Flower Encyclopedia: Rose
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| Scientific classification |
Kingdom: Plantae
Division: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Rosales
Family: Rosaceae
Subfamily: Rosoideae
Genus: Rosa | |
Roses are red, violets are blue - we all know that old chestnut but roses really are more popular than ever before! To know a rose is to love a rose, and how true that statement is. Roses come in all shades, shape and sizes. Flower shapes include the deep cup, rosette, double, tea rose and old English rose, to name but a few. In floristry however, the long-stemmed, spray and tea rose varieties are probably the most popular. Ever a favourite for weddings and special events, each rose variety is named with different varieties catering to different requirements.
With names like Cezanne and Da Vinci, red varieties such as Grand Prix and Passion, and at the opposite end of the scale the stunning white Avalanche rose. The Avalanche variety, with its massive heavy head and stunning white petals is stunning in any wedding bouquet. At the opposite end of the spectrum to the more common spray and tea rose varieties are opulent varieties, such as those from David Austin. Winner of the RHS Silver Award, David Austin cut roses offer names such as Ophelia, Juliet, Miranda & Rosalind - all inspired by the works of Shakespeare! Their highly fragrant blooms are simply stunning.
Whatever the variety, any rose is capable of envoking a mass of emotions and expressing a range of sentiments, from romance to gentleness, happiness or admiration!
Caring for your roses - tips and tricks
After a few days in their vase, it is not uncommon for roses to look begin looking slightly tired and a little droopy. Don't worry however, as florists and flower-lovers have a tip for bringing them back to life.
Cut the stem of each rose about 1.5cm from the bottom. Place a little boiling water, around 2cm deep, n a bowl and stand briefly stand the roses in the water. After about 30 seconds, plunge the roses back into a vase of fresh, conditioned cold water. A perfect shock tactic, this tried and tested method is sure to perk up your roses!
Back in their vase, all you need to do is sit back and wait. Your roses will soon be standing back to attention once more. Enjoy!
