Rosa ‘Fun in the Sun™’ – A Grandiflora Rose of Radiant Warmth
Rosa ‘Fun in the Sun™’ is a captivating Grandiflora rose that brings elegance, fragrance, and a burst of summer color to gardens and floral arrangements. Bred by Christian Bédard and introduced in the United States in 2021 by Edmunds’ Roses, this rose is a stunning result of expert hybridization and modern breeding excellence. Its apricot blooms, strong fruity fragrance, and excellent performance in sun-drenched gardens make it a standout among contemporary roses. Rosa ‘Fun in the Sun™’ belongs to the Rosaceae family — one of the largest families of flowering plants, which includes apples, strawberries, and spireas.
The Origins of Rosa ‘Fun in the Sun™’
This cultivar, registered under the botanical name Rosa cv. ‘WEKpupmobalip’ (U.S. Plant Patent No. PP33,325), is the result of a thoughtful breeding lineage. The seed parent is a non-disseminated seedling derived from a complex cross: ‘Pumpkin Patch’ (a floribunda) crossed with a hybrid between ‘Moonstone’ (a hybrid tea) and ‘Baby Love’ (a miniature rose). The pollen parent is the hybrid known as ‘WEKjucistwe’, a rose with proven garden performance. These parentages provided the basis for Rosa ’Fun in the Sun™’s excellent flower form, disease resistance, and striking coloration.
Fun in the Sun™ Blooms with Grace and Power
The flowers of Rosa ‘Fun in the Sun™’ are a true spectacle. Clusters of 3–6 blooms per stem emerge throughout the growing season, with each flower measuring between 7.5–10 cm (3–4 inches) in diameter. Blooms display a delightful gradient: golden yellow at the base, transitioning to an apricot center, with soft pink shading on the petal edges. Petal count ranges from 60 to 85 per bloom, producing a full, classic English-style rose appearance.
What sets ‘Fun in the Sun™’ apart is not just its coloration, but its strong, fruity fragrance with a touch of spice—a trait often lost in modern hybrids. This variety appeals to both the visual and olfactory senses, attracting butterflies and other pollinators while also serving as a prized cut flower for indoor enjoyment.
Foliage, Habit, and Overall Form
Rosa ‘Fun in the Sun™’ grows with an upright, bushy, and well-branched habit. Plants reach a height of 105–135 cm (42–54 inches) and spread 65–85 cm (26–33 inches). It produces robust, rounded buds that open steadily through the season.
Its medium to dark green foliage offers a matte finish that contrasts beautifully with the warm tones of the flowers. Leaves typically form in clusters of three to seven leaflets, contributing to a lush, refined appearance that fits beautifully in formal borders, cottage gardens, or as a showpiece in containers.
How to Grow Rosa ‘Fun in the Sun™’
Light
As the name suggests, ‘Fun in the Sun™’ thrives best in full sun. Provide at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily. While it can tolerate partial shade, reduced light may impact blooming frequency and fragrance intensity.
Soil
This Grandiflora rose performs best in humus-rich, well-draining soil. Aim for slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0 to 7.0). Prepare beds by amending with compost or aged manure to boost moisture retention and nutrient levels.
Watering
Water deeply and consistently, especially during dry periods. In general, aim for 2.5–4 cm (1–1.5 inches) of water weekly, either through rainfall or supplemental irrigation. Water at the base early in the morning to minimize leaf wetness and reduce disease risk.
Fertilizing
Feed regularly using a balanced rose fertilizer, such as a 5-5-7 NPK blend. Begin fertilizing in early spring once new growth emerges and continue feeding every 4–6 weeks through mid-summer. Cease fertilizing 6–8 weeks before your region’s expected first frost.
Pruning
Prune in late fall or early spring. Remove dead or damaged branches and shape the plant to encourage airflow and flowering. Although ‘Fun in the Sun™’ is self-cleaning, deadheading faded blooms can stimulate additional flushes and maintain tidy appearance.
Propagation of Fun in the Sun™
Propagation of Rosa ‘Fun in the Sun™’ is protected under U.S. Plant Patent PP33,325. Unauthorized asexual reproduction (including from cuttings or grafting) is prohibited without permission from the patent holder. Propagation is typically done via budding onto hardy rootstock for commercial production.
Pests and Diseases
This variety exhibits notable disease resistance, particularly to black spot and powdery mildew, making it a solid choice for gardeners seeking lower-maintenance roses. Still, maintain good hygiene by clearing leaf debris and pruning to improve air circulation.
Summary
Rosa ‘Fun in the Sun™’ is a Grandiflora rose bred by Christian Bédard and introduced in 2021. With large, full apricot blooms touched with pink, a strong fruity-spice fragrance, and excellent disease resistance, it’s ideal for sunny gardens in USDA zones 6–9. Blooming in flushes from late spring to fall, this upright, well-branched rose reaches 105–135 cm (42–54 inches) tall and thrives in full sun with moderate watering. Its striking flowers, pollinator appeal, and cut flower performance make it a standout choice for both gardeners and florists.
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