Rosa ‘Rotes Meer’: Embrace the Beauty of Fragrant Purple Roses
Background and Origin: Rosa ‘Rotes Meer’, also known as Rugosa Rose ‘Exception’, is a captivating member of the Rosaceae family. While the specific details of its origin and first publication are not readily available, this beautiful rose is cherished for its stunning dark purple-red flowers and enchanting fragrance. It belongs to the Rugosa group of roses, known for their hardiness and resilience.
Other names: Rosa ‘Rotes Meer’ is also known as Rugosa rose ‘Rotes Meer’, Rosa ‘HANpur’, Rosa ‘Purple Pavement’, Rosa ‘Exception’, Rosa ‘Rotesmeer’, and Rosa rugosa EXCEPTION ® ‘Rotes Meer’.
Characteristics and Description: Rosa ‘Rotes Meer’ is a rounded to mound-forming deciduous shrub with dense, thorny stems. The pinnate leaves are composed of glossy, mid-to-dark green leaflets with ovate shapes and toothed edges. The foliage enhances the beauty of this rose, transitioning to a charming yellow color in autumn.
From summer into autumn, Rosa ‘Rotes Meer’ reveals its true glory with an abundant display of strongly fragrant, semi-double flowers. These blossoms exhibit shades of reddish-purple to magenta, enchanting the senses with their captivating color and delightful aroma. The flowers are approximately 2-3 inches in diameter and are shaped in clusters, adding a striking visual impact to the plant. As the flowers fade, they give way to scarlet hips, further enhancing the beauty of the shrub.
Cultivation of Rosa ‘Rotes Meer’:
To cultivate Rosa ‘Rotes Meer’ successfully, consider the following guidelines:
Sunlight: Plant this rose in an area that receives full sun to promote optimal growth and flowering. Adequate sunlight ensures robust development and vibrant blooms.
Watering: Provide regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist, especially during hot and dry weather. Avoid overwatering, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot.
Soil: Rosa ‘Rotes Meer’ thrives in well-drained soil with a slightly acidic pH ranging from 6.0 to 6.5. Ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogged conditions that can harm the plant’s health.
Pests and Diseases: This rose variety is known for its excellent resistance to a wide range of pests and diseases. However, it can occasionally be susceptible to issues such as black spots and powdery mildew. Treat the black spots with a suitable fungicide, and address powdery mildew by spraying the leaves with a mixture of water and baking soda.
Pruning: Prune Rosa ‘Rotes Meer’ in the spring to remove dead or damaged wood. Additionally, you can shape and control the size of the shrub through pruning. Deadheading, the process of removing spent flowerheads, should be performed regularly to encourage new blooms and maintain a tidy appearance.
Winter Protection: While Rosa ‘Rotes Meer’ is a hardy rose that can tolerate cold winters, it is advisable to provide some protection during harsh weather conditions. Cover the plant with a burlap sack or other suitable material to shield it from extreme cold and wind.
Propagation:
Rosa ‘Rotes Meer’ can be propagated through two main methods:
- Cuttings: Select a healthy, 6-inch long stem and remove the leaves from the lower half. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it in a well-drained potting mix. Keep the soil consistently moist, and within 4-6 weeks, the cutting should root and establish itself as a new plant.
- Layering: Choose a low-hanging branch and make a cut in the bark. Bend the branch down and bury it in the soil, ensuring that the wounded section is covered. Over time, the branch will develop roots and form a new plant. This method takes advantage of the plant’s natural ability to root from branches in contact with the soil.
Rosa ‘Rotes Meer’ is a captivating rose variety that adds beauty and fragrance to any garden. With its enchanting dark purple-red flowers, glossy foliage, and delightful aroma, this hardy shrub is a joy to cultivate. By providing the right conditions in terms of sunlight, watering, soil, and care, you can enjoy the timeless elegance of Rosa ‘Rotes Meer’ for years to come. Embrace the beauty and embrace the fragrance of this exceptional rose.
