Roses are some of the most iconic flowers that have ever existed. They’ve appeared in pieces of art and literature for generations. Throughout their rich and colorful history, people have celebrated these flowers and attached meanings to their colors. But when did the first roses appear, and how did they become a cultural icon in the world of flowers?
The First Records of Roses
Did you know that roses could be traced back million years? That’s right! According to fossil records, a species called, “Nature’s Roses,” existed 35 million years ago. These flowers are thought to be the original roses and are the source for every other variety in existence. How amazing is that?
Roses in Mythology
Roses are found in many cultures throughout history. In Greek mythology, the goddess Aphrodite created roses from her tears and the blood of her lover Adonis. In Roman folklore, Venus adopted the rose and turned it into a symbol of love. Then her son Cupid offered a rose to the God of Silence in exchange for keeping Venus’ affairs secret. This legacy led Romans to decorate their dining room ceilings with roses to remind guests that their conversations were private.
Roses and Women
Along with the Greek and Roman goddesses, roses have been linked to many other women throughout history. Cleopatra had her living quarters filled with rose petals so that Marc Antony would remember her every time he smelled a rose. Roses are also used as a symbol of the Virgin Mary, and can be associated with many female religious figures, including Saint Elizabeth of Hungary, Our Lady of Guadalupe, and Saint Rita of Cascia.
Roses In The Garden
It’s believed that people began growing roses in their gardens around 5,000 years ago in China. Then, in the 1800s, Napoleon’s wife Josephine began her own extensive collection at the Chateau de Malmaison. During that time, breeders in China crossed their roses with European flowers and created China tea roses.
Here at Sense Ecuador, we believe that roses are the ideal symbols of beauty and love. They make the perfect gift for many occasions. If you’re celebrating an anniversary, our Forever Love preserved roses are a gift that will last as long as you love. Our Blush Pink roses are a great way to welcome a new little one into the world. Or make someone’s birthday bloom with our Sunrise Gleam bouquet.