As a gardening and landscaping expert, I have had the opportunity to explore various plant species and their suitability to different regions. When it comes to Castilian roses, also known as Rosa gallica, their natural habitat is in Spain, where they are native. These roses are not typically found growing in Mexico due to differences in climate and environmental conditions.
The native environment of Castilian roses is characterized by mild winters and moderate summers, which are quite different from the climate in Mexico. Mexico generally experiences a range of climates, including tropical, desert, and temperate regions. The temperature and humidity variations, as well as the soil conditions, play a significant role in determining which plants can thrive in a particular area.
Castilian roses prefer well-drained soil with a slightly alkaline pH. They also require a good amount of sunlight to produce abundant blooms. In Mexico, the soil composition and pH levels can vary greatly from region to region, making it less favorable for these roses to grow naturally. Additionally, Mexico’s warmer climate, particularly in the tropical regions, may not provide the ideal conditions for Castilian roses, which prefer cooler temperatures.
However, it is worth noting an extraordinary event that occurred in December, which defied the typical growing season for flowers in Mexico. According to the accounts of Juan Diego, he discovered Castilian roses blooming on a hilltop. This event was considered a miraculous occurrence attributed to the intervention of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
The presence of Castilian roses in Mexico during that time of year is highly unusual and not something that can be explained by natural means. It is believed that the Blessed Virgin arranged these flowers in Juan Diego’s tilma cloak, leaving a visible imprint as proof of the miracle.
In my personal experience, I have not come across instances of Castilian roses growing naturally in Mexico. However, it is important to remember that nature can sometimes surprise us, and there may be exceptions or unique circumstances that allow certain plants to thrive in unexpected locations.
To summarize, while Castilian roses are not typically found growing in Mexico due to differences in climate and environmental conditions, the presence of these roses on the hilltop where Juan Diego encountered them can be seen as a miraculous occurrence.
