Its beauty has long enchanted poets and songwriters alike, resulting in such classics as "My Love is Like a Red Red Rose" by Robert Burns andthe popular song "The Rose". The Victorians gave special meanings to the colors of roses, giving birth to the tradition of lovers exchanging red roses which means passionate and true love.

Roses have also become a staple in home decor and wardrobes, where they are often found on wallpapers, rugs, and clothing. They are a versatile flower that can be dried and used in all kinds of crafts,from wreaths to potpourri. It can even be used in cooking!

Roses are also among the most favorite of shrubs for home gardeners. Every spring nurseries, garden centers and home improvement stores are filled with rose bushes of every type and color as old favorites return and exciting new varieties are placed on the market. In fact roses are so popular that they have been named the national flower of both the United States and England. Each year numerous festivals draw thousands of rose admirers, and each New Years Day thousands gathering to watch the annual Rose Bowl parade, with its floats made of roses. Roses will always be a beloved and enduring symbol of love, beauty, and pride.