Any of numerous varieties of the southern and central European rose Rosa gallica, formerly used medicinally and now chiefly cultivated for its flowers.
Origin
Mid 16th century; earliest use found in Thomas Elyot (c1490–1546), humanist and diplomat.
Definition of French rose in US English:
French rose
noun
Any of numerous varieties of the southern and central European rose Rosa gallica, formerly used medicinally and now chiefly cultivated for its flowers.
Origin
Mid 16th century; earliest use found in Thomas Elyot (c1490–1546), humanist and diplomat.