Damask Rose

Family (Latin): Rosaceae

A symbol of elegance with historical mystery


A brief introduction

The Damask rose (Rosa damascena) is an ancient and cherished variety known for its exquisite fragrance and layered pink to light red blooms. Originating from the Middle East, particularly Syria, this rose has been cultivated for centuries for its beauty and its use in perfumes, essential oils, and culinary applications.


Popular varieties

Ispahan ~ A classic Damask rose with an abundance of pink blooms that are highly fragrant and appear in early summer.

Madame Hardy ~ Known for its delicate, white petals and distinctive green eye at the center, adding elegance and a touch of uniqueness.


~ The Symbolic Meanings of The Damask rose ~

The Damask rose symbolizes love, beauty, and appreciation. It has long been a symbol of passion and has featured prominently in literature and art as a representation of deep, romantic love. In some cultures, it is also associated with purity and spirituality. 


Plant care

Soil

Damask roses thrive in well-draining, fertile soil enriched with organic matter. Adding compost or well-rotted manure helps provide the necessary nutrients for lush growth and prolific blooming.

Light

These roses flourish in full sunlight, requiring at least 6-8 hours of direct light daily to produce abundant flowers and maintain their health.

Watering

Water Damask roses deeply, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. It's best to water at the base of the plant to prevent wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases. Allow the top layer of soil to dry out between waterings.

Care

Damask roses benefit from annual pruning to shape the plant and remove dead or diseased wood. Apply a balanced rose fertilizer in early spring and again mid-season to encourage continuous blooming. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.


Good for pollinators: No

Toxic to pets: Yes

Fragrant: Yes

Care difficultyEasy


Did you know?

The essential oil extracted from Damask roses, known as rose otto, is one of the most valuable and sought-after oils in the world. It takes about 10,000 pounds of rose petals to produce just one pound of rose oil, highlighting the precious nature of this plant and its enduring legacy in perfumery and skincare.