Rose Indigo

The old rose 'Indigo' is an exquisite Portland Damask variety, forming a refined, moderately sized shrub distinguished by its perfectly formed double flowers and rich Damask fragrance. Its blooms display a deep and luxurious palette of saturated purple to dark violet tones with a crimson tint, creating a dramatic yet elegant presence in the garden. Unlike many historic roses, it flowers in repeated flushes throughout the entire season, offering long-lasting display.

The flowers are medium to large, averaging to about 7.5 cm (3 in) in diameter. They are full, with 17 - 25 up to 60 petals, and typically flat in form, often featuring a distinct button-eye in the center. Colour varies subtly with age and weather conditions, ranging from dark violet and purple-crimson to carmine-pink, sometimes with a lighter base to the petals and, occasionally, a thin white stripe. The fragrance is strong and richly Damask, enhancing the rose’s historic character.

Flowering begins in early summer and continues in flushes until autumn. The blooms are borne in clusters, and in warm climates, if the flowers are not deadheaded, the plant may produce orange hips. The plants of this rose are upright and vigorous, reaching about 90 - 120 cm (3 - 3.9 ft) in height and of about 60 - 120 cm (2 - 3.9 ft) in width, though it often remains compact at around 100 cm (3.3 ft). The foliage is dark green, smooth, and structural, borne on short, sturdy stems. The plant grows well on its own roots.

Hardiness is average, suitable for growing in climates similar to USDA zones 6b - 9b; in colder regions, winter protection is recommended. The variety is undemanding to soil conditions, though it prefers a sunny location. It responds well to attentive care, including feeding, mulching, and adequate watering during hot periods.

'Indigo' performs beautifully in mixed borders, especially when combined with lighter Damask roses, as well as white or blue perennials. It can be used effectively as a border rose and is also suitable for growing in pots and containers, where its compact form and richly colored blooms can be fully appreciated.

Unfortunately we do not have information about the origin of the name of this rose.

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

USDA 7