The ‘Pope John Paul II’ rose is a highly acclaimed hybrid tea rose known for its luminous, pure white, 5-6 inch blooms and intense citrus fragrance. Introduced in 2013, this vigorous, disease-resistant shrub grows 4–5 ft tall with dark green foliage. It was specifically chosen by the Vatican to honor the late Pope.
Key Characteristics & Care
- Appearance: Large, opulent white flowers with over 45 petals, making them ideal for cutting.
- Scent: Praised as one of the most fragrant white roses, featuring a strong citrus aroma.
- Growth: An upright, bushy plant that grows 4–5 ft high and 2-3 ft wide.
- Disease Resistance: Highly resistant to diseases like black spot and powdery mildew.
- Hardiness Zone: Hardy in zones 5–9.
Awards and Recognition
This award-winning rose has garnered international praise, including:
This award-winning rose has garnered international praise, including:
- Gold Medal – 2010 National Rose Trial Garden of Australia
- James Gamble Fragrance Award (2019)
- Rose Hills Trials Fragrance Award (2006)
- Portland Rose Trials ‘Most Fragrant Rose’
- Rose Hall of Fame Member
Background and Purpose
Bred by Dr. Keith Zary in the USA and introduced by Jackson & Perkins, this rose was cultivated as a commemorative, with 10% of its proceeds originally benefiting charity. It was meant to symbolize purity and peace, fitting for the Vatican gardens.
Bred by Dr. Keith Zary in the USA and introduced by Jackson & Perkins, this rose was cultivated as a commemorative, with 10% of its proceeds originally benefiting charity. It was meant to symbolize purity and peace, fitting for the Vatican gardens.
