Papa Meilland® Hybrid Tea Rose
Luxurious, dramatic, and intensely fragrant, Papa Meilland® is a legendary Hybrid Tea rose renowned for its sumptuous deep crimson-red blooms, velvety petals, and extraordinary perfume. Introduced by the celebrated Meilland® family, this classic variety has remained a favorite among rose enthusiasts for decades and is especially treasured by gardeners who consider fragrance an essential part of the rose-growing experience.
Papa Meilland® produces magnificent, high-centered blooms in an exceptionally rich shade of dark crimson to burgundy-red. The petals have a distinctive velvety texture, with darker shading adding remarkable depth and sophistication to each flower. Long, elegant buds slowly unfurl into beautifully sculpted Hybrid Tea blooms that command attention both in the garden and in the vase.
Its defining characteristic is its exceptionally powerful fragrance. Rich, sweet, and unmistakably classic, the perfume combines deep Damask rose character with warm, complex notes that make Papa Meilland® one of the world's most celebrated fragrant roses. Plant it near a patio, pathway, entrance, or seating area where its extraordinary scent can be appreciated up close.
Long stems and elegant flowers make Papa Meilland® an outstanding rose for cutting, while repeat flowering provides additional flushes throughout the growing season. For gardeners seeking the romance of a classic red rose with unforgettable fragrance, Papa Meilland® remains an exceptional choice.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Rose Type | Hybrid Tea Rose |
| Breeder | Meilland® |
| Variety | Papa Meilland® |
| Breeder Code | 'MEIsar' |
| Year Introduced | 1963 |
| Flower Color | Deep Crimson to Velvety Burgundy-Red |
| Bloom Size | Large, Approximately 4–5" |
| Bloom Form | Classic High-Centered, Fully Double |
| Petal Count | Approximately 30–35 Petals |
| Fragrance | Exceptionally Strong, Rich Damask Rose |
| Flowering Habit | Repeat Blooming |
| Growth Habit | Tall, Upright & Bushy |
| Foliage | Deep Green |
| Special Features | Exceptional Fragrance • Velvety Dark Red Blooms • Excellent Cut Flower • Classic Hybrid Tea |
Growing Information
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Light Needs | Full Sun |
| USDA Hardiness Zones | Approximately 6–10 |
| Mature Height | Approximately 4–5' |
| Mature Width | Approximately 2–3' |
| Plant Spacing | 3–4' Apart |
| Water Needs | Regular Water Until Established; Maintain Consistent Moisture During Active Growth |
| Soil Needs | Fertile, Well-Drained Soil |
Ideal Uses
✔ Fragrance Gardens
✔ Cutting Gardens
✔ Dedicated Rose Gardens
✔ Romantic Gardens
✔ Mixed Borders
✔ Landscape Focal Points
✔ Fresh Floral Arrangements
Recommended Growing Regions
Papa Meilland® can be successfully grown throughout many rose-growing regions with appropriate care, including:
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Northeast
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Mid-Atlantic
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Midwest
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Southeast
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Southwest
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West Coast
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Pacific Northwest
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Intermountain West
An Icon of Rose Fragrance
Papa Meilland® is particularly prized for fragrance. Its powerful perfume and richly colored flowers have helped establish its reputation as one of the great classic Hybrid Tea roses.
For maximum enjoyment, plant it where the flowers can be experienced frequently—beside a garden path, patio, entrance, or seating area. Cutting a few stems for indoor arrangements brings its remarkable fragrance directly into the home.
Behind the Name
Papa Meilland® was named in honor of Antoine Meilland, a member of the renowned French Meilland rose-breeding family. The variety continues the family's remarkable legacy of producing some of the world's most recognized and treasured roses.
Why You'll Love Papa Meilland®
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Magnificent deep crimson-red flowers with luxurious velvety petals
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Exceptionally powerful classic rose fragrance
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Large, elegant blooms with traditional Hybrid Tea form
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Long stems make it outstanding for cutting and arrangements
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Repeat flowering provides additional blooms throughout the season
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Rich coloring creates dramatic contrast against deep green foliage
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A wonderful centerpiece for fragrance and romantic rose gardens
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A legendary Meilland® variety treasured by rose enthusiasts around the world
Experience the timeless romance of Papa Meilland®. With its velvety crimson blooms, elegant Hybrid Tea form, and extraordinary perfume, this legendary Meilland® rose is an unforgettable choice for gardeners who want a classic red rose where fragrance is every bit as impressive as the flower itself.