The Black Rose of Halfeti (Halfeti Karagülü in Turkish) is an extremely dark crimson rose variety uniquely tied to a specific region in Turkey: Halfeti district in Sanliurfa province of southeastern Turkey. Its near-black appearance, rarity due to environmental changes, and dependence on its unique terrain make it a subject of fascination and conservation efforts.
Its distinctive dark color is believed to be a result of the unique soil conditions and the pH level of the groundwater in the region, which is fed by the Euphrates River. While often called "black", these roses are actually an incredibly deep dark crimson color, which can appear almost jet black to the naked eye in certain lighting conditions. The roses bloom twice a year. They tend to be darker and closer to black during the summer months, and a less intense dark red in the spring.
The original town of Halfeti (Old Halfeti) was partially submerged in the early 2000's due to the construction of the Birecik Dam on the Euphrates. This event significantly impacted the natural habitat of the black rose, destroying many of the original growing areas and making the rose much rarer. Locals have made efforts to rescue and propagate the roses in the new settlement (New Halfeti) and in controlled greenhouse environments nearby, but it remains endangered. Attempts to grow the Halfeti rose outside its native region usually result in flowers that are a much lighter shade of red. They don't achieve that signature deep, dark hue without the specific microclimate and soil of Halfeti.