Wednesday, October 11, 2023

Mel's Heritage

Mel's Heritage, Barden 2003

Wichuraiana rambler 

Crépuscule X R. Wichuraiana Crépin

An unusual marriage between a Tea Noisette (Crépuscule) and R. Wichuraiana but Barden turned it into a spectacular result. 
The rose has the vigorous growing power of Crépuscule and Wichuraiana so this rambler can reach 7 meters or 21 feet easily. The flowers are light pink to Coppery apricot and very full. They appear in clusters. They have the typical Wichuraiana apple fragrance which is medium to strong. The best feature is that Mel's Heritage is Perpetual blooming so this rambler continues to bloom until autumn. Buds are rather small. It is a very healthy rose and is immune to diseases which is important these days. The less we have to spray the better.
Zone 6b to 10b. 
The rose can be used for several purposes: Arch, trellis, walls, gazebo and even as ground cover. 
Paul Barden created many spectacular roses but sadly they are hard to obtain. Even in the USA there are waiting lists. In Europe his roses are absent, I haven't seen them (yet). 
If you have the chance to purchase Mel's Heritage don't hesitate and do it. It's a splendid alternative to the Barbier ramblers. 

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