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The Red Rose of Lancaster is the county flower of Lancashire.
The exact species or cultivar which the red rose relates to is uncertain, but it is thought to be Rosa gallica officinalis.
The rose was first adopted as an heraldic device by Edmund, First Earl of Lancaster and became the emblem of Lancashire following the Battle of Bosworth Field in 1485.
Flower
Rosa Gallica Officinalis, Apothecary’s Rose, Old Red Damask, Rose of Provins
Lancaster's Red Rose is an official variety and is possibly the first cultivated rose. The rose grew wild throughout central Asia and was discovered by the ancient Persians and Egyptians. Later adopted by the Romans, who introduced it to Gaul (France) where it assumed the name Rosa gallica. It is documented that Charlemagne’s court exploited the rose as a perfume. The rose was also appreciated for its medical value and was utilized in countless medical remedies.
Symbol
The Red Rose of Lancaster was the House of Lancaster's badge during the Wars of the Roses. Upon Henry Tudor's ascension to the throne the rose was merged with the White Rose of York to form the Tudor Rose. In modern times the rose was worn by 55th (West Lancashire) Territorial Division during their campaign in Belgium; their motto was "They win or die, who wear the Rose of Lancaster".
External links
"Red Rose of Lancaster"