Roses are a quintessential Valentine's Day treat, but they can be more than just a visual delight—they're also edible. If you're considering growing a rose to eat, the 'Blush Damask' variety is an excellent choice. This classic flower of romance can be transformed into jams, teas, and even Turkish delight, offering a unique way to celebrate love with homegrown flavours.
Why Edible Roses Are a Valentine's Must-Have
While many view Valentine's Day as an overly commercialised event, it presents a perfect opportunity to embrace the edible potential of roses. The entire plant is technically consumable, but for the best experience, focus on the petals, buds, and hips. Avoid the thorns and woody stems, as they are not suitable for eating.
Creative Uses for Rose Parts
Fresh or dried rose petals can be utilised in numerous culinary applications. They are ideal for making rosewater or rose syrup, serving as elegant garnishes for cakes, or infusing into sweet treats like ice-cream and panna cotta. Rosebuds can be used similarly, but harvesting them entirely may prevent the development of rosehips later in the season.
Rosehips appear after the rose has bloomed and faded. Although they can be eaten raw, it's crucial to discard the seeds due to irritating hairs. To extract their flavour and abundant vitamin C, consider making jellies, jams, or syrups. They can also be steeped in hot water for tea, infused into vinegar or spirits, or cooked into soups and sauces.
Foraging and Ethical Considerations
When harvesting roses, remember that many creatures rely on these flowers and fruits. Always leave plenty behind for pollinators and birds to ensure ecological balance. This mindful approach makes foraging a sustainable and rewarding activity.
How to Grow Your Own Edible Roses
The most affordable method to introduce roses into your garden is by acquiring bareroot plants, which should still be available before spring arrives in the UK. Container-grown roses are an alternative but tend to be more expensive. Select a sunny, sheltered spot with free-draining soil, and ensure you have adequate space for your chosen variety, as sizes can range from compact container types to rambling climbers.
Avoiding Store-Bought Risks
If you lack the space to plant roses, resist the temptation to eat petals from shop-bought flowers, as they are often treated with chemicals. Instead, opt for dried petals or buds specifically grown for consumption to ensure safety and quality.
Personal Insights and Recommendations
While I don't have access to a full rose garden, I've inherited a rose with peach-scented blooms and two volunteer dog roses (Rosa canina) that scramble through a hedge. These will be tested for flavour come summertime. For those seeking a reliable edible variety, the Damask rose, including 'Blush Damask', is widely used due to its fragrant pink petals, making it a classic choice for culinary purposes.
Embrace the joy of growing and eating roses this Valentine's Day, turning a traditional symbol of romance into a delicious, homegrown experience.
