Rose Duchesse de Cambridge

The rose variety "Duc de Cambridge" is a true treasure among the old rose varieties. Its exquisite beauty and rich, sweet and fruity fragrance with hints of Damask rose - continues to capture the hearts of gardeners worldwide.

Blooming Characteristics

This rose blooms once, either in spring or in early summer.

Its thorny stems may appear intimidating, but once it flowers, all flaws are forgiven, as the blossoms are truly stunning.

When conditions are ideal, the rose showcases deep, rich purplish-pink petals forming large, very full blooms. It is arguably the darkest of all Damask roses. The buds are purple, surrounded by heavily appengated sepals.

The flower boasts numerous pointed petals radiating outward from the center, creating a striking visual effect. As the bloom opens to a flat rosette form, the petals begin to curl and fade to a soft lilac shades. This rose is self-cleaning and does not produce hips.

However, it has one drawback: in certain years, nearly all flowers can be lost to a peculiar phenomenon known as proliferation, which distorts the blooms.

Growth Habit

The rose variety "Duc de Cambridge" has a vigorous growth character. The bush features large, light green leaves and sturdy stems covered with a dense layer of prickles. Initially, the stems grow upright, but over time, they form arches that bend under the weight of the flowers.

The plants of this rose variety have a sprawling habit and can reach over 2 meters (6.5 feet) in height if not pruned. However, pruning after the summer flowering wave improves its appearance and resilience.

In Landscape Design

‘Duc de Cambridge’ is widely utilized in landscape design. It can be planted as a standalone shrub or used to create hedges, mixed borders, and rose gardens. This variety pairs beautifully with other plants such as lavender, sage, and roses of different types.

Disease and Frost Resistance

In September 1998, the Montreal Botanical Garden (Le Jardin Botanique de Montreal) conducted a study on rose resistance to black spot, powdery mildew, and rust. The ‘Duc de Cambridge’ was one of the standout varieties, showing an infection rate of only 0% to 5%.

It is low-maintenance and adapts well to various weather conditions. While this rose is rarely affected by diseases, it is a favorite of numerous pests.

Propagation

The rose propagates well through root suckers, which grow abundantly around the base of the main bush.

Conclusion

Although the exact origins of the ‘Duc de Cambridge’ rose remain a mystery, its beauty and refinement are beyond question. This variety has become a true legend among rose enthusiasts and continues to inspire gardeners around the globe.

The exact origins of this rose name is unknown. Several theories exist, but none have been definitively confirmed. One of the most popular hypotheses links the variety’s name to the University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom. It is possible that the rose was bred in, or became particularly popular in, this region.

Other researchers suggest that the name might have been chosen in honor of a noble figure associated with Cambridge.

Another theory proposes that the rose bush was dedicated to the son of King George III, who held the title of Duke of Cambridge. The Duke of Cambridge (1774–1830) was the seventh and youngest son of King George III of England.

However, no precise historical documents have been discovered to confirm any of these theories.

The title of Duke of Cambridge, first created in 1660, replaced the earlier title of Earl of Cambridge. The title was lost several times before being revived in 2011, when Queen Elizabeth II bestowed it upon her grandson, Prince William, on April 29, 2011, following his marriage to Catherine Middleton. Catherine subsequently became known as the Duchess of Cambridge.

Information about the parantage of this rose is not available or commecrically protected.

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