Also known as Marechal Leclerc, this French Hybrid Tea commemorates the hero of the liberation of Paris in 1945, Marechal Philippe Leclerc. It has pointed coral buds that slowly open to flowers with ruffled petals in many shades of pink as well as orange and cream. The flowers are carried singly on long stems and are attractive in the vase. The plant is vigorous with large dark green leaves that are crimson when young. A popular exhibition rose, ‘Touch of Class’ is heat tolerant but is susceptible to mildew.
Type: Hybrid Tea
Origin: Kriloff, France, 1984
Parentage: ‘Micaela’ x (‘Queen Elizabeth x Romantica’)
Flower Size: 5”
Petal Count: 25-35
Scent: Moderate and fruity
Flowering: Repeats
Plant Size: 5-6’ H x 4’ W
Hardiness: Zones 7-9
Awards: AARS, 1986; Portland GM 1988
ARS Rating: 8.7
Karen Meyers