Exquisite, stunning and elegantly hued, the Peace Rose was developed and introduced by the horticulturist, Francis Meilland of France between 1935 and 1939.
When Meilland foresaw the German invasion of France, he sent cuttings to friends in Italy, Turkey, Germany, and the United States to protect the new rose. It is said that it was sent to the United States on the last plane available before the German invasion, where it was safely propagated during the war. The plants were preserved and released on April 29, 1945, the very day Berlin fell, officially considered the end of World War II in Europe. Later that year Peace roses were given to each of the delegations at the inaugural meeting of the United Nations in San Francisco, each with a note which read:
"We hope the Peace Rose will influence men's thoughts for everlasting world peace".
I strive to have peace influence my thoughts and actions. I work for inner peace, try to cultivate a peaceful home and pray for world peace. "Let there be peace on earth and let it begin with me." The Peace Rose is a beautiful symbol - every home should be graced with several - easy to grow and to love.
