April in Paris Hybrid Tea Rose

This All-American Rose Selections award-winning hybrid of Pristine and New Zealand, a former Jackson & Perkins Rose of the Year, exhibits painterly blooms, nicely petaled and softly hued in shades of cream and pink. Produced in flushes throughout the season, pointed, ovoid buds spiral into 4- to 5-inch blooms on sturdy, generous stems, well-suited for cutting. The flowers emit an intense tea rose fragrance and last and last in the garden or vase.

Growing to 5 feet in height and 4 feet in width, this rose bush is a dazzling showpiece in the garden, the pale blooms set off by the dark green foliage. The plant thrives with medium moisture and slightly acidic, well-drained loam in full sun. Make sure the plant has good air circulation, which promotes vigorous and healthy growth as well as helps prevent disease. A layer of mulch during the summer months helps to retain moisture, keep roots cool, and discourages weed growth.

Pruning is required in the spring, trimming the shrub to half its height or about 18 inches off the ground. Old canes and dead wood should be removed and canes that cross each other should be cut. In warmer climates, the remaining canes should be cut by one-third. More trimming is required in colder climates.