Olympiad Rose: A Champion Among Hybrid Teas

The Olympiad rose, a star in the garden, captivates with its striking red blooms and robust growth. This award-winning Hybrid Tea Rose, introduced in 1982 by the renowned breeder Samuel McGredy IV, impresses gardeners with its vibrant color and excellent performance.

Key Characteristics of Olympiad Rose

Name: Olympiad
Registration Name: MACauck
Exhibition Name: Olympiad ™
Breeder: Samuel Darragh McGredy IV (1972)
Introduced by McGredy Roses International (New Zealand) in 1974
Type: Hybrid Tea
Bloom Description:
- Color: Red
- Fragrance: Mild, tea scent
- Petal Count: 32 to 37 petals
- Bloom Form: High-centered, medium to large, full
- Average Diameter: 5 inches
Growth Habit:
- Height: 3 to 5 feet (90 to 150 cm)
- Width: 2 feet (60 cm)
- Foliage: Large, matte, medium green, bushy, upright
USDA Hardiness Zone: 5b and warmer
Heat Tolerance: Yes
Disease Susceptibility: Very disease resistant
Uses: Cut flowers, exhibition

A Winning Hybrid Tea

The Olympiad rose stands out with its true-red blooms that maintain their vibrant color from bud to full bloom. Each large flower is perfectly formed, showcasing 32 to 37 velvety petals. The blooms, averaging 5 inches in diameter, appear mostly solitary on long, sturdy stems, making them

ideal for cutting and displaying in vases. The mild tea fragrance adds to the charm of this beautiful rose.

Vigorous Growth and Robust Health

Olympiad rose thrives with its vigorous and hardy growth. It reaches 3 to 5 feet and spreads about 2 feet wide, creating a striking presence in the garden. The bushy, upright plant features large, matte, medium green foliage that complements the vivid red blooms. This rose is highly resistant to diseases, making it a low-maintenance choice for gardeners. Additionally, it is heat tolerant, ensuring excellent performance in warmer climates.

Year-Round Beauty

Olympiad rose blooms in flushes throughout the season, providing continuous color and beauty. Its flowers hold their color well, resisting spotting and fading as they mature. Whether planted in the ground or grown in containers, the Olympiad offers a stunning display from spring through fall. In spring, pruning is recommended to remove old canes and dead or diseased wood, promoting healthy new growth. Additional pruning may be necessary in colder regions and winter protection for container-grown plants.

Award-Winning Excellence

Introduced during the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, Olympiad Rose earned the prestigious All-American Rose Selections (AARS) honor in the same year. This accolade underscores its exceptional qualities and enduring appeal. The rose’s athletic vigor, striking color, and reliable performance make it a true champion in any garden.

With its radiant red blooms and robust growth, the Olympiad rose is a testament to excellence in rose breeding. Its vibrant flowers, vigorous health, and award-winning pedigree make it a beloved choice for gardeners seeking a standout Hybrid Tea Rose. Whether adorning a garden bed, border, or vase, Olympiad adds a touch of class and color to any setting.