Community Corner
How The Rose Became America's National Flower
Plus, see how this beautiful flower can be part of your Fourth of July festivities.
Roses are most commonly associated with love and romance, but did you know these long-stemmed beauties are also quite patriotic? The rose is recognized as the state flower in New York and Oklahoma, and variations of the rose are the state flower in Iowa (wild prairie rose) and Georgia (Cherokee rose) as well.
Americans so adore the rose, in fact, that it’s officially the United States’ national flower. This has been the case since Nov. 20, 1986, when President Ronald Reagan signed Proclamation No. 5574 naming the rose as the National Floral Emblem of the United States of America.
“The American people have long held a special place in their hearts for roses,” the proclamation states. “Let us continue to cherish them, to honor the love and devotion they represent, and to bestow them on all we love just as God has bestowed them on us.”
Given its history and its place as one of America’s national treasures, roses are a perfect addition to your Fourth of July celebrations. Below are some beautiful selections from FTD Flowers, plus some other patriotic arrangements sure to add some sparkle to the holiday.
Red Rose Bouquet — A timeless classic, these bold, beautiful roses will pop just like the fireworks. They’re a meaningful and heartfelt gift for anyone you care about, and they’ll look lovely as part of your Fourth of July decor.
Moonlight White Rose Bouquet — Why should red roses have all the fun? These uplifting and bright white roses are as lovely as they come. A symbol of purity, innocence, new beginnings and remembrance, white roses let the recipient know you are thinking of them.
“Best Day Ever” Bouquet — A bold and cheery bouquet with a mix of flowers, including roses, sunflowers and lilies, this arrangement will make a fun statement at any backyard barbecue or Fourth of July celebration.
“Beyond Blue” Bouquet — With a pop of color, this bouquet features billowing white flowers — including roses, lilies and daisies — mixed with bright blue flowers. It’s the perfect gift for a close friend or family member.
“Clear Skies Ahead” Bouquet — A reminder of joyful days filled with sunshine and blue skies, this bouquet overflowing with voluminous hydrangea blooms, vibrant belladonna delphinium and gorgeous white roses is a great gift for a Fourth of July host or hostess.
“Bold and Bright” Bouquet — This glorious bouquet with its dazzling colors will add a cheerful vibe to any holiday celebration. Hand-chosen for your design, this bouquet will include a variety of blooms such as lilies, hollyhock and chrysanthemums.
“Vision In Ivory” Bouquet — A lovely mix of calla lilies and white roses, these flowers arrive fresh from the farm and make an elegant statement, whether given as a gift or chosen for a celebratory centerpiece.
“Greater Glory” Basket — With its red and white roses, white gladioli and Oriental lilies, and blue hydrangeas, this patriotic display is the perfect way to honor those who have served their country. The flowers are beautifully arranged in a lovely white woodchip basket.
