Roses

Roses are one of the most popular and loved flowers in the world. They have been grown by people for over 5,000 years. Roses come in many colors including red, pink, white, yellow, and orange. They are known for their beautiful petals and sweet smell.

Types of Roses

There are over 30,000 varieties of roses. Wild roses usually have five petals, but garden roses have been bred to have many more. Some roses are tiny miniatures while others can climb up walls and grow 20 feet tall. Rose hips, the fruit of the rose, are full of vitamin C.

A bright red rose in full bloom.
A bright red rose in full bloom. (Bernard Spragg, Christchurch, New Zealand / Wikimedia Commons)

Roses in Culture

Roses have been symbols of love and beauty throughout history. Red roses mean love. Yellow roses mean friendship. White roses mean peace. Rose water and rose oil are used in perfumes and cooking. Bulgaria is famous for its rose gardens and rose oil production.

Fun Facts

  • There are over 30,000 varieties of roses.
  • Rose hips contain more vitamin C than oranges.
  • Roses are related to apples, strawberries, and almonds.

Did You Know?

The oldest living rose is about 1,000 years old! It grows on the wall of a cathedral in Germany and still blooms every year.