Introduced by William Paul in 1912
Early Hybrid Tea
Parents unsure but probably Antoine Rivoire and Prince de Bulgarie, both Pernet Ducher roses.
Lots has been written about Ophelia because of her immense popularity during the first half of the 20th century. This rose got 128 sports! Rose experts think that 40% of modern roses has Ophelia as an ancestor. Her influence in the creation of modern roses is unsurpassed.
So? What's the fuss about? What kind of rose is Ophelia? White to flesh pink with a bit stronger pink in the center, high centered buds and bloom shape. Once open the blooms are double and big and show rather pink stamen. The blooms stand in small clusters of two or three or are borne solitary. Aside from her exquisite appearance Ophelia has the most delicious rose fragrance in history after La France. It is so refreshing and flowery.
The shrub is rather short and will reach 100 cm or 3 feet. Foliage is healthy but can sometimes suffer from mildew. Flushes freely throughout the season. Zone 6b to 10b
Ophelia has produced many sports and two almost identical roses are also available today: Lady Sylvia and Madama Butterfly. Ophelia, Lady Sylvia and Madama Butterfly all got climbing sports and they are even today regarded as the best examples of Climbing Hybrid Teas.
Believe me when I say that the climbing Lady Sylvia rose is a real gem against a wall. Blooms are huge and that fragrance... 😏
Ophelia is still widely available in Europe, USA and Australia
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