Rose (Flower)

From MiddleWiki

Medieval Roses

Medieval Roses are not the same as the modern roses we see - they didn't form neat buds, rather they were always open flowers, without the multiple layers of petals seen on modern roses. This can be seen by the shape of the heraldic rose which is an open flower seen from above, rather than a bud on a stem.

Practical Uses of Roses

Roses were a source of rosewater, a period food sweetener. Rose hips were used in several recipes, including jam.

Symbolic Uses of Roses

A rose or wreath of roses is used as the badge of the queen. Former queens are called "ladies of the rose."

The War of the Roses refers to the 15th century conflict in England, between the House of York and the House of Lancaster. As the badges of the houses are a white and red rose respectively.