Roses are perhaps the most famous flowers in the world. Throughout history, roses have represented love, beauty and passion. To this day, roses are a guaranteed hit on Valentine's Day and Wedding anniversaries. Here are perhaps a few facts about roses that you didn't know.

Northern Persia has been mooted as a possible site of origin for the species, although the oldest known fossil of a rose was found in Colorado, and has been dated as being around 35 million years old.

Deriving from the Latin, Rosa, comes the modern day name 'Rose.' The rose is also called the Latin name of 'acicularis,' deriving from 'acidula,' meaning needle like or prickly.

The major producers of Roses in the world in terms of outdoor cultivation are Israel, Africa, Kenya, Uganda, Ecuador, Colombia and India ? the climate in parts of these countries is ideal. In terms of indoor cultivation the most significant volume of roses is produced in the Netherlands. The Netherlands is the largest exporter of roses in the world.

Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love, was heavily associated with the Rose, as was the Roman God of love, Venus. In ancient Egypt, the Goddess Isis was also keen on the odd rose or two, and offerings of the flower were often made to venerate her.

The rose is also symbolic in Christianity, and is often associated with the Virgin Mary. At several famous sites for the miraculous appearance of the Virgin to the Faithful ? such as Lourdes, Mary is said to have appeared carrying roses.

In fact, Christianity has seen several symbolic takes on the rose throughout the history of the religion. The petals of the rose have been interpreted as representing the 5 wounds of the crucified Christ by the faithful. Early Christians thought that the rose represented the blood of the martyrs.

Roses and many other flowers can represent something as simple as 'thank you,' and can present this sentiment in a physical way - when perhaps you can't be there in person - thanks to suppliers that deliver. Although an established tradition, giving flowers always seems to work as a gesture of friendship and thanks. Have a look at the websites of the established companies like Interflora to get an idea of the range of species available when you want to buy flowers online.

Maricruz Tennill, the author of this article, has worked in the flower industry for many years. Interflora is the best service that allow you to buy flowers online.