One of the more recent of the old teas (having been bred in 1910), this variety has lived up to its reputation for toughness. There are two varieties, bush and climber. Since mine was meant to live in a large container, I chose the bush version.
This variety quickly proved its worth, with clear, multi-colored foliage and remarkably steady bloom. The growth habit is full and twiggy, an interesting blend of purple and green with absolutely zero susceptibility to disease. Blooms tend to open from long buds into light, simple but elegant displays. They also last longer than expected for such thin structures.
While blooms of this type do not carry the same intensity of fragrance as many other varieties, they are nonetheless pleasant smelling, and I have been especially pleased that I decided to keep mine on our rear deck.
Pros:
- Completely impervious to disease
- Continouous bloom
- Gorgeous, vine-like foliage would be decorative even without blooms
- Great for a large container
- Pleasant tea scent, with undertones of apricot and black pepper
Cons:
- Eh, ah, uh…
My Source: Roses Unlimited
