Rosa ‘Memorial Day™’ — A Fragrant Tribute in Bloom
The Rosa ‘Memorial Day™’ is an award-winning Hybrid Tea rose cherished for its extraordinary fragrance and lush, old-fashioned blooms. Bred by Tom Carruth in 2001 and introduced by Weeks Roses, this variety quickly became a favorite among rose lovers for its elegant form and exceptional scent. The flowers of ‘Memorial Day™’ are a striking orchid pink with hints of lavender, deeply saturated in color and rich with a damask fragrance that can fill an entire room from just one bloom. Each flower spans 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) wide and carries over 45 petals, creating a very full, romantic blossom that rises confidently on long, straight stems.
This rose is a true showstopper in the garden. Growing as a tall, upright shrub that reaches between 4 to 6 feet (120 to 180 cm) in height and about 3 feet (90 cm) in width. With a continual blooming habit from late spring through early autumn. It has very few thorns along its stems, it is a perfect candidate for cutting gardens. Whether used in beds, borders, containers, or flowering hedges, ‘Memorial Day™’ adds elegance and color to any sunny location.
Belonging to the Rosaceae family and classified as a Hybrid Tea. This rose thrives in warmer climates and performs best in USDA Hardiness Zones 6 through 10. It is also notably heat-tolerant and resistant to common rose diseases. This makes it a low-maintenance yet rewarding choice for gardeners across a range of regions.
How to Grow Rosa ‘Memorial Day™‘
Light: To encourage abundant flowering and robust growth, plant Rosa ‘Memorial Day™’ in a location that receives full sun. Aim for at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Morning sun is especially beneficial as it helps dry moisture off the foliage and reduces the risk of fungal diseases. Partial shade reduces both bloom production and overall plant vigor, even though this rose can tolerate it.
Soil: This Hybrid Tea rose prefers rich, fertile soil that is well-drained. Loamy soils with good structure are ideal, but the plant will adapt to various soil types as long as drainage is sufficient. Avoid planting in areas where water tends to pool, as overly wet conditions can lead to root rot and other fungal issues. Slightly acidic to neutral soil pH, ranging between 6.0 and 7.0, is optimal for healthy root development.
Watering: Watering should be consistent but not excessive. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings, then soak the root zone deeply to encourage deep root development. In general, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of water per week is sufficient, either from rainfall or irrigation. Avoid overhead watering late in the day to reduce humidity on the foliage, which can contribute to black spot or mildew. Drip irrigation or soaker hoses are excellent tools to maintain healthy moisture levels without wetting the leaves.
Fertilizing: Feeding Rosa ‘Memorial Day™’ regularly will support continual blooming and overall plant health. Apply a balanced, slow-release rose fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio near 5-5-7 in early spring when new growth begins. Repeat every four to six weeks through midsummer. Cease fertilizing in late summer to allow the plant to prepare for dormancy. In containers, fertilization is even more important, so consider using a liquid fertilizer monthly during the active growing season.
Pruning Rosa ‘Memorial Day™’
Pruning is essential for shaping the shrub and promoting vigorous flowering. In colder climates, prune in early spring once the danger of frost has passed and the buds begin to swell. Remove dead or damaged canes first, then cut back crossing or inward-growing stems. Reduce the remaining canes by one-third to stimulate strong new growth. In warmer climates, a lighter prune in fall followed by more substantial spring pruning works well. Always use clean, sharp pruners and cut at a 45-degree angle above an outward-facing bud.
Mulching and Winter Protection for Rosa ‘Memorial Day™’
Apply a thick layer of mulch—2 to 3 inches (5 to 7.5 cm)—around the base of the plant in late fall to insulate the roots and protect against winter cold. In colder zones, additional winter protection may be necessary, such as mounding soil over the crown or using rose collars. In spring, gradually remove the mulch as temperatures warm up and new growth resumes.
Propagation of Memorial Day™ Rose
Gardeners can propagate Rosa ‘Memorial Day™’ by taking hardwood cuttings in autumn or using chip budding techniques in summer. However, because this is a patented cultivar, commercial propagation may face legal restrictions. If allowed, always select healthy, disease-free wood and root the cuttings in a sterile, well-drained medium while maintaining high humidity.
Pests and Diseases Affecting Rosa ‘Memorial Day™’
While this rose is known for its disease resistance, particularly to powdery mildew and black spot, it is still wise to monitor regularly for pests and potential problems. Aphids, spider mites, and thrips can occasionally infest the plant, especially in hot, dry conditions. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil as a preventative or treatment. Fungal diseases can arise in overly damp or shaded conditions. Improve air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and apply organic fungicides if necessary.
Garden Uses for Memorial Day™ Rose
‘Memorial Day™’ rose is an exceptional addition to traditional rose gardens, cutting gardens, and mixed perennial borders. It shines when planted in mass groupings or as a flowering hedge, where its bold color and fragrance can be fully appreciated. The long stems and low-thorn habit make it one of the best Hybrid Teas for floral arrangements. In large containers, it performs beautifully when placed on sunny patios or balconies where its scent can be enjoyed up close.
This rose isn’t just a plant—it’s a sensory experience. With its enormous, showy blooms, intoxicating fragrance, and graceful form, Rosa ‘Memorial Day™’ delivers everything a rose lover could ask for. Whether you grow it for its aesthetic charm, fragrance, or cut flower potential, this cultivar earns its place as a garden favorite year after year.
