American Rose

When you think of American symbols, your mind quickly goes to the bald eagle, the flag, or the Statue of Liberty. But the United States also has an official national flower—one that represents the spirit, beauty, and strength of the country. This flower is the Rose. Elegant, timeless, and loved around the world, the rose has a long and meaningful history in the United States.

In this ultimate guide, we’ll explore everything about the USA national flower—the rose—its history, importance, symbolism, cultural value, popular types, fun facts, and answers to the most frequently asked questions. This is your complete, SEO-friendly resource on why the rose holds such a special place in American hearts.

1. What Is the National Flower of the USA?

The official national flower of the United States is the Rose.
It became the national floral emblem on November 20, 1986, when President Ronald Reagan signed a public law in the famous White House Rose Garden.

The rose was chosen not only because it is beautiful, but because it represents qualities the nation values:

• Love
• Honor
• Courage
• Friendship
• Passion
• Respect

From gardens to weddings, from celebrations to national events, the rose is one of America’s most beloved flowers.

2. How the Rose Became the National Flower

The journey of the rose to becoming the national flower is quite interesting.

Early Use in America

Long before 1986, roses were part of American culture. Native American tribes used wild roses for medicine, food, and natural healing. Early settlers brought new varieties from Europe and Asia, planting them across the country.

Growing Popularity

By the 1900s, roses became the most popular garden flower in America. Cities began holding Rose Festivals, rose farms expanded, and rose breeders developed hundreds of new varieties.

Congressional Approval

In the 1980s, lawmakers debated which flower should be the national flower. Many flowers were considered, but the rose won because:

• Americans grew it more than any other flower
• It had deep historical meaning
• It appeared in art, poems, and celebrations
• It symbolized universal emotions

Finally, in 1986, Reagan declared the rose the official USA national flower.

3. Why the Rose Was Chosen: Symbolism & Meaning

The rose symbolizes the values Americans cherish. Let’s look at its deeper meaning:

❤️ Love & Affection

Red roses symbol of love and romance.

🤝 Unity & Friendship

Yellow roses express friendship and warm relationships.

🤍 Purity & Peace

White roses represent innocence, honesty, and peace.

🌟 Courage & Bravery

The rose’s thorns symbolize the courage needed to overcome challenges.

🌈 Diversity

There are over 300 species and thousands of rose hybrids, showing diversity—just like the American population.

The rose is more than a flower—it represents the American soul.

4. Types of Roses Found in the United States

There are thousands of rose varieties grown across the USA. Here are the most popular types:

1. Hybrid Tea Roses

These are classic long-stemmed roses used in bouquets. They have large, elegant blooms.

2. Floribunda Roses

Floribunda roses bloom in clusters and come in bold, bright colors.

3. Grandiflora Roses

These combine the best qualities of hybrid teas and floribundas—tall, showy, and perfect for landscaping.

4. Climbing Roses

Climbing roses grow on walls, fences, and trellises, creating beautiful floral arches.

5. Shrub Roses

Low-maintenance, hardy, and great for large gardens.

6. Miniature Roses

Small roses perfect for pots, indoor spaces, and small gardens.

7. Wild Roses (Native to the USA)

Some of the most famous native roses include:

• Rosa virginiana (Virginia Rose)
• Rosa carolina (Carolina Rose)
• Rosa californica (California Wild Rose)

These species grew naturally long before settlers arrived.

5. The Rose in American Culture

Roses are everywhere in American culture—from art to traditions to celebrations.

🎉 Festivals

The most famous is the Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, California. Floats covered with roses march through the streets on New Year’s Day.

🎵 Music & Literature

Roses appear in poems, songs, and stories like:

• “The Yellow Rose of Texas”
• “Every Rose Has Its Thorn”

🎁 Gift-Giving Traditions

Americans buy millions of roses every year.
Especially on:

• Valentine’s Day
• Mother’s Day
• Weddings
• Anniversaries
• Graduations

🇺🇸 Government Use

The White House Rose Garden is one of the most iconic places in Washington, D.C., used for press conferences, ceremonies, and official photos.

6. The Rose in American History

The rose has been part of American history for centuries.

Native Americans

Used rose hips for tea, medicine, and food.

Early Colonists

Carried rose plants from Europe for gardens and healing.

World Wars

Roses were used in symbolic posters supporting peace and freedom.

Modern America

Today, roses appear in:

• City logos
• State symbols
• Fashion
• Beauty products
• Home décor

It is truly a timeless symbol.

7. Health, Culinary & Practical Uses of Roses

Roses are not only beautiful—they are useful!

🌿 Rose Hips

The fruit of the rose contains:

• Vitamin C
• Antioxidants
• Healing properties

Used in teas, syrups, and supplements.

🌹 Rose Water

Used in:

• Skincare
• Perfumes
• Cooking
• Medicine

🍰 Edible Roses

Rose petals are used in:

• Desserts
• Salads
• Garnishing
• Sweet syrups

Many cultures use roses in traditional recipes, adding flavor and aroma.

8. Interesting & Fun Facts About the USA National Flower

Here are some fun facts that will surprise you:

🌹 The oldest rose in the world is over 1,000 years old and still blooming.
🌹 More than 250 million roses are sold in the USA on Valentine’s Day alone.
🌹 California is the largest producer of roses in the United States.
🌹 Rose oil is one of the most expensive essential oils in the world.
🌹 There are roses that grow as tall as climbing trees and roses that stay as tiny as small toys.
🌹 Roses have been found in fossils dating back 35 million years.

9. How to Grow Roses in the USA (Beginner Friendly Guide)

If you want to grow your own roses, here’s a simple guide:

✔ Choose the Right Spot

Roses need:

• 6–8 hours of sunlight
• Well-drained soil
• Good air circulation

✔ Water Properly

Water at the base, not on the leaves.
This prevents disease.

✔ Use Fertilizer

Roses love nutrients.
Use rose-specific fertilizers for best results.

✔ Prune Regularly

Pruning helps:

• New growth
• Better blooms
• Healthier plants

✔ Protect from Pests

Use organic sprays or neem oil to keep bugs away.

With the right care, roses can bloom beautifully in almost every U.S. state.

10. Conclusion: Why the Rose Truly Represents the USA

The rose is not just a flower—it is a symbol of American identity.
It represents passion, courage, beauty, diversity, and history. Whether in gardens, celebrations, literature, or national events, the rose continues to play a powerful role in American culture.

This flower has stood the test of time, and even today, it remains one of the most loved symbols in the United States.

FAQ Section (Q&A)