The tradition of naming roses after royalty, including the Sultans of Oman, finds its roots in the centuries-old European practice of associating the elegance and timeless beauty of roses with the status and prestige of royal figures.
This custom began in earnest during the 19th century, particularly in Victorian England, where botanists and horticulturists would dedicate new roses to monarchs and aristocrats as a symbol of admiration and respect. The rose, being a flower rich in symbolism for love, power, and purity, made it the perfect tribute for royalty, a tradition which expanded globally.
In Oman, this practice gained relevance with the naming of roses after Sultan Qaboos bin Said and Sultan Haitham bin Tariq, recognizing their contributions to the nation and its environment.
These roses are not only a nod to the legacy of the rulers but also connect Oman's rich heritage of agriculture and botanical appreciation with modern times. In the context of royalty, naming a rose is a gesture that honours their lasting impact and the blossoming future they envision for their people. The continuity of this tradition emphasizes the intersection of nature, culture, and leadership, linking Oman with a broader global heritage.
The Sultan Qaboos Rose
The Sultan Qaboos Rose, a symbol of beauty, resilience, and international respect, is a tribute to the visionary leadership of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, the late ruler of Oman. Named in his honour by the World Rose Society in 1990, this rose was created to reflect the values and achievements of a leader who dedicated his life to the progress of his people, the preservation of the environment, and the promotion of peace on the global stage. The Sultan Qaboos Rose made its first public appearance at the Osaka Gardens Expo in Japan that same year, where it garnered international attention for its vibrant red colour, exquisite fragrance, and unique adaptability to both hot and cold climates.
The rose itself is a product of extensive research by scientists who sought to create a new class of rose that could flourish in diverse environments. Its long stem, brilliant hue, and sweet scent quickly made it a favourite at international flower shows, including the renowned Chelsea Flower Show in London. The Sultan Qaboos Rose is more than just a beautiful flower—it symbolizes Oman’s growing presence on the world stage during the reign of Sultan Qaboos, a time marked by modernization, diplomatic engagement, and environmental stewardship.
Oman’s relationship with Britain, established during the 19th century and deepened throughout the reign of Sultan Qaboos, played a role in the naming of the rose. The Sultan’s efforts to strengthen ties with the United Kingdom and other nations were instrumental in elevating Oman’s global reputation. The Chelsea Flower Show appearance and the rose’s inclusion in various international exhibitions and commemorative stamps further solidified this connection, showcasing Oman’s cultural and environmental contributions to the world.
The rose was formally presented to His Majesty during Oman’s 20th National Day celebrations, an event that reflected both local and international admiration for his leadership. Sultan Qaboos’s dedication to environmental preservation, exemplified by this honour, remains one of his lasting legacies. His vision transformed Oman into a nation celebrated for its development, stability, and commitment to peace—a legacy embodied by the Sultan Qaboos Rose, which continues to flourish as a symbol of his enduring impact.
His Majesty Sultan Haitham and the First Lady of Oman roses
At the 2023 Chelsea Flower Show, a prestigious event steeped in horticultural history, Oman unveiled two remarkable roses, each carrying deep symbolic meaning. The roses, named Harcarmine and Harforever, honour the Sultan and First Lady of Oman, symbolizing not only their stature but also Oman’s cultural and natural heritage. Harcarmine, bearing a rich red colour, represents His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik. At the same time, Harforever, with its pristine white hue, is dedicated to Her Highness, the Honourable Lady Assayida Ahd Abdullah Hamed Al Busaidi, spouse of the Sultan. Both colours derive from Oman’s national flag, with green, representing the landscape, framing these exquisite blooms.
The honour of having a rose named after a royal figure is not merely symbolic; it is a testament to leadership, legacy, and global recognition. For centuries, roses have been named after prominent individuals, often royals, as a tribute to their influence, contributions, and impact. In this case, the Harcarmine and Harforever roses were introduced not only as a nod to the Sultanate’s leadership but also to emphasize Oman’s growing connection to global horticultural practices.
These roses were the result of extensive cross-breeding efforts by specialists who aimed to create resilient hybrids suited to Oman’s climate. After successful agricultural experiments, the roses were found to thrive in Salalah, in the Governorate of Dhofar, where the unique climatic conditions mirror the roses’ natural adaptability. Beyond Oman, the roses also flourished in Europe, reflecting their versatility and appeal on a global stage.
The official inauguration of Harcarmine and Harforever at the Chelsea Flower Show was attended by Omani officials, including Badr Mohammed Al Mantheri, Oman's ambassador to the UK. This event, which also hosted British royalty, including King Charles III, underscored the long-standing connection between Oman and the United Kingdom. The Chelsea Flower Show, established in 1862, has long been a platform for showcasing the finest in horticulture, with the participation of the Omani roses reinforcing the Sultanate’s environmental stewardship and its contributions to global botanical culture.
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