Chartreuse de Parme

Full description:

In the world of roses, some varieties are gifted negotiators. Give them a little attention, a sunny position and good soil, and they repay you with something far more valuable: a perfume that becomes part of the memory of your garden. Chartreuse de Parme is one of these rare trader roses, ready to transform its corner of the garden into the most sought-after stall in an open-air perfume market.

Created by Georges Delbard, this celebrated hybrid tea rose belongs to the tradition of great French perfume roses. Its name evokes both the nobility of its colouring and the complexity of its scent, while its large flowers bring the romantic fullness of an old rose to a compact, repeat-flowering plant.

The large, double blooms open in an intense violet-purple shade with deep plum and velvety reflections. Their rich colouring stands out beautifully against healthy dark green foliage, making the plant equally effective in a dedicated rose bed, a mixed border or an individual position where every flower can be admired.

Fragrance is the defining quality of Chartreuse de Parme. Its powerful perfume combines exotic notes of mango and lychee with mandarin, lilac, hyacinth and fresh citronella. Floral, fruity and lightly citrus in character, it is complex enough to reveal something different each time you approach the plant.

The rose flowers repeatedly from May until the first frost and develops into a sturdy bush approximately 80–100 cm tall. Its manageable dimensions make it easy to position near a path, entrance, terrace or seating area, where the fragrance can be enjoyed during ordinary moments in the garden.

Chartreuse de Parme is also an excellent rose for cutting. Its large flowers, unusual colour and recognisable perfume create refined bouquets and floral arrangements, with a vase life of approximately five to seven days.

The variety has received ten international distinctions, including important fragrance prizes in Madrid, Geneva, Bagatelle and Baden-Baden. These awards confirm what becomes apparent as soon as the first flower opens: this is not simply a beautiful purple rose, but one of Delbard’s most accomplished perfume creations.

Frequently asked questions:

How fragrant is Chartreuse de Parme?
It has an exceptionally intense fragrance combining exotic fruit, flowers and fresh citrus notes. Plant it near a path, terrace or seating area to enjoy its perfume regularly.

Does Chartreuse de Parme repeat flower?
Yes. It produces repeated flushes from May until the first frost, providing several months of colour, fragrance and flowers for cutting.

Where should I plant Chartreuse de Parme?
Choose a sunny position with fertile, well-drained soil. Its 80–100 cm height makes it suitable for rose beds, borders or individual planting, especially where its fragrance can be appreciated at close range.

What does the rose look like on delivery?
The appearance of the rose depends on the delivery format, the month and its natural stage of growth. For clear explanations, see What roses look like on delivery →

What should I do after planting?
Water deeply after planting and keep the soil lightly moist during the first weeks. For step-by-step guidance, see the planting guide →