Roses are ancient, surprisingly hardy plants with over 300 species and thousands of hybrids. Fossils indicate they are over 35 million years old, and they are fully edible, often used for their high vitamin C content in hips. They have been used as currency, medicine, and in 2004, the first blue rose was created.
Ancient & Long-Lived 1,000-Year-Old Rose: The oldest living rose is estimated to be 1,000 years old, growing on the wall of the Cathedral of Hildesheim in Germany.
35 Million Years Old: Rose fossils have been found dating back 35 million years.
17th-Century Currency: Roses and rose water were used as legal tender to barter for goods in the 17th century.
Botanical & Growth Facts
“Thorns” are Prickles: The sharp spikes on rose stems are technically called prickles, not thorns.
Edible Fruit: Roses produce a fruit called a rose hip, which is packed with vitamin C (30 times more than an orange).
Natural Variety: Most wild roses have only five petals.Biggest Producer: Ecuador is the largest grower of roses.