Lady Elsie May Rose: A Vibrant Addition to Any Garden

The Lady Elsie May rose, also known by its registration name “Angelsie,” is a delightful shrub rose that brings vibrant color and charm to any garden. Bred by Reinhard Noack in Germany and introduced in 2002 by Angelica Nurseries, this rose is beloved for its beautiful orange-pink blooms and glossy dark green foliage. Let’s explore this exquisite rose variety’s key features and care tips.

Characteristics of Lady Elsie May Rose

• Name: Lady Elsie May Rose
• Type: Shrub
• Color: Orange-pink
• Flower Size: 3-4 inches
• Bloom Form: Flat to slightly cupped, semi-double blooms
• Petal Count: 10-11 petals
• Fragrance: Moderate rose fragrance
• Bloom Frequency: Continuous bloom throughout the season
• Foliage: Dark green, glossy
• Height: 3 feet (90 cm)
• Width: Up to 3 feet (90 cm)
• Growth Habit: Upright, bushy, dense
• Disease Resistance: Very disease resistant, particularly to blackspot
• USDA Zones: 5a through 9b
• Awards: 2005 AARS (All-America Rose Selections) award, Prairie Bloom, Kansas State 5-year Trials

Stunning Blooms and Vibrant Colors

Lady Elsie May rose produces charming orange-pink, semi-double blooms that measure 3-4 inches in diameter. These flowers form in clusters with 10-11 petals, creating a striking display against glossy, dark green foliage. The moderate rose fragrance adds an extra layer of sensory delight, making this rose a true standout in any garden.

Ideal Growing Conditions

Sunlight and Soil

This rose thrives in full sun, essential for optimal blooming. This rose prefers well-drained soil, making it suitable for various garden settings, including beds, borders, and containers.

Watering and Feeding

Regular watering is crucial, especially during dry spells, to moisten the soil. Feeding with a balanced rose fertilizer will support healthy growth and abundant blooms.

Pruning and Maintenance

Pruning is essential to maintain the health and shape of the Lady Elsie May rose. Remove old, dead, or diseased wood in early spring and cut back canes that cross. In warmer climates, the remaining canes are reduced by about one-third. In colder areas, more pruning may be necessary. Regularly remove spent blooms to encourage continuous blooming throughout the season.

Disease Resistance and Hardiness

One of the standout features of this rose is its excellent disease resistance, particularly to blackspot. This makes it a low-maintenance choice for gardeners. The rose is heat-tolerant and thrives in USDA zones 5a through 9b, making it versatile for different climates.

Versatile Uses in the Garden

This rose is perfect for various garden applications. Its compact size and bushy growth habit make it ideal for containers, borders, and walkways. The continuous blooming and vibrant colors make it an excellent choice for creating cheerful and colorful garden spaces.

A Tribute to Elsie May Kittredge

The Lady Elsie May may have been named in honor of Elsie May Kittredge, an American botanist, photographer, and New York Botanical Gardens curator. This beautiful rose variety celebrates her contributions to botany and horticulture.

The Lady Elsie May rose is a delightful addition to any garden, offering vibrant orange-pink blooms, glossy dark green foliage, and a moderate rose fragrance. With its excellent disease resistance and continuous blooming habit, this shrub rose is perfect for containers, borders, and walkways. Add this rose to your garden and enjoy its beauty and charm throughout the season.

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