Herbarium : Taifi rose

Appearance
The Taifi rose is a perennial shrub that can reach a height of 2.5 metres. The stems are cylindrical and straight, with numerous branches. The leaves, composed of seven to nine opposite leaflets and a terminal leaflet, are oval and broad with serrated margins. The buds open into flowers with 30 petals, rich in essential oil, revealing an intense but soft, powdery rose scent marked by delicious hints of tea and honey.

History
The Rosa Damascena has its roots in history, with origins dating back almost 15 centuries. It is a cornerstone of Taif tradition. In the western region, cultural practices related to the flower are an integral part of the inhabitants’ heritage and identity. The production and use of the petals are transmitted from generation to generation.

Cultivation
Sister varieties of the Taifi rose can be found in Turkey, Bulgaria, Iran, Syria, Central Asia and even India. But the specific conditions in this part of Makkah Province, with an ideal flowering temperature of around 26°C in peak season, allow it to develop its full potential. The composition of the soil also plays an important role, with towns such as Al-Hada and Al-Shafa being home to the most favourable plots of land, at altitudes of over 1,500 metres. In this perfect environment, shrubs can produce between 0.15% and 0.30% of essence per flower.

Fragrance
Along with the Rosa centifolia, the Rosa damascena is the only other main variety used in perfumery. Commonly associated with amber or incense, it is a cornerstone of many exclusive fragrances such as La Petite Robe Noire by Guerlain, Trésor in Love by Lancôme or Oud Couture by Carolina Herrera.

Rose water
The main by-product of the flowers is rose water. It takes 15,000 flowers for 25 litres of water to obtain a proper extraction. The flowers are cooked in airtight kettles for six to eight hours. As they boil, the vapour is carried through a tube into a tank of cold water to force condensation. The condensed liquid drips slowly into a bottle below. Except for improvements such as the gas flame and adhesive tape, the overall process is the same as it was in the late 1800s.

Drinks
Sprinkled over a cup of hot tea, fresh Taifi rose petals give the drink a whole new dimension. This is a classic delicacy from the western region that has become popular throughout the Kingdom. The dried petals are also added to various teas and infusions.

Food
The petals of the Taifi rose are also an important ingredient in a range of Saudi dishes. They are of course found in desserts, pastries and jams of all kinds, but they are additionally used to season chicken, meat and rice dishes.

Slow Food
The Taifi rose is one of the many Saudi products included in the Slow Food Foundation’s Ark of Taste catalogue. A tribute to its authenticity and the efforts of local communities to preserve its cultivation despite the challenges of climate change.

By Peyo Lissarrague