Tuscany Superb rose
Tuscany Superb Rose: The Majestic Velvet Blossom of Timeless Beauty
The Tuscany Superb rose, The Velvet Rose, or Superb Tuscan, emerges as a captivating masterpiece that stands the test of time. Bred by Thomas Rivers & Son Ltd. in the United Kingdom before 1837, this Gallica rose enchants with its rich history, distinctive appearance, and enduring allure.
Key Highlight Characteristics:
- Name: Tuscany Superb Rose
- Alternate Name(s): Rivers’s Superb Tuscan; The Velvet Rose
- Type: Gallica, Shrub
- Bloom Types: Single
- Breeder Code: Not Applicable (seedling of Tuscany Gallica)
- Color: Dark Purple with Golden-Yellow Stamens
- Fragrance: Moderate
- Height/Width: 100-120 cm / 80 cm
- USDA Zone: 4b to 8b
- Disease Resistance: Good against Powdery Mildew, Weak against Blackspot, Weak against Rain
- Flowering: Once Prolonged
- Awards: Widowed Queen of Roses at 2000 and 2001 U.S. Exhibitions
The Velvet Majesty Unveiled:
Tuscany Superb unfolds its charm with a color palette that evolves from intensely raspberry-mauve to a rich, velvety purple with black velvet undertones as it matures. The blooms, reaching up to 7.5 cm in diameter, present an extraordinary spectacle, with each petal exuding a soft, regal aura. The blossom’s surface, resembling the finest velvet, emanates a gentle yet captivating fragrance.
Historic Roots and Winter Endurance:
As one of the earliest Gallica roses, Tuscany Superb boasts a lineage steeped in history. The shrub, with a height of 120 cm in milder climates, showcases its magnificence with clusters of blooms adorning every shoot. Resilient in colder regions up to Zone 4, this rose sends out orange hips in the fall, adding another layer of visual interest to its narrative.
A Symphony of Form and Fragrance:
This rose’s strikingly dark purple blooms are complemented by a lush, bright green foliage that remains resilient against Powdery Mildew. Its moderate fragrance, reminiscent of a royal cloak, adds a sensory dimension to its regal presence. While Tuscany Superb is only moderately resistant to Blackspot and Rain, its other attributes more than compensate for these minor considerations.
The Tuscany Superb reigns as a queen, earning the prestigious “Widowed Queen of Roses” title at U.S. exhibitions. Its compelling beauty, enduring fragrance, and rich historical significance make it a cherished addition to gardens and parks. As this rose graces your landscape, it not only celebrates the elegance of nature but also pays homage to the rich tapestry of rose-breeding heritage. With its deep purple blooms and tales of centuries gone by, Tuscany Superb remains an exquisite testament to the everlasting allure of nature’s most celebrated blooms.
