Sam McGredy, the creator of this variety, describes it as a rare case where a rose immediately stood out as exceptional: “I very, very rarely pick a rose on first sight and say ‘that’s a winner’. However, there was little doubt about ‘Tess’ as the plant was just so big, healthy and robust compared to any other variety in the paddock.”
This rose has a distinctly old-fashioned character, with blooms that typically open into a quartered form, reflecting the modern revival of classic “new/old” roses. The colouring is a lively cream-apricot blend, adding warmth and softness to its nostalgic flower shape.
