Hybrid Tea Rose Rosa 'Blessings' (HT)
ABOUT
Rosa 'Blessings', commonly known as the rose 'Blessings', is a hybrid tea rose celebrated for its elegant flowers. The plant bears blooms that are classically shaped with a high-pointed center and gracefully unfurling petals. The blooms of 'Blessings' are typically a soft, warm pink hue, suffused with subtle undertones that may vary with climate and growing conditions. Each flower is composed of multiple layers of petals, which add to the fullness and depth of the bloom. The petals are often described as satiny and may have a slight sheen to them, catching the light and lending the flowers a gentle luster. The foliage of the 'Blessings' rose comprises glossy, dark green leaves that provide a striking contrast to the bright flowers, accentuating their delicate pink color. The leaves have a leathery texture and are serrated along the edges, typical of rose plants. Branches on the rose plant bear thorns, which help protect it from herbivores and support the plant's climbing or upright growth habit. As for the fragrance, roses are prized for their scent, and 'Blessings' is no different. It often carries a subtle yet distinct fragrance, which adds to the sensory appeal of the plant. This scent can vary in intensity and is most pronounced when the flowers are freshest and in the warmth of the day. The overall appearance of the rose 'Blessings' is one of elegance and refinement, with a traditional rose shape that has made hybrid tea roses famous among gardeners and flower enthusiasts around the world. It's a plant that showcases its beauty through the charming and impressive display of its blossoms, paired with its rich, verdant foliage.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Rosaceae
Synonyms
Hybrid Tea Rose
Common names
Rosa 'Blessings' (HT)
ToxicityTo humans
Roses, like the Rosa 'Blessings', are not considered toxic to humans. They are generally recognized as safe, and there are no notable reports of serious adverse reactions or poisoning from ingesting roses. However, it's important to note that eating any non-food plant can potentially cause some degree of gastrointestinal discomfort due to the natural plant compounds, and individuals with plant allergies may react to roses. The biggest risk often comes from the thorns, which can cause physical injuries rather than poisoning.
To pets
Roses, such as the Rosa 'Blessings', are not toxic to pets either. These plants are considered non-toxic to dogs, cats, and horses by the ASPCA. If a pet chews on roses, the main concern would typically be minor gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting or diarrhea from eating a non-standard food item or a reaction from the thorns, which can cause injury or infection if they puncture the skin. However, roses themselves do not cause poisoning in pets.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
3 feet 4 inches (1.02 meters)
Spread
2 feet 6 inches (0.76 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
6
Native area
Cultivar
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: The Rosa 'Blessings' (Hybrid Tea rose) offers vibrant, large blooms that enhance the beauty of any garden or landscape with their classic form and rich color.
- Fragrance: These roses emit a delightful fragrance that can create a pleasant atmosphere in any area where they are planted.
- Pollinator Attraction: Hybrid Tea roses like 'Blessings' attract bees and other beneficial pollinators, contributing to the health of your garden.
- Cut Flowers: 'Blessings' has long stems and durable blooms that make it an excellent choice for creating floral arrangements and bouquets.
- Variety: As a Hybrid Tea rose, 'Blessings' offers a unique addition to any collection, celebrated for its distinctive characteristics compared to other rose types.
- Emotional Well-being: The beauty and fragrance of 'Blessings' roses can contribute to a sense of relaxation and happiness for many people, enhancing emotional well-being through their presence in the environment.
- Garden Versatility: This rose can be used in a variety of garden settings, including borders, beds, and as a standalone specimen, making it a versatile choice for different landscaping designs.
- Seasonal Interest: With regular blooming throughout the growing season, 'Blessings' provides ongoing visual interest in a garden.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Rosa 'Blessings' petals can be crystallized and used as a decorative, edible garnish on cakes and desserts, providing an elegant touch to sweet treats.
- The fragrant petals of the rose can be added to potpourri mixes to give a long-lasting, natural scent to your home without the use of synthetic fragrances.
- Rose petals from Rosa 'Blessings' can be infused in oils or vinegars to create delicately flavored culinary ingredients for dressings and marinades.
- The rose can be used in bath bombs or bath salts, where its petals not only enhance the visual appeal but also lend their gentle fragrance to a relaxing soak.
- Pressed Rosa 'Blessings' flowers can be incorporated into handmade paper, providing an artistic floral element for special stationery or gift wrapping.
- Rosewater made from the petals can be used as a natural, light scent for homemade linen sprays or room refreshers.
- Rosa 'Blessings' can be included in sachets to freshen up wardrobes and drawers, leaving clothes with a subtle, sweet rose scent.
- The intact blooms can be floated in a bowl of water as a simple yet sophisticated table centerpiece for weddings and other special occasions.
- Rosa 'Blessings' petals can be used to make natural dyes for fabrics, offering a range of pink to light red hues depending on the mordant used.
- When dried, the petals and buds are often used in crafting, such as for embellishing picture frames or creating floral wreaths and decorations.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe rose is commonly used in Feng Shui to promote love and bring positive energy. You can place roses in the southwest area of your garden or home to enhance your romance luck or in any living space to create a calming and uplifting atmosphere.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe rose is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Love: The rose is universally regarded as a symbol of love, with its delicate petals and romantic fragrance arousing feelings of passion and intimacy.
- Beauty: The elegant form and stunning colors of roses have long been associated with beauty, representing an ideal of perfection and loveliness.
- Honor: Roses, due to their regal presence and association with nobility, often symbolize honor and reverence, making them appropriate for recognizing achievements and paying tribute.
- Devotion: Often used to express deep and enduring attachment, the giving of a rose signifies one's commitment and loyalty to another.
- Grace: The graceful arch of the rose stem and the softness of its petals convey a sense of elegance and poise.
- Confidentiality: Stemming from the Latin phrase 'sub rosa' meaning 'under the rose', it is a symbol of secrecy, where a rose displayed in a meeting room mandated that all present keep the discussed matters confidential.
- Spirituality and Intuition: In various mystical and religious contexts, roses can symbolize an awakening of the spirit and an opening to the divine.
- New Beginnings: The blooming of a rose can signify the start of a fresh chapter or the hope for a new start, reflecting the continual renewal of nature.
WaterHybrid Tea Rose 'Blessings' prefers evenly moist soil and should not be allowed to dry out completely. Water these roses deeply once a week with about 1 gallon of water per plant, making sure to avoid wetting the foliage to prevent fungal diseases. During periods of extreme heat or drought, increase watering frequency to twice per week. It's important to adjust the amount and frequency of watering based on weather conditions, ensuring the plant receives consistent moisture without becoming waterlogged.
LightHybrid Tea Rose 'Blessings' thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. The best spot for this rose is an area where it can receive unfiltered morning sunlight, which is ideal for drying dew on the leaves and preventing fungal diseases. However, some light afternoon shade can be beneficial in extremely hot climates to prevent scorching.
TemperatureHybrid Tea Rose 'Blessings' prefers a temperate climate with temperatures ranging from 60°F to 75°F for optimal growth. These roses can survive minimum winter temperatures down to approximately 20°F. To ensure robust growth and flowering, protect the plant from extreme cold and frost, and avoid planting in areas with harsh winter winds or in low spots where cold air settles.
PruningPruning the Hybrid Tea Rose 'Blessings' is vital for maintaining plant health, encouraging air circulation, and promoting vigorous blooms. Prune in the early spring just as the buds begin to swell, cutting back the plant by about one-third to one-half of its height, removing any dead or diseased wood, and opening up the center of the plant. Deadheading, or removing spent flowers, should be done throughout the blooming season to encourage more blooms.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for a Hybrid Tea Rose, commonly called Blessings, is one that is rich in organic matter, well-draining, and loamy. A blend of one-third top soil, one-third peat or compost, and one-third aged manure or compost provides the nutrients and structure needed for healthy growth. The desirable soil pH for Blessings roses should be between 6.0 and 6.5.
RepottingHybrid Tea Roses like Blessings do not commonly require repotting as they are typically planted directly in the garden. However, if grown in containers they should be repotted every 2 to 3 years to replenish the soil and allow root growth.
Humidity & MistingBlessings, a variety of Hybrid Tea Rose, prefers outdoor conditions where the natural humidity is sufficient. Average atmospheric humidity is generally adequate, however, avoid high humidity environments as it promotes disease.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, ample airflow, and proper watering for indoor Blessings roses.
Outdoor
Plant in well-draining soil, full sun, and shelter from harsh winds for outdoor Blessings roses.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of the 'Blessings' rose (Hybrid Tea) begins with seed germination or more commonly with the rooting of a cutting, as many cultivated roses do not grow true to type from seed. Once rooted, the cutting develops into a young plant, producing a main stem and several leaves. As the plant matures, it forms multiple stems and foliage and eventually begins the vegetative growth stage, preparing for flowering. During the flowering stage, which typically occurs in late spring and repeats until fall, the roses produce their iconic, fragrant blooms that may range in color but for 'Blessings' typically feature soft pink hues. After pollination, if it occurs, the plant may produce hips (fruit) containing seeds, though many hybrid teas are propagated vegetatively and do not often set hips. During the winter, the plant enters dormancy, reducing metabolic activity to conserve energy, and with proper pruning and care, it will begin a new growth cycle the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Rosa 'Blessings', commonly known as a hybrid tea rose, is often propagated through a process called stem cutting. The optimal time to take cuttings for propagation is in late spring or early summer when the plant's growth is most vigorous. To propagate by stem cutting, a gardener should select a healthy, non-flowering stem about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters) in length and trim it just below a leaf node. After removing the lower leaves and possibly dipping the cut end into a rooting hormone, the cutting is placed in a potting mix designed for roses. The environment should be kept humid, and the cutting should be protected from direct sunlight until it establishes a healthy root system, which typically takes a few weeks. Once the cutting has rooted, it can be transferred to a larger pot or planted directly into the garden.
