The first blooms have begun to open now and I'm taking stock of how well this rose lives up the hype surrounding it. And the conclusion so far is: well, not quite.
For starters, take a look at the promo photo:
Much more orange-y than the promo photos, and not nearly the kind of scalloping along the edges of the petals. That scalloping was one of the rose's most interesting features because it gave it such a lush, peony-like fullness. In addition, the flower size, which was described as "Medium-large" is actually only about two inches across. And that moderately fruity fragrance? I'd describe it as mild at best.
A lot of things can affect a rose's bloom size, coloration, and fragrance, not the least of which is soil. And my rose is currently still in the pot that it came in from the nursery. They told me they put timed-release fertilizer in when they potted it up, so I don't think it's lacking for nutrients. But in the next couple weeks I'll be clearing a space for this rose in my front yard and then we'll see if there's any improvement. Don't get me wrong--I think it's still quite an attractive rose, but it is not the spectacular beauty I was expecting. It makes me wonder what use the All America Rose Selection is at all when it comes to choosing roses for your garden.
Well that's disappointing. Sometimes it's better to purchase the rose while in bloom and pay the extra amount. That's insurance that you're getting what you pay for.
ReplyDeleteInteresting. I hope it shapes up better later on.
ReplyDeleteI always find myself having a much better time in the anticipation period than the blooming period. My imagination creates much better flowers than my garden does! I'm sure your rose will perk up a little when it's found a home in the soil, though. And paired with some purple Veronica or set in front of that black poppy... Wow!
ReplyDeleteI was also dumbfounded at the difference in color. Mine are the color of Tang, though they do have the scalloped petal edges.
ReplyDelete'Yves Piaget' is another rose with those scallops--I love them.
In my garden, the flowers on an unestablished rose can be quite different than when the plant is fully established. So I expect some changes. EDI is already starting on its 2nd flush of bloom. The first flush had 3 flowers, two of which were eaten by rabbits. The second flush looks to have about 10 flowers--which is encouraging. I think it may turn out better than expected.
"perfect in every climate."
ReplyDeleteHoy, I bet not not in mine!
We do grow roses in the desert of Phoenix, but the closest to a 'perfect' rose in this valley is the lady banks rose. I doubt this one has that kind of resiliance in our dry, dry climate.
Better luck next time mate! My Uncle used to grow the most AMAZING roses, but that was in South Africa, different climate etc.
ReplyDelete