Polka Rose

The polka rose is a great looking apricot Meilland rose that can add a great scent to your garden. Learn more about it right here!

History

This was first bred by the French breeder Meilland in 1991. It was one of the Romantica breeds that have become popular over the years. It had a French name but when Conard-Pyle brought it over to the States it changed it over. Not sure how the name came about, given that there is not much polka in France, but it sounds interesting. You may also see these called the Lord Byron, Twilight Glow, or Scented Dawn, or the Meitosier, which was the original name.

Color and Beauty

The huge interesting point of this flower is the beautiful apricot look. Most of the time its pure apricot but it can also have a tinge of white on the outside. It doesn't bloom as frequently as some of the other Meillands, so keep that in mind. They did do a great job with the scent though. Its got a wonderful antique or old-fashioned fragrance, but not too powerful. Its looks great in a vase as cut flowers too! The unique color can really add a nice touch to your kitchen or living room.

Gardening

This one can be tough to survive in cold winters. Its rated from zones 5 - 9 but seems like it does better in more temperate to warmer climates. Its bred to be a shrub, but can be trained to climb if you're looking for that, although that's not its best trait. Its also very thorny so its a tougher flower to handle for a beginner.