Gallica

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A designation for a type of rose originating from Europe, known for its aromatic and typically light-colored flowers, and it may also relate to aspects of ancient Gallic heritage and people
2. Referring to a European rose species recognized for its pleasant fragrance and often delicate hues, this term can also connote elements tied to the Gallic civilization or its inhabitants
3. A variety of rose native to Europe, noted for its fragrant and often pink or red blooms ; connected to the culture or people from the region known historically as Gaul

Etymology: The rose "Rosa gallica" is among the oldest roses in cultivation, and its name is a Latin adjective meaning "of Gaul." The Romans used "Gallia" for the lands of the Gauls, the Celtic peoples who lived across what is now France and nearby regions, and "Gallicus" was the standard word for "Gaulish." The name therefore points toward France, though the plant's wild range extends across central and southern Europe into western Asia. The flower's other common name, the apothecary's rose, points to a different use. Its petals were dried and distilled for medicine and perfume. Its association with France was strengthened by the town of Provins, where large fields of the rose were grown for centuries, so the Latin label and the rose's reputation as a medicinal and fragrant flower became closely linked.