Four roses have recently met the standards established by the Texas AgriLife Extension to join the list of Earth-Kind roses bringing the total number of roses on the list to 21. Having the Earth-Kind designation is an outstanding honor and comes only after extensive testing that evaluates pest tolerance as well as outstanding landscape performance. It tells the public that the roses are tough and thrive in very difficult conditions with minimal maintenance. Once they are established, Earth-Kind roses are able to grow without pesticides, fungicides, or fertilizers and with greatly reduced irrigation. These are great roses!
The four roses that recently received the Earth-Kind designation are repeat-blooming and long-lived so offer a lot for your investment in time, money, and space.
‘Cecile Brunner’
Also known as the ‘Sweetheart Rose’, ‘Cecile Brunner’ bears waves of light pink fragrant flowers in airy clusters, typically with 10-25 flowers. Each flower develops from a slender bud and resembles a miniature hybrid tea but, unfortunately, they fade quickly in the sun. The bush is vigorous, almost thornless and tolerates light dappled afternoon shade but thrives in full sun.
Classification group:
- Polyantha.
Flower color:
- Coral pink in the center and pinky white at the edges.
Flower size:
- 2”.
Scent:
- Medium, sweet and musky.
Bush size
- : 4’ H x 3”W*
Hardiness:
- Zones 5-9.
Use:
- Border with annuals and perennials.
‘La Marne’
The semi-double pink flowers have ruffled petals and are produced in loose clusters of 5-20. The upright bush is thornless, bears dark leaves, and always has a neat appearance in the garden.
Classification group:
- Polyantha.
Flower color:
- Deep pink with white centers and yellow stamens.
Flower size:
- 2”.
Scent:
- Light and musky.
Bush size:
- 4-6’ H x 4-5’ W*
Hardiness:
- Zones 5-9.
‘Reve d’Or’
This climber produces double yellow flowers singly or in clusters of up to 15 flowers. The first wave of flowers is the most floriferous but subsequent waves continue until early winter. The bush is graced with large, deep green, glossy leaves that are nearly evergreen and the canes are thin, flexible and with few thorns so easily woven into place.
Classification group:
- Noisette.
Flower color:
- Medium yellow.
Flower size:
- 2.4”
Scent:
- Strong and tea-like.
Bush Size:
- 10-18’ H x 8’ W*
Hardiness:
- Zones 7-9 (prefers warmer climates).
Use:
- Arbors, arches, pergolas and other landscape structures.
‘Souvenir de St Anne’s’
This sport of the famous ‘Souvenir de la Malmison’, produces pink semidouble flowers with a spicy fragrance that perfumes the entire area. The large, bushy shrubs are especially appreciated near a doorway or window where the scent can be enjoyed.
Classification group:
- Bourbon Rose.
Flower color:
- Blush pink.
Flower size:
- 4”.
Scent:
- Strong, sweet, spicy.
Bush Size:
- 3′ H x 3’ W*
Hardiness:
- Zones 6-9.
Use:
- Mass plantings; border.
To read more about Earth-Kind and other low maintence roses click here.
Check out the website for more information on these and other Earth-Kind roses: http://earthkindroses.tamu.edu.
*Bush size varies greatly with climate especially temperature.
