Rose Ypsilanti

The rose "Ipsilanti," named in honor of Greek patriot and general Prince Alexandros Ipsilantis, is a remarkable variety of Gallica/Provins roses, bred by Jean-Pierre Vibert in 1821.

The color of the flowers is highly variable, changing depending on conditions and as they bloom, transitioning from lilac-pink or light violet with lighter edges to pale pink with lilac margins. When fully open, the flowers have a rich purple-pink colour. The blooms are large (8-9 cm in diameter), double (26-40 petals), flat, quartered with a button eye at the center, and have a quartered rosette shape (divided into quarters with petals arranged around a small green eye or button). They open from rounded buds, either singly or in small clusters. The fragrance is strong, sweet, and fruity, with a delicate hint of spice.

It blooms once, in spring or summer. The sepals are small and glandular, and the buds are rounded.

Forms medium-sized plants, of about 100 - 150 cm tall, and about 90 cm wide, upright with strong vertical stems that droop slightly, and is densely covered with foliage. The leaves are compound, 5-leaflet, without stipules, medium-green, and matte, with long oval leaflets that have slightly pointed tips and fine serration. When young, the leaves appear light yellow-green with a bright silvery underside, darkening as they mature. The stems are free of large prickles but are covered with small to medium needle-like prickles spaced a few centimeters apart.

The blooming period is single but prolonged, and the plant produces hips after flowering. This rose is valued by lovers of old roses, but it has recently gained popularity and interest among many gardeners. During its blooming season, it creates a breathtaking display. Notably, "Ipsilanti" is very fragrant, reasonably hardy, and tolerant of poor soils. It can be incorporated into virtually any landscape, is eco-friendly by attracting insects, and its marvelous fragrance makes it a favorite in the garden.

Pruning is recommended after flowering to remove old branches and dead or diseased wood, promoting the plant's health and vigor. Its susceptibility to diseases is above average, but the variety is renowned for its excellent disease resistance.

The winter hardiness is outstanding, it is suitable for growing in climates similar to USDA zones 4b to 8b.

Mike Lowe of Lowe's Roses describes the flowers as delicately lilac-pink with paler outer petals, large, double, and irregularly quartered. He also notes that this rose blooms later than most other Gallicas.

This rose is named after two brothers from an influential Greek family from Constantinople. Alexandros Ipsilantis (1792-1828) was a general in Greece’s struggle for independence.

The “Ipsilanti” rose introduced at this time reflect the enthusiasm of French Romanticism for the “resurrection” of Greece.

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

USDA 3 and warmer