Official State Flower of Georgia
Georgia’s Official State Flower: The Cherokee Rose
Georgia’s official state flower is the Cherokee Rose (Rosa laevigata). This flower was designated as the state’s official floral emblem in 1961, with support from the Georgia Federation of Women’s Clubs. The name “Cherokee” is derived from the Cherokee Native American tribe, who were instrumental in the distribution of this plant.
Cultural Significance of the Cherokee Rose
The Cherokee Rose holds deep cultural significance, particularly tied to the tragic history of the Trail of Tears. Native Americans, including the Cherokee, were forcibly relocated from their ancestral lands in the southeastern United States to territories west of the Mississippi River. The white petals of the Cherokee Rose are said to symbolize the tears shed by Cherokee women during this forced migration.
Rosa laevigata Flower Meanings
The Cherokee Rose is closely associated with the Trail of Tears. The white petals represent the tears of the Cherokee people, and the yellow center symbolizes the gold taken from their lands. The Cherokee Rose stands as a poignant reminder of the suffering and resilience of the Cherokee people during their displacement in 1838.
In 1869, Chief Lewis Downing signed an executive act establishing the Cherokee Nation’s seal, which features a seven-pointed star inside an oak leaf wreath, symbolizing the perpetual flame of the Cherokee people.
Rosa laevigata Flower Facts
- Growth: The Cherokee Rose is an evergreen climbing shrub that develops long, thorny canes, capable of growing 10-12 feet (3-3.7 meters) tall and 15 feet (4.6 meters) wide, forming a dense mound.
- Medicinal Properties: This plant possesses antibacterial and anticholesterolemic properties, and also has astringent, carminative, depurative, and diuretic characteristics. It is used in traditional medicine to treat dysentery and promote hair growth.
- Appearance: Cherokee Rose flowers grow densely along the length of the canes, forming garlands. The plant is thorny with bright green foliage, and the stems are bristly.
- Ecological Role: Birds are attracted to the Cherokee Rose hips, which are a rich source of vitamin C. In Chinese medicine, these hips are used to treat male sexual problems.
- Rosehip: The fruit of the Cherokee Rose, known as a rosehip, has a layer of hairs beneath the flesh surrounding the seeds, which can irritate the mouth and digestive system if ingested.
Flower Delivery in Georgia
Do you have a friend or family member in Georgia? With Snapblooms, sending flowers and gifts to Georgia is convenient. You can easily arrange flower deliveries, such as scented Rosa laevigata arrangements and thoughtful gift baskets, to Georgia and beyond.
FAQs
Which State Flower is the Rosa laevigata?
Rosa laevigata is the official state flower of Georgia.
Why is the Rosa laevigata the state flower of Georgia?
The Georgia General Assembly designated the Cherokee Rose (Rosa laevigata) as the state’s floral emblem at the request of the Georgia Federation of Women’s Clubs.
What color is the state flower of Georgia?
Rosa laevigata flowers can be white, with other varieties in red, pink, or yellow.
When did Georgia get its state flower?
On August 18, 1916, the Rosa laevigata was designated as Georgia’s official floral emblem by a resolution adopted by the General Assembly and Governor Nathaniel Harris.
How do I send flowers to Alabama?
You can find flowers and gifts on Snapblooms for online flower delivery in the USA.
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