2012 Herb of the Year
Rose (Rosa)
The rose, an herb, are you surprised?
The common accepted definition of an herb is, “Plants of which the leaves or stems are used for medicine, for their scent and their flower. The rose fits this definition.
The fruit of the rose, the “hips” are used to make rose hip tea and the hips can be substituted for cranberries in sauce and recipes. In recent years they have found to be rich in vitamin c and also Vitamins A, B, E and K have been found in the hips.
The petals can be used to make Rose Jelly, rose syrup and in teas and wines. They can be used in salads, as a garnish and can be tossed with fresh fruit and sprinkled with a bit of lime juice.
The petals have been found to be astringent and can be used in mouthwashes, gargles for sore throats and in tonics.
The scent of the rose has been used in perfumes, bath oils, lotions and soaps. Rose water and rose oil are expensive and are used in non-allergenic creams and lotions. The most expensive comes from the Damask rose…A perfume maker in Bulgaria uses about 60,000 roses to make 1 oz. of perfume.
Growing roses can be a challenge but the end result is well worth the work and time. Roses may be grown from seeds, cutting or stock. If you are new to growing roses, nursery stock is recommended.
Plant your rose as soon as possible. If planting stock you should dig to a depth of 18-24 inches, remove the soil and mix with organic matter. Let it settle. Before planting cut off split or broken ends. In the North canes should be cut back to 1 foot. Plant the roses about 2’apart. Heap soil as you would for a fruit tree, arrange roots on either side of the hump. Set the collar (point of graft) 2” beneath the soil, fill in and water. For potted plants the hole should be a bit larger than the pot, place rose in hole fill with soil and water.
Roses are susceptible to black spot, mildew and a host of insects. There are many books on the subject of planting, caring for your rose and harvesting your rose petals that can help you. You should also read and follow the directions that come with your rose. Check with your local rose society and nurseries for information.
A note of caution, if you are going to be consuming or cooking with the rose petals DO NOT USE roses that have been sprayed, this includes roses from florist shops and grocery store. Use roses from your own backyard.
Roses are used to celebrate births, weddings, birthdays and of course Valentine’s Day. The Rose is a symbol of Love and Beauty.
Red Rose-Passion, Love
White Rose-Purity and Innocence
Pink Rose- Simplicity
Yellow Rose-Jealousy
This is the year to honor and celebrate the Rose. Plant a rose in your garden, enjoy a cup of rose hip tea and enjoy the butterflies and bees that will be sure to find your yard.
The International Herb Association selects the Herb of the Year. This professional trade association provides educational, service and development opportunities for those involved in herbal endeavors. www.iherb.org
PENNSYLVANIA HERB & GARDEN FESTIVAL
