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Roses have a long history. Words derived from the Latin word Rosa are used all over
Europe to describe the rose.
Tracing back further, the Latin name derives from the Greek word Rhédon meaning
"red" and the Persian word vareda. The oldest existent species, R. gallica
, was indeed a red rose. The original species first brought into Europe were for
essences rather than for ornamental purposes, so they have a richly delicious, sweet
aroma.
Looking at classical Japanese literature, a red flat-shaped rose is mentioned in
the "Tales of Genji". Probably imported from China, this type of rose (called
Koshin) seemed to have been popular among Japanese aristocrats and was cultivated
to decorate the Inperial Palace.
Though their purposes may have differed, roses were loved by people of East and West
alike since ancient times.
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