Rosa 'NOVALIS'^®

Apparently most of rose breeders took up the challenge of breeding a blue rose a couple of decades ago. So far the bluest flower is achieved by soaking the cut rose stems with blue ink. However, without jokes or cheating some breeders celebrate great success with their results. Just like Kordes from Germany. In 2010 they introduced a rose named Novalis which has a unique colour combining pale lilac with soft violet colour. The flowers are up to 10 cm across and have a slight tea-hybrid perfume. On top of that the plant is absolutely healthy and was awarded ADR in 2013. Another interesting feature is that it performs well, or possibly best, in partial shade, not demanding all-day sun. Stems are strong and upright forming a neat bush or a nice rose tree. It blooms in flushes from June until September.

Planting instructions: Plant it in the same level as it is now in the container. Provide a good support for the stem. Water it well and mulch it for winter. Roses tolerate wide range of soils but thrive in deep, humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil, in full sun. If you live in a region with harsh and long winters, protect the crown and the grafting point with white woven. During the flowering season regular feeding is recommended.

Pruning: In spring after danger of all frosts prune the crown lightly to form a solid framework, and remove ill, dry and weak branches. Spent flowers are best removed as they begin to fade. Cut off spent flowering clusters just above the leaf with 5 leaflets.

Last update: 20-07-2017