‘Sweet Chariot’ is a highly fragrant, mauve-purple miniature rose introduced by Ralph Moore in 1984. Known for its intense, sweet scent and near-continuous, clustered blooms, it is a low-growing (1–1.5 ft), disease-resistant shrub ideal for hanging baskets and pots. It is a “flowering machine” with a trailing, spreading habit.
Key Characteristics of ‘Sweet Chariot’ Roses:
- Fragrance: Strong, damask, and sweet, often described as a “heavenly” perfume.
- Color & Blooms: The small, double, rosette-shaped flowers (1.5″ diameter) vary from deep magenta/purple to lavender, with 55 to 60 petals per bloom.
- Growth Habit: A miniature/patio rose with a compact, spreading, and slightly trailing habit, growing to roughly 30-45 cm (12-18 inches) in height.
- Blooming Season: It is a prolific, repeat bloomer, flowering continuously throughout the summer, often described as a “flowering machine”.
- Foliage: Small, matte to semi-glossy, dark green, and leathery leaves.
- Ideal Usage: Due to its cascading growth, it is considered one of the best roses for hanging baskets, patio containers, and small gardens.
- Disease Resistance: Good disease resistance, with high hardiness once established.
- Awards: Recipient of the 2008 ARS James Alexander Gamble Rose Fragrance Award.
This rose performs best in sunny locations and is hardy in USDA zones 6b and warmer.
