Roses & Honeysuckles - June's Flower Babies

Does the red rose deserve her 'star' status?

We're all familiar with the popular rhyme, "Roses are red..." And, arguably, the red rose is June's most celebrated flower child. However, despite her long association with love and romance, the red rose is relatively new on the botanical stage. Researchers believe the first rose to make an appearance was yellow. She emerged around 30 million years ago, making her the ancestor of all rose species. 

It took millions of years for genetic mutations to produce the rainbow hues seen today, including red. Yellow roses are ancient and naturally occurring; red roses are human-made hybrids, shaped and refined through centuries of cultivation. So, the red rose may be June's most famous flower child, but the yellow rose is the most legitimate. Regardless, whether yellow, red, or in-between, fragrant and enchanting roses help make the month of June a welcome delight.

 Honeysuckle - friend or foe?

Nothing says summer like sweet-smelling honeysuckle. Catching that first whiff of the intoxicating fragrance can be nostalgic and mood-enhancing. However, only native North American species, like trumpet honeysuckle, should be cultivated in yards and gardens. According to experts, non-native species, like Asian bush honeysuckle, are ecological nightmares that choke out native plants, block vital sunlight, and prevent tree regeneration. To learn more, see the section below, "Focus on Ohio Native Flora."