Rosa 'Grafin Dana'

A truly fascinating Hybrid Tea rose from Kordes' Parfuma collection, 'Gräfin Diana' produces noble, very full blooms around 8–9cm across that open a deep, velvety burgundy-black before maturing to a rich burgundy red. Bred by Tim-Hermann Kordes in 2003 and awarded the prestigious ADR (Allgemeine Deutsche Rosenneuheitenprüfung) in 2006, this variety is celebrated above all for its exquisite fragrance — deep, strong and sophisticated, blending classic rose with lemon and rose geranium, brightened by lychee, and layered with elderflower, peach, plum, honey and earthy tones. The scent is at its most powerful around midday and in the early evening.

A very healthy, disease-resistant rose with attractive deep green foliage, 'Gräfin Diana' flowers repeatedly from June right through until the first frosts. It performs best in a sunny position, in fertile, free-draining soil kept moist but never waterlogged. A light trim in autumn followed by a proper prune in spring will keep growth strong and encourage a full display of blooms, with feeding recommended at pruning time and again after the first flush of flowers.

Reaching around 100–120cm (3–4ft) in height, 'Gräfin Diana' makes an excellent border or specimen rose, and is superb as a cut flower for bringing its remarkable perfume indoors.

Each plant has been hand-selected for healthy growth and vibrant colour.

Available from Pengelly Garden Centre