Handel rose
Handel Rose: A Bicolor Symphony in Your Garden
Handel Rose, known by its exhibition name Handel®, is not just a climber; it’s a botanical masterpiece that graces gardens with its cream blooms adorned with captivating rose-pink edges. Bred by Samuel Darragh McGredy IV in Ireland in 1960, this Climber, Floribunda, Cl., Large-Flowered Climber is a testament to artistry in horticulture.
Key Characteristics:
- Name: Handel (MACha, Haendel, McGrady’s Handel)
- Bred by: Samuel Darragh McGredy IV (1960)
- Type: Climber, Floribunda, Cl., Large-Flowered Climber
- Color: Cream with rose-pink edges (Bicolor)
- Flower Diameter: 3.5″
- Petals: Medium to large, very double, cupped bloom form (22 to 30 petals)
- Height: 5′ to 11′ (150 to 335 cm)
- Fragrance: None too mild, honey fragrance
- Hardiness Zone: USDA Zone 6b through 9b
- Disease Susceptibility: Susceptible to blackspot
When it first appeared, the Handel rose made waves, introducing the concept of repeat-flowering climbers with dark pink-edged petals. It set the stage for generating compact, repeat-flowering roses for smaller gardens. The cream-white blooms, initially with a pale yellow center and a pale mauve stripe along the edges, unfold in waves of elegance.
With a wavy texture, the petals add an extra layer of sophistication to the semi-opened blooms. Flowering in clusters of 3-9, they are excellent for cutting and present an exquisite display. As the blooms age, weather conditions play a role – in cooler climates, they fade, while in hot weather, the color intensifies, spreading onto the pale portions of the petals.
Bicolor Beauty:
Handel was the first frost-resistant climber with two-toned blooms – cream fading to white, with a raspberry-pink edge. This unique combination and the semi-opened flower shape create a stunning visual impact. The wavy petals enhance the overall aesthetic, and the blooms, medium to large at 8-10 cm, carry a delightful fragrance.
Winter-Hardy Elegance:
This rose, though slow-growing, offers enduring beauty. Its glossy, dark green foliage provides a striking backdrop, with the plant constantly producing new shoots. Winter hardy, Handel withstands cold temperatures but is susceptible to blackspot.
Versatile Usage:
- Height: Ideal for climbers or pillars, reaching 5′ to 11′
- Disease Resistance: Moderate, with susceptibility to blackspot
- Flower Form: Perfect for cutting, clusters of 3-9 blooms
- Fragrance: None too mild, honey fragrance
The Handel rose is perfect for those seeking a beautiful climbing rose to accentuate their space. With its large, bicolor blooms, delightful fragrance, and enduring elegance, this climber ensures a garden adorned with floral symphony. Plant Handel, and let your garden become a canvas for nature’s artistry.
