Molecular characterization and expression pattern of RhPAR, RhMYB1 and RhANS genes involving in scent and color production in Rosa damascena

•We tested three candidate genes (PAR, MYB and ANS) could be responsible in the biosynthesis of color and scent in Rosa damascena.•Obtained data from real-time PCR showed that increase in ANS genes resulted in petal coloration and increase the anthocyanin content.•Vacuolar pH affects the anthocyanin content. During flower development, vacuolar pH of plant cell increase.•PAR gene has a key role in the biosynthesis of 2-PE in petals of damask rose.•MYB promote PAR relative expression and enhance the 2-PE component production in the petals of Rosa damascene.