When most people think of a rose, the familiar phrase ‘roses are red…’ likely springs to mind. While many roses do bloom in classic reds and pinks, the Rosa ‘Tuscany Superb’ breaks the mold with its rich, magenta-purple petals, offering a dramatic alternative to traditional rose bushes. A descendant of the centuries-old Gallica rose group, this rose traces its origins back to the 19th century (1837 to be exact). The Tuscany Superb is considered an old garden rose, a group of roses that existed before 1867 and are known for their distinctive fragrance and large blooms.
The Tuscany Superb foliage is typically plump and green from spring to fall, but it only flowers once a year, usually in June, producing exceptionally fragrant blooms. Besides its strong scent and picture-perfect appearance, the Tuscany Superb is resilient and hardy, thriving in USDA Zones 4 to 9. The shrub can grow up to 4 feet tall and wide, preferring all-day direct sunlight, though it will still do well in partially shaded areas of your garden. Additionally, it contributes to your garden’s healthy ecosystem as a bee-friendly plant.
Why pollinators love Tuscany Superb roses
Those looking to start a pollinator garden should consider planting the Tuscany Superb. With its deep hues and wide-open blooms, this rose practically rolls out the red carpet for bees and other garden guests. Once fully open, the Tuscany Superb rose displays a golden stamen, making pollen gathering a breeze compared to densely packed hybrid roses that can make it more difficult for pollinators to access the nectar they seek. The result is a steady stream of honeybees, bumblebees, and butterflies visiting for a snack once summer arrives.
Besides its readily available pollen, the Tuscany Superb’s classic rose scent also plays a key role in attracting pollinators. Bees use scent as a cue when hunting for food, which helps them remember the bloom and return for more later. With such a rich scent, the Tuscany Superb likely acts as a beacon for bees searching for nectar to forage.
How to grow a Tuscany Superb rose
If you have a vintage garden or want to introduce unique color and deep fragrance to your yard, you’re in luck. The Tuscany Superb is one of the easiest roses to grow, offering a low-maintenance upgrade to your garden.
Begin by selecting a sunny or lightly dappled corner of your garden, ideally nestled within a mixed border, where the soil is fertile and drains well. This versatile rose also thrives in chalk, clay, sand, or loam, making it a refreshingly adaptable choice for a variety of settings, including coastal living.
It can take up to five years for a Tuscany Superb rose to reach its full height. If you want it to flourish in your garden, consider buying an already-established flower. However, you can also propagate it using softwood cuttings. Once planted, keep it fertilized regularly, especially during the colder winter months and early spring. The Tuscany Superb rose is easy to care for, and once established, it will bring vibrantly hued joy to your garden summer after summer.
