 |
 |
|
|
 Teas are called 'Tea' roses because the fragrance is reminiscent of crushed tea leaves. By whatever name, the fragrance is superb, although not preferred by all noses. Thought to be  descended from a cross between Rosa chinensis and Rosa
gigantea, Tea roses are very closely related to Chinas,
similar in habit and cultural requirements. Tea Roses are easy-care shrubs which are best
suited for Zone 7 and southward. Tea Roses differ from Chinas primarily in the size of the
flowers, generally having larger and tighter blooms.Flowers tend to be pastel pinks and yellows, with red occasionally seen. Fragrance is excellent, and flowers make excellent cut flowers. Form tends to be full, shrubby, and v-shaped, with strong, disease resistant foliage. Bloom is repeating (remontant), although blooms throughout the season with strong spring and fall displays. Patience is a virtue with Tea Roses, as they normally take two to three years to reach anything reaching full size. Plant at appropriate spacing, as they WILL reach that size. Tea Roses resent hard pruning, so commit yourself to light tip pruning; remove no more than one third of the shrub when pruning. Even when small, Tea Roses bloom prolifically. The Quintessential southern garden rose, Teas are not demanding to grow and will reward for years so long as their basic needs are met. |
