Hybrid Tea Rose Rosa Alexander = 'Harlex' (HT)
![rose [Alexander]](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fplants-admin.emdemapps.com%2Fimages%2Fplants%2F%2Fimages%2F604b53624fc1c.png&w=3840&q=75)
ABOUT
Rosa Alexander, commonly known as 'Harlex', is a type of hybrid tea rose that boasts a captivating appearance with its large, showy flowers. The blooms are a rich, velvety red, exuding a classic elegance often associated with the timeless beauty of roses. Each flower is well-formed, often exhibiting a high-centered shape that opens into a slightly cupped form as it matures. The petals are numerous and tightly packed, creating a lush and full look, with a silky texture that seems to invite touch. The foliage of Rosa Alexander is typically dark green and glossy, providing a striking contrast to the vibrant red of the flowers. The leaves are usually pointed at the tips and have slightly serrated edges, a common feature among rose plants. They are arranged alternately along the stout stems, which may bear thorns or prickles, as is characteristic of rose bushes. Rosa Alexander is known for its repeating flowering ability, often producing waves of blossoms throughout the growing season. The individual flowers are borne singly or in small clusters, making them standout features in any garden setting where they add a touch of romanticism and color.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Rosaceae.
Synonyms
Alexander Rose, Harlex Rose.
Common names
Rosa 'Harlex', Rosa 'Alexander'.
ToxicityTo humans
The Rosa Alexander otherwise known as the hybrid tea rose, is not considered poisonous to humans. These plants are commonly grown in gardens for their beauty and are not known for their toxicity. However, the plant can cause a mild upset stomach if large quantities of leaves or petals are ingested. It is the thorns that gardeners should be wary of, as they can cause physical injury and potentially lead to infection if one is pricked and the wound is not properly cared for.
To pets
The Rosa Alexander, also known as the hybrid tea rose, is generally not toxic to pets. Roses are not listed as dangerous or poisonous plants for pets, but it is still advisable for pet owners to prevent their animals from eating roses. Consuming parts of this plant may cause mild gastrointestinal upset in some pets, such as vomiting or diarrhea, mostly due to the physical irritation of the plant material rather than chemical toxicity. The main concern with roses for pets is the risk of injury from the thorns, which can cause pain and possible infection if they scratch or puncture the skin.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Red
Height
3-4 (0.9-1.2)
Spread
2-3 (0.6-0.9)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
Varies
Native area
Cultivar
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Rosa 'Harlex', commonly known as Hybrid Tea Rose, has large, well-formed flowers that can add beauty and elegance to any garden or landscape.
- Variety of Uses: It can be used for cut flowers, garden display, or as part of a mixed border or flower bed.
- Growth Habit: Hybrid Tea Roses are known for their upright growth, making them suitable for formal gardens and areas with limited space.
- Fragrance: This rose variety is often fragrant, providing a sensory benefit to the garden.
- Color Variety: The flowers come in a variety of colors, allowing for personalization of the garden palette.
- Pollinator Attraction: Roses can attract bees and other pollinators, which are vital for the health of the garden ecosystem.
- Seasonal Interest: With proper care, Hybrid Tea Roses can have a prolonged blooming season, offering visual interest throughout much of the year.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Botanical Illustration: The Rosa Alexander can be subject for botanical artists who aim to capture its vivid color and form in detailed illustrations.
- Photography Prop: Due to its striking appearance, the rose can be used as a photography prop to enhance the visual appeal of the composition.
- Natural Pigment: The petals of the Rosa Alexander can be used to create natural dyes for fabrics, paints, or inks.
- Floral Water: The petals, when steeped in water, can create a lightly scented floral water for use in homemade beauty products or culinary recipes.
- Eco-friendly Confetti: Dried petals of these roses can be used as biodegradable confetti for celebrations such as weddings.
- Culinary Garnish: The rose petals can be used as an edible garnish to add a touch of elegance to desserts and special dishes.
- Scented Sachets: Dried rose petals can be put into sachets to freshen up drawers and closets with a natural fragrance.
- Rose Petal Crafts: Craft enthusiasts can use the petals for various DIY projects like making rose paper, bookmarks, or potpourri.
- Rose Water Ice Cubes: Freezing petals in ice cubes can add a decorative and flavored touch to drinks for special occasions.
- Soothing Eye Pads: Chilled rose petals placed over the eyes during a spa day can be used as an aromatic and soothing eye treatment.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe hybrid tea rose is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe hybrid tea rose is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Love: The rose is universally known as a symbol of love, passion, and romance, and the Rosa Alexander is no exception. Its deep red blooms often represent strong emotional bonds and affection.
- Beauty: Roses are often associated with beauty, and the exquisite form of the Rosa Alexander's flowers is a testament to this symbolism.
- Honor: Roses also carry the symbolism of honor and respect, making them suitable for occasions that celebrate achievements and recognition.
- Mystery: Due to its rich color and deep velvety petals, the Rosa Alexander can symbolize mystery and the unknown, inviting thoughts of intrigue.
- Balanced Beginnings: As a hybrid tea rose, the Rosa Alexander combines traits of old and new rose varieties, embodying the notion of bringing balance and fresh starts.
WaterThe Hybrid Tea Rose 'Alexander' requires regular watering to maintain slightly moist soil, especially during the growing season. Water deeply once a week, about 1 to 2 gallons per plant, ensuring that the water reaches the deep roots. During hot or dry periods, water twice a week. Avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf diseases; instead, water at the base of the plant. In the winter, reduce watering frequency to prevent waterlogging as the rose is dormant.
LightHybrid Tea Roses like 'Alexander' thrive in full sun conditions, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. The best spot for planting is an area where it will receive morning sun, which helps to dry dew on the leaves and prevent fungal diseases, while still getting ample sun throughout the day to promote vigorous blooms.
TemperatureHybrid Tea Roses such as 'Alexander' prefer a temperate climate with temperatures between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal growth. They can survive short periods of colder weather down to 20 degrees Fahrenheit but require protection from extreme cold. High temperatures over 90 degrees Fahrenheit can stress the plant and may necessitate additional water and shade.
PruningPrune your Hybrid Tea Rose 'Alexander' in late winter or early spring, when the last frost is over, to shape the plant, remove dead or diseased wood, and encourage strong new growth. Cut back the rose by about one-third to one-half, making angled cuts above outward-facing buds. Remove any weak or crossing branches to improve air circulation, and deadhead spent blooms throughout the growing season to encourage repeat flowering.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Hybrid Tea Rose prefers rich, loamy soil with good drainage and a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Amend with compost and organic matter to improve fertility and structure.
RepottingHybrid Tea Roses typically don't need frequent repotting and are best planted directly in the garden. If grown in containers, they may need repotting every 2-3 years.
Humidity & MistingHybrid Tea Roses thrive in moderate humidity but are adaptable to a wide range of conditions as long as they are well-watered and have good air circulation.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Hybrid Tea Rose in bright, direct light; water regularly.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, ensure rich soil, water deeply, and provide space.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of the Rosa 'Harlex', commonly known as Hybrid Tea Rose, begins with seed germination, although many garden roses are propagated via cuttings or grafting. Upon sprouting, the seedling grows into a young plant with foliage, during which roots establish and photosynthesis commences. As it matures, the rose bush enters a period of vegetative growth, producing stems and leaves vigorously. Once mature enough, typically in the spring, it develops buds that bloom into its characteristic large, fragrant flowers. After pollination, these flowers may develop into rose hips (seed pods), if not deadheaded, which contain seeds for the next generation. In colder climates, the rose experiences a dormant period in winter before resuming growth in the spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
The Rosa Alexander 'Harlex' (HT), commonly known as the Hybrid Tea Rose, is often propagated by cuttings, a method used widely for its simplicity and effectiveness. The best time to take cuttings is in late summer or early autumn when the wood is semi-hardwood: mature but still flexible. To propagate, one would cut a healthy piece of stem about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters) long, making sure it includes at least a couple of leaf nodes. The lower leaves are removed and the cut end is often dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root growth. The cutting is then planted in a mixture of potting soil and perlite or sand to ensure good drainage. It is important to keep the cutting moist and in a well-lit, warm environment without direct sunlight until roots develop, which may take several weeks.
