Quest for the Black Rose (Hardcover)

Botanists are on the case, trying to solve the mystery of the black rose: does it exist? Has it ever? It seems that the only solid fact surrounding this flower is that people have been searching for it for centuries--and are still searching today. The first references to extremely dark red roses were made in early botanist literature, and at the end of the eighteenth and beginning of the nineteenth century, drawings of such roses were widely circulated. And, according to a spokesman of the Flowers and Plants Association, "Black flowers were beloved of the art nouveau designers at the previous turn of the century. Victorians and Edwardians at the cutting edge of fashion collected them, going to great lengths to track down exotic species." Today, the desire for unique blooms continues, prompting environmental consultant James Reynolds to write in March 2005: "Those looking for a riot of color at this year's flower shows are in for disappointment: black is back and this time it is set to take a hold over the nation's gardens. Just as floral prints have been banished from the house in favor of muted tones and minimalism, so the same is set to happen in our gardens and parks, with black flowers now the must-have item." Through extensive and detailed research, "The Quest for the Black Rose" presents the complete story of the elusive flower--from the oldest historical drawings up to the most recent developments. This publication, with its stunning photography, is sure to be treasured by any rose lover... or anyone intrigued by a good mystery.