La France rose
La France Rose: The First Hybrid Tea Rose
La France rose, bred by Jean-Baptiste André Guillot in 1867, is recognized as the first hybrid tea rose. This rose represents a significant milestone in rose cultivation, marking the transition between historical and modern roses. La France remains a beloved choice for gardeners and rose enthusiasts with its delicate light pink petals and lemon-rose solid fragrance.
Characteristics of La France Rose
- Name: La France
- Patent Name: La France
- Group: Modern Garden Roses
- Class: Hybrid Tea Roses
- Hybrid: Seedling’of ‘Madame Fa’cot’’or ‘Mme VicVerdier’ier’ x ‘Mme B’avy’
- Breeder: Jean-Baptiste André (fils) Guillot
- Year of Creation: 1867 (France)
- Form: Upright, well-branched bush
- Height/Width: 90-150 cm / 90 cm
- Uses: Group and single plantings, front of borders, cut flowers
- Blooming: Blooms in flushes throughout the season
- Fragrance: Strong lemon-rose scent
- Color: Light pink with silvery shading
- Diameter: 9-11 cm
- Bloom Form: Globular, very full (60 petals), nodding
- Leaf Size and Color: Matte, bright green, medium-sized
- Disease Resistance: Moderate
- USDA Zones: 7b and warmer
Historical Significance
La France rose holds the distinction of being the first hybrid tea rose. This pioneering variety bridged the gap between old garden roses and the more robust, modern varieties we enjoy today. Its introduction in 1867 revolutionized rose breeding, setting new standards for beauty, fragrance, and form.
Unique Bloom Characteristics
The blooms of La France are large and heavy, often displaying a characteristic nod” or “weak n”ck.” Each flower has about 60 petals, forming a full, rounded shape. The light pink petals with silvery shading create a soft, romantic appearance that stands out in any garden.
Growth and Care
La France rose grows upright, reaching 90 to 150 cm and spreading about 90 cm wide. The bushy, well-branched plants are adorned with matte, bright green foliage, providing an ideal backdrop for the stunning blooms. Although La France may not be as hardy or disease-resistant as some modern varieties, its historical significance and beauty make it a cherished addition to any rose collection.
Pruning and Maintenance
- Spring Pruning: Remove old canes and any dead or diseased wood. Cut back canes that cross to improve air circulation.
- Climate-Specific Pruning: Prune the remaining canes in warmer climates by about one-third. In colder areas, more extensive pruning may be necessary.
- Freeze Protection: Ensure the rose is protected from late spring freezes to prevent damage to new growth.
Fragrance and Aesthetics
La France rose is celebrated for its lemon-rose solid fragrance. This delightful scent and its beautiful light pink blooms make it an excellent choice for cut flowers. The blooms can last a week in a vase, filling any space with an enchanting aroma.
Ideal Garden Uses
This hybrid tea rose is versatile, making it suitable for various garden settings:
- Group Plantings: Planting in groups creates a cohesive, striking visual effect.
- Single Plantings: Serves as a focal point in garden beds or borders.
- Front of Borders: Adds height and color to the front of garden borders.
- Cut Flowers: Its long-lasting blooms and captivating fragrance are perfect for floral arrangements.
La France rose stands as a testament to the evolution of rose breeding, offering a blend of historical charm and timeless beauty. Its delicate pink blooms, strong fragrance, and moderate disease resistance make it a valuable addition to any garden. Whether used in group plantings, as a single focal point, or for cut flowers, La France Rose continues to enchant gardeners and enthusiasts worldwide. Embrace the elegance and historical significance of La France rose, and enjoy its stunning blooms season after season.
