How roses evolved to become the flower of Valentine’s Day

image via New Scientist

February 14, 2026, 11:00 AM

• •Roses evolved from ancestors that were likely yellow with flat petals.
• •Roses gained prominence throughout history due to beauty and medicinal properties.
• •Modern hybrid roses were developed in 1867, shaping the industry.
• •Biologists are working to improve roses' disease resistance and other qualities.

Roses, the quintessential symbol of love and romance, have a surprisingly ancient and humble origin, dating back 35 million years. Early roses were likely yellow with flat petals, a far cry from the red, regal blooms we know today. Through history, roses gained prominence due to their beauty and medicinal properties, favored by figures like Cleopatra. Modern hybrid roses, developed in 1867, have shaped the industry, though at the cost of some disease resistance and scent, and biologists are working to improve them.

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