Dorothy Rose
November 2006 - by Steve Jones
You might ask why I am writing about this rose, one of my own creations. Is it because I am the proud papa, I want to hype the rose, it is self-serving, or it happens to be a great rose? Actually, it is all of the above.
'Dorothy Rose' (JONdorose, 1998) was named for my Mom. This miniature sweetheart is a cross of 'Sarabande' (a 1957 Floribunda, orange-red, from Meilland) and 'Peggy “T” ' (a 1988 Miniature, medium red, single form, from Gene King). The baby inherited from both sides! The single blooms of Dorothy Rose are flushed white, orange, red-orange, red, with red or white stripes. No two blooms are the same nor are the colors of the rose. The petals frame bright yellow stamens.
The plant is tall and almost "bullet proof" for diseases in my Southern California garden. Last spring when every known disease on earth made it to my yard, 'Dorothy Rose' was one of the few roses that had no disease. It is also growing at a friend's garden in the eastern United States, and is doing well without any disease problems. I am not sure about the winter hardiness, but would guess it should do well with Sarabande as a parent, as Sarabande doesn't mind a rough winter.
The blooms are long lasting and have a nice spicy fragrance. The blooms come one to a stem or in small clusters. The canes are well clothed with foliage that is nearly evergreen.
It is a great rose for the single miniature class at rose shows. I have won numerous awards with 'Dorothy Rose' in the seedling class and also the single miniature bloom and spray classes. The bright colors really catch the judges’ eye.
In a pot, 'Dorothy Rose' makes an excellent color spot!
Dorothy Rose is available from Almost Heaven Roses.
Photos courtesy of Steve Jones
