The name rosa is the classical Latin name for the plant, literally translating as red., the most common color of the flower. In classical Greek, the rose appeared as rhodon, from which are derived the names rhododendron, literally rose trees, and Rhodes or Rodos, the Greek island where rose flourish. The word rosa is also related to rosary beads, which according to church doctrine represent the crown of thorns, or rosarium, worn by the Virgin Mary.

Source: Bobby J. Ward, A Contemplation Upon Flowers: Garden Plants in Myth and Literature.

Canon 20D, Sigma 150mm f/2.8 APO EX DG Macro HSM 2s f/5.6 at 150mm iso 100.

Prints available for purchse through ImageKind.