Rosa Traviata

Rosa Traviata is a sumptuous, opulent, richly coloured, old-fashioned rose with theatrical charm. Its large red flowers bloom throughout spring, perfectly displayed against shiny dark green foliage. This vigorous bush is equally at ease in the ground as it is in a large pot. Strong and resistant, it is suitable for all gardeners, even beginners. Its flowers emit a subtle fruity fragrance with notes of green apple. They are ideal for creating lavish bouquets.

Rosa Traviata is a modern bush rose with nostalgic large flowers registered by the Meilland company in 1998. This creation received the Silver Medal in Monza 1997 and the Certificate in Rome in 1997. It is a bushy and erect shrub, with regular growth, reaching approximately 90cm (35in) in height and 50 to 60cm (20 to 24in) in width at maturity. Its growth rate is rapid. It produces sturdy, thorny and well-branched stems, which bear dense foliage composed of dark green shiny leaves with large leaflets. It flowers from June to October. It will keep on flowering if the soil does not dry out too much and if faded blooms are removed. The flowers measure approximately 12cm (5in) in diameter, and are organised in regular quarters like some old roses. The double roses are composed of 70 velvety petals of an intense strawberry-red, rich in darker reflections. They are mostly solitary, but sometimes grouped in 2 to 5. The roses are borne at the end of long shoots, which are ideal for cut flowers. The deciduous foliage is absent in winter.

Rosa Traviata gives a theatrical feel to the garden, whether in a bed or a pot on a patio. Its glorious and shiny roses adorn any bed, even the most modest, and enhance any bouquet. In general, red roses radiate in sunny regions, especially in semi-shade and against the light. On the other hand, pastel tones are magnified by the milkier skies of cooler regions. Traviata will thrive in a large rose bed or planted in a trio in a well-maintained small garden. It adapts to all climates and to all soils that are not too dry. It tolerates both rain and heat. It pairs perfectly with white roses such as 'Fairy Snow' or 'Bay of Angels'. Create a beautiful scene by planting it with a small white buddleia ('Nanho White') or a red one ('Butterfly Candy Little Ruby'). Also consider beautiful plants such as royal lily, perennial geraniums, Artemisia 'Powis Castle', or bellflowers to accompany it.