Among the flowers and plants prized by human beings over the centuries, roses have remained some of the most popular and culturally meaningful. Their distinctive petals and iconic thorns are known the world over. It is tempting to assume that they are simply objects of beauty, but there is more to this flower than is evident at first glance.
There are more than one hundred different varieties grown throughout the world. Some are grown for their visual beauty, others for their fragrance, and still others for the nutritional qualities they can provide. Certainly the multifaceted benefits of the plant contributes to its popularity in gardens.
As things of traditional visual beauty, they have long held a place as ornamental and decorative flora. Associated strongly with romance, they may be found pinned to the lapel of a groom, given as a corsage to an amour, or used in a random gesture of love and appreciation.
It is said that they are among the more difficult, though rewarding, flowers that one can grow. Seen in cemeteries and gardens since Victorian times, it is true that full gardens exploding with all the color and variety available in the family are among the most spectacular examples of English horticulture.
Of the many species found throughout the world, the majority are native to Asia. For the most part, Europeans and Africans have been more interested in the beauty and fragrance, and so they have really only been interested in those species which best express those qualities. Many species with stronger medicinal properties than their brethren exist, and are often indigenous to the East.
Crushing the petals and extracting the essential oils results in a compound known as attar. This liquid is then used for many things. It can be made into a diluted water which is then added to confectionery and baked goods, or it can be distilled and mixed with other compounds for eventual use in perfumery. The delicate scent of attar makes it a highly prized ingredient in many gourmet or ethnic kitchens.
The petals are not the only parts of the flower which are interesting beyond a gardening perspective. The fruit, called rosehips, are often sought after by those who are interested in obtaining their vitamins and nutrients in as natural a form as possible. Rosehips are frequently ground up and brewed as a tea, and they are said to ease stomach problems as well as provide a minor amount of vitamin C. These fruits may also have their essential oils extracted and distilled, and the resulting oils are used extensively in cosmetics and skin lotions.
Symbols of love and romance, dedicated throughout history to various gods and saints, roses are many things to many people. It has been said that the things which are most beautiful and at the same time least useful are the truly luxurious things in life, and though the utility of this wonderful flower is not completely absent it may be considered a thing of luxury indeed.
