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Floribunda 3' 'Geranium Red' x 'Fashion' Orange-red with 30 petals and strong spice fragrance Boerner 1955 Also known as: Sparte Like the steadfast soldier of history, 'Spartan' bravely weathers the elements to produce an abundance of flowers in a blazing glory of color and fragrance. A good landscape choice as this rose expends its energy maintaining its space with large hybrid tea size blooms that are very fragrant and quick to repeat. Flowers are borne in clusters on a bush that has an upright growth habit yet never becomes invasive or overgrown. It is very difficult to capture the beautiful coloring of this rose in photographs. Some may find the glowing coral color a bit too bold and therefore difficult to coordinate in the landscape, but with careful consideration, it can be a most attractive addition. The vibrant, orange-red flowers of 'Spartan' are impressive not only in color, but also in fragrance. The scent is usually described as being spicy and it actually reminds me of cinnamon chewing gum! The petals open flat and at times can be very quartered and old-fashioned in appearance. Cut flowers last fairly well in a vase and are a real treat for the nose. Surprisingly disease resistant for an orange rose, 'Spartan' has repelled blackspot with minimal spraying. This has also proven to be a winter hardy rose surviving Indiana winters without extra protection. This rose has won a permanent place in my garden with its consistent, vigorous performance. I have an affinity for coral colored roses and struggled to find one that performed to my satisfaction until I planted 'Spartan'. Fragrance, bloom production, and winter hardiness are the main criteria by which I select and keep roses in my garden and this one passes on all counts. ARS Rating: 7.3 |
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