The Damask rose is one of the old roses, like the Provins rose, which is also grown for its essence and floral water. It is said to be descended from the cross between Rosa gallica and a species of Synstylae, Rosa phoenicia or Rosa moschata. Its compound, pinnate, deciduous leaves are susceptible to rust, a fungal disease that poses no risk to the plant's survival but nevertheless harms its productivity. It is very thorny, 1 to 2 meters tall, and bears small flowers. It roots easily (stems growing from the underground rootstock). Flowering takes place in May only, hence its name "May Rose". The flowers must be harvested every morning after the dew has dried, in order to obtain a distillation of optimal quality. The red fruit called rosehip is filled with small grains which are actually the fruits (achenes), grouped inside the floral receptacle and rich in vitamin C. The rosehip is commonly called "butt-scratcher", because it provides hair to scratch. Soothing to the skin, refreshing and anti-aging, Rose is used on dry, sensitive and mature skin. It appeals to the heart, harmonizes, comforts and consoles: heartbreak, grief, tenderness, maternity...
DID YOU KNOW?
4000kg of flowers are needed to obtain 1kg of essential oil: it is one of the most precious oils on the market.