The Most Beloved Rose Varieties Across the Globe

The Reigning Champion: Hybrid Tea Roses

Hybrid Tea roses, first developed in 1867 by French nurseryman Jean-Baptiste Guillot, are renowned for their elegant, long stems and diverse color palette. Although not as aromatic as other types, their perfect form has made them the quintessential choice for bouquets and floral arrangements. According to the American Rose Society, the 'Peace' Hybrid Tea rose, introduced in the late 1930s, has become one of the most famous and best-selling roses of all time.

Floribunda Roses: A Burst of Color

Floribunda roses, known for their vibrant, clustered blossoms, emerged in 1909 from a cross between Polyantha and Hybrid Tea roses. These hardy plants are celebrated for their continuous blooms and ease of care, making them a staple in public gardens and landscapes. The Floribunda 'Iceberg', introduced in the 1950s, is particularly noted for its prolific white flowers and has been a garden favorite for decades.

Grandiflora Roses: The Best of Both Worlds

The Grandiflora rose, a mid-20th-century creation, is a cross between a Hybrid Tea and a Floribunda. It boasts large flowers on slightly shorter stems, combining the best traits of its parent varieties. The 'Queen Elizabeth' rose, the first of the Grandiflora class, remains a popular choice for its majestic blooms and regal presence in the garden.

Climbing Roses: Reaching New Heights

Climbing roses, with their long, flexible canes, are the vertical expression of both Old and Modern Garden roses. These climbers, which can reach heights of 8-20 feet, require support and training to showcase their full potential. The Climbing 'Peace' rose, a variant of the famous Hybrid Tea, is a notable example that adds dramatic height and beauty to any garden structure.

Miniature Roses: Small Wonders

Miniature roses, the diminutive counterparts to Old Garden Roses, are prized for their compact size and repeat blooming habit. Ranging from 6 to 36 inches in height, these tiny treasures offer the same color diversity as Hybrid Teas and are often grown as charming houseplants. The 'Sun Sprinkles' Miniature rose, with its bright yellow blooms, is a delightful addition to any indoor or patio garden.

Rose Popularity by the Numbers

While the aforementioned varieties are widely recognized, there are intriguing statistics that highlight lesser-known aspects of rose cultivation and popularity:

• The 'Knock Out' rose, a relatively new variety introduced in 2000, has quickly become one of the best-selling roses in North America due to its disease resistance and continuous bloom cycle. The Knock Out® Family of Roses
• In terms of international trade, the Netherlands is the world's leading exporter of roses, with Kenya following closely as the largest supplier to the European market. International Trade Centre
• The rose oil industry, primarily based in Bulgaria and Turkey, produces an essential oil highly prized in perfumery. It takes approximately 10,000 roses to produce just 5 mL of pure rose oil, making it one of the most valuable essential oils on the market. International Fragrance Association

Roses continue to captivate the hearts of people worldwide, not only for their beauty but also for their versatility and significance in various industries. Whether gracing a garden or a vase, these popular rose varieties embody the enduring allure of one of nature's most exquisite creations.