Black Baccara

Full Description:

Black Baccara seems to belong to another world. Perhaps it comes from a distant planet where roses grow behind velvet gates, flowers open beneath starlight and gardens are illuminated by the moon rather than the sun.

Somehow, Meilland brought a small part of that imagined world into ours. Its tightly formed buds appear almost black before opening into large, classically shaped flowers of extraordinarily deep garnet red.

The velvety petals absorb the light and return it in changing shades of crimson, burgundy and black-red. Cooler weather and softer light often intensify the darkest tones, while direct sunlight reveals the rich red beneath them.

Measuring approximately 11 cm and carrying around 40 petals, the flowers appear repeatedly from late spring until autumn. They rise on elegant stems above dense, dark-green foliage, creating a striking contrast in beds, borders and specimen plantings.

Black Baccara forms an upright shrub approximately 50–100 cm tall and has good resistance to common rose diseases. Its strong stems and refined blooms also make it an exceptional cutting rose, with flowers lasting approximately five to seven days in a vase.

Some roses brighten a garden. Black Baccara transforms it, bringing mystery, drama and the unforgettable impression that nature has revealed something not entirely of this world.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Is Black Baccara a truly black rose?
No naturally bred rose is completely black. Black Baccara has exceptionally dark garnet-red petals whose velvety surface can create an almost black appearance.

When does Black Baccara look darkest?
Its deepest tones are often most noticeable in cooler weather, softer light and during the early stages of opening. Strong sunlight reveals more of the underlying burgundy-red colour.

Does Black Baccara flower repeatedly?
Yes. It produces successive flushes from late spring until autumn. Removing faded blooms helps encourage the development of new flowers.

Is Black Baccara fragrant?
Its fragrance is light. This variety is chosen primarily for its exceptional colour, velvety texture and elegant Hybrid Tea flower form.

How large are the flowers?
The blooms generally measure approximately 11 cm and contain around 40 petals.

How tall does Black Baccara grow?
It usually reaches approximately 50–100 cm, forming an upright and relatively compact shrub.

Is Black Baccara resistant to disease?
It has good resistance to common rose diseases. Full sun, good air circulation and watering at soil level will help keep the foliage healthy.

Where should I plant Black Baccara?
Plant it in a sunny position with fertile, well-drained soil. Choose a location where the flowers can be viewed closely, as their subtle colour changes are part of the rose’s appeal.

Can Black Baccara be grown in a container?
Yes. Its manageable growth makes it suitable for a large, deep container with excellent drainage. Regular watering and feeding are essential.

Is Black Baccara suitable for cut flowers?
Yes. Its strong stems, dramatic colouring and refined flower form make it particularly effective in bouquets and minimalist arrangements.

How long do the flowers last in a vase?
The cut flowers may last approximately five to seven days under good household conditions. Use a clean vase, fresh water and recut the stems before arranging them.

How can I encourage the darkest possible blooms?
Keep the plant healthy and consistently watered without waterlogging the soil. Cooler seasonal temperatures generally help the flowers develop their richest tones.

Which plants combine well with Black Baccara?
White, cream and pale pink flowers create a striking contrast. Silver foliage, dark heucheras and soft ornamental grasses can also emphasise its velvety colour.

Is Black Baccara suitable for beginners?
Yes. Its manageable dimensions, repeat flowering and good disease resistance make it accessible to newer gardeners when provided with sun, fertile soil and regular care.

What does the rose look like on delivery?
Its appearance depends on the delivery season and natural stage of growth. For examples and explanations, see What roses look like on delivery →.

What should I do after planting?
Plant it in a sunny position, water thoroughly and keep the soil evenly moist while the roots establish. For detailed instructions, visit our complete planting guide →.