The old roses have competition for there are a number of very outstanding modern roses. The Tropicana rose is one of those.

Tropicana makes an exquisite cut flower. This plant became an instant favorite. Now grown all over the globe, it is considered an absolute classic modern rose. It is among the best selling rose plants.

This is known for its perfectly classic, cup-like roses. Opening from pointed buds, these occur singly on tall stems and make a great cut flower. These delightful blossoms are very double and up to five inches wide with 35 petals. When this was released it was a real breakthrough so far as the color was concerned. These are an orange-red. The color can range from pale scarlet or vermilion to reddish-orange, orange, or orange-coral. Blooming all season, this is considered a repeat bloomer.

The moderately to extremely thorny plants are four to six feet tall with a spread of three to four feet. These vigorous plants are recommended for zones four through eleven, The much branched, bushy, upright plants can have an open uneven habit.

They have deep green, leathery, shiny leaves. The foliage shows some resistance to disease. However, it can be touched by mildew.

Known as the Tropicana in the U.S., this is called Super Star elsewhere. This hybrid tea was introduced in Europe in 1960. Two years later, when it was introduced to the U.S. the Star Roses firm objected to the name Super Star, considering this a trademark infringement. So, in the U.S. it is sold under the Tropicana name.

This variety has received numerous awards since its release. It became an All-American Rose Selections winner in 1963. The American Rose Society Gold Medal was awarded in 1967. It received the Geneva Gold Medal in 1960. In 1960 it received the Royal National Rose Society Gold Medal and the President’s International Trophy.

It was bred by Mathias Tantau and was released in Germany. Its parents were (Alpine Glow and an unnamed seedling) and (Peace and an unnamed seedling). There is a climbing form of Tropicana.