Rosa Empereur du Maroc - Hybrid Old Rose

The 'Empereur du Maroc' is an old rose variety that has been grown in gardens of rose enthusiasts for more than 150 years. It is known to be the first variety that produces dark red flowers. The medium-sized double flowers of this rose give off a rich dark crimson colour, which fades into deep chestnut and violet shades, almost appearing black in backlight. This bushy rose blooms in June, with a strong, fruity fragrance of dark flowers, and then again more modestly at the end of summer. It thrives in a climate that is not too humid, allowing its roses to flourish in all their splendour, while its abundant foliage, which can be sensitive to certain diseases, maintains its beauty. This variety creates an excellent contrast to pastel and romantic roses in flower beds.

The 'Empereur du Maroc' is a repeat flowering hybrid rose, also known as a perpetual hybrid. It was created in France by Guinoisseau in 1858. This rose is a result of cross-breeding the Old Rose 'Géant des Batailles' with a seedling. The plant grows up to 1.2 m (3 ft 4 in) tall and 90 cm (35.4 in) wide. It produces a sumptuous flowering of slightly pendant roses in June, which are 6 cm (2.4 in) wide. The rose petals are velvety and are arranged in quarters, forming a flattened cup. The roses are either solitary or gathered in bouquets of 3 to 5 flowers. The dominant colour is a dark and deep crimson red at full bloom, gradually turning very dark reddish-brown-violet with time. The fragrance of the roses is particularly pronounced. The plant also repeat flowers in September-October. 

The foliage is lush, consisting of small-sized leaflets with a matte medium-green appearance. However, they are sensitive to blackspot and rust when planted too close together and in humid climates. The fruits of this rose, called hips, are reddish-orange to brown.

The old rose, 'Empereur du Maroc', prefers partial shade as it does not tolerate exposure to heat. Other old roses with dark red flowers like 'Deuil de Paul Fontaine', 'Baron Girod de l'Ain' or 'Robert le Diable' also thrive in similar conditions. This rose can be used in bouquets, as a standalone specimen, or mixed with a bed of English or old roses in pastel shades. It creates an elegant contrast with the rose 'Fée des Neiges' white flowers and a beautiful harmony with the mauve corollas of 'Sissi', 'Mamy Blue' or 'Claude brasseur'. Its modest growth makes it suitable for perennial beds, which pair well with perennial geraniums, dame's rockets, or perennial salvias. Due to its fragrance, it is best planted near a pathway, an entrance, or under a window.