Rose Names

Rose names can seem strange when you are looking at all of the different types. Find out more about how roses are named!

Ever wonder how roses get names like the Barbra Streisand or the Julia Child? In many cases the celeb themselves actually put their name to a flower, after checking it out themselves. Barbra herself tried out several hybrid varieties in her own yard before claiming a very fragrant lavender breed for her own brand. Julia Child selected her own yellow, anise scented breed as well.

Up to the 20th century, most roses were named after the grower and breeders relatives and British royalty. In the mid-Century, American breeders wanted to put more pizazz into marketing their flowers and so started using movie star names like Bing Crosby and Bob Hope. Obviously, these names don't have as much influence today and so the names change as well. Some old time names like the Marilyn Monroe survive. Even the Queen Elizabeth is still a big seller. Most breeders haven't gotten too carried away and try to create a Paris Hilton, although you never know with rose names! They even named one after a Chrysler Imperial!

The breeders get to name their roses, as are the rules of the American Rose Society. The names have to match the scientific naming conventions. Rose breeders are marketers, and they try to find flower names that are appealing or evoke certain feelings. For example the Barbara Bush rose has a "down-to-earth" style, according to Jackson and Perkins, while the Ronald Reagan breed is "upright". Politicians are a common name. Recent additions include the Hillary Clinton. There are more Republican politicians named than Democrats. Not sure what that says about the political affiliation of rose growers!

Names like Carefree Wonder and the Double Delight are used more to market the roses as easy going. In fact there even is an Easy Going breed! Its easy to see the appeal of those roses, especially if you are struggling in your garden!