The Athene rose is an award-winning hybrid tea known for its exquisite, high centred, classic-shaped blooms. This elegant rose, bred by Kordes, features creamy-white petals with a delicate, crinkled edge of soft pink, a colour combination that intensifies with sun exposure. Its subtle, sweet fragrance makes it an ideal choice for bouquets and vases. The large, beautiful flowers are held on long, strong stems, making it a favourite for floral arrangements.
This variety is celebrated for its robust health and vigour. It has excellent resistance to common rose diseases like black spot and powdery mildew, making it a low-maintenance and reliable addition to any garden. The Athene rose has an upright, bushy growth habit, typically reaching a height of 1-1.5 meters and a width of about 60 cm. It is a repeat bloomer, providing a continuous display of flowers from June through October.
For best results, plant in a sunny spot that receives 6–8 hours of direct sunlight a day. The soil should be fertile and well-drained, as roses do not like to have their roots waterlogged. Water consistently, especially during dry spells, by watering at the base of the plant to keep the foliage dry and prevent fungal diseases. Feed your rose twice a year—once in late March/April and again in late July—with a granular rose food to promote healthy growth and repeat flowering. Prune in late winter or early spring to shape the plant and remove any dead or weak wood, ensuring good air circulation for a healthy, abundant display of blooms.