What is a Taif Rose
Name, species and origin.
Taif rose or better known as wardh Taifi, is a flower with 30 pink petals of uneven size. It relates to the Damask rose which comes from a species of open shrubs that bare loose clusters of fragrant flowers mainly in the summer. The rose resides in the mountainous city of Taif in western Saudi Arabia. Its cool temperature is responsible for the flower’s successful growth; however, it’s usually harvested in the early hours of the morning due to the heat of the day destroying the essential oils.
Symbolism.
The Taif rose, amongst many others, is a symbol of nobility and status, something which is very much sought after in the Middle Eastern countries. The popularity of this particular rose is further enhanced by its original flower type, a rose. Roses are a symbol of romance, love and beauty, a queen which reigned over the flower kingdom for 40 million years.
Historical background.
Following the rose’s incredible origin and symbol, it also tells a little history about culture, war and invasion. Researchers found that the rose has been transplanted and bought by the Ottoman Turks who conquered the area in the beginning of the 16th century CE. Furthermore, the Taif rose has been similarly linked to the Bulgarian ‘kazanlik’ (a pink fragrant shrub which has a rich fragrant scent in warm climates). It also has its own roots in the Persian rose plantations in Shiraz and Kashan. Some say that the flower originally came from India.
In recent times, the Taif rose has emerged as a profoundly valued ingredient, particularly appreciated as the premier choice for perfuming the Holy Kaaba in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. Its aromatic essence is also cherished among diverse attar crafters, including ourselves, who skillfully utilize it to create unique fragrances.
Extraction and Cultivation
The cultivation of Taif roses involves a meticulous process. After being carefully gathered and sorted, these delicate blooms undergo steam distillation. Through this method, the rose oil transforms into vapor, and after a careful cooling process, it condenses into precious rose oil. This prized essential oil, separated from rose water, holds great value, often fetching prices upwards of $400 USD per tola (approximately 12ml).
Taif Rose & Our Perfumes
You will find the beautiful Taif rose notes in some of our perfumes such as Musk Al Faransi, Warda and Imperial Ambergris
