They were much valued then, as now, for their blooms, fragrance, and attractive forms. 200 distinct species occur today and there are over 20,000 cultivars.
Roses are generally bushes, or sometimes take on a semi-climbing habit by producing very long canes.
The pinnately-compound leaves are deciduous, or sometimes evergreen in warm climates. Each leaf consists of 3 to 11 toothed, usually glossy, green leaflets. The many-petaled form of many horticultural varieties results from the induced conversion of stamens to petals. Rosa rugosa bears the largest fruits, up to 1 inch in diameter. The attractive rose hips often persist on the bush for a long period and are excellent sources of vitamin C. Double flowers usually do not produce fruit.