May 14, 2014

A tray full of ‘Hot Cocoa’ rose petals from spent blooms. This rose is variously described in glowing language: 

“Stunning displays of silk-like blooms, their petals shaded chocolately orange to dark red with a deep rusty orange reverse.” (Jackson & Perkins)

“A chocolate-brown infused with smoke and hints of purple…or perhaps a russet-influenced brick-red. (Wayside Gardens)

"Brownish-orange floribunda washed with smoke on the top and a deep rusty orange on the underside. How about “smoky chocolate orange?”  Perhaps "cinnamon brown with a purply cast.” (All American Rose Selections)

'Hot Cocoa’ in my street-side garden.