Because of the popularity of the Rose in floral arranging and gardening, there are many different varieties, from Miniature Roses to scented David Austen English Roses through to more recognisable cut flower varieties. There are innumerable colours in the Rose rainbow, including white (Akito), red and yellow striped (Abracadabra), velvet red (Black Magic or Pascha, to name a few), bright orange (Circus) and pink and white (Carousel).
The rose is definable by its thin stem, sharp thorns, glossy green leaves and, most importantly, by the spiralling rosette shape of its many soft round petals. Roses grow well in temperate regions, bloom the best in early spring, and are available in florists all year around.
Roses have many meanings, but the best known are love and beauty, making pink or red roses the most popular choice for Valentine’s Day and Anniversaries. White roses generally conjure thoughts of purity and yellow roses represent friendship. Roses are not only beautiful flowers, but also produce edible jams (from the rosehip, the fruit) and beautiful perfumes (from the Rose petals).