Rosa gallica Tuscany Superb - Gallic Rose

The 'Tuscany Superb' old rose is one of the oldest roses known. This Gallic rose, obtained before 1596, abundantly produces, in May-June, semi-double flowers of a deep crimson red, with rich burgundy reflections, contrasting with a heart populated by golden stamens. This bushy and stout shrub may not be perpetual, but its corollas with the heady scent of a dark flower, and its indescribable charm, a little outdated, make it an excellent counterpoint to pastel and romantic roses. Easy to grow and resistant to diseases, this variety, which has crossed the ages, has not lost any of its qualities.

The 'Tuscany Superb' rose is part of the Gallic roses derived from Rosa gallica. These plants are also called French Roses or Provins Roses. The species Rosa gallica is native to central and southern Europe, and western Asia, from Turkey to the Caucasus. This group consists of very hardy bushy roses, generally compact suckering, with non-remontant but highly scented flowering. 'Tuscany Superb' forms a stout bush measuring 70cm (27.6in) in height by 90cm (35.4 in) in width. Its roses, of modest size, are composed of a double or triple row of petals arranged in a free, well-opened rosette, revealing the golden yellow heart of the corolla. The dominant colour is a rich and deep red, the base of the petals is tyrian rose, and the entire corolla turns purple over time. The foliage, very healthy, is greenish-blue, and covers stems equipped with prickers and glandular hairs. The fruits, called hips, have an orange to brown colour.

Very resistant to diseases and cold (-25 to -30°C), the 'Tuscany Superb' old rose is an easy plant to grow in all types of soil, and its charm of yesteryear flowers blends well with those of English or old roses in pastel shades. It forms an elegant contrast with the simple and changing flowers of the China rose 'Mutabilis' or with the single corollas, ranging from orange to copper, of Rosa foetida 'Bicolour'. It is also beautiful alongside the pansy flowers of the 'Blue Eyes' rose. Its modest growth allows it to fit into perennial beds, where it wonderfully accompanies perennial geraniums, dame's rocket or purple toadflaxes. These qualities make us forget that it only blooms once, a flaw that is not reproached to other flowering shrubs! It definitely deserves to be planted in all rose lovers' gardens.