The tuberose is a flower that has long been cultivated and used in decorations and religious ceremonies. Although not as fashionable as it once was, the intense fragrance of this bloom and its delicate, pretty flowers are making it more popular once again. Check out the long, partly lost, and fascinating history of tuberose plants here.
Tuberose Flower History
Tuberose is Polianthes tuberosa, a species of flower related to agave. It is thought to be native to Mexico, but no one really knows for sure. Today, tuberose is a cultivated plant no longer found in the wild. It’s origins and early history remain a mystery.
The tuberose plant grows with a long, thin, and straight stem up to 3 feet tall (1 m.). At the top of the stem is a cluster of small, white flowers sometimes tinged with pink. These are surrounded by grass like leaves. The sweet, floral smell of the blooms is intense.
Europeans first discovered tuberose when the Spanish conquistadors landed in the New World. The Aztecs, Mayans, and other native groups had already been growing the plant. The Aztecs called it bone flower for the white color of the blooms. The tuberose was recorded in Europe by the early 1600’s.
In Europe, tuberoses became especially popular in the Victorian era of England. The flower was prized for its fragrance and was used in funerals. It’s possible that the association with death led to a decline in popularity of tuberose. Too bad since they’re really beautiful and smell so nice.
Tuberose Uses Through Time
Throughout history, tuberose plants have been noted for their fragrance. They also make great cut flowers. These are the two main uses and reasons for growing tuberoses, both in the past and today.
For hundreds of years, perfumes have been made using tuberose. The flowers were also important in Hawaiian wedding ceremonies and funerals in Victorian England. Today, these once ubiquitous flowers are making a comeback. Grow them in warm climates or in containers in cooler climates. Use them for cut flowers or just to enjoy the fragrance, which intensifies even more at night.
