Julia Child Floribunda Rose

This yellow rose couldn't be more enticing if it smelled like hot, buttered popcorn. Or perhaps more fitting, Bernaise sauce on a tasty filet mignon. Named for the woman who brought French cuisine to the kitchens of America, Julia Child combines intoxication aroma with a delicious presentation of uplifting color.

No, you can't eat the beautiful flower, though its appealing licorice scent may bring you back to the days of penny candy stores. Giant clusters of big, fully double, 3-inch blossoms can be enjoyed numerous other ways, though, with this attractive dark-green shrub.

Of course, Julia Child looks great as cut flowers on a table, especially a dinner table. Standing atop long stems up to 17 inches high, this cultivar produces its blooms from pleasantly pointed ovoid buds clustered throughout the branches.

The compact shrubs measure only 3 feet in height and width, making them versatile enough for most garden recipes. Very heat tolerant, Julia Child is vigorous and resistant to disease. Requiring minimal care, it thrives in full sun and well-drained soil.

Pruning is recommended in the spring. Remove old and dead wood and cut back canes that cross. In warmer climates, remaining canes should be cut by one-third. In colder climates, additional pruning is usually helpful.