Surprising Rose Trivia You’ll Love

Roses have captured the hearts and imaginations of people for thousands of years. From their ancient origins to their modern-day symbolism, roses are so much more than just a beautiful flower. Did you know the world’s oldest rose has been blooming for over a millennium? Or that roses have been used in perfumes, medicines, and even cooking for centuries?

This is your chance to explore some of the most fascinating facts, fun trivia, and little-known secrets about roses. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just curious about the history of this iconic flower, there’s something here to inspire and surprise you.

So, let’s dive into the incredible stories behind the “queen of flowers” and uncover what makes roses so extraordinary.

Did You Know? The world’s oldest living rose has been blooming for over 1,000 years.

Growing on the walls of the Hildesheim Cathedral in Germany, this extraordinary rosebush has flourished for over a millennium. Legend has it that the bush’s survival symbolizes the enduring nature of the cathedral itself. Despite bombings during World War II that destroyed much of the building, the roots of the rose remained intact and continued to thrive—a testament to the resilience of both the plant and the human spirit.

Did You Know? Cleopatra used rose petals to create an unforgettable experience.

Ancient Egyptian queen Cleopatra is said to have scattered rose petals ankle-deep in her palace to seduce Mark Antony. The petals created a sensory overload of fragrance and luxury, symbolizing passion and wealth. Roses were so valued in Cleopatra’s time that they were often associated with royalty and divinity, used in religious ceremonies, beauty rituals, and even burial rites.

Did You Know? The phrase “sub rosa” still symbolizes secrecy in modern times.

The Latin phrase “sub rosa,” meaning “under the rose,” originated in ancient Rome, where roses symbolized confidentiality. A rose would be hung above meeting tables to indicate that discussions were to remain secret. Today, “sub rosa” retains this meaning and is used to describe private or confidential meetings, particularly in legal and governmental contexts.

Did You Know? Roses played a symbolic role in the War of the Roses.

This infamous 15th-century English conflict between the House of Lancaster and the House of York was named after the symbols of the two houses: the red rose for Lancaster (believed to be Rosa gallica) and the white rose for York (believed to be Rosa alba semi-plena). While the war itself was brutal and political, the roses have since come to symbolize the enduring legacy of the English monarchy. Today, the Tudor Rose—a blend of red and white—is a national emblem of England.

Did You Know? Rose hips are packed with vitamin C.

The fruit of the rose, known as the rose hip, is a nutritional powerhouse. During World War II, when citrus fruits were scarce, rose hips became a vital source of vitamin C in the UK. People collected them to make syrups and teas, which were distributed to children to prevent scurvy. Rose hips are still popular in herbal medicine today for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Did You Know? Roses were once as valuable as gold.

In ancient Rome, roses were so prized they served as a stand-in for wealth. Vast rose gardens supplied the demand for perfumes, medicines, and lavish banquets where petals adorned tables and floors. In the Middle Ages, rose oil and rose water were luxuries reserved for the aristocracy, their labor-intensive production adding to their rarity and value.

Did You Know? Roses traveled to space.

In 1998, a miniature rose variety named “Overnight Scentsation” was sent aboard the Space Shuttle Discovery to study how microgravity affects fragrance production. This experiment helped scientists better understand the molecular biology of fragrance, with implications for the perfume and floral industries.

Did You Know? The rose is the official flower of the United States.

In 1986, President Ronald Reagan signed a proclamation making the rose the national floral emblem of the United States. The rose was chosen for its beauty, fragrance, and symbolism of love, devotion, and courage—values cherished across the nation.

Did You Know? The ancient Greeks believed roses were born from love and tragedy.

In Greek mythology, the rose sprang from a story of heartbreak and devotion. When Aphrodite, the goddess of love, discovered her mortal lover Adonis mortally wounded by a wild boar, she rushed to his side. As she ran, her feet were cut by thorns, and her blood mingled with her tears, staining white roses red. These crimson blooms symbolized both her undying love and the pain of loss. This myth firmly entwined roses with themes of love and passion, a connection that has endured for centuries.

Did You Know? The name “rosary” originates from roses.

The word “rosary,” referring to a series of prayers in Christianity, comes from the tradition of using rose petals to create garlands or beads for prayer. Early Christians associated the rose with the Virgin Mary, and the rosary became a sacred symbol of devotion.

Did You Know? Roses are edible and were used in medieval recipes.

In medieval Europe, roses were not just admired for their beauty—they were a staple ingredient in kitchens. Rose petals were used to flavor honey, wine, and desserts, while rose water was a common ingredient in pastries and sauces. Even today, rose flavors are used in Turkish delights, jams, and syrups.

Did You Know? Shakespeare mentioned roses more than 50 times in his plays and sonnets.

The most famous mention is perhaps in Romeo and Juliet, where Juliet muses, “A rose by any other name would smell as sweet.” This line captures the timeless allure of the rose, which Shakespeare often used as a metaphor for beauty, love, and mortality.

Did You Know? The ‘Peace’ rose survived war to become a global symbol of hope.

The ‘Peace’ rose (Rosa Madame A. Meilland) is one of the most famous roses in history, thanks to its remarkable journey through World War II. Created in 1935 by French breeder Francis Meilland, the hybrid tea rose with soft yellow petals edged in pink faced destruction as war spread across Europe. In a desperate attempt to save it, Meilland sent cuttings to friends abroad, including a risky shipment smuggled to the U.S. in a diplomat’s suitcase just before Nazi forces occupied France.

The rose reached American growers at Conard-Pyle Co., who introduced it in 1945—the day Berlin fell, marking the end of World War II in Europe. To honor the occasion, it was named ‘Peace’ and presented at the first United Nations meeting in San Francisco with a bloom and a message of hope for everlasting peace. The ‘Peace’ rose became the best-selling rose of all time, with over 100 million plants sold. Its creamy yellow blooms with a pink blush remain a symbol of resilience and beauty, a reminder of hope in the face of adversity.

Did You Know? Roses have a secret language.

During the Victorian era, roses were part of the “language of flowers,” where different colors conveyed specific messages. For example:

• Red roses: Love and passion.
• Yellow roses: Friendship or jealousy (depending on context).
• White roses: Purity and innocence.
• Pink roses: Gratitude and admiration. This subtle art of communication allowed Victorians to express feelings they couldn’t put into words.

Did You Know? The world’s largest rose covers over 9,000 square feet.

The sprawling yellow Lady Banks’ rose (Rosa banksiae lutea) in Tombstone, Arizona, holds the Guinness World Record as the largest rose bush on Earth. Planted in 1885 by a Scottish immigrant, Mary Gee, this incredible rose now covers over 9,000 square feet. Its intricate trellis system supports the thick canes, some of which are as large as tree trunks. Each spring, the bush bursts into millions of tiny yellow blossoms, creating a fragrant, golden canopy that draws visitors from around the globe. The rose’s success is a testament to the hardy, drought-tolerant nature of Lady Banks’ roses, making it a star of desert gardening.

Did You Know? Empress Joséphine’s obsession with roses defied naval blockades.

Napoleon Bonaparte’s wife, Joséphine de Beauharnais, was an avid rose enthusiast, amassing the first large collection of roses at her estate, Malmaison. At the time, naval blockades between England and France were fierce—but Joséphine’s passion for roses apparently transcended politics. British naval forces are said to have allowed rose shipments from renowned English breeder Thomas Rivers to pass unimpeded, respecting Joséphine’s love for the flower. By the time of her death, Malmaison housed over 250 varieties of roses, many of which are credited with influencing modern rose breeding.

Did You Know? Rosa Mundi is said to be named for a scandalous affair.

The striped beauty known as Rosa Mundi (Rosa gallica versicolor) is one of the oldest cultivated roses, thought to date back to the 12th century. Its name is steeped in legend, allegedly tied to the illicit affair between Henry II of England and his mistress, Rosamund Clifford. According to the tale, Rosamund was poisoned by Queen Eleanor of Aquitaine in a jealous rage. While the story may be apocryphal, the striking rose—with its streaks of pink and white—bears her name, symbolizing beauty and tragic love.

Did You Know? The Damask rose has a legendary origin involving Alexander the Great.

The Damask rose (Rosa × damascena), renowned for its heavenly fragrance, is said to have been brought to Europe from Persia by Alexander the Great. Another version of the story claims it was Crusaders who introduced this ancient rose to the West in the 12th century. The Damask rose is cherished for its role in the production of rose oil, used in perfumes, cosmetics, and cooking. To this day, the rose fields of Bulgaria’s “Valley of Roses” produce some of the world’s finest rose oil, a tradition that began with this legendary bloom.

Did You Know? The Apothecary Rose was Europe’s original medicinal flower.

The Apothecary Rose (Rosa gallica officinalis) is one of the oldest cultivated roses, revered for its medicinal properties. In medieval Europe, it was used to treat a wide array of ailments, from stomach complaints to skin conditions. Monks often cultivated it in monastery gardens, and its petals were used to make rosewater, salves, and even syrups. The rose became a symbol of healing and purity, often depicted in medieval art. Today, it’s celebrated as a heritage rose, offering a glimpse into the long history of roses in medicine.

Did You Know? Emperor Elagabalus threw a feast where guests were buried in rose petals.

Roman Emperor Elagabalus, infamous for his excesses, hosted a legendary feast that featured so many rose petals that guests were allegedly suffocated under their weight. According to historian Cassius Dio, the roses were dropped from an overhead ceiling compartment, creating a spectacle of luxury. While the story may be exaggerated, it highlights the Roman obsession with roses, which were used in perfumes, celebrations, and even baths. The Romans cultivated vast rose gardens and imported blooms from Egypt, further cementing roses as a symbol of decadence.

Did You Know? Roses were at the heart of one of the world’s first flower festivals.

The Roman festival of Rosalia, also known as the “Day of Roses,” celebrated the arrival of spring with offerings of roses to the dead. Families would place roses on graves to honor their ancestors, believing the flowers symbolized eternal life. The tradition later influenced Christian customs, particularly in Eastern Europe, where flowers are still used in religious and funerary practices.

Did You Know? The “Seven Sisters” rose was famous for its climbing beauty.

The Seven Sisters rose (Rosa multiflora platyphylla), a historical climbing rose introduced in the 19th century, gets its name from its unique blooming habit. Each cluster of flowers transitions through a range of colors, from pale pink to deep crimson, creating the illusion of seven distinct shades. This rose became a favorite in Victorian gardens, where its dramatic climbing ability made it a natural choice for trellises and pergolas.

Did You Know? Roses were used as a beauty treatment by Persian queens.

In ancient Persia, roses were considered sacred, and their petals were distilled into rosewater for skincare and fragrance. Persian queens used rosewater to soften their skin and as a natural perfume. The tradition of using rosewater for beauty spread throughout the Middle East and eventually to Europe, where it remains a staple in both beauty and cuisine.

Did You Know? The first blue rose was created in 2004—but it’s not truly blue.

For centuries, blue roses were considered impossible because roses lack the genetic ability to produce blue pigments. In 2004, Japanese scientists succeeded in creating a “blue” rose using genetic engineering, but the result was more of a lavender hue than true blue. Despite this, the rose was marketed as a symbol of achieving the impossible, captivating flower enthusiasts worldwide.

Did You Know? Roses were the inspiration for the modern perfume industry.

The use of roses in perfume dates back thousands of years, but it was the rose oil trade of the Ottoman Empire that shaped the modern perfume industry. Rose distilleries in places like the Valley of Roses in Bulgaria perfected techniques for extracting the oil, which became a prized commodity. Today, rose oil remains one of the most expensive and sought-after ingredients in high-end perfumes.

Did You Know? The Persian word for “rose” influenced languages across the world.

The original Persian word for rose, gul or gol, became the etymological root for the word “flower” in several languages. In Turkish, gül still means rose, and in Arabic, its variation ward refers to both roses and flowers. The word also influenced rhodon in Greek, meaning “rose” and forming the basis of rhododendron (literally “rose tree”) and even the name of the island of Rhodes, where wild roses grew in abundance. Furthermore, the association of roses with the color red is deeply embedded in many languages—such as the Slavic word ruzha, which simultaneously refers to roses and the color red.

Did You Know? It takes thousands of rose petals to make just one ounce of perfume.

The process of extracting rose oil for perfume is as luxurious as it sounds—and just as labor-intensive. To produce a single ounce of rose essential oil, you need about 10,000 pounds of rose petals! This makes rose oil one of the most expensive ingredients in the fragrance industry, often referred to as “liquid gold.” The Damask rose (Rosa × damascena), Centifolia rose (Rosa centifolia), and Alba rose (Rosa alba) are the three primary roses cultivated for their exquisite scent, with production centered in Bulgaria, Turkey, France, and Morocco.

Did You Know? Rosewater has been a beloved beauty secret and culinary staple for centuries.

Rosewater, made from distilling rose petals, has been used for everything from skincare to religious ceremonies. In the Middle East and South Asia, rosewater is a key ingredient in desserts like gulab jamun (syrup-soaked milk dumplings) and baklava. It also stars in Turkish delight and is added to beverages like rose lassi or Persian sharbat. In the beauty world, rosewater has been a centuries-old toner and moisturizer, prized for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. Cleopatra herself is said to have bathed in rosewater to preserve her beauty.

Did You Know? There’s a rose jam, and it’s absolutely delicious.

Rose petal jam is a traditional delicacy in many cultures. In Turkey and the Balkans, gül reçeli is a sweet and fragrant preserve made from Damask rose petals, sugar, and lemon juice. This floral jam pairs wonderfully with bread, cheese, or yogurt. In Persian cuisine, roses are also used to make gol-e gavzaban, a calming herbal tea with dried rose petals.

Did You Know? The Centifolia rose is nicknamed the “cabbage rose.”

Known as the “cabbage rose” for its densely packed petals, the Centifolia rose (Rosa centifolia) has been cultivated since the 17th century, especially in Grasse, France. Its opulent, honeyed fragrance is a hallmark of fine perfumes. The name “Centifolia” means “hundred petals,” though the blooms often have more than that. These luxurious roses are still hand-picked for perfume production, maintaining an artisanal tradition.

Did You Know? Roses are a hidden star in Indian and Persian desserts.

One of the most famous rose-flavored desserts is gulab jamun. The name itself means “rose water berries” (gulab = rose water, jamun = berries), referencing the syrup-soaked dumplings’ floral aroma. Persian sweets like bastani sonnati (saffron and rosewater ice cream) and rose-flavored sharbat are also beloved for their fragrant profiles. Rosewater is often added to sugar syrups, puddings, and even savory dishes to create an exotic twist.

Did You Know? The Noisette rose was the result of a heartfelt friendship across the Atlantic.

The story of the Noisette rose begins in the early 1800s with a generous gesture between two passionate gardeners. A rice planter named John Champneys in Charleston, South Carolina, grew a fragrant but delicate Chinese rose (Rosa chinensis). He crossed it with the hardy Musk rose (Rosa moschata), creating a rose with clusters of fragrant flowers and repeat blooming—a rarity at the time.

Champneys shared seeds of this new hybrid with his friend Philippe Noisette, a French nurseryman who also lived in Charleston. Noisette refined the hybrid further, introducing several new varieties. When he returned to France, he brought the roses with him, where they quickly gained popularity and were named in his honor. The Noisette roses became famous for their lush, fragrant blooms and climbing habit, making them the first class of roses to originate in the United States.

Did You Know? The Alba rose is known as the “white rose of purity.”

The Alba rose (Rosa alba), one of the oldest cultivated rose types, was associated with the Virgin Mary in medieval Europe. Its delicate, white blooms symbolized purity, making it a popular subject in religious art. Alba roses are also hardy, thriving in cooler climates and lending their subtle fragrance to perfumes.

Did You Know? Roses are linked to the concept of immortality in Egyptian mythology.

Roses were considered sacred in ancient Egypt, often associated with the goddess Isis, who represented rebirth and the afterlife. Rose petals were discovered in burial chambers, including the tomb of Tutankhamun, as offerings meant to ensure a safe passage to the afterlife. Egyptians also used roses in ceremonies, perfuming the living and honoring the dead with their timeless beauty.

Did You Know? There’s a rose named after every American First Lady.

Roses are often named after famous figures, and it has become a tradition for First Ladies of the United States to have a rose variety named in their honor. For example, the “Barbara Bush” rose is a striking ivory bloom with pink blush edges, while the “Nancy Reagan” rose features coral blossoms with a sweet fragrance.

Did You Know? Roses may be the oldest cultivated flower.

Historical evidence suggests that roses have been cultivated for at least 5,000 years, beginning in the Middle East. Ancient Sumerian tablets mention rose gardens, and roses were grown in the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Their long-standing cultivation history cements their place as one of humanity’s most cherished flowers.

Did You Know? Roses were used to pay tribute to Greek gods.

In ancient Greece, roses were sacred to Aphrodite, the goddess of love. Myths tell of white roses turning red when Aphrodite’s tears or the blood of her lover, Adonis, fell upon them. The association between roses, love, and divine beauty has persisted through the ages, making roses an enduring symbol of romance.

Did You Know? Roses from China transformed Western gardens.

When Chinese roses arrived in Europe in the late 18th century, they caused a sensation. Unlike European roses, which bloomed only once a year, these exotic imports—like Old Blush and Slater’s Crimson China—flowered repeatedly, a trait that revolutionized rose breeding. Prized for their beauty and adaptability, Chinese roses became the foundation for nearly all modern roses, forever changing the world of gardening.

Did You Know? The Bourbon rose was discovered by chance on a tropical island.

The Bourbon rose owes its existence to the isolated paradise of Réunion Island, once known as Île Bourbon, in the Indian Ocean. In the early 19th century, French settlers on the island used two popular roses as hedges: the sweetly scented Autumn Damask (Rosa damascena semperflorens) and the tough Old Blush (Rosa chinensis). One day, a local gardener noticed a curious seedling that combined the best traits of both: the robust, repeat-flowering habit of the Chinese rose and the intoxicating fragrance of the Damask. This chance hybrid was sent to Paris in 1817, where it caused a sensation. Named after the island, the Bourbon rose became one of the most beloved classes of old garden roses, prized for its large, fragrant flowers and soft, romantic colors.

Did You Know? The oldest cultivated rose garden is still growing.

The Roseto di San Giovanni in Italy is believed to be the oldest surviving cultivated rose garden, with records dating back to the 16th century. This historic garden houses many ancient rose species, offering visitors a glimpse into the botanical history of Europe.

Did You Know? Roses have been to the Oscars.

Every year, roses play a starring role at the Academy Awards. The elaborate floral arrangements seen at the ceremony and the Governor’s Ball often feature thousands of hand-picked roses flown in from Ecuador, Colombia, or California. Their luxurious blooms add a touch of elegance and glamour to Hollywood’s biggest night.

Did You Know? The thorns on roses aren’t actually thorns.

Botanically speaking, those sharp little spikes on rose stems are called prickles, not thorns. Thorns are deeply embedded structures connected to a plant’s vascular system, while prickles are more superficial. Despite the technicality, they still do a fantastic job of discouraging hungry animals (and sometimes gardeners!) from messing with the plant.

Did You Know? Roses were the inspiration for champagne.

The Dom Pérignon brand of champagne owes a debt to roses. Legend has it that Dom Pérignon, the monk credited with creating sparkling wine, was inspired by the tiny bubbles rising in a glass of rose water. Whether or not this is strictly true, the comparison between champagne’s effervescence and the lightness of rose petals is spot on!

Did You Know? Roses can change color as they bloom.

Some roses, like the Peace rose, undergo a stunning transformation as they open. Their petals may start as yellow or pale pink and darken to deeper hues as they age. This color-shifting magic happens because of changing pigments in the petals as they react to light, temperature, and pH levels. It’s nature’s very own color show!

Did You Know? The “Rose of Versailles” is a real thing.

Named after the grand palace, the Versailles Rose is a luxurious pink bloom celebrated in France. Its name also inspired a wildly popular Japanese manga series, The Rose of Versailles, which dramatizes the court of Marie Antoinette. Even in fiction, roses manage to capture a mix of elegance, drama, and intrigue.

Did You Know? The fragrance of roses intensifies at sunrise.

Roses are at their most fragrant in the early morning, especially just after sunrise. This is because the production of essential oils in the petals peaks overnight, concentrating their scent. If you’re ever cutting roses for a bouquet, early morning is the best time to do it—your nose will thank you!

Did You Know? The first hybrid tea rose was bred by accident.

The hybrid tea rose, the most popular type of modern rose, owes its existence to a happy accident in the 1860s. A French breeder named Jean-Baptiste Guillot crossed two rose varieties and unexpectedly produced the famous La France rose. Its high-centered blooms and repeat-flowering nature were revolutionary, sparking the hybrid tea craze.

Did You Know? Roses grow as tall as trees.

While most garden roses stay relatively compact, some varieties, like the Rosa gigantea of China, can grow up to 30 feet tall! These enormous climbing roses often sprawl across trees and other structures, turning entire landscapes into rose-filled wonders. If you’ve got space to spare, they make a dramatic garden statement.

Did You Know? Roses play magical roles in fairy tales.

In Beauty and the Beast, the enchanted rose counts down the Beast’s time to find true love, symbolizing both the fragility and power of love. In Sleeping Beauty, a hedge of thorny roses grows around the princess’s castle, protecting her during her long sleep until the prince arrives. Roses in these stories represent love, danger, and enduring hope—perfectly capturing their timeless magic.

Did You Know? Roses inspired the first Valentine’s Day cards.

The connection between roses and love runs deep, and they’ve been linked to Valentine’s Day for centuries. In the 18th century, lovers began exchanging handmade cards featuring painted roses, lace, and poetry. This tradition evolved into the Valentine’s Day cards we know today, though roses remain the holiday’s most iconic gift.

Did You Know? Roses have been used as fireworks.

In ancient China, dried rose petals were sometimes added to early fireworks for their fragrance when burned. While this wasn’t particularly practical, it certainly added a touch of floral extravagance to the festivities. Roses have always had a knack for making any celebration a little more special!

Did You Know? There’s a rose-scented toothpaste.

In some parts of the world, including India, rose-flavored toothpaste is a common household item. The floral flavor provides a refreshing twist, combining the antiseptic properties of rose extract with a natural, sweet aroma. It’s just one more example of how roses have found their way into everyday life.

Did You Know? Some roses bloom just once a year—but they’re worth it.

Old garden roses, like Damask and Gallica roses, typically bloom in one spectacular flush each year. While they don’t repeat flower like modern roses, their once-a-year show is breathtaking, with hundreds of blooms filling the air with intoxicating fragrance. Patience has its rewards!

Did You Know? Roses can smell like everything from apples to licorice.

Not all roses smell the same! Some, like the hybrid tea rose Fragrant Cloud, have a classic sweet rose scent, while others smell like spices, fruit, or even licorice. The scent comes from hundreds of volatile compounds in the petals, each contributing a unique aroma profile.

Did You Know? Roses are in the same family as apples.

Roses belong to the Rosaceae family, which includes apples, cherries, strawberries, and almonds. If you’ve ever noticed that rose hips look a little like tiny apples, that’s why! The family resemblance is strongest in the seeds and fruits, making roses a distant botanical cousin to some of your favorite snacks.

Did You Know? Roses were part of medieval love potions—and may have inspired the legend of Tristan and Isolde.

In the Middle Ages, roses were prized for their association with love and desire. Their petals were often used in love potions and aphrodisiacs, believed to spark passion or heal broken hearts. This mystical connection to romance finds echoes in the tale of Tristan and Isolde, one of the most famous love stories of the medieval era.

According to legend, Tristan and Isolde accidentally consumed a love potion that bound them in eternal but tragic love. In some versions of the tale, after their tragic deaths, a rose bush grew from Tristan’s grave and intertwined with a briar from Isolde’s, symbolizing their inseparable bond even in death. Over time, roses came to represent both the power of love and its enduring mysteries, deepening their association with romance and longing.

The Enduring Allure of Roses

Roses have woven themselves into the fabric of human culture, history, and imagination like no other flower. From their origins in ancient mythology to their role in modern celebrations and even outer space experiments, roses symbolize beauty, love, resilience, and creativity. Whether they’re gracing a garden, inspiring legends, or adding flavor to your favorite dessert, roses have a way of captivating our senses and our stories.

There’s always more to learn and discover about these incredible blooms, so keep exploring, keep growing, and let the magic of roses brighten your world!