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When most of the general public thinks of roses, the Hybrid Tea Florists roses, also known as long-stemmed roses, are what first come to mind.
Long stem roses are one of the most iconic and beloved flowers. Their elegant, long stems and large, gorgeous blooms make them a favorite for romantic gestures, weddings, and special occasions. But what exactly do long stem rose bushes look like as they grow? Here is a complete visual guide to the appearance of long stem rose bushes.
What are Long Stem Roses?
Long stem roses, also known as hybrid tea roses, originated in the 19th century when hybrid perpetual roses were crossed with tea roses This crossbreeding resulted in roses with the best attributes of both – large, shapely blooms on long, straight stems.
The hybrid tea rose became immensely popular and today it is the most commonly grown type of rose worldwide. It is the classic rose that comes to mind when we think of receiving a dozen red roses.
Long stem flowers refer to any type with a longer-than-average stem, typically measuring 18 to 24 inches long. The term “long stem” is often associated with roses, one of the most popular flowers with longer stems. But many other flower types, like lilies, sunflowers, calla lilies, gladiolus, delphiniums, snapdragons, and more, can also have long stems.
The Structure and Growth Habit of Long Stem Rose Bushes
Long stem rose bushes have an upright, bushy growth habit They typically grow to 3-6 feet tall with an equal spread
The canes of long stem rose bushes are long, straight and upright The blooms are borne singly on stems that are typically 12-18 inches long, sometimes even longer, hence the name “long stem”.
Long stem roses produce blooms continuously throughout the growing season rather than in just one main flush. Each bloom lasts up to two weeks before falling off to make way for a new bloom.
Foliage
The leaves of long stem rose bushes are medium to dark green, smooth, and oval in shape with gently serrated edges. The leaves grow alternately along the stems and can be 3-5 inches long.
Leaves are typically dense along the canes, providing a lush backdrop for the blooms. As a rose bush matures over several years, it will produce more and more canes with an abundance of leaves.
Flowers
Of course, the iconic feature of long stem roses are the flowers themselves. When people imagine a classic rose bloom, it is usually the flower of a hybrid tea rose.
The large, shapely blooms grow 3-5 inches across and have a classic rose shape – round and cupped with multiple layers of petals unfolding like a spiral.
Long stem rose flowers sit atop the long, straight stems that give these roses their name. One bloom per stem is typical, really showing off that gorgeous flower.
Long stem roses come in virtually every color except blue. Red is the most iconic, but they also grow in shades of pink, white, yellow, orange, peach, cream, purple and more.
Thorns
Like all rose bushes, long stem rose bushes do have thorns along the stems. This is nature’s way of protecting the plant. The thorns are small, straight and very sharp.
When handling these roses, it’s important to wear gloves and use care when cutting the stems to avoid being pricked. But the thorns are a small price to pay for enjoying these stunning roses.
Ideal Growing Conditions
While long stem rose bushes will grow in a wide range of climates, they do best when given ample sunlight and warmer temperatures. At least 6 hours of direct sun per day is ideal. They can tolerate partial shade, but may not bloom as prolifically.
Long stem roses grow well in USDA Hardiness Zones 4-9. In the warmest zones, they can even be grown as perennials. In cooler zones, they are generally grown as annuals or provided winter protection.
Well-drained, fertile soil amended with compost is ideal. Regular watering and fertilization will keep bushes healthy and encourage an abundance of blooms.
Using Long Stem Roses in Gardens
With their gorgeous flowers and vertical growth habit, long stem roses make a wonderful addition to flower gardens. They can be incorporated into mixed borders, rose gardens, or grown as specimens.
Long stem rose bushes look beautiful when planted in groups of 3, 5 or 7 for big visual impact. They also pair nicely with shorter plants in the foreground.
Try combining different colored roses for a rainbow effect. White, red and pink make a classic and timeless combination.
Enjoying Long Stem Roses for Cut Flowers
One of the key reasons long stem roses are so beloved is their use as cut flowers. Those long, straight stems were made for arranging!
Cut roses when the buds are almost fully open for maximum vase life. Make cuts on a diagonal with sharp pruners. Remove any leaves that would sit below the water line.
Re-cut the stems every few days while in the vase to give them a fresh edge to better uptake water. Enjoy these classic beauties as gorgeous floral arrangements indoors.
A Rose For Any Occasion
Long stem roses are the perfect way to express love, gratitude, admiration and joy. With their variety of colors and classic bloom shape, they are a versatile rose to give for any occasion.
A dozen red roses remains the definitive way to say “I love you.” Pink roses convey gentleness and gratitude. White roses are the essence of purity and innocence. Yellow roses bring a message of joy and friendship.
Whatever the occasion, long stem roses are sure to brighten someone’s day and create a lasting memory. Their iconic look and fragrance spread romance and beauty wherever they grow.
The Best Long Stem Rose Varieties
There are several classic long stem rose varieties that are beloved for their form, fragrance and abundance of blooms:
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Hybrid Tea Roses – The original long stem rose, hybrid teas have lush, full blooms and very long stems. Popular varieties include ‘Peace’ and ‘Mister Lincoln’.
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Grandiflora Roses – With clustered blooms and excellent form, grandifloras like ‘Queen Elizabeth’ make stunning cut flowers.
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Floribunda Roses – Although they have shorter stems than hybrid teas, floribundas like ‘Iceberg’ bloom profusely.
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David Austin English Roses – Lovely varieties like ‘Juliet’ offer old-fashioned charm with repeat blooming ability.
No matter which long stem rose you choose, proper care will keep the blooms coming all season long. These elegant roses are the ultimate symbols of love and beauty.
The Meaning of the Colors on Long Stem Roses
One of the reasons for their ongoing popularity is that the colors of long-stemmed roses carry with them meanings that have been passed down over the years. Some colors show great love and affection, some peace and joy, while others sympathy and admiration. Here is a list of some of the rose bloom colors and their meanings:
- Red – Love, Respect
- Burgundy (and dark red) – Unconscious beauty or bashful
- Light Pink – Admiration, Sympathy
- Lavender – Symbol of enchantment. Lavender colored roses have also been traditionally used to express feelings of love at first sight.
- Deep Pink – Gratitude, Appreciation
- Yellow – Joy, Gladness
- White – Innocence, Purity
- Orange – Enthusiasm
- Red & Yellow Blend – Joviality
- Pale Blended Tones – Sociability, Friendship
- Red Rosebuds – Purity
- Rosebuds – Youth
- Single Roses – Simplicity
- Two Roses Wired Together – Coming marriage or engagement
This listing is not all-inclusive, as there are other colors, mixes, and blends with their meanings as well. This listing just gives you a basic idea of the significance the rose bouquets you give to others may carry with them.
What is a Long Stem Rose?
When we refer to long-stemmed roses, we are typically speaking of Hybrid Tea roses. The Hybrid Tea rose came about in the 1800s by crossing the Hybrid Perpetual roses and the Tea roses– the best features of both came through in the Hybrid Tea rose. The modern Hybrid Tea roses have a much more mixed genealogy but still have their roots of existence founded in the original crossbreeding. Hybrid Tea roses have strong, sturdy stems supporting a large, well-formed bloom. Typically, the Hybrid Tea rose bloom is a single bloom born atop a long sturdy cane and stem. The Hybrid Tea rose blooms are typically those receiving the top honors as Queen, King, and Princess of the show at rose shows. Due to their long, sturdy canes and stems with large, well-formed blooms, such Hybrid Tea roses are sought after by florists worldwide.
The Best Long Stem Rose Breeds
FAQ
What is the difference between long stem roses and regular roses?
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Stem Length:The most obvious difference is the length of the stems. Long-stem roses have longer stems, which gives them a more elegant and substantial appearance.
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Appearance:Long-stem roses tend to have larger blooms and are often used for grand bouquets and arrangements, while regular roses may have smaller blooms and are suitable for more intimate arrangements.
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Growing Conditions:Long-stem roses are often grown under specific conditions to maximize stem length and bloom size, which can contribute to their higher cost and limited availability.
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Use Cases:Long-stem roses are frequently used for special occasions like weddings, anniversaries, and Valentine’s Day due to their impressive visual impact.
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Scent:Some long-stem roses may have a weaker or more subtle scent compared to certain varieties of regular roses.
What type of roses have long stems?
Hybrid Tea Roses are one of the world’s most popular types of roses due to their color and flower form. Their long stems make these roses popular as cut flowers.
Why does my rose bush have one really long stem?
Water shoots are the new main stems or structure of the rose. This is the growth we want to encourage. Water shoots can often grow very tall and tower over the remainder of the rose. This is especially noticeable in the first year after planting.
Do long stem roses need full sun?
They do best with 6 to 8 hours of direct sun a day. Some roses are described as shade tolerant. For a rose, shade tolerant usually means it will grow in 4 to 6 hours of sun.
What types of roses have long stems?
To achieve those beautiful long stems, consider these varieties that are known for their exceptional growth habits and thick stems: Hybrid Tea Roses: Hybrid Tea Roses are renowned for their long, elegant stems and large, single blooms. They are one of the most popular choices for long stem rose production.
What is a long stem rose?
What is a Long Stem Rose? When we refer to long-stemmed roses, we are typically speaking of Hybrid Tea roses. The Hybrid Tea rose came about in the 1800s by crossing the Hybrid Perpetual roses and the Tea roses– the best features of both came through in the Hybrid Tea rose.
What does a long stem rose bush mean?
It is typical of a long stem rose bush to have long, sturdy canes, each supporting one, large flower. The vibrant colors of the blooms appeal to people. The colors also have meanings associated with them, which appeals to people for different reasons. We all know that a red rose means love, don’t we? And that white roses mean innocence and purity.
What does a hybrid tea rose flower look like?
Solid and robust stems support a big, well-shaped bloom on hybrid tea roses. The Hybrid Tea rose flower often occurs as a single bloom on top of a tall, strong cane and stem. At rose exhibitions, Hybrid Tea rose blooms are frequently awarded the highest titles of Queen, King, and Princess of the show.
How tall do long stem roses get?
Height: 4-5 feet First on the list of long-stem roses is Johann Strauss. From late spring through fall, this delightful variety produces clusters of lightly scented, fully double flowers. 2. French Lace Height: 3-4 feet
What flowers have long stemmed flowers?
There are several blooming plants with long-stemmed flowers you will fall in love with, such as roses, blue water lilies, sunflowers, cockscomb, and daffodils. Hybrid Tea roses are commonly mentioned when we talk about long-stemmed roses.