Rose

An edible flower of the genus Rosa, the subject of numerous legends spanning 3,000 years. In Greek mythology, the red rose came from the blood of the goddess Aphrodite, whose foot got stuck on a thorn while she was trying to help Adonis. According to a Turkish legend, the red rose was stained by the blood of Mohammed. Greek historian Herodotus said that the rosebush built up thorns only after the fall of the Garden of Eden.

The ancient cultures of both Greece and Rome cultivated roses for decoration in centerpieces at banquets and for crowning bridal couples. Similarly, Native Americans crowned their brides with rose petals and also used roses for medicinal purposes. William Penn, returning to the colonies in 1699, brought with him from England 18 rosebushes. Later, John Adams started planting roses at the White House; his plantings later became the Rose Garden.

Petals, hips and buds are still used in culinary preparations, especially in Scandinavia. Petals are used in salads and candy, while rose water, in particular, is used in Middle Eastern cuisines. Rose petals, with the bitter white heel removed, may be crystallized and used in salads, with fruits, for decoration or as a general flavoring. Bright red rose hips are used in jams, purées and sauces, or to make a sweet syrup high in vitamin C. See also edible flowers.

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