Most popular cut flower - the rose

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While researching gerberas, I learnt that it is one of the top five most-used cut flowers in the world. It only just sneaks in in fifth place. At the top of the list is the rose. I can understand the rose being a favourite as there are some very beautiful varieties available and their scent is also very lovely. Here are a few facts about roses: • The rose features in ancient Greece texts. Aphrodite is said to have pricked herself on a rose thorn which led to red roses. • The rose became identified with the Virgin Mary, eventually leading to the creation of the rosary and other devotional prayers. • In the War of the Roses, they symbolised the Houses of York and Lancaster. • Roses are a favoured subject in art. There is a rose ‘Fantin-Latour’ named after a prolific painter of still life, and in particular of roses. • Trieste was associated with a white rose, believed to be extinct, but which was rediscovered there in 2021. • In 1986, Ronald Reagan signed legislation to make the rose the floral emblem of the USA. • Rose bushes are commonly planted at the end of rows of grape vines as they alert the grower to signs on disease or insect infestation. Any guesses on second most popular cut flower? Photo is Vince's of a friend's rose.