The criteria for the 2008 All America Rose Selections included tones of gold, feelings of intelligence, joy, and energy, and rose colors signifying friendship, delight, and the promise of a new beginning. According to AARS, the 2008 contenders were judged on those qualities, as well as disease resistance and ease of maintenance.
At left is 'Dream Come True,' a medium-tall grandiflora with yellow blossoms tinged with red at the tips. The plant is upright and bushy with matte green leaves and 5-inch diameter flowers. It has a mild tea fragrance. What's unusual about this rose is that it was hybridized by Dr. John Pottschmidt of Cincinnati, Ohio -- only the 3rd amateur rose breeder to win the coveted prize in 67 years. That's quite an accomplishment. The rose was introduced by Weeks Roses of Rancho Cucamonga, CA.
Rosa 'Mardi Gras' is a four-foot tall upright floribunda sporting 4-inch blooms with tones of yellow, orange, and pink. It has "good" disease resistance (not excellent) -- so please note. However, it has a peppery fragrance, dark green semi-glossy leaves, and it's hardy to zone 5. It's an upright grower, and said to be perfect for hedging or for use in a border mixed with perennials. The breeder of this rose is Keith Zary of Jackson & Perkins Wholesale, Inc. of Medford, OR.
And, while we're on the subject of rose breeding, you may want to order a copy of a fascinating DVD produced by AARS, "Love at First Sight: America's Affair with the Rose." The DVD takes you behind the scenes with the top rose breeders to learn about the long and painstaking process that eventually produces a winning rose. The film is filled with engaging stories and personalities, and you'll learn about a remarkable occurrence when a rose "escaped" from France during World War II: it's probably one of the world's most famous roses, named 'Peace.' The DVD would make a marvelous gift for any gardener you know.
(images: AAS)