Eddy Mitchell

Full Description:

Eddy Mitchell carries the unmistakable attitude of a rose inspired by rock ’n’ roll. Dark, confident and completely original, its flowers combine deep red upper petals with warm golden-yellow reverses, creating a flash of contrasting colour whenever the blooms move or open.

The rose takes its name from the French singer Eddy Mitchell, who began his career with Les Chaussettes Noires—the Black Socks. The story behind the variety is reflected in its colouring: a flower intended to evoke black, transformed by Meilland into something more theatrical through the addition of gold.

The flowers measure approximately 11 cm in diameter and contain around 27 petals. Their elegant hybrid tea form is held against strong, dark green foliage, making the unusual colour contrast even more pronounced.

Eddy Mitchell flowers repeatedly from May until the first frost and forms a compact, rounded bush approximately 70 cm tall and 50 cm wide. Its good disease resistance and easy-going habit make it a practical choice for rose beds, mixed borders, containers and individual planting.

The long stems and distinctive blooms also make it excellent for cutting. In a vase, the flowers generally remain attractive for approximately seven to ten days, adding drama and originality to floral arrangements.

Frequently asked questions:

What makes Eddy Mitchell different from other dark red roses?
Its petals are dark red on the upper surface and golden yellow on the reverse. This unusual contrast creates a changing display as the flowers open and move in the breeze.

Is Eddy Mitchell a genuinely black rose?
No rose is naturally pure black. Eddy Mitchell produces very dark red petals that can appear almost black in certain light, especially when contrasted with their golden-yellow reverses.

Why is the rose named Eddy Mitchell?
It honours the French singer Eddy Mitchell, whose early career included the rock ’n’ roll group Les Chaussettes Noires. The rose’s dark colouring and golden contrast reflect this bold musical identity.

Does Eddy Mitchell flower repeatedly?
Yes. It produces successive flowering flushes from May until the first frost.

How large are the flowers?
The blooms measure approximately 11 cm across and contain around 27 petals.

How tall does Eddy Mitchell grow?
It generally reaches approximately 70 cm in height and 50 cm in width, making it easy to place in borders, rose beds, containers and smaller gardens.

Where should I plant it?
Choose a sunny position where the flowers can be viewed from nearby. A pale wall, gravel surface or light-coloured companion planting will emphasise the dark red and gold contrast.

Is Eddy Mitchell suitable for smaller gardens?
Yes. Its compact growth allows it to create a strong focal point without taking up the space required by a large shrub or climbing rose.

Is it resistant to disease?
Eddy Mitchell has good disease resistance, supported by full sun, good air circulation and appropriate watering at soil level.

Is it suitable for beginners?
Yes. Its compact habit, repeat flowering and good disease resistance make it a reassuring choice for gardeners who can provide a sunny position and regular care.

Can the flowers be used in bouquets?
Yes. Their long stems and dramatic two-tone colouring make them particularly effective in modern bouquets and unusual floral arrangements.

How long do the cut flowers last?
The blooms generally remain attractive for approximately seven to ten days in a vase when placed in clean water and kept away from direct heat.

What plants combine well with Eddy Mitchell?
Cream, pale yellow and white flowers highlight its golden reverses, while silver foliage and ornamental grasses provide a clean background for the dark petals.

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 in full sun, water thoroughly and keep the soil evenly moist while the roots establish. For detailed guidance, visit our complete planting guide →.