Anne Harkness rose
Anne Harkness Rose: A Timeless Elegance Blooms Late
Anne Harkness rose (also known as HARkaramel or Ann Harkness) stands out as a beacon of beauty and resilience in the vibrant world of roses. Bred by Harkness in the United Kingdom in 1979, this Floribunda rose has carved a niche with its distinctive late bloom, captivating color palette, and robust growth. Let’s delve into the key characteristics that make Anne Harkness a garden favorite.
Key Highlight Characteristics:
- Color: The flowers of Anne Harkness Rose boast a captivating apricot blend, with edges gracefully transitioning to yellow.
- Flower Size: Each bloom measures 7-9 cm in diameter, presenting a moderately large and visually striking appearance.
- Petals: The petals are luxuriously ruffled, forming a cup-shaped, double bloom that exemplifies the signature style of Harkness roses.
- Bush Size: This Floribunda rose grows as a vigorous, narrow, and upright bush, reaching a height of 100-150 cm and a width of 60-90 cm.
- Rose Type: Classified as a modern garden rose, specifically a Floribunda.
- Grower: Bred by the esteemed Harkness in the United Kingdom.
- Year of Introduction: Anne Harkness debuted in 1979 and has won hearts ever since.
- Disease Resistance: Exhibits good resistance to common rose diseases, ensuring a healthy and vibrant bush.
- Climate Zone: Well-suited for USDA zones ranging from 6b to 10b.
- Flowering: Anne Harkness blooms in waves throughout the season, adding a dynamic element to your garden.
- Fragrance: The delicate scent is soft, adding a subtle olfactory delight to its visual charm.
Anne Harkness is celebrated for its unique trait of late flowering, gracing gardens with its opulent apricot-hued blooms when most Floribundas have completed their initial bloom. The flowers, featuring a darker reverse side and a touch of dark yellow at the center, exhibit the classic Harkness rose trait of gracefully twisted petals. Each cluster, hosting 6-20 flowers, tends to bloom simultaneously, making it a preferred choice for floral arrangements.
The bush is a vision of resilience, displaying robust growth and excellent disease resistance. The large, semi-glossy, dark green leaves complement the blooming spectacle, providing an elegant backdrop to the radiant flowers. Anne Harkness’s adaptability to low pruning adds to its appeal, making it a versatile choice for various garden settings.
Awards and Recognition:
- 1978: Awarded the Royal National Rose Society (RNRS) Certificate of Merit in Rose Trials, United Kingdom.
- 1980: Chosen by selectors as a standout variety in the United Kingdom.
- 2000: Best Floribunda Spray in Ohio, USA.
Caring for Anne Harkness:
While Anne Harkness is a resilient rose, it’s advisable to provide preventive treatments for powdery mildew, especially early in the season. The rose responds well to low pruning, enhancing its longevity and encouraging a second round of exquisite blooms in late summer.
The Anne Harkness is not just a rose; it’s a living testament to the artistry of rose breeding. With its late-blooming charm, captivating color play, and enduring beauty, this Floribunda rose continues to enchant gardens, adding a touch of timeless elegance to outdoor spaces.