Did you know farmers grow your fragrance?

Rose oil is used in cosmetics, luxury perfumes and pharmaceuticals, and Bulgaria is the world’s largest producer [1]. Since the 17th century, Rosa damascena, the symbol of the country, has been cultivated in the famous Valley of Roses [2].

The unique climate conditions of the region: humidity, cool temperatures, special soil type and altitude, contribute to the richness of the oil. Petals are collected and extracted early in the morning, and harvesters have only a few weeks to gather about 450 tons of them. About 3,5 tons of rose petals are needed to make just 1 litre of oil, which is worth approximately 14 000 Euro [3]. 

The unique qualities of Bulgarian rose oil was confirmed by the EU in 2014 when it was registered as Protected Geographical Indication.