Northwest Blooms · Roses
Rosa 'Rhapsody in Blue'
Rhapsody in Blue Rose
- Rose type
- Shrub
- Height
- 3 to 4 feet
- Bloom size
- Medium (3 in)
- Flower color
- Iridescent purple / lavender‑magenta fading toward slate‑blue
- Fragrance
- Strong
About this plant
Rosa 'Rhapsody in Blue' is a shrub rose that produces semi‑double blooms blending plum‑purple tones into slate blue as they age. Flowers open in flushes from late spring through autumn, releasing a rich clove and spice fragrance that lingers. Glossy mid‑green foliage frames each bloom, presenting a clean and elegant backdrop.
Bred in the United Kingdom and introduced around 2000, this rose is seen in gardens as a modern blue‑lavender rose. Its blooms open gradually and hold their depth of color, making it valued for both garden display and cut use. This rose continues to inspire with its subtle color transitions and aromatic appeal.
Planting & care
Roses reward a sunny, open site with at least six hours of direct light, good air movement, and well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Water deeply and less often, soaking the root zone while keeping the leaves dry, and mulch with two to three inches of compost or shredded bark held back from the canes. Feed repeat-blooming roses in early spring as growth starts and again after the first flush, then prune in late winter to remove dead or crossing canes and open the center. Shrub roses need only light thinning, keeping their natural full shape and repeat bloom.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen at the Point Defiance Rose Garden.
