Årets ros 2015 - ’Ghislaine de Féligonde’
Overview of 'Ghislaine de Féligonde'
’Ghislaine de Féligonde’ is a cherished hybrid musk rose with a long legacy and enduring popularity, repeatedly nominated as Årets Ros in Sweden. This rose, introduced by Turbat in France in 1916, fascinates gardeners due to its combination of resilience, decorative versatility, and prolific bloom. As highlighted by Rosens Dag, it distinguishes itself by thriving in colder climates—hardy to zone 4—making it more robust than many of its contemporaries.
Growth Habit and Hardiness
The adaptability of 'Ghislaine de Féligonde' is central to its appeal. In southern areas, it can reach up to 3 meters in height when grown as a rambler or climber, forming elegant arches over structures like fences and trellises. Further north or in colder zones, it grows as a dense, medium-sized shrub—typically around 1.5 meters—retaining vigor and lushness even in more challenging settings. Its ability to accommodate various garden dimensions and climates makes it a versatile option for diverse plantings.
Suitability for Different Garden Settings
- Climbing uses: Stunning on pergolas, pillars, and walls.
- Shrub form: Ideal for beds, mixed borders, or free-standing specimens.
- Low maintenance: Tolerates a range of soils and exposure.
Blooms and Floral Display
The changing colors of 'Ghislaine de Féligonde' are part of its signature charm. Clusters of semi-double to double flowers first open a soft apricot to orange-pink, then gradually fade to a nearly white hue. This dynamic evolution provides continuous visual interest throughout the summer and well into autumn. As noted by Rosens Dag, its bloom is abundant and repeat-flowering, making it a centerpiece in the garden for months on end.
Additional Floral Attributes
- Fragrance: Moderate, with a light musky scent characteristic of the Moschata group.
- Flower clusters: Presented in open sprays, adding delicacy and abundance simultaneously.
Disease Resistance and Maintenance
One notable strength of 'Ghislaine de Féligonde' is its robust health. The rose shows impressive resistance to black spot and powdery mildew—significantly greater than most older varieties—resulting in minimal need for chemical treatment or intensive care. Rosens Dag highlights that, aside from occasional powdery mildew under very unfavorable air circulation, the rose remains remarkably clean and is well suited for low-maintenance gardens.
Practical Aspects
- Almost thornless: Very few thorns, making handling and placement near paths or seating areas safe and pleasant.
- Easy pruning: Only light pruning required for shape and size.
Ecological and Ornamental Value
Beyond its ornamental beauty, 'Ghislaine de Féligonde' offers ecological benefits. The flowers attract bees and butterflies, supporting pollinators through the peak garden season. In autumn, clusters of orange-red hips develop, serving as a valuable food source for birds and adding seasonal interest.
Garden Design Flexibility
- Hedges: Can be used as informal, flowing hedges.
- Cottage gardens: Particularly suited to romantic, traditional settings.
- Wildlife gardens: Promotes biodiversity through its attraction to insects and birds.
Summary Table
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Growth Form | Shrub or climber/rambler |
| Height | Up to 3m (as climber), about 1.5m (as shrub) |
| Flower Color | Apricot/orange/pink, fading to near white |
| Bloom Time | Abundant, from midsummer to autumn |
| Fragrance | Medium, musky |
| Disease Resistance | High; especially tolerant of black spot and powdery mildew |
| Hardiness | Hardy to zone 4 |
| Thorniness | Almost thornless |
| Attracts | Bees, butterflies, birds (via autumn hips) |
| Notable Mentions | Repeated Årets Ros nominee (Rosens Dag) |
Conclusion
With its appealing mix of flower form, extended bloom, outstanding resilience, and minimal care requirements, ’Ghislaine de Féligonde’ is a model of a garden-worthy rose. Its beauty and toughness are matched by its family-friendly and environmentally supportive qualities. For gardeners seeking a reliable, charming, and easy-care rose across a variety of settings, this cultivar fully justifies its repeated nomination as Årets Ros—an accolade underlined by Rosens Dag.